She’s intelligent and intuitive, with great instincts for detective work. It took me all of three pages to love Seol.

So while men may hold the overt political and societal power, women have courage and determination that comes across as a far greater strength in this novel. Other female characters, like Madam Song, Lady Kang, and Maid Soyi, all hold similar reserves of inner strength that come out in abundance in their actions. And with each small triumph, she begins to hold her ground more and stand up for what she belives is true and right. She digs deep into the mysterious death that has overtaken the capital. She saves Inspector Han’s life and stands up against Officer Kyon. We see this happen many times to Seol she’s undermined and belittled by men at the police bureau and even, sometimes, other women. Men were given more power, respect, status, and money than women, who were often looked down on (if they weren’t Ladies). Like many countries during this period, Joseon was a patriarchal society.

Men may hold the power, but women won’t be stopped You don’t just feel like you’re looking down on each scene, you’re right there in them, standing next to the characters. June Hur describes everything in such a detail, with a boldness that makes each setting spring out, yet with an understated tone that makes her writing seem effortless. The characters come alive with their dark hair, angled faces, and period dress. You can see the forest, the hanok buildings, the wooden inns, thatched huts, and the police bureau. The narrative is so well written, that each scene feels cinematic. Say goodbye to the 21st century as Joseon (what is now modern-day Korea) rises up around you in all its glory. So I thought I’d share with you five reasons why you should read it too.Īs soon as you open this book, you step into its world completely. I’m currently reading it and, friends, it’s excellent. Today marks the release date for June Hur’s debut novel, The Silence of Bones.

June hur the silence of bones