*The Last Tiger* by Julia Riew is a touching story about a young girl struggling to balance her family’s traditions with her own dreams. As she learns more about her culture, she discovers the importance of being true to herself. The writing is beautiful, and the characters are easy to connect with. The book explores themes of identity, family, and courage, making it a great read for anyone looking for an emotional and thought-provoking story.

Thanks to Netgalley and Kokila for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This books is a great concept, covering a harrowing period of time, but I felt there was way too much "telling" and not enough "showing" when it came to the storytelling - this impacted the prose style heavily, so I sadly had to DNF.

If it sounds interesting to you, check it out because you might enjoy it.

In a colonized land where tigers are being hunted to extinction - the story follows Lee Seung, a servant yearning for freedom, and Choi Eunji, a noble girl defying tradition; and how they join forces to reshape their fates.

The plot is rooted on /han/ and colonization - the oppression from the colonizer and the privileged which unbury the common grief and therefore, rebellious essence. Seung is the typical heroic character whom one easily root for, yet the most interesting aspect is the character arc of Eunji, the youngest daughter of one of the most powerful families and especially, the side characters, whose characterization acquire further importance throughout the novel.

Inspired by the author's grandparents love story, the plot is a parallel of the Japanese-occupied Korea, which the alternation between real-life letters (opening the chapters) and fantastical elements adds a spark to this part of Korean history. I always appreciate the folkloric touch, manifested through Korean mythological creatures symbolizing each colony.

The plot moves quick and escalates towards the end (it might be a bit too much happening) - I enjoyed the dynamic between the characters and wanted more of the backstories. The ending, while satisfying, tied up too nicely.

This is about unlikely alliances, loyalty, survival and power - with the characters with their own mission, what's the cost of freedom?

"True power comes from making your own choices."

THE LAST TIGER is a compelling Korean historical fantasy with friends-to-enemies-to-lovers love story. I thought it was rich and well-done.

I recall seeing the author post on tik tok how she is writing the book with her brother about their grandparents and I was hooked right away. I already have this book preordered and have no intention of cancelling it after reading the ARC. It was a unique way to read the love story of their grandparents. I really liked how the story changed perspectives. The setting of the book is during a pretty tense period historically so I was curious how the author would write it out. I wish there was more world building to this book and better connections to fantasy and life experience from the grandparents (two young main characters). I think it has A LOT of potential. I would def gift this to my niece or nephew (middle school/early high school) I think it works well for the teen audience. I would check this book out!!!

3.5 stars!
I've been a fan of Julia Riew's since discovering her from her song 'Dive' a few years back. So, when I heard that she was writing a book with her brother, I was immediately interested.
This was a good debut, and I liked how the story was based on real events that the authors' grandparents lived through. The direct quotes before each chapter were a great insight into their lives as well. I do think this book would be great for readers transitioning from middle grade to YA, as the writing style reminded me of some middle grade books I really enjoy.
I'm giving the book this rating mostly due to the fact that I only got truly interested in the story 50% into the book, and I found the romance to be a little lacking. I did like the realism of the ending (not everything is perfect and happy), though I do want to know the fates of some of the other characters.

I have mixed emotions over this book. I was intrigued by the concept and inspiration of the book because it is a fictionalized retelling of the love story between the authors’ grandparents. The book begins with the explanation, as well as an excerpt from an email from their grandfather asking them to write a fantasy version of what they had been through. The story itself is a thinly veiled fantasy setting of Japanese occupied Korea and the staggering differences between social classes. Each chapter begins with an excerpt from their grandparents’ perspectives - these were more interesting and captivating than the novel itself. The fantasy setting was so light and the magic system not well explained or executed. It felt like a disservice to the actual events because it was such a thin layer of fantasy. However, I understand if that is what their grandparents wanted I can see why the authors leaned into some fantasy - it just felt out of place. I think I would have enjoyed this more if it left out the fantasy aspects and dug deeper into the motivations of the characters. Either that or they needed to lean much harder into the fantasy side of things - the in between made it feel like the worldbuilding and the characters were left two dimensional rather than the deep, poignant love story they wanted to share. Overall it is still an interesting story - I just wish the story was executed better. Thank you to NetGalley for and Penguin Group / Penguin Young Readers for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book. These thoughts and opinions are my own - and I hope you enjoy The Last TIger more than I did!

This story felt similar to breath of a dragon by Fonda Lee, as well as her radiant curse by Elizabeth Lim so if you really liked either of those you will enjoy this one. This has tiger ki magic, and lots of other Asian inspired monsters and spirits mentioned throughout which was pretty cool. Plus there was a nice mix of romance mixed in that was well balanced and didn't push really hard into the story. Another story about another rebelling against your oppressor and human connection that was written really well. Thanks Netgalley for an early copy.

Omg, it's been a really long time to get hooked up on a book like this. This book touches topics and ethics that we have to deal in our everyday life and birngs them to an imaginary world making you see things clearer. I loces the double perspective and the characters' growth so much.
I loved how inspiration was taken from real culture and real people's experiences.
Honestly, can't wait to read more from this author.

