The Red Palace

Wow, I nearly read the whole book in one sitting.

This is everything I could ever wish for in a historical murder mystery. Set in 1758 Joseon, The Red Palace is atmospheric and suspenseful, packed with a good dose of action and intrigue. The stakes are high, because as it says on the cover: to enter the palace means to walk a path stained in blood. Both the main character, Hyeon, and her love interest, Eojin, are smart, calm, and focused through the entire book, ensuring that the plot always moves smoothly. It also weaves in the story of Crown Prince Sado, and while he's not exactly the main focus of the story, the delicate balance between facts and fiction makes it a highly engaging page-turner.

I know I tend to be picky with romance, but there's absolutely nothing to complain about here. Hyeon and Eojin have a relationship based on trust and mutual respect, and it just feels so natural. It's so subtle and gentle, which is nice because it never takes the focus away from the main plot. The ending is perfection as well, as it not only solves the mystery, but also all the family issues and inner turmoil that Hyeon struggled with. Many of her issues resonate with me on a personal level, and I'm sure a lot of Asian kids would be able to relate too.

“We are women, and nothing short of death stops us from doing precisely what we wish to do. That is what the laws and restrictions binding our lives breed: determination and cunning.”

These are the words of Lady Hyegyeong, the wife of Crown Prince Sado, and she's absolutely right.