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4.26 AVERAGE
4.26 AVERAGE
A really interesting look into Chinese medicine from the 15th century. I do think I learned a lot from this book and I'm also really grateful for 21st century medicine. It made me mad and sad for many of the women's experiences, but I do believe that was the point. In the end, these women had each other to lean on and support themselves.
emotional
informative
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
"Lady Tan's Circle of Women" by Lisa See is a rare gem that shines brightly within the realm of historical fiction set in China. Having delved into the world of translated Chinese web novels with similar settings, I was delighted to see a similar theme novel written and published in the West. Lisa See's narrative prowess is nothing short of exceptional, and she masterfully takes readers on a journey back in time to explore the intricacies of noblewomen's lives in ancient China.
What sets this novel apart is Lisa See's keen eye for detail and her ability to transport readers to a different era. Her vivid descriptions and meticulous research breathe life into the characters and their surroundings, making it easy to immerse oneself in the story. You can almost hear the rustle of silk garments and smell the fragrant incense in the air as you turn the pages.
The protagonist, Tan Yunxian, is a character of depth and complexity, and her journey is both relatable and compelling. Lisa See skillfully navigates the challenges and expectations of a woman in her position, giving us a window into her world as she grapples with societal norms and personal desires to learn medicine.
As a reader who appreciates historical fiction, I am left with a deep sense of admiration for Lisa See's ability to weave a tale that is both informative and emotionally resonant. "Lady Tan's Circle of Women" is a testament to the author's dedication to her craft and her commitment to creating a rich, authentic world for her characters to inhabit.
This book has left me with a voracious appetite for more works of this nature. Lisa See has not only illuminated the past but has also ignited a passion for further exploration of historical China through fiction. I eagerly await her future novels and encourage her to continue sharing these captivating stories with the world.
What sets this novel apart is Lisa See's keen eye for detail and her ability to transport readers to a different era. Her vivid descriptions and meticulous research breathe life into the characters and their surroundings, making it easy to immerse oneself in the story. You can almost hear the rustle of silk garments and smell the fragrant incense in the air as you turn the pages.
The protagonist, Tan Yunxian, is a character of depth and complexity, and her journey is both relatable and compelling. Lisa See skillfully navigates the challenges and expectations of a woman in her position, giving us a window into her world as she grapples with societal norms and personal desires to learn medicine.
As a reader who appreciates historical fiction, I am left with a deep sense of admiration for Lisa See's ability to weave a tale that is both informative and emotionally resonant. "Lady Tan's Circle of Women" is a testament to the author's dedication to her craft and her commitment to creating a rich, authentic world for her characters to inhabit.
This book has left me with a voracious appetite for more works of this nature. Lisa See has not only illuminated the past but has also ignited a passion for further exploration of historical China through fiction. I eagerly await her future novels and encourage her to continue sharing these captivating stories with the world.
emotional
informative
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
challenging
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
dark
emotional
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
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Lisa See's writing style and flavor of historical fiction is just not for me. I thought this book was going to go in a more interesting direction after Spinster Aunt's death, but it isn't. It's a shame because I'd love to read more about this female woman in 15th century China, just not by themis author.