Tried reading this via audio book and could not get into the flow of the writing and the narrator just wasn't doing it for me.

Interesting book about ‘North Korea and its leader from a political science view. Would recommend it if you’re looking for a different look on things. Interesting yet it kind of sums up South Korean’s views on North Korea

A fascinating insight into a dad and frightening regime. I feel so sorry for the people of North Korea. Ching Min Lee has an in-depth knowledge and manages to combine the academic with the social in an excellent manner. Well worth reading.
Thank you Chung Mai Lee, Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book and give my unbiased opinion..

I found this an interesting, insightful and intelligent examination of Kim Jong Un, the Kim dynasty and the current situation in North Korea. The author’s bias is a bit too much in evidence, as is his opposition to Trump, and the book is somewhat disorganised, jumping about and often repetitive. Nevertheless it’s a valuable attempt to explain the complex and complicated geopolitical issues and his speculation about what might happen in the future is thought-provoking and thoughtful. I don’t think I learnt anything new here, as I have read widely about North Korea and follow events there closely, but it’s certainly a good overview and introduction. I have also read some of the very negative reviews and found them too intelligent and insightful. But there are no easy answers or solutions to the enigma that is North Korea and its leader and I feel that this book is a worthy addition to the conversation.

An eye opening frightening look at North Korea .A horribly dangerous family ruling bringing danger to the world.I learned so much and found the book very interesting.

Chung Min Lee provides an insightful look into the secret North Korea and its ruler. Excellent research and worth the read!

The writer, a political scientist, provides a detailed account of the North Korean leader, as well as the history of this troubled nation. The Hermit King looks at living conditions for its citizens, the influences of other nations such as Russia and China and the progress that is potentially being made for diplomatic relations with the U.S. The book is incredibly detailed and a must read for anyone who is interested in world history and the man who controls his citizens with an iron fist.

Thank you to St Martin's Press and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was the first book that I have read about the political scene in North Korea and their relationship with the surrounding countries and the USA. I found this to be a very interesting book covering both life in North Korea and that of the ruling class. Great for anyone wanting to learn more about that region of the world.
I was interested enough to look up some different perspectives regarding this area.

I thought The Hermit King: The Dangerous Game of Kim Jong Un was an interesting read. I give it four stars.

I received a free copy for an honest review from Netgalley.

I feel the author was too close to the subject on this one- his bias is clearly seen as soon as the author’s note on the first page, and continues on throughout the book. In this bias, he reduces the credibility of his position and loses objectivity in his writing. There are many historical observations and recounts that are insightful and helpful in discussing what the future of Korea could be in the wake of Kim Jong Un, but the Culture of the last several decades is not something that will be easily dismantled. The concern with this book is that though there is a great deal of personal histories, there’s no way to really discuss this hot topic without the bias. I understand his personal history is a part of how he views what should be done or what could happen, but it feels like he’s not giving all the options or opinions on this, and being a little more hands off would have helped.

This is an excellent, in-depth look at a frightening family that goes back years. North Korea should be counted as one of the United States most dangerous regimes.

This book was a great overview of the Kim dynasty, gave insight into Kim Jong-Un, and explained the relationship between North Korea, South Korea, China, Russia, & US. Most North Korea books try to explain the 'weirdness' culture like kids dancing and singing, but this book is not that as it is a more historical picture of how North Korea became what it is today.

Check this out if you're interested about North Korea as geopolitical force.