Well this book certainly matched what it said on the tin. Great for people who like k-dramas; (The few that I've seen, the characters fall hard and fast for each other; this book takes place in less than a month). This book isn't for everyone just because of the character's personalities, but I liked it, and at least the characterization was consistent, even as the two characters developed into better people.

one note for the publisher: this isn't the first book I've read with korean mythology, but please add a short dictionary. Often in this book there was a gap between the mention of a mythological being and a description.

Seokga is a god who has been banished and stripped of his powers after trying to overthrow his brother, and is working through his punishment on Earth before he can return. Kim Hani is a gumiho nicknamed The Scarlet Fox, because she was once the most prolific killer of men. They are forced together to find and destroy a nightmare demon that is terrorizing their city.
I overall did not enjoy this book, mostly because this is beat for beat, a romance novel. So many romance tropes are in this book, and I was expecting a fantasy detective story. That is the secondary plot, but the world building is pretty sloppy and a lot of the magic systems are under explained. The author stated that this book is inspired by K-dramas, so I'm sure those fans and romance readers would enjoy this book.

i loved this book so much!!! the romance was great, the characters were so wonderfully fleshed out, and i could picture this playing out like a k-drama the entire time! SO GOOD!!!

i loved the whole premise and idea of the book and the characters but i think the authors writing style is not for me. it felt kind of choppy to me

DNF at 40%.
My dislike of The God and the Gumiho could be because I've never watched a single K-drama (which is what this story is heavily influenced by) and I'm owning that up front.

For the positives, The God and the Gumiho has excellent world building and phenomenal Korean mythology steeped throughout the story. I had to search the terminology littered amongst the pages several times to understand the various gods and creatures mentioned within the plot. That extra element of a foreign mythology really enhanced an already strong setting and consistently gave more to chew on as I read.

For the negatives, I could not connect with the characters at all. Both the main characters, a fallen god and a gumiho (nine tailed fox), are often rude and extremely unlikable. Both characters are older than 1,000 years old but often had me cringing with their juvenile behaviors and attitudes (listen, I get the grumpy god thing, but Seokga was usually just a dick. Point blank). Some of the plot points also felt rushed and ill-thought out and it didn't help me think highly of our main duo as they began hunting down a killer.

In the end, I think this is more of a case of "it's not you, it's me". I can see this being very popular with people...but I decided to stop forcing myself to pick up my kindle.

The God and the Gumiho is an enemy to lovers' tales that will be right up the alley to those who like Korean fantasy romance dramas such as My Demon or Tale of the Nine-Tailed. Or those who appreciate folklore. I thought this story started off slow plot-wise, and I felt like it continued to be slow through the book's first half. However, I liked the witty banter between the main characters and the seamless introduction of the different types of unruly creatures. The female lead was strong and smart, which was a compliment to the male lead. The secondary characters also were very well fleshed out with a history and backstory that helped them stay at the forefront of your mind as the story progressed. The story's second half picked up, and I couldn’t put the book down. There were plot twists that had me gasping and shocked. There was enough action throughout the chapters to keep me anticipating what would happen next. The romance between the main characters was steadily developed instead of being an overnight thing, which I appreciated. I also liked how the couple kept the key elements of their personality despite being in a relationship. The intimate scenes left everything up to the imagination, which I know won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but I really liked it since it wasn’t supposed to be the story's main focus. I thought the ending was well done. It gave us closure while also leaving the possibility for a second book if the author wanted. Overall, I would recommend this book. The only negative thing I have to say about the story, which is completely personal, is that it was really hard for me to read the Korean words that had been romanized into the English spellings. I speak Korean and could figure out what the Hangul equivalent was supposed to be. I think though it might be difficult for those who aren’t familiar with the language to know what some of the unruly creatures were without googling them. All in all I would rate this a 4/5

This book was fantastic. It was such a delight to read. I know nothing about Korean mythology, but what a fascinating world to discover! I loved the culture, the characters, the storytelling. The author states in the beginning Author's Note that this book is a love letter to K-Drama, and it delivers on that perfectly.
There is some murder and gore, a bit of spice, and so much snark. I really wish there was a pronunciation key for those of us unfortunately underexposed to Korean language, but that is the only thing I found this book lacking for me.
Rounding up from 4.5 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing - Ballantine for this ARC! And extra thanks to Sophie Kim for writing such a fun, satisfying novel!

Hani is such a hilarious bad ass 😂 she had me cracking up and rooting for her the whole time. While I loved Skeoga so much, I do wish we had seen more of his trickster side. All in all I absolutely loved this book so much and the ending was just perfection

"The God and the Gumiho" is a breathtaking journey into a supernatural South Korea that will leave you utterly spellbound. Sophie Kim's masterful storytelling weaves together the tale of Seokga, a fallen god, and Hani, the legendary Scarlet Fox, as they join forces to battle a terrifying demon. The dynamic between Seokga and Hani is electric, filled with intense chemistry and delightful banter that will have you rooting for them from the very beginning. The worldbuilding is rich and immersive, drawing you into a world that feels like a thrilling K-drama with elements of Korean mythology seamlessly integrated. Kim's writing is beautiful, capturing every moment with vivid detail that makes you feel like you're right there with the characters. The ending will leave you breathless, eager for more, and I cannot wait to see what Book 2 has in store. If you're looking for a fantasy tale that will leave you speechless in the best way possible, "The God and the Gumiho" is a must-read. Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC!

