The God and the Gumiho

Rating: 5 Stars
Steam: 4.5 out of 5
Spice: 2.8 out of 5
Emotional Damage: I am utterly destroyed. I am a sobbing heap of a mess. There was no putting this down. My heart is in a bajillion little pieces on the floor and after that ending I'm just picking up the pieces and gluing them back together. I NEED MORE!

Goblin: The Lonely and Great God meets The Bride of Habaek in this exciting and thrilling blend of Korean Mythology and the wonderful world of KDramas. As I read this it was like imagining a KDrama playing before me on the screen. The story flew from the pages in such a magical way that I simply just couldn't put it down. I got off work around 7 and it is now 11. FOUR HOURS and I devoured this much similarly to our Gumihos devouring their liver.

Kim Hani was such an insane main character. A breath of fresh air even. It was entertaining to not have another doe eyed, innocent main character to start out a story. Hani is 1700 years old, and has killed her fair share of mortal men. She is known as the Scarlet Fox and is rightfully a legend. She holds her own in this tale and it was just amazing watching her grow from her self preservation to caring for others.

What's even more entertaining was the relationship she has with Seokga, the Fallen god. Their constant fighting had me so invested. I was simmering just waiting for one of them to snap and finally give in to the building tension. The build was just so fantastic and the angst had me flying through the pages.

Seokga, after a failed attempt at over throwing his brother, gets essentially kicked out of the heavens and sent to the mortal world to live out his punishment taking care of the 20,000 demons he released in his rebellion. After 600+ years he's still going at it but the opportunity to become a god again falls into his lap. Kill the eoduksini that is killing and torturing the people of New Sinsi, South Korea and also kill the Scarlet fox who has conveniently finally come out of hiding. Which seems great and all just not for the Scarlet fox that weasels her way in to make a mess of his plans as a way to save herself and get revenge on our fallen grumpy coffee addict. This was an enemies to 'begrudging coworkers' to 'barely friends but with benefits' to lovers. I was gobbling this up by the page!

I am a Kdrama addict and this filled my Kdrama heart. If you like mythology, Korean fantasy, Kdramas, romance, enemies to lovers, look no further because this is the book for you.

Thank you Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this arc in exchange for an honest review

I really loved the witty banter between the two main characters Hani, a gumiho, and a fallen god named Seogka. Seogka wants to regain his full godhood. The tension and banter between the two characters kept me interested the whole time. It was a quick read with lots of Korean mythology and duel POVs to mix it up and keep me intrigued. The story is told well and the author does a great job keeping your interest.

This was such a good read! I was immediately sucked into the story and could not get enough of the characters. I went on a full emotional journey with these characters and I really enjoyed it. The book was easy to read and kept a good pace where I was never bored. I will be recommending this book to all of my friends and family.

I loved this book, a quick and entertaining read! All the characters felt fleshed out, however I did think the loveline happened a bit too quickly. I enjoyed the twists and turns, and absolutely adoring Kim Hani as a morally grey character. Didn't know this would be a series so I am definitely looking forward to the next book!

Thank you for the arc, I will be posting my goodreads review soon :)

I want to thank the publishers and Netgalley for providing an advanced readers copy in return for my honest review.
The God and the Gumiho was an amazing read. It's about a fallen god named Seokga and a gumiho named Hani. Seokga wants nothing except regaining his full godhood and Hani wants to cause mischief and keep her own secrets. They form an unlikely team and make jabs and bicker with each other every chance they get while trying to hunt down two killers. There's lots of tension, banter, and silly moments. There's also mystery and intrigue, with serious moments surrounding the crimes. This book made me laugh, it made me cry, and most of all it made me happy. I recommend it to anyone that enjoys Korean mythology, romantic tension, the one bed trope, arrogant and mischievous main characters, and coffee of course.

Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review ♡

Tropes :
Forced proximity
One bed trope
Grumpy sunshine

K DRAMAA written in a book!! It has the kdrama banter, humor, and romance. While reading this, I was picturing the couple from “my demon”. And the built up tension was fantastic!!

