The Poppy War is a harrowing and dark military fantasy that doesn't detangle from the truth. R.F. Kuang highlights the brutality of war with its politics, propaganda, imperialism, and more. the tale is beautifully and tragically written. My heart ached for Rin and her journey across this war-torn country. during this time in my own country, a lot of alarm bells are ringing. and this fictional story tells of the tragedies that many can and do face today. I cannot beg people enough to pick up this book, but I do warn it is not by any means for the light of heart. However, I feel sometimes we need to face the ugly truth, even if it makes us uncomfortable.