The Dragon Republic

by R.F. Kuang
The Dragon Republic cover
Good Books rating 4.12
Fantasy
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 7865
  • Added: 2025-12-17
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780062662613
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • Published: 2019-08-06
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Rin's story continues in this gripping sequel to The Poppy War, blending the history of twentieth-century China with a world of gods and monsters. The war may be over, but Rin's internal struggle is far from resolved. Haunted by the atrocities she committed and her opium addiction, she flees from the vengeful Phoenix god who granted her power. Seeking redemption and vengeance, Rin allies with the Dragon Warlord to overthrow the Empress, only to uncover deeper conspiracies. /n/n As Rin delves deeper into the political intrigue, she must confront her own demons and the destructive power of the Phoenix. The more she uncovers, the more she questions her allegiance and the lengths she will go to save her country. This epic fantasy explores themes of power, guilt, and the cost of war.

Reviews
Luke Harkness · 2021-11-10
respectable 4.00

This is a very respectable fantasy novel that maintains the quality of the first book. It is a heartbreaking and tragic story that makes you question the nature of war.

The reviewer finds this book to be a very respectable addition to the fantasy genre, maintaining the high standards set by its predecessor. They describe it as a heartbreaking and tragic story that delves into the brutal and violent aspects of war, making the reader question the nature of conflict. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to balance these dark themes with a compelling narrative, making it a thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    The Dragon Republic is a very respectable fantasy novel – it feels very much like The Poppy War.

    It is brutal and violent and horrifying yet so eye opening and wonderfully crafted into a heartbreakingly tragic story.

    The book makes you question the nature of war and its consequences.

Inside My Library Mind · 2020-11-03
harrowing 3.50

This book is emotionally challenging, filled with pain, death, and trauma, much like its predecessor. It's a difficult read but one that leaves a lasting impression.

Inside My Library Mind describes The Dragon Republic as a painful and traumatic experience, much like The Poppy War. The reviewer acknowledges the emotional toll the book takes on the reader, with its graphic depictions of violence and suffering. However, they also recognize the novel's strength in tackling these difficult subjects head-on, making it a powerful and unforgettable read. The reviewer warns potential readers to be prepared for the intense emotional journey, but ultimately praises the book for its boldness and depth.

Quick quotes

    This book was PAINFUL.

    There was so much hurt and death and trauma explored in here.

    Much like The Poppy War, The Dragon Republic is not for the faint of heart.

Fantasy Hive · 2019-10-04
captivating 4.50

This story defies convention and sets its own course, making it a unique and captivating read. It is a hard yet meaningful exploration of historical trauma.

The reviewer praises this book for its ability to defy conventional storytelling and set its own course. They find it to be a unique and captivating read that explores the complexities of historical trauma in a meaningful way. The reviewer appreciates the book's depth and its ability to intertwine fantasy with real-world issues, making it a hard but rewarding read. The characters and their development are also highlighted as standout elements of the story.

Quick quotes

    The Dragon Republic is a story that defies convention, and the expectations that its own predecessor set.

    It plots its own course, and just when you think you know where it's going, it surprises you.

    The way R.F. Kuang intertwines fantasy with real historical trauma is nothing short of genius.

Grimdark Magazine · 2019-07-08
phenomenal 4.50

This book is a phenomenal follow-up that exceeds the high standards set by its predecessor. It is a dark and gripping continuation of the series.

This review highlights how this book surpasses the expectations set by the first in the series. They praise its dark and gripping narrative, which delves deeper into the complexities of war and politics. The reviewer appreciates the character development and the intricate world-building, making it a standout in the fantasy genre. The book's exploration of themes like power and morality is particularly noted for its depth and relevance.

Quick quotes

    The Dragon Republic is a phenomenal follow-up to what was one of my highest rated fantasy books of 2018.

    This book is a dark and gripping continuation of the series.

    The character development and intricate world-building make it a standout in the fantasy genre.

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