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A review by saoreads
The Red Palace by June Hur
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
If you're familiar with historical K-dramas and enjoy them, this one is a treat. It introduces a seemingly ordinary, low-ranked character of a palace nurse who pursues the truth for someone she has no blood ties with. The character development is solid, providing a humane touch to her reactions and quick wit. The story teaches us that serving justice doesn't necessarily have to involve vengeance, and the plot addresses revenge through the central event of a massacre. How the protagonist responds to these situations, combined with elements of mystery and romance, makes for a delightful read. This fast-paced narrative can truly take your breath away. I've discovered a new author whose works I'll continue to enjoy in genres I truly love.
Graphic: Body horror, Confinement, Death, Gore, Mental illness, Physical abuse, Slavery, Torture, Violence, Blood, Police brutality, Medical content, Grief, Death of parent, Murder, Abandonment, and Injury/Injury detail