Thank you NetGalley and Kokila for providing the DRC for review. All opinions are my own.

The Last Tiger by Julia and Brad Riew is a historical fiction novel with a twist of fantasy, reimagining the love story of the authors’ grandparents. Set in the Tiger Colonies, currently under the oppressive rule of the Dragon Kingdom, the story alternates between the perspectives of Seung and Eunji—two adolescents from vastly different backgrounds. Seung, born into poverty, strives to improve his family’s fate, while Eunji, privileged but trapped in her own gilded cage, yearns for freedom. Their paths cross at a Tiger Slaying Ceremony, where a pact and an undeniable spark of attraction set them on a path to liberate themselves and potentially their homeland.

The narrative is infused with a palpable sense of love and respect for its characters and setting. Both Seung and Eunji are fully realized characters with distinct personalities and independent story arcs, making their dual perspectives two parallel narratives that occasionally intersect. This approach strengthens the story’s emotional depth and builds a stronger connection with the reader. The environmental storytelling stands out, as the world-building elements are seamlessly woven into the plot, and the fantasy elements never overwhelm the narrative.

However, while the storytelling is tight with engaging pacing, it also leaves some gaps. There were moments when I wished for more exploration, particularly of Eunji’s family dynamics and the impact of her actions on them. Similarly, the resistance movement, which feels like a crucial part of the backdrop, could have been developed further. This is a story aimed at a younger audience, which explains its sharp focus on Seung and Eunji’s journey. Still, it feels like there’s untapped potential here. The book could easily have been expanded into a trilogy, given the complexity of the characters and the world they inhabit. I found myself wanting more—more depth, more exploration, more time with these characters and their world.

4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this book written by a brother and sister team, with its origins in the relationship between their grandparents. This fantasy story centers on the relationship between a boy and girl from opposite sides of the tracks , so to speak. The young woman, Eunbi, is the daughter of a family that has joined the ranks of the group that has defeated their people. Her family lives well. The young man, Seung, comes from a poor family that is struggling to survive. I enjoyed the magical system in this book as well as the two main characters. Well written and I enjoyed it so much!

Thank you to Kokila and Netgalley for sending me an Arc of The Last Tiger. The story was complex, intriguing, well paced, and the characters engaging. This story kept me on the edge of my seat and I was fascinated with the world building and enemies to lovers aspect of the story. Choi Eunji was fascinating character and I was absolutely glued to my book wanting to know what happened next.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this advanced e-copy.

"What matters now is that hope has returned where there was none."

This is a story of hope and resilience, rooted in history, family lore, and fantasy. It blends real-life facts with magic in a way that is purely human. I very much enjoyed myself while reading about Seung and Eunji's trials and tribulations. I loved how strong and physical Eunji was. I loved Seung's hesitancy but strong and pure heart. They made a good match on the battlefield and in love. We follow these two heroes as they pursue the very last tiger in the Tiger kingdom, both with varying motives for capturing her. They evade mutual enemies and their own pasts to find the magic and power in themselves to rescue the Tiger people from the Dragon empire. It was a fun ride and an interesting magic system that I do think could have been fleshed out just a bit more.

My only negative with this book is more on the verbiage used. The language seemed very modern and that pulled me out of the historical/fantastical aspect at times.

I would LOVE to see a sequel following any of the characters. Jin and Kenzo should get their own books now.

Throwing in one more quote about Jin:
"You've only ever seen the part of her that's most in pain."
Girl needs a happily ever after!

It was very well written, but some things didn't make sense. I took my time reading this book as I did not want to skip over anything and I am so glad I took my time. It was such a great read, quick, great storyline... just some minor hitches.

First and foremost, a huge thank you to NetGalley, Penguin Teen, and the Riew siblings for allowing me to read an advanced copy of The Last Tiger. I feel incredibly honored to have been trusted with this beautiful, heartfelt story.

Summary:
Set during one of the darkest periods in Korean history, The Last Tiger follows two star-crossed teens—Lee Seung, a servant dreaming of freedom, and Choi Eunji, a noble girl challenging tradition—on a mission that could reshape their futures and their country. When the last tiger, a powerful symbol of Korea’s identity, becomes the key to liberation, Seung and Eunji must navigate their shifting loyalty to each other and their people. This is a story of ancient magic, rebellion, heartache, and hope—with a slow-burn romance at the center, tangled with destiny and danger.

Tropes & Highlights:
- Friends-to-enemies-to-lovers
- Forbidden romance
- Antagonists turned allies
- Magic based on ki
- Dual POV with depth
- Historical fantasy with Korean cultural roots
- Inspired by real family history

My Review:
As soon as I saw the cover and read the description, I knew this was a book I needed in my life. I’m a quarter Korean and lived in Korea for almost two years after high school—the culture has had such a profound impact on who I am. So a YA fantasy rooted in Korean history and written by Korean-American siblings, inspired by their grandparents’ real-life love story? I was instantly hooked.

