This book was such an enjoyable read. The story moves quickly from the very beginning, yet it stays clear and easy to follow, which made it effortless for me to slip into its world. Knowing that June Hur drew inspiration from the history of Crown Prince Sado also adds an extra layer of richness, especially for readers who love Korean royal court settings.

One of the things I appreciated most was the character development. Hyeon’s mother, for example, first appears distant and cold, but as the story unfolds, a warmer, more vulnerable side of her begins to show. This growth mirrors Hyeon’s own journey. After surviving so many dangerous moments, she slowly learns to push past the emotional walls that have trapped her for so long.

I also really enjoyed the group of strong female characters throughout the book: Hyeon, Jeongsu, Crown Princess Hyegyeong, Inyeong, and others. Each of them has her own way of standing firm and fighting back in a world dominated by men, and their presence gives the story so much heart and depth.

The theme of parents and children is also portrayed with a lot of emotion, particularly in the dynamics between the King and the Crown Prince, as well as Lord Shin and Hyeon. Both relationships show how deeply a father’s treatment can shape a child, and this feels incredibly relevant even today.

If I had to point out one weakness, it would be the ending. It feels a little less climactic compared to the strong build-up throughout the story, and the final resolution comes a bit too easily. It’s a slight letdown considering how well-developed the earlier chapters are.

Overall, this book feels warm, tense, and full of vivid characters. It’s my first time reading June Hur, and definitely not the last. For anyone who enjoys East Asian historical fiction, I wholeheartedly recommend this book.