Even though it took me a few chapters to get into, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It left me wanting more and now I’m very much invested in these characters and would definitely love to have this turn into a series. She had me at that plot twist, I did NOT see that coming. (I love it when this happens!)

This is the first time I have read anything written by Sophie Kim. I really liked her descriptive writing style. It was an easy and fast paced read. Very much recommend if you’re looking for a cute palate cleanser. And don’t even get me started on all the food in this book 🤤🤤

I really enjoyed Hani’s character. She made me laugh so much and she’s such a badass. She is THAT bitch.

Also, bonus points for having men with silver hair in here.

A bitter, snarky, former trickster god whose only joy is coffee (did I mention he's hot?). A badass, clever, and charming gumiho who matches his snark with her own and hates coffee. He doesn't know she's the one he's meant to unalive, while she keeps her identity hidden in plain sight. They have to work together, and try very hard not to fall in love.

Here's a just a few reasons to read this book:

🌸THE BANTER!
🌸GrumpyxSunshine
🌸Enemies-to-Reluctant Partners-Lovers, with Friends somewhere in-between.
🌸Only One Bed
🌸Wound Tending (also gives her the shirt he's wearing to wrap her injury.)
🌸Pranking, Teasing, and Longing Galore!
🌸Stakeout Makeout
🌸'I hate you' is 'I love you'
🌸He buys daggers for her.
🌸Touch Her/Him and Die
🌸Just enough steam, not too spicy.

There was never a lull in the storytelling, and it was packed with different Korean mythological creatures that Sophie Kim put her own spin on. When there wasn't action or mystery, there were cute moments that lightened the overall plot, and a ton of funny moments too.

The dual POVs were done so flawlessly as well. I often prefer one POV over the other, but I adored these two equally and looked forward to each new chapter when the perspective swapped.

There is a very fun slow burn to it that shifts pretty quickly about 65% into the book, if you don't catch the subtleties that lead up to the attraction. I loved the little details that added kindling to the fire, like Seokga noticing her mischievous side (he is a trickster, after all), and the two of them developing an appreciation and begrudging respect for each other.

The ending was satisfying enough...but I NEED MORE!! I believe there is going to be a sequel and I really hope we get more of Hani and Seokga in it.

I recommend this book to anyone who likes k-dramas like Tale of the Nine-Tailed, or those who just love fantasy, romance, and mythology in general.

Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC to me in exchange for an honest review.

This was a fascinating read, each of the characters were very distinct and you really got to know them well over the course of the book. Seokga's relationship with Hani was very well developed and I loved the way the both the two of them grew during the book. The mix of Korean mythology was lovely as well and made me want to dive into the origin of the myths.

The start of this book is lighthearted and funny so I really thought I’d enjoy it however, while reading I kept getting distracted by the thought that this read like a fanfic. I usually don’t my mind books written this way but, oddly I really couldn’t get through this. Glad to see others enjoy this book, unfortunately it’s not for me!

“Thank you to Sophie Kim and NetGalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. the God and the Gumiho is by FAR one of the best new releases in 2024! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Sophie Kim did an amazing job at creating a kdrama fantasy in which a fallen, trickster, coffee addicted God and a fearsome, killer Gumiho form an alliance to save the world from unruly creatures.

The world building 🌟 enemies to lovers🌟 murder mystery🌟 the BANTER 🌟 it’s EVERYTHING. I CANT WAIT FOR THIS BOOK TO PUBLISH JUNE 4th!

The ending and epilogue is everything. I’m BEGGING for this to not be a stand-alone anymore😩”


I have posted my Goodreads review today, March 10th, as linked below ❤️

yeah you know those kdramas that you either binge watch all at once or the weekly episodes are literally your weekly highlight. and the characters are perfect in the way they bicker with one and another and the side characters are just enough of the plot. and we see the all the cliche tropes that makes you roll your eyes but actually guilty love them. and there moments when it actually not how you and characters thought it was or you were like “ I KNEW IT”. yeah *taps book cover* this is it.

