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Promise #2
Promise Thief
She has no future. He has no past.
A game begins.
JOSEON DYNASTY, KOREA.
During the long midwinter, snow drifts through the stark streets of sprawling Hanyang. Within the stifling walls of the Pavilion, a gisaeng slave girl is driven to the edge of her endurance.
Chungjo is ambitious. Beautiful. Cruel. A slave girl who submits to no-one and destroys all who stand in her way. Yet a mysterious stranger thwarts her plans at every turn. Craftier than she could anticipate, he is a young man who is her match.
Soon a dance begins. Who will discover the truth first? Who will destroy the other?
A dark romantic story of old Korea.
A game begins.
JOSEON DYNASTY, KOREA.
During the long midwinter, snow drifts through the stark streets of sprawling Hanyang. Within the stifling walls of the Pavilion, a gisaeng slave girl is driven to the edge of her endurance.
Chungjo is ambitious. Beautiful. Cruel. A slave girl who submits to no-one and destroys all who stand in her way. Yet a mysterious stranger thwarts her plans at every turn. Craftier than she could anticipate, he is a young man who is her match.
Soon a dance begins. Who will discover the truth first? Who will destroy the other?
A dark romantic story of old Korea.
248 pages, Paperback
Published October 23, 2020
7 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
October 18, 2020
Come for the romance, stay for the friendships
PROMISE THIEF by Lee Evie is the second book in the Promise series, which is set within the walls of an gisaeng house in Joseon era Korea. However, readers don’t need any knowledge of the previous entry to enjoy its dark glamour — both books, while adding contextual information to each other, can very well be considered as stand-alone novels. Of course, I would certainly recommend reading them in tandem, because both are excellent in their own manner.
Lee Evie describes her writing as dark and romantic, and it holds true for Promise Thief as well, although leaning much more into the dark side of things. At the center of the story is Chungjo, a cynical gisaeng renowned throughout Hanyang for her exquisite beauty and dancing talent. Thrust into a dire position, she will have to navigate a complex web of intrigue and relationships to survive the cruel world of medieval Korea.
Chungjo herself is, without a doubt, the main draw of the story. An unlikely protagonist for a romance novel, she is vicious, cruel, and hateful — but also captivating, compelling, and admirable. What sets Chugjo apart is her ability to remain ferociously strong despite being absolutely powerless, and endure great wounds inflicted on her while remaining defiant. This inner strength is not only endearing in on itself, but also makes rare moments of vulnerability and tenderness that Chungjo allows herself so much more precious.
The darkness that hides in the opulence of the gisaeng house is also much more vivid in the Promise Thief, perhaps because Chungjo sees it more clearly. Themes of exploitation and sexual violence, only alluded to in the previous book of the series, are on full display here. The way Lee Evie treats the topic is never grotesque, but still remains morbidly impactful. The unexpected romance that blooms amidst these grim surroundings, by contrast, shines brightly.
For me, however, the romantic relationship between Chugjo and the male lead of the novel almost took a backseat to the tender friendships that blossom between her and other inhabitants of the Pavillion. I found these scenes to be the most appealing, becoming a highlight of an already great story.
All in all, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, complex protagonists, and deeply emotional storytelling!
PROMISE THIEF by Lee Evie is the second book in the Promise series, which is set within the walls of an gisaeng house in Joseon era Korea. However, readers don’t need any knowledge of the previous entry to enjoy its dark glamour — both books, while adding contextual information to each other, can very well be considered as stand-alone novels. Of course, I would certainly recommend reading them in tandem, because both are excellent in their own manner.
Lee Evie describes her writing as dark and romantic, and it holds true for Promise Thief as well, although leaning much more into the dark side of things. At the center of the story is Chungjo, a cynical gisaeng renowned throughout Hanyang for her exquisite beauty and dancing talent. Thrust into a dire position, she will have to navigate a complex web of intrigue and relationships to survive the cruel world of medieval Korea.
Chungjo herself is, without a doubt, the main draw of the story. An unlikely protagonist for a romance novel, she is vicious, cruel, and hateful — but also captivating, compelling, and admirable. What sets Chugjo apart is her ability to remain ferociously strong despite being absolutely powerless, and endure great wounds inflicted on her while remaining defiant. This inner strength is not only endearing in on itself, but also makes rare moments of vulnerability and tenderness that Chungjo allows herself so much more precious.
