Super Short Summary

The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang follows Fang Runin, a war orphan from Tikany, who escapes an arranged marriage by excelling in the Keju exam and earning acceptance to the prestigious Sinegard Academy. Despite facing prejudice, Rin discovers a unique shamanic power linked to the god Phoenix. As war erupts between Nikan and the Federation of Mugen, Rin's newfound abilities become crucial, forcing her into the brutal realities of both war and her shamanic destiny. The book contains depictions of self-harm, substance abuse, explicit violence, and other sensitive topics.