I dont know where to start on this!!! This was book was SOO GOOD!!! I really love it! I can picture this book into a K-Drama. Can we get that? This book into a K-drama, please? haha This is my first time reading from Sophie Kim.

Anyways, the ending of the book gutted me!! I will not spoil it because you have to read and find out. I got a feel there might be a second book but who knows. The end of the book was written so perfect. I love how Hani (gumiho) and Seokga (the god) relationship went from enemies to lovers. They definitely were opposite attract relationship since Hani was more sunshine and Seokga was grumpy. I really like Hani's personality though. Her sassiness made me laugh and her annoying Seokga was funny as well. Hani's personality and Seokga's personality literally clashed. It was a great book. Would recommend this book to my friend who is really into kdramas. Definitely would recommend this if you are into kdramas or Korean mythology!

Would like to thank NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

let me just say i'm still coming into my 'fantasy girl era', still figuring out what i like and what i can digest easily and enjoy. and besties?? we have a winner!! a gem!! the angst, enemies to lovers (who are literally just hard headed soulmates in my opinion) is done so perfectly. there's an equal mix of banter and comic relief, mythology, and enough action to keep you entertained if you don't like the mush you'll feel over hani and seokga.

there's family drama and even little goddess and god gossip outtakes mixed in giving it a slight mixed media feel, with a touch of if gossip girl was a fun little action packed angsty fantasy romcom! that sounds utterly insane but trust me it's amazing.

if you like kdramas (tale of the nine tailed fox!!), korean mythology, 'i will find you in every universe' type of stories, vibes, media: you're going to eat this up, devour it!

This gave me Loki vibes
I really enjoyed the pacing of the story, didn't feel like it dragged in some parts and wasn't too fast there was too much going on. Though for some reason this just felt like a YA story. The only times I felt pulled out and remembered it wasn't YA was when the characters cursed lol
And I am not saying YA diminishes the story or anything. I just feel it should have been marketed that way.
I love folklore and stories from other countries. Probably my favorite type of Fantasy to read. So this one was really cool to me, and I did enjoy my time.

Though, I could use some clarification on the ending. ((This is SPOILERS)) How does reincarnation work in this world?? Do they remember past lives? Are they born?? So they are running towards a baby???

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a free copy. All thoughts are my own

4.5 stars. ARC through NetGalley; set to release June 4, 2024.

I immensely enjoyed this! The synopsis mentioned that it was like a KDrama and I felt the writing captured that feeling very well. Some of the moments were silly but fit well into the world. I thought the author did a great job interweaving horror elements into an otherwise lighthearted in tone narrative.

It was cool to get a glimpse of Korean mythology and get a new take on urban fantasy.

I did think that it was a touch too long but the ending was really good which earned it that half-star.

**Features:**
-A Sherlock Holmes style mystery with a K-Drama feel with a heavy dose of Korean mythology
-Enemies to lovers and opposites attract relationship
-Satisfying character evolution and interesting twists
-Urban fantasy

A sassy gumiho with a dark past and a trickster god fallen from grace team up to stop a demon from destroying the mortal world. What can go wrong? This book has so much charm and definitely makes no secret of its K-Drama inspiration. Kim does a wonderful job executing this style of storytelling in novel form and has created an engaging world where Korea’s mythological creatures and gods of old continue their age old struggles on the mortal plane beyond the notice of humans. Though acting very much in their natures, main characters Hani and Seokga are both very flawed individuals who end up growing alongside each other as they become closer as a pair. This book is perfect for any K-Drama fan and/or readers looking for a fun mix of mythology, mystery, and romance with a distinct Korean flare.

**Selfish disgrace to selfless power**

Though they are both ancient and powerful creatures, main characters Hani and Seokga both start off as quite selfish and flawed. Seokga is the definition of a god complex with a little added anger on the side while Hani is impulsive and willing to pursue her desires without much regard for the rules or who she might drag down with her. Hani has her charms, but both characters are hard to like in the beginning and it’s hard to envision how these characters could possibly help each other grow. However, Kim manages to pull it off without making it feel forced or too contrived. Sure, there are some moments that might be a little overdone, but it fits the narrative style and does not take away from the overall development of these characters overall. This is definitely a book where you have to trust the process. It is well worth sticking around to see how these characters grow and work their way into your heart.

**That’s just my style**

This book is proudly a K-Drama in book form and is unapologetic in its style. I think it is very well done and definitely highly entertaining. However, I also think your mileage could vary depending on how much you like this style and your willingness to learn as you go if you are not already familiar with Korean mythology and the pop-culture references. As a reader who did not come in with a lot of prior knowledge, the book still provides enough information that I was able to ‘tread’ through the earlier parts of the story until I really found my footing in this world. Ultimately, while I enjoyed this book’s style, I don’t think it’s for everyone and it lacks some of the finesse that I look for in a 5* read. Still, I know there is definitely an audience for this book and if it’s you, I know you will find it delightful!

