The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang - I want to know who hurt them?

This is such an amazing opening to a trilogy. 

This was an audiobook for me. The narrator did a good job, although some of the male character voices were comical. I went into this knowing nothing about the book, other than circles have said it was good, albeit graphic. 

This book is in the fantasy genre (no romance), and it follows the FMC Fang Runin, or Rin. We start the book mid life for her, with glimpses of her past. Her desire to leave her town and decide what she wants to do. 

It took a while for the full plot to come into focus, but man oh man. When it did, the story just shot off. R.F.Kuang's writing pulled you into this book and Rin's life as if you were sitting on her shoulder. There are only a few books that Fully immerse me in their world and feel like I am living it. 

If you enjoy an epic fantasy that has a unique magic system, brutal themes, dark military themes this book is for you. Another book that is similar that I've read, that is not quite as graphic, is The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin (amazing series as well). Google has a few recommendations, however I haven't read them. 

My book didn't have any trigger warnings printed, however, there is some very graphic details that are in this book. I would highly recommend doing some research into them if you get triggered. It is very descriptive of the violence that was inflicted.