What makes this book so special is how it blends history, emotion, and fantasy in a way that feels both accessible and deeply meaningful. The story is filled with tension and action, but what stuck with me most was the emotional journey. Each chapter begins with a short, intimate excerpt from the authors' grandparents’ love story, which added such a warm and personal layer to the book. Even though The Last Tiger is fiction, you can feel the truth and legacy behind every page.

The writing itself isn’t overly lyrical or dense—it’s smooth, clear, and engaging, which makes it a perfect read for young teens and up. I’d say this is an ideal pick for readers 13 and older. It doesn’t shy away from complex themes like colonization, oppression, or cultural identity, but it handles them in a way that’s age-appropriate and thought-provoking.

Seung and Eunji are both incredibly well-developed characters. They’re flawed and real, and I loved how their arcs mirrored and diverged from each other. Watching them struggle through their individual forms of oppression, and then seeing how their paths eventually align again, was such a powerful experience. Their romance was tender and slow-building, and I appreciated that it wasn’t rushed. It felt earned.

The side characters were fantastic too—Jin and Kenzo in particular completely stole my heart. I need more from the Serpent Queendom and their stories! I’m seriously hoping for a companion novel or sequel set in that world. The magic system built around ki was refreshingly simple but still unique, and it fit the tone of the story really well. It never distracted from the emotional weight of what was happening—just enhanced it.

Even though the worldbuilding leaned on real history, it never felt heavy or overwhelming. It gave just enough detail to ground the reader while allowing the characters and their journeys to take center stage. That balance is rare, and the Riews nailed it.

I’m already planning to make The Last Tiger our fall read for my high school book club. I cannot wait to experience this story again with my students and see what resonates with them. It’s one of those books that invites conversation—about love, identity, resistance, and choosing your own path.

The Last Tiger is a rare gem: emotional, accessible, culturally rich, and full of heart. It left me thinking, feeling, and craving more. I can’t recommend it enough.


*I will post on social media once it releases

Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC! I thought the Tiger Kingdom and the Dragon Kingdom as a metaphor for Korea and Japanese respectively was really, really clever. The real life excerpts did take me me out of the fantasy aspect, however I recognize they are incredibly important. It is beautiful that the author's grandparents are forever immortalized in this novel inspired by their love story.

I wanted to like this more than I did. However, that it not to say I did not like it at all. As she is a debut author, I am incredibly excited to see what she comes up with next! This just wasn't for me. It read a bit more juvenile than other YA novels I have read. However, I can tell there was a lot of heart and care put into it.

I am all about reading young adult fantasy books, especially when they’re inspired by folklore. It’s always the best read for me. So you already know that I am going to read The Last Tiger in one sitting.

I have to say that I may have conflicted feelings regarding The Last Tiger. I didn’t hate reading. I actually had a good time reading it. It was just one of the characters that I didn’t love at all. Like, seriously, I don’t agree with that character whatsoever. I’m going to be completely honest with you. You may feel differently, but I stand with my statement regarding that one character.

Besides that annoying character, I truly loved the folklore regarding The Last Tiger. It brought so many emotions through the read. I truly felt for the characters and what they were experiencing. I kept on rooting for them no matter what. And I know you will too.

Thank you to Kokila and Netgalley for sending me an early copy of this book! All opinions are my own!

Oh my, what a beautiful story of love and culture and s0 much in between! From the start, these characters are each so special in their own ways. They are far too relatable and make it so easy to love them and be hooked on their stories. They each show different sides of humanity, but the heart of humanity is always at their core, and the beauty of it shines through in so many ways.

This is a story of survival and hope, one that has so much to unpack that it can be hard to face at first. From the strength of the oppressed to the love of the people for their culture and their land, this is a story that refuses to give anything but hope and light to its readers.

This story had me on the edge of my seat from page one, and I greatly adored every second of it. This is going to capture reader's hearts and empower generations to come!

I loved the story, the world building and meeting the different characters. I felt completely immersed in the story and couldn't stop reading it.

I have a lot of things to say about this book. This was a fabulous read, and it’s clear that the author has such a deep respect and passion for her grandparents and their story being told, even if it’s through a lens of fantastical-ness. Beautiful and gripping, it’s easy to understand the motivations of each character and feel compelled by their wants and needs. This book is based off the Japanese occupation of Korea that Riew’s grandparents lived through, and the sections of story that are clearly taken from this is done in a way that is respectful and historical. There’s no shying away from the fact that good chunks of the story are accurate to history and at times it was hard to read: and that’s a good thing. Art should make you uncomfortable at times, and if someone like me who has had next to no context for this dark part of history and can establish what parts are real and what is fantasy tells you a lot. The prologue to the book really does give a solid level of context for the world the story exists in, and beginning each chapter with a footnote from Riew’s grandparents - whose love story is the one Eunji and Seung’s is based on - really puts a lot of context and emotion into each chapter. I enjoyed this and would highly recommend it to anyone who wants a really splendid fantasy story.

I had heard about this book from TikTok and it did not disappoint. This was a very good book and the pacing wasn't bad so I was able to finish it faster than I expected. I can't wait for it to come out to get a physical edition!