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betweentheshelves 's review for:

The Red Palace by June Hur
4.5
dark mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Set in 1758 in the Joseon-era of Korea, Hyeon is a nurse at the royal palace, hoping to win her father's approval. But when somone at the palace murders 4 women in one night, Hyeon suddenly finds herself in the middle of the investigation, helping the young police inspector Eojin, who is searching for the killer.

So apparently 2022 is going to the be year of great historical thrillers! I've read three already that are coming out this year, this one, I Must Betray You, and Daughers of a Dead Empire. They're all set in such different times, but they're stories that you definitely can't put down!

I'd definitely recommend listening/reading the author's note at the end of this, because I didn't realize it was based on a true story! I appreciated everything about the writing in this, from strongly developed characters to great pacing and little historical details that put you into this world. You can feel Hyeon's desperation to prove herself to her father, but also balance the feelings she develops for Eojin. The way the mystery unraveled also fit well with the historical era and is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Do yourself a favor and pick this one up, especially if you love historical thrillers!

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