This was such a breath of fresh air. The urban fantasy-romance aspect.. perfect. The enemy to lovers trope... Perfect. It was light and dark and just so different from what's out there. Learning about Korean mythology was so freaking cool. I cannot wait until release day, I need it on my shelf and I will be pushing it into everyone's hands. Hope there's another one.

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with the ARC

This review has been posted to Goodreads and will be posted to my Instagram on 3/09


THIS REVIEW IS NOT SPOILER FREE

This book was an easy 5 star read for me. I really loved the murder mystery plot but I am a sucker for books with Asian mythology elements to it. It was definitely a page turner and it had me in a chokehold throughout most of my reading experience.

I don’t normally read forced proximity but it was done well in this book especially when paired with enemies to lovers.

The plot was enjoyable and easy to follow. I really do love a good murder mystery story!

The worldbuilding was especially good- I really liked how the immortals and humans lived side by side (with the immortals and other creatures being invisible to the humans entirely)

The characters were enjoyable and well-written. I love how both characters have a complicated past- with Hani being the notorious Scarlet Fox while Seokga is a Fallen God who was kicked out of the heavens for trying to overthrow his brother.

Hani’s killing spree as the Scarlet Fox even led to the ban of liver-eating for all gumihos. Despite her high kill count, she is a good character and cares deeply for the people around her.




I loved seeing the buildup between Hani and Seokga as they work together as a team to try and track down the culprit behind a series of murders. Their interactions are so amusing in the beginning as Hani goes out of her way to annoy him while he in turn, cannot stand her presence. However throughout the book, there’s an undeniable tension between them that’s more than just their animosity for one another and soon it builds up something more. They balance each other out well and bring out the best in one another.

Although it is a slow burn, it was easy for me to see how their relationship developed and grew. By the time the spicy scenes happened, I was giddy and kicking my feet.

The character development was especially good with both characters. Hani, initially becoming Seokga’s assistant for her own selfish needs ends up sacrificing herself so Seokga would be able to gain half his powers back to defeat the eoduksini due to his bargain with his brother. Seokga, who was a prideful and arrogant God, humbled himself in front of his brother in order to have Hani reincarnated

One critique I had is that the romance wasn't really written in a 'show-not-tell' format. I wasn't a particular fan of the inner dialogue. Additionally, I think a glossary with the Korean mythology creatures/monsters would have been helpful. I found myself looking up a lot of the terms

I’ll be pre-ordering this book and keeping an eye out on the sequel because it can’t just end like that!!

Coming from someone who is an avid lover of kdramas, this book had everything i love about them!!

Did you love My Roommate is a Gumiho? Tale of the Nine Tailed? This book is for you. It has the classic grumpy x sunshine trope everyone loves.

I started this book in the afternoon and ended up staying up until morning to finish it 😭

The character development for the FMC was so good, you love her more and more by the end.

I’m upset that I ended up guessing who the villain was before the end but hey 😄 what can you do?

Free ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Such a cute story! I would definitely classify this under “cozy fantasy” due to the urban fantasy setting and mostly low-stress plotline. I loved the characters and how they developed, and the Korean mythology was really cool to be immersed in. Definitely recommend for fans of Legends and Lattes.

My new favorite urban fantasy!! This is one of my top reads this year thus far.

Synopsis : A Korean folklore urban fantasy set in 1992 sets the scene where a trickster fallen god is forced to work with a gumiho (shapeshifting fox) to kill a demon of the underworld before it devours the entire human world, but in this story, the gumiho has a deep secret of her own, that may cost her everything.

Review : This book is a page-turner! The author left no plot holes in this story. The MCs are quirky, likable, clever, and funny. The setting is fun and unique, the story is comical but also holds high stakes so there is this level of intensity. World building was potent but easily digestible. The character arcs were extremely enjoyable, and the ending did not disappoint! I am eagerly waiting for book 2. Contemporary fantasy, romance, high stakes, fun adventure, silly banter, a beautiful message--- this book has it all. I am so excited for the world to read this!

