June Hur is an auto-buy author. The way she is able to merge mystery and historical fiction is unparalleled. So you know I had the highest hopes for The Red Palace. And June didn’t disappoint. Keep reading this book review for my full thoughts.
Summary
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.
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
Immediately The Red Palace hooked me with intrigue. There’s a magical blend of mystery and history all wrapped up into one. In what I’ve come to associate as a signature June Hur style, The Red Palace is intriguing from the very beginning. Hyeon is competent, clever, and compassionate. She’s instantly endearing not only in her dedication to justice, but also in the ways she’s also seeking approval. At the same time, Eojin was a grumpy, caring, and fascinating side character.
I was swept away and could not stop reading The Red Palace. While it’s easy to get lost in the mystery and the murder – because there are some BIG twists – what I loved was Hyeon. She’s so intelligent and caring, but at the same time also unsure of how to do what’s right. Of what she will do for the approval of her family. I ended up reading The Red Palace in a few days I was so captivated.
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If you love the idea of a palace intrigue murder mystery The Red Palace is for you. At the same time, if you love the idea of a heroine who is motivated to do what’s right, even when it’s hard, then this is a must read. Find The Red Palace on Goodreads, Amazon, Indiebound, Bookshop.org & The Book Depository.
This sounds like just the right combination of palace intrigue and mystery that I like. I have this on reserve at the library. You’ve got me super excited to read it. Thanks. Natalie @ Literary Rambles
YAY! I love June Hur SO much – auto buy author for sure