The darkness that hides in the opulence of the gisaeng house is also much more vivid in the Promise Thief, perhaps because Chungjo sees it more clearly. Themes of exploitation and sexual violence, only alluded to in the previous book of the series, are on full display here. The way Lee Evie treats the topic is never grotesque, but still remains morbidly impactful. The unexpected romance that blooms amidst these grim surroundings, by contrast, shines brightly.
For me, however, the romantic relationship between Chugjo and the male lead of the novel almost took a backseat to the tender friendships that blossom between her and other inhabitants of the Pavillion. I found these scenes to be the most appealing, becoming a highlight of an already great story.
All in all, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, complex protagonists, and deeply emotional storytelling!
November 13, 2021
Lee Evie's series surrounding gisaeng, Korea's version of geisha, is wonderfully captivating! The series involves three gisaeng with different outlooks on life. After completing Chungjo's story, I'm hooked. Discovering Lee Evie and the Joseon dynasty has been a treat. Chungjo is a force to be reckoned with — angry, bitter, and seeking power. Get out of this chick's way!
July 8, 2024
I am so sad that Lee Evie is no longer publishing books (I was lucky to get my hands on a copy of this book at all) because the way she writes Korean historical romances is unmatched. There was so much depth to this book and the romance had me kicking my legs every other page.
I did not like Chungjo (FMC)at the beginning but you are not really supposed to. She is determined to survive and has such a negative view of the world and people around her. But she can also be kind, determined, and cunning. The author took her time really peeling away at Chungjo's layers, helping the reader slowly understand her story and motivations. In the end I couldn't really blame her for how she acted in the beginning when you see what her life was really like at the gisaeng house but I am so glad she fought for her "happily ever after."
I just loved this book so much and the romance was so good. If you can find a copy of this to read or any of this authors books--I can't recommend them enough! They are quick reads but full of so much romance and friendship. I hope I can have the opportunity to read another Lee Evie book in the future.
Content: Discussions of sex (nothing major but this takes place in a gisaeng house which is like glorified prostitution almost), there was 2 sex scenes but nothing is described, violence
I did not like Chungjo (FMC)at the beginning but you are not really supposed to. She is determined to survive and has such a negative view of the world and people around her. But she can also be kind, determined, and cunning. The author took her time really peeling away at Chungjo's layers, helping the reader slowly understand her story and motivations. In the end I couldn't really blame her for how she acted in the beginning when you see what her life was really like at the gisaeng house but I am so glad she fought for her "happily ever after."
I just loved this book so much and the romance was so good. If you can find a copy of this to read or any of this authors books--I can't recommend them enough! They are quick reads but full of so much romance and friendship. I hope I can have the opportunity to read another Lee Evie book in the future.
Content: Discussions of sex (nothing major but this takes place in a gisaeng house which is like glorified prostitution almost), there was 2 sex scenes but nothing is described, violence
October 5, 2020
I received this advance ready copy from the author in exchange of my honest opinion of the book.
During first 40% of the book, Chungjo (the lead character) seemed to be very angry all the time, like the whole world owed her. I was a bit put off from her constant anger (hence minus 1 star). However, I also understood that it was such a tough life for her being a gisaeng since she was twelve.
The riot scene was pretty awesome: full of actions, suspense, evil calculations, horror and danger. (The author really did a good job here and I kept thinking back those fight scenes in kdrama Mr. Sunshine) The interactions between Baek Sang Moon and Chungjo were fierce. I was rooting for Baek Sang Moon and felt frustrated at Chungjo's reactions towards him. But then later I understood why Chungjo acted the way she did because what she was. I was happy of her choice at the end.
I also like the development between Chungjo and Seorin. It is wonderful to see how the author connects this book from the first book.
Just like the first book, I love me some fierce, strong female lead character!
Once you have a goal what you want in your life, don't waver, don't hold back, full steam ahead. Although you may change your mind later but the journey that takes you there is worth it... or you can say the journey you experience is/will be the catalyst of your future.
Thanks Lee Evie for the opportunity to read your book before publication.
During first 40% of the book, Chungjo (the lead character) seemed to be very angry all the time, like the whole world owed her. I was a bit put off from her constant anger (hence minus 1 star). However, I also understood that it was such a tough life for her being a gisaeng since she was twelve.
The riot scene was pretty awesome: full of actions, suspense, evil calculations, horror and danger. (The author really did a good job here and I kept thinking back those fight scenes in kdrama Mr. Sunshine) The interactions between Baek Sang Moon and Chungjo were fierce. I was rooting for Baek Sang Moon and felt frustrated at Chungjo's reactions towards him. But then later I understood why Chungjo acted the way she did because what she was. I was happy of her choice at the end.
