“Under the Poppy is the story of an orphaned brother and sister, Istvan and Decca, and their childhood friend, Rupert, set in a Victorian-era brothel called Under the Poppy. The brothel is owned by Decca, who’s in love with co-owner Rupert, who’s in love with Istvan, who comes to town, louche puppet troupe in tow.
The lines of their desires intersect against a backdrop of approaching war, as old betrayals and new alliances — not only their own — take shape, hearts are broken, and the townsmen seek refuge from it all by watching the girls of the Poppy cavort onstage with Istvan’s naughty puppets . . . It’s a love story.” [Summary found here.]
First, look at that cover. It caught and held my eye the moment it popped up on Amazon. Second, the Publisher’s Weekly review I read thoroughly piqued my interest. Third, I watched the trailer. You should, too. Note: The puppets are naughty indeed; keep that in mind before watching. Fourth, check out Cory Doctrow’s blurb: “This book made me drunk. Koja’s language is at its poetic best, and the epic drama had me digging my nails into my palms.” And finally, this novel is being adapted for the stage. Which, based on the summary, will surely be one provocative production.
I am most curious about Under the Poppy and will definitely track down a copy come October.
