I loved this fantasy based on the Japanese occupation of Korea. It had some great conversations about why people choose to collaborate with or to rebel against the empire, and the menace of foreign forces that threaten both the oppressor and the oppressed. I found it interesting and original that it was done through the lens of art and culture, particularly the destruction of art to serve the empire. The magic system was simple but well-integrated, and there’s a little bit of romance (enemies-to-lovers sapphic romance with a non-binary character) that I enjoyed. The audiobook was engaging, and I enjoyed the writing style even if sometimes it was hard to differentiate the collective “they” from references to Jebi.

It was such a great read but I didn’t grow as attached to the characters as I would’ve liked, and the romance was a little superficial.