The Poppy War Series by R.F. Kuang

This is Fine Print First Copy - Similar to Original but not Original.

A grimdark military fantasy rooted in Chinese history and mythology, this series follows Fang Runin, a war orphan who escapes poverty by acing the Empire's prestigious exam. She earns a place at Sinegard, a military academy where she’s mocked for her dark skin, gender, and peasant background. But Rin's rage fuels her determination—and unlocks a shamanic power tied to an ancient god of fire. As war looms, she’s forced to choose between becoming a weapon or losing everything. The trilogy charts her brutal rise through military ranks, her moral descent, and the devastating cost of vengeance. With themes of trauma, addiction, identity, and colonialism, the series blends historical allegory with epic battles and haunting magic. Rin’s journey is raw, violent, and unforgettable—a story of power, pain, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of justice.