This a review of the whole trilogy but doesn't contain spoilers for any books!

When Rin gets the top score on a national exam in her province, she can't wait to leave her adoptive parents, who just want to marry her. Upon arriving at Sinegard, the elite military school, Rin is shunted by her wealthy & pale-skinned schoolmates. But Rin won't give up. She just has to study harder & fight stronger, for pain is power, and when you have power, you have options. Right?

Kuang's talent lies in crafting imperfect characters who feel undeniably real with depth and layers, evoking a strong emotional connection. As with Robin in BABEL and Athena in YELLOWFACE, Rin's several (if not most?) decisions had me pulling my hair out