"The Poppy War" is a fantasy novel by R.F. Kuang that follows the journey of Rin, a dark-skinned war orphan from the poor south of the fictional country of Nikan. She earns a place at the prestigious Sinegard military academy, where she discovers her shamanic powers and the harsh realities of war. Set against the backdrop of a war-torn nation, the story explores themes of trauma, identity, and the consequences of power. As Rin grapples with her abilities and the brutal history of her country, she faces moral dilemmas that challenge her beliefs and shape her destiny.