Thank you to NetGalley and Del Rey for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Sophie Kim weaves a mesmerizing narrative that seamlessly blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and romance, captivating readers from start to finish. Set in a world where mythical creatures and gods walk among mortals, the story follows the unlikely alliance between Kim Hani, a notorious Gumiho, and Seokga, a fallen trickster god turned detective, as they embark on a perilous journey to thwart a demonic threat.

From the moment readers are introduced to Kim Hani and Seokga, they are drawn into a world brimming with magic, danger, and unexpected alliances. Kim Hani's vibrant personality and quick wit provide a delightful contrast to Seokga's brooding demeanor, resulting in a dynamic partnership that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. As they navigate a treacherous landscape filled with demons, gods, and ancient prophecies, Kim Hani and Seokga must confront their own pasts and forge a path forward together.

What sets the book apart is its masterful blend of romance and fantasy, sprinkled with just the right amount of mystery and intrigue. The slow-burning romance between Kim Hani and Seokga unfolds organically, defying expectations and capturing the hearts of readers along the way. Sophie Kim's evocative prose and vivid world-building transport readers to a realm where anything is possible, immersing them in a rich tapestry of mythical creatures, ancient legends, and forbidden desires.

Furthermore, the novel's diverse cast of characters and rich cultural references add depth and authenticity to the story, enriching the reading experience and resonating with readers of all backgrounds. Whether you're a fan of fantasy, romance, or mystery, "VANG TARGET RET" offers something for everyone, delivering a captivating tale that will leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.

It is " is a spellbinding journey filled with twists and turns, romance and adventure, that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. With its compelling characters, immersive world-building, and tantalizing romance, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression and solidify Sophie Kim's place as a master storyteller in the realm of fantasy fiction.

I am a mess of emotions, in the BEST way possible. The God and the Gumiho by Sophie Kim is an incredible treasure of a book, and if you love Kdramas and all the feels involved, this book is for you. There’s the main murdery mystery plot, Korean mythology in an urban setting, main characters who dislike each other but have to be near each other for their own reasons.

The romance was such a deliciously wonderful slowburn. The gradual softening, the BANTER. I got the chills whenever they were getting along, and the payoff is so worth the wait. Seokga is prideful and arrogant, mirrored by Hani's selfishness and vanity. Their flaws are only more endearing to me because they are inherently incredibly good, vulnerable people despite what people may think about them. And they see each other for who they are, peeling layers of armor off of each other. I literally cannot wait to see what happens with them next book.

This may be one of my top favorite reads of the year even though it's only March. Trust me, I have the utmost confidence in saying that!

Thank you to the publisher and Sophie Kim for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This is a really good book. It is part procedural investigation and part enemies to lovers romance. It is entrenched in Korean Mythology which is fascinating and wonderful to read about. At times I wish I had a glossary of terms but the story is strong, the plot is good and the characters have depth. It is a fast paced story of a Gumiho which is basically a Korean kitsune or fox spirit. The god is a fallen god of deceit who works as a police officer and executioner for the various dark entitles he released into the world. This is a fun story, fast paced and charming. There are parts that had me tearing up but I enjoyed it more for it. I recommend this for my romance loving mythology buffs.

Thank you to NetGalley for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The assistant to the villain trope I've been looking for! The God and the Gumiho by Sophie Kim is an urban fantasy set in South Korea brimming with Korean folklore and mythology. This fantastical world is rich and distinct (without overloading you with too much worldbuilding/information) and I cannot wait for the next installment to dive back into it again.

With perfect pacing, engaging and relatable characters, and a plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this book hits everything you could be looking for in a paranormal romance. I ate up the interactions with our two main characters and their banter was a masterclass mix of hilarity and chemistry.

Overall, I gave this book a five star rating because it was such a fun romp and truly incomparable to other books in its genre. I absolutely adored it! I need this adapted into a kdrama ASAP!