The Poppy War (2018)

The Poppy War introduces readers to Rin, a war orphan from the poor, rural south of the Nikara Empire. After acing the national test, she earns a place at Sinegard, the Empire's most elite military academy. The academy's culture is steeped in privilege and elitism, where Rin faces discrimination due to her background. As she trains, she discovers her shamanic abilities, connecting her to the gods of her ancestors. However, as the country is thrust into a brutal war against the Hesperians, Rin's powers become both a blessing and a curse. The narrative explores themes of trauma, addiction, and the brutal realities of war, highlighting the moral complexities of power and the human cost of conflict. Kuang draws heavily on Chinese history, particularly the Second Sino-Japanese War, to create a rich, immersive world that challenges readers' perceptions of heroism and villainy.