4.26 AVERAGE

informative mysterious reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
informative sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes

See is exceptionally talented at transporting you into the experience of a different time period. I also love that she does her research and integrates true representation of what life was like into her narratives

Absolutely fell in love with this book, the characters, just everything-what an incredible story

I appreciate the pro-woman sentiment, especially in a time period where that wasn't the consensus, but too many details, which made it drag. And the foot stuff
emotional inspiring reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes

Lady Tan's Circle of Women is a book about women, plain and simple. It's a fantastic view on the strength and challenges of women (especially on a medical standpoint) from different classes, ages, and personalities and how they can all come together to support each other in patriarchal China. The story is steeped in Chinese culture and traditional medicine, and it is well-researched by the author. Lady Tan Yunxian is a strong, wise, and emotional character. She grows throughout the book and is taught by all of the women she meets. There are in-depth descriptions on the medical cases and foot binding, which might be triggering for some readers but it really shows the struggles and pain women go through during that time just to have more opportunities and to survive. The writing can feel a bit distant at times, which is surprising for a first person POV. To me, the writing felt a bit clinical and detached, but it would make sense since it is based off a medical practitioner before. I did wish that there was more of an in-depth look into her emotions and thoughts.
adventurous challenging informative inspiring sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
emotional slow-paced

An amazing read about friendship among women