The struggle for freedom and identity in "The Last Tiger"

I had the opportunity to read "The Last Tiger" before its release through an E-ARC (Advanced Reading Copy), allowing me to experience firsthand this powerful narrative by Julia Riew and Brad Riew. This young adult fantasy novel blends historical events with magical elements to explore themes such as oppression, resistance, and destiny. Inspired by their grandparents' experiences during one of the darkest periods in Korean history, the authors craft a story in which the last tiger—a creature both mythical and symbolic—becomes the focal point of a people's fight for freedom. Through the perspectives of two protagonists from opposing social backgrounds, the book offers a profound reflection on colonization, identity, and the choices that shape the future.

The protagonists, Lee Seung and Choi Eunji, come from completely different worlds: Seung is a servant who longs to escape his condition, while Eunji, a young noblewoman, defies the expectations imposed upon her. Their paths cross when they realize that their personal struggles are connected to the fate of the last tiger, a symbol of resistance against colonization. Initially allies out of necessity, their relationship becomes increasingly complex, turning them from accomplices into adversaries as their loyalties come into conflict.

The novel stands out for its portrayal of colonial oppression and its consequences, using the extinction of tigers as a metaphor for cultural loss and the destruction of national identity. The introduction of magical elements enhances the narrative universe and reinforces the idea that the fight for freedom is not limited to the physical realm but also involves the preservation of memory and tradition. This fusion of reality and fantasy allows the story to balance social critique with epic adventure in an engaging way.

Another compelling aspect of the novel is its exploration of interpersonal relationships, particularly the "friends to enemies to lovers" dynamic between Seung and Eunji. Their romance does not follow a predictable path but unfolds naturally, influenced by the political and personal circumstances surrounding them. The introduction of a third character, a princeling from the colonizing empire, adds even more tension to the plot, forcing Eunji to question her own convictions and allegiances.

The Riews’ writing is immersive and captivating, with rich descriptions that transport the reader to a Korea marked by occupation and the spirit of resistance. The pacing of the novel is well-structured, balancing moments of introspection with intense action scenes. The historical setting, combined with the construction of an engaging fantasy world, adds emotional depth to the narrative and enhances its reflective impact.

In conclusion, "The Last Tiger" goes beyond the young adult fantasy genre by addressing historical and social issues with sensitivity and depth. By telling a story of struggle and identity through two compelling protagonists and the symbolism of an endangered creature, Julia Riew and Brad Riew create a powerful narrative about resistance and the importance of memory. Having early access to the book through the E-ARC was an enriching experience, allowing me to engage with this impactful story before its official release. With its blend of magic, history, and emotion, "The Last Tiger" stands out as an essential read for those seeking not only an engaging romance but also a thoughtful exploration of resilience and the strength of a people.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book! Below is my honest review.

DNFed at 50%. I don’t think there’s necessarily anything wrong with this book, but I do think it’s tailored towards a younger reader. It very much does a lot of telling and not showing. I was pretty excited to read this because the lore sounded so interested. I didn’t know that the Korean government wiped out all the tigers, so I was curious to see how the authors incorporated that history into this fantasy world. I also loved the idea that the love story is based on a real couple. But overall, the execution didn’t work for me. I expected something a little more advanced, but this would fit well for a younger reader.

What a beautifully written story. I loved reading about how Lee and Choi’s relationship evolved.

You can tell how much they truly cared for each other. And I was really rooting for both of them. They both had difficult lives in different ways but they seemed to bring out the best in each other.
Unfortunately they must go separate ways because she is set up to marry Kenzo, even though she doesn’t want that. What will she do?

Both Lee and Choi learn that they need to make their own destiny.

“I know now that sometimes you have to be willing to step away from power to truly find your own”.- Choi

I loved the ending of the book! If you love forbidden romance or books based on true stories, I would recommend this book. It was really good. I can see myself reading this again.

Thank you so much NetGalley, PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group, Julia Riew and Brad Riew for the ARC!

Publication Date: July 29 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#NetGalley #TheLastTiger

Friends to enemies to lovers and and forbidden romance in a fantasy setting...everything you could want. I love that it's based on the authors grandparents lives in Korea. As a Korean American I can't get enough of these books. The representation was done respectfully and in such a great way. This is definitely going to stay as one of my top reads of the year!

Based off the authors grandparents love story, this book is captivating! I love the cover so much! Such a beautifully written forbidden romance!

The story didn’t hold the attention of my class. We tried but most were disengaged. The cover was attractive and seemed interesting