FOX SNARE

Beloved characters from the first two books come together one last time in this Thousand Worlds trilogy closer.

Lee mines themes of personal integrity as three young people juggle their human forms with their mythological animal selves. Min (a shape-shifting fox), Sebin (a tiger), and Haneul (a dragon) harness all the magical power they can summon to combat imminent threats to peace talks between the Thousand Worlds and the Sun Clans nations. The two narrators, Min and Sebin, provide alternating first-person perspectives on survival when the space station that’s hosting the diplomatic talks literally explodes, precipitating a high-stakes drama that could result in a devastating space war. After being jettisoned in an escape pod, the three teens face life-or-death challenges on the planet Jasujeong, which is claimed by both nations. Min sees an example of her own powers gone awry; Sebin, who is nonbinary, must override their duties in order to recognize deception; and the weakened Haneul struggles against family expectations. The plot contains historical references to the struggles between Korea and Japan, and Korean elements are woven into the story to a greater degree than before. With dangers emerging from political operatives, beasts, the weather, and even friends, the degree of emotional awareness of the three main characters is impressive. It is occasionally difficult to remember whether Min or Sebin is narrating, but overall, the trilogy concludes on a high note.

A grand space opera grounded in Korean culture.