Review by Slater678 -- The Vanished by Pejay Bradley

Harty Muli · Post by **Harty Muli** » 17 Jan 2021, 04:35

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Vanished" by Pejay Bradley.]

4 out of 4 stars

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King Gojong, the king of Josun, and his first cousin, Prince Aansoon, were engaged in an animated conversation. They were discussing the recently signed treaty with Japan and its repercussions for their kingdom; that which had initially been presented to them as a trade pact turned out to be nothing but a right of occupation of Josun (Korea) by Japan. To the king and his subjects, August 29, 1910, the day of the treaty, remained etched in their minds forever. It was the day that they not only lost their sovereignty but also 5000 years of their culture.

The Vanished by Pejay Bradley chronicles a tribe’s fight for freedom and preservation of its culture. The citizens are so united in their fervor for patriotism that noblemen choose to commit suicide rather than endure the dishonor and shame resulting from the loss of statehood. Ordinary folk, on the other hand, forbidden to speak even their own language, take up arms and stage an uprising against the oppressors, while others head to Shanghai, China, to form a caretaker government in exile.

Even though the setting was well established, nevertheless, what I liked the most was the similarity in the story. This element made my understanding of the country, Josun, and the protagonist, Embon, more vivid. While Josun was reputed to have a rich culture, ample resources, and a proud citizenry, its long history of passivity landed it into a state of subservience to the emerging powerhouse that is Japan.

Similarly, Embon was born into a life of immense wealth and power. Reading his story, I expected him to accomplish much in life. Even so, Embon was faced with a myriad of misfortunes that only time determined if he emerged victorious. In both cases, the unfolding events forced the characters to rethink their circumstances and to forge a path for their future survival.

Having said that, I didn’t find anything dislikeable about the story. However, I did notice one missing word in a sentence. This didn’t affect the rating of the book, all the same. I, therefore, rate it 4 out of 4 stars.

Lastly, as historical fiction, this novel depicts how Korea’s freedom struggle affected the lives of ordinary folk. It’s a compelling book on what can go wrong when the ruling class of a nation lacks foresight and a sense of autonomy. I, thus, recommend the novel to those in a mood for a story exploring the freedom of self-determination. Conversely, it may be less suited to readers disinterested in books with descriptions of social class and its intricacies of economic and social empowerment.

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The Vanished
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Ndiviwe · Post by **Ndiviwe** » 18 Jan 2021, 03:37

I'm not a fan of historical novel because they get very intense for my sensitive self but I can appreciate young revolutionaries fighting for freedom of their people. The review was written exceptionally well.

Raluca_Mihaila · Post by **Raluca_Mihaila** » 18 Jan 2021, 03:55

A very educational read, especially for people who would like to know more about Korea and Japan. Great job with the review!

Honest-reviewer · Post by **Honest-reviewer** » 22 Jan 2021, 02:26

I just finished reviewing this book. I enjoyed reading it. The author has done a good job. Great review!!

Post by **Kirsi Cultrera** » 22 Jan 2021, 04:14

I was considering reading this book, since I usually love historical fiction. You can always learn so much from these books! However, something in the author's writing style appeared repugnant to me. Maybe it was the slow pace of the story, I don't know. Anyway, Korean history is very interesting. Thanks for your insightful review!

Tarilan · Post by **Tarilan** » 22 Jan 2021, 07:20

Freedom fighting was very common in the past. However, am not sure if I want to delve into all that enmity. Great review!

Serenity2010 · Post by **Serenity2010** » 23 Jan 2021, 22:33

I just finished reading this book and I agree the way the author explores Korea's history, culture, and fight for freedom is very compelling. The ending left the book lacking for me, unfortunately. Well written review, thankyou you for a different perspective.

Kasun Perera · Post by **Kasun Perera** » 24 Jan 2021, 10:32

This book is a hot topic these days since it is the current BOTM. I enjoyed your nice review. Thank you

Josephe-Anne · Post by **Josephe-Anne** » 24 Jan 2021, 15:02

I also read this book, and I learned a lot about Korean history and culture.

Thank you for an interesting review.

25 Jan 2021, 04:43

The Koreans rightfully deserve their place in history. They fought a good fight. I enjoyed the book although I was dissatisfied with the development of some characters as well the book's ending.

Mtibza eM · Post by **Mtibza eM** » 25 Jan 2021, 04:54

I read and enjoyed this book. Thank you for sharing yours too. You did a great job.

Mariana Figueira · Post by **Mariana Figueira** » 26 Jan 2021, 14:36

Thank you for the amazing and detailed review!

ItsBenny_ · Post by **ItsBenny_** » 28 Jan 2022, 15:09

Well summarized and detailed review. This book appears to be the perfect pick for people with an interest in Korea and Asian history. Looking forward to reading this. Thank you!