About the Book
To enter the palace means to walk a path stained in blood…
Joseon (Korea), 1758. There are few options available to illegitimate daughters in the capital city, but through hard work and study, eighteen-year-old Hyeon has earned a position as a palace nurse. All she wants is to keep her head down, do a good job, and perhaps finally win her estranged father’s approval.
But Hyeon is suddenly thrust into the dark and dangerous world of court politics when someone murders four women in a single night, and the prime suspect is Hyeon’s closest friend and mentor. Determined to prove her beloved teacher’s innocence, Hyeon launches her own secret investigation.
In her hunt for the truth, she encounters Eojin, a young police inspector also searching for the killer. When evidence begins to point to the Crown Prince himself as the murderer, Hyeon and Eojin must work together to search the darkest corners of the palace to uncover the deadly secrets behind the bloodshed.
“Everyone must choose the paths they will walk on. And when you choose, remember to count the cost.”
Quote from the Book- The ReD Palace
Our Review
I am in love with the author’s books. So far I have read all three of her published works and all three of them have managed to blow my mind completely. I love the simplicity with which the author tries to take the readers to Joseon Era. The beauty of the books is that it doesn’t complicate the nuisances and technicalities of the Joseon Era. It focuses itself on telling a story and everything else like the traditions, and culture all enhance the story narration rather than being a historical lesson. So while you are enjoying the story you get to see and learn a lot about the old and traditional facets of Korean culture.
The book has a very powerful sleuthing technique. It moves step by step and shows what can practically be possible rather than making clues fall from the sky automatically. I think it is amazing how the author has managed to keep the authenticity of the background it has used as well as keep the main characters purposeful, resourceful and completely engaging. Each appearing character brings something to the table and thus it keeps the narration intact.
Conclusion
If you haven’t tried a June Hur, you should do so because these books know how to grab you and keep you hooked. I loved both the language and the narration technique. One of the most admirable facts is where she uses her woman characters set in a period where women didn’t have many rights and yet makes them capable protagonists without preaching about it. (If that makes any sense). The pages don’t keep lingering over the lack of rights and freedom. it just uses it as an element and focuses on the story which makes it such an exciting read.
Squirrel Rating
