The Poppy War: An Epic Fantasy of War, Magic, and Mythology in a High-Conflict World from Bestselling Author R. F. Kuang

An epic historical military fantasy inspired by China's twentieth-century history. When Rin, a war orphan from Rooster Province, unexpectedly passes the Keju—an Empire-wide test for talented youth—she gains admission to Sinegard, the most elite military school in Nikan. At the academy, she faces discrimination from classmates due to her dark skin, poverty, and gender. Rin discovers she possesses a rare shamanic power, an ancient art thought nearly mythical. With guidance from an unconventional teacher and through psychoactive substances, she learns that gods long believed dead remain alive. Mastering these powers becomes crucial as the Nikara Empire faces an impending threat: the militarily advanced Federation of Mugen, which occupied Nikan for decades after the First and Second Poppy Wars, now threatens a Third. Rin's shamanic abilities may be her people's only defense. However, as she deepens her connection with the Phoenix god that has chosen her, she fears that victory in war may cost her humanity.