Publication Date: Feb 2025
Blurb:
Joseon (Korea), 1758. There are few options available to illegitimate daughters in the capital city, but through hard work and study, eighteen-year-old Hyeon has earned a position as a palace nurse. All she wants is to keep her head down, do a good job, and perhaps finally win her estranged father’s approval.
But Hyeon is suddenly thrust into the dark and dangerous world of court politics when someone murders four women in a single night, and the prime suspect is Hyeon’s closest friend and mentor. Determined to prove her beloved teacher’s innocence, Hyeon launches her own secret investigation.
In her hunt for the truth, she encounters Eojin, a young police inspector also searching for the killer. When evidence begins to point to the Crown Prince himself as the murderer, Hyeon and Eojin must work together to search the darkest corners of the palace to uncover the deadly secrets behind the bloodshed.
What To Expect:
The Red Palace is a historical YA murder mystery set in the capital city of Korea in 1758. Readers can expect sleuthing, peril, moments of tense violence, and light romance.
Content Warnings:
Language: Mild – “Damnation” & the term “bastard” is used in reference to illegitimate children.
Sexual Content: Closed Door – Brief kissing
Violence: Moderate – Murder scenes are described in somewhat graphic detail. Though violence isn’t glorified, there are multiple violent encounters throughout the book, some resulting in death. The story does not glaze over the horrors of serial killing and the heavy hand of a corrupt government.
Substance Use: Mild – Brief mentions of drunkenness
Prejudices: Heavy – The historical prejudices against (and occasional mistreatment of) illegitimate children, women and lower-class citizens are very clearly laid out in this story.
Religious Themes: Spiritual practices of Koreans from this era (including Shamanism and Buddhism) are briefly mentioned. The MC prays on occasion.
Other Topics: Discussion of concubines and other mistresses. Strained family relationship and distant parent.
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