bak8382's review against another edition
3.0
When Lan rejects Bao it sets into motion a journey to break a spell. This is a quick read fantasy set in the world of [b:Forest of a Thousand Lanterns|33958230|Forest of a Thousand Lanterns (Rise of the Empress, #1)|Julie C. Dao|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1496338822l/33958230._SY75_.jpg|53186285] series, which I have not read. Though characters from that story are involved here, I don't think you need to have read those books to read this. I did find some of the backstory confusing, but not enough that I couldn't follow the story.
millennialbookreview's review against another edition
4.0
Song of the Crimson Flower is a pretty great book. The plot is a bit predictable and there isn’t much tension, but it’s a quick, fun read. The story has some great characters and poses some interesting questions. It’s a sweet story with a twist and an overall great standalone. The writing is incredibly digestible. I think this is a great book for someone to read as an introduction to Julie C. Dao’s work to see if they like her style. This book might not be my “go to” if someone asked me for a recommendation, but if someone asked me about it, I’d suggest they give it a try.
My full review can be found here
My full review can be found here
cindeereads's review against another edition
5.0
I loved this book so much it had the most perfect ending that I have read in awhile and one of the best romances that I have read in awhile. The characters were so amazing I really loved being back in this world again the characters that I loved most were Lan and Bao. I know Lan made a mistake she did everything she could to make up for it Bao was one of the best Male Lead's I have read about in awhile he was kind compassionate and loving. I loved the romance between them it was slowly built up as they both started to love the other deeply I really loved how at the ending there was a role reversal on a marriage proposal I found that fitting for that character that they would do what they wanted n asking for anything to do with their relationship. I loved the plot of this book it started with Lan making a mistake being so cruel to Bao she regretted it not long after and just wanted to apologize to him. So the curse happens he reluctantly accepts her help they set off to find the witch that cursed him. The story builds from there with a horrible tyrant and a awful sickness and the eventual ending that is very much happily ever after. So overall I loved this book I would definitely read more in this world if the author decided to write more,
girlreading's review against another edition
4.0
Julie C. Dao is officially the Queen on fantasy.
I don't make the rules, I just state them.
This read beautifully, with a fantastic, classic fairytale vibe and Disney had better jump on it and turn it into an equally beautiful movie asap.
I don't make the rules, I just state them.
This read beautifully, with a fantastic, classic fairytale vibe and Disney had better jump on it and turn it into an equally beautiful movie asap.
agirlsnightbookbash's review against another edition
5.0
A stunning love story. Everything about Song of the Crimson Flower is perfect. From the Lan's cruel rejection of Bao to the curse and the journey to find the cure. The characters are flawed and grow throughout the story. The background characters and side plot make sense and are fully riveting. The ending was absolutely perfect.
I did not know this was part of a series so it works well as a standalone. I may dive into the first two books because I am invested in Commander Wei and his life before this book.
If you have this book, pick it up now!!!!
I did not know this was part of a series so it works well as a standalone. I may dive into the first two books because I am invested in Commander Wei and his life before this book.
If you have this book, pick it up now!!!!
bianca_hanson2023's review against another edition
4.0
This is a romance that is set before the 19th century in a fictional asian setting. You feel bad for both of the main characters, Lan and Bao, in the beginning, but I personally felt more sympathy for Bao. Bao was sweet and caring, and didn't deserve what Lan did even if she was upset.
I was confused in the beginning with the curse. I have a tendency to read too fast so I had to reread the part when Bao was cursed. After rereading it, I was able to progress through the book. Some things in the end seemed a little rushed. Like the battle with the Gray City. I also wanted to know what Lan's parents thought of her decision. And I want to see how Bao controls the Gray City. Overall this book was really interesting and I loved the happy ending.
I was confused in the beginning with the curse. I have a tendency to read too fast so I had to reread the part when Bao was cursed. After rereading it, I was able to progress through the book. Some things in the end seemed a little rushed. Like the battle with the Gray City. I also wanted to know what Lan's parents thought of her decision. And I want to see how Bao controls the Gray City. Overall this book was really interesting and I loved the happy ending.
saigesmith's review against another edition
3.0
Wow let me start off by saying the romance in this book was top notch. Read it for the romance the love don’t go in looking for an intricate plot. Even though this is a companion novel I read it as a stand-alone and enjoyed it very much. -4 stars