Special thanks to NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I have no words. Okay, I have a lot of words. This book. THIS book, oh my god. By far my favorite read of the year, I would give it a million stars. I’m not exaggerating. The detailed Korean mythology shocked me. It was fantastical, magical, and enlightening. The banter between Hani and Seokga was top notch. Their relationship was so easy to root for. I loved both characters separately and together. I loved that the FMC was morally grey even more so in comparison to Seokga. This book was daunting at first but as I got into it, I couldn’t put it down. I love this book. I’ll be buying the physical copy. I am obsessed.

I love K Dramas especially ones that centre around mythology, so this story gave me everything I nedded in a book that gives me K-Drama. Having me glued to my kindle gasping at the plot twist and giggling at the banter and the obvious attraction between the two main characters. I don't really read fantasy but this haz got me wanting to look into it more and read more. I loved this and can't wait to read more by this author and learn more about Korean mythology. And I love obvious connection between Seokga and Hani.

(Pasted from my Edelweiss review)

Undoubtedly one of the most entertaining books of 2024. Unrivaled banter between this egregiously grumpy exiled god-turned-detective and the coquettish gumiho trying to lead him off her scent lends this novel a voice that's both wildly unique and widely enticing. The humor laced in THE GOD AND THE GUMIHO had me propelling through this 400 pages in one fell swoop.

Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing for the eARC!

This has been my most anticipated read since I first read the blurb and saw the cover (both UK and US covers are beautiful by the way!)

Hani’s character and personality was my favorite! Her and Seokga’s banter and growing relationship throughout the book made me laugh and smile while also making me anxious at every cute/romantic moment due to the secret of Hani’s true identity that was bound to be revealed (not a bad thing!). I couldn’t put the book down, waiting for every secret/every identity to be revealed and wanting to see how everyone reacts! The coffee having a purpose other than Seokga’s love for it and need to defend it against Hani’s judgement and disgust was not something I thought would happen haha.

It was slightly hard to keep up with every creature that existed in this book as I didn’t have that much background in Korean mythology, but it didn’t take away from how enjoyable this book was.

Overall, I would give this book a 4.5/5! I can’t wait for this books release and the future of this series!

Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Del Rey for an eARC of The God and the Gumiho!

I didn't know that this book was going to be everything I ever needed in a book and more until I started reading! Sophie Kim, you are a GODDESS. Korean mythology, mystery, romance, and an urban fantasy setting blend together to create what is arguably one of my favorite reads of the year so far. It had some of the best romance tropes (Only ONE bed?!?! GASP! *insert winky face"). Our two MC's are saucy and grumpy and have so much growth. I could go on and on forever about how much I loved this book.

I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

The God and the Gumiho by Sophie Kim is a dual-POV blending of Romantasy and fantasy mystery set in an alternate South Korean city called New Sinsi. Hani is the Scarlet Fox, a legendary gumiho who ate an abundance of livers of mortal men, who is working in a coffee shop to lay low. Seokga, the fallen god of mischief and the younger brother of the king of the gods, is working as a detective to achieve redemption and return to the immortal planes. When Seoka needs a new assistant, Hani is chosen and their initial terrible meeting evolves into a friendship and romance as Hani has to hide who she really is.

There’s something of a cat and mouse game at play as Hani does what she can to throw Seokga off her trail while pretending to be a normal gumiho. I liked how we explored both characters’ motivations and pasts that brought them to where we start (Hani ate so many livers at one time that there is now a ban and Seokga almost killed his own brother), with bits and pieces given to us over time. The exploration of the Korean pantheon was delightful as I’ve only ever heard of Habaek, the river god, before reading this.

The mystery portion is about thirty percent, I would say, and the romance element is roughly forty percent with the remaining thirty percent for character and worldbuilding. Seokga must kill twenty thousand Unruly before he can get his redemption and it’s his chasing of the Unrulies and the Scarlet Fox that provides the mystery elements. One of the Unrulies that assisted him in his attempted coup has come to New Sinsi and it’s manipulating other Unrulies to get to Seokga. There isn’t an overarching mystery beyond Seokga having to find out who the Scarlet Fox is until around 25%, but I liked the bits at the precinct and the interactions Seokga had with his boss, the chief.

In terms of the Romance, I liked Seokga and Hani’s hate-to-love meeting-at-a-coffee-shop and forced proximity set-up. It plays into popular tropes and ideas in K-dramas (such as Coffee Prince) so it’s a treat if you’re looking for something that is in a similar vein but using more fantastical elements. I was really into their love story and how their different personalities played off of each other.

The addition of various creatures from Korean folklore and the pantheon was really fun and is a great starter for people who are interested in learning more about Korean mythology.

I would recommend this to readers of Romantasy looking for a bit of mystery and a contemporary setting, fans of K-dramas who are open to fantasy, and those looking to explore East Asian mythologies.