I also like the development between Chungjo and Seorin. It is wonderful to see how the author connects this book from the first book.
Just like the first book, I love me some fierce, strong female lead character!
Once you have a goal what you want in your life, don't waver, don't hold back, full steam ahead. Although you may change your mind later but the journey that takes you there is worth it... or you can say the journey you experience is/will be the catalyst of your future.
Thanks Lee Evie for the opportunity to read your book before publication.
October 6, 2020
*I received an advance of the Promise Thief from the author, Lee Evie in exchange for an honest review.*
The is the second book from the Promise series and I truly enjoyed it! The main character is not the most loving character in the series but she deserves her own love story. Chungjo and Baek Sang Moon are Bonnie and Clyde in the Joseon Dynasty Korea. She wanted to get out of her miserable life and he wanted his revenge of his past. It is God’s plan for the redemption of their world.
Despite Chungjo’s untouchable personality, she has a soft spot for the girls in the Pavilion. Her friendship with Jan-Sil and Seorin has made her a better person.
I personally wish to get more color on Baek Sang Moon’s back story, to what he had gone through in the North.
The author, Lee Evie has an impeccable way to bring the readers to Joseon Dynasty through her words. Thank you so much to bringing another endearing addition to the Promise series.
The is the second book from the Promise series and I truly enjoyed it! The main character is not the most loving character in the series but she deserves her own love story. Chungjo and Baek Sang Moon are Bonnie and Clyde in the Joseon Dynasty Korea. She wanted to get out of her miserable life and he wanted his revenge of his past. It is God’s plan for the redemption of their world.
Despite Chungjo’s untouchable personality, she has a soft spot for the girls in the Pavilion. Her friendship with Jan-Sil and Seorin has made her a better person.
I personally wish to get more color on Baek Sang Moon’s back story, to what he had gone through in the North.
The author, Lee Evie has an impeccable way to bring the readers to Joseon Dynasty through her words. Thank you so much to bringing another endearing addition to the Promise series.
October 23, 2020
A sweeping historical novel that reads as a K-Drama!
Another beautiful installment in the PROMISE SERIES by Lee Evie! Five stars for the beautiful prose, the historical accuracy, and the characterization. Amazing job, Evie!
Another beautiful installment in the PROMISE SERIES by Lee Evie! Five stars for the beautiful prose, the historical accuracy, and the characterization. Amazing job, Evie!
January 5, 2021
Promise Thief takes us back into the world of the Gisaeng House in Joseon Korea to tell the story of Chungjo who has fallen from the top of the pecking order and is now facing an uncertain future. I enjoyed this story so much, Chungjo was a bit of a villain in the first book but in this story we understand why she has such a hard exterior, the fear that she cannot show and the tragedy of her past. The push pull of her relationship with Baek Sang Moon and the slow thawing of her hard exterior as she finally allows herself to open to the friendships with the other Gisaeng was thoroughly enjoyable. I found myself rooting for her, hoping that she would survive and thrive and allow herself to love. I loved Baek Sang Moon as the hero, an “Errol Flynn” like character who seems like the perfect match for Chingjo. I also really loved the fact that the story of Seorin and her magistrate continues, albeit in the background, it made me happy to hear more of their story!
Once again, the romance was delicious, gentle and slow growing, Lee Evie knows how to write romance in a way that has you longing for the couple to find love. It also felt realistic given the circumstances the characters are living in, the political turmoil that surrounds them and the constant danger.
I loved this story and can’t wait to read the next instalment of the trilogy! Highly recommended!
Once again, the romance was delicious, gentle and slow growing, Lee Evie knows how to write romance in a way that has you longing for the couple to find love. It also felt realistic given the circumstances the characters are living in, the political turmoil that surrounds them and the constant danger.
I loved this story and can’t wait to read the next instalment of the trilogy! Highly recommended!
January 10, 2021
Wow, so I loved this second book in the series, this time featuring the bitterly cruel gisaeng Chunjo, who we first met in book one, where she served as a villainous minor character.
Lee Evie's writing was perfectly well done and serviceable in the first installment, but you can see her really hit her stride here. The characters seemed a lot more real and fleshed out, and I loved the hints at what we can expect in book three of the series.
Lee Evie's writing was perfectly well done and serviceable in the first installment, but you can see her really hit her stride here. The characters seemed a lot more real and fleshed out, and I loved the hints at what we can expect in book three of the series.
October 26, 2020
Promise Thief is a dark, romantic tale set in the Joseon Dynasty in Korea. Having read the first book in the series, I had a good idea what to expect in this book in terms of the location, other characters, and Lee's writing style. I couldn't wait to immerse myself back into the world where Lee's characters believe in paving their own way despite having little options, mysterious young men in gatts, action, romance and hope.
Promise Thief is brought to life with beautiful descriptions of old Korea. The culture, the clothing and the architecture all described beautifully. The action is exciting, and the love story (my favourite part) is just so lovely. I really like how Lee doesn't depict her characters as waiting to be saved, and that they even hesitate to commit to a future with the men they love.
I personally really enjoy watching Korean Dramas set in the Joseon dynasty, so for me this entire world that Lee describes is appealing to me. If you aren't familiar with terminology or fashion from this period, some of the clothing described and terminology may seem a little different to what we imagine from our knowledge of Western culture (I am Australian, so Korean history is fairly new to me), but I don't believe this affects the enjoyment of the story.
Is there anything I felt lacking, or didn't like? I loved everything about it. I thoroughly enjoyed it, however I am greedy and would have easily soaked up more if there had been more. But there didn't need to be more, it had everything it needed.
I can't wait to see what else Lee Evie has in store for us.
Promise Thief is brought to life with beautiful descriptions of old Korea. The culture, the clothing and the architecture all described beautifully. The action is exciting, and the love story (my favourite part) is just so lovely. I really like how Lee doesn't depict her characters as waiting to be saved, and that they even hesitate to commit to a future with the men they love.
I personally really enjoy watching Korean Dramas set in the Joseon dynasty, so for me this entire world that Lee describes is appealing to me. If you aren't familiar with terminology or fashion from this period, some of the clothing described and terminology may seem a little different to what we imagine from our knowledge of Western culture (I am Australian, so Korean history is fairly new to me), but I don't believe this affects the enjoyment of the story.
Is there anything I felt lacking, or didn't like? I loved everything about it. I thoroughly enjoyed it, however I am greedy and would have easily soaked up more if there had been more. But there didn't need to be more, it had everything it needed.
I can't wait to see what else Lee Evie has in store for us.
December 8, 2020
At the end I was craving more. I wish this book was longer and had some wacky swindler adventures with Chungjo and Baek Sang Moon. I seriously thought for most of the book Baek Sang Moon would either be the talked about crown prince or involved with him since the prince was mentioned so often and Baek Sang Moon was such a mystery. Chungjo's anger in my opinion was justified her position in the house was unstable and she was on the verge of being thrown out so she after being used and abused for years lashes out at others in an attempt to defend herself.
Most of this book takes places within the gisaeng house with only a few short scenes that take place outside the pavilion. Seorin and Jan-sil are featured numerous times as you can witness Chungjo's perspective on their relationship and the changes that occur throughout the events where all the girls grow closer.
Most of this book takes places within the gisaeng house with only a few short scenes that take place outside the pavilion. Seorin and Jan-sil are featured numerous times as you can witness Chungjo's perspective on their relationship and the changes that occur throughout the events where all the girls grow closer.
January 17, 2022
I found Chungjo to be a difficult character to root for. Her abrasiveness, while justified, was pretty intense and made it hard to care about her story until late in the book. My mixed feelings on the ending of Promise Season also made it difficult to care for (and follow) Seorin’s thread through this story, and I found myself skimming about half of the writing from about 15-60% through the story. I did find the ending to be pretty satisfying, with both Seorin and Chungjo’s narratives being resolved.
I think I spoiled myself on this series by reading Promise Dream first. That book hits a few of my favorite romance tropes and does so very well.
November 10, 2020
Promise thief is wonderfully written, dark, gripping and addictive. I loved this book just as much as the first!
August 30, 2021
It was enjoyable but quite lackluster. The female lead was refreshing to read about and I liked the romance a lot (they definitely gave off some Slytherin couple vibes which I am a hoe for).
February 2, 2022
this was great! chungjo was a very interesting character and I enjoyed hearing her point of view
July 7, 2025
I went into Promise Thief not knowing was to expect, as we follow Chungjo, someone who was a troublesome character in the first book, Promise Season. I really enjoyed how the author humanized her and delved into her tough exterior, and even tougher situation. In this book, we get an enemy's to lovers sort of situation: he's brash man of ambition who gets in Chungjo's way and under her skin. She's determined to find out his secrets and use him, but who uses who in the end? I highly recommend this book if you read and loved Promise Season!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews