A review by ashima25
Lady Tan's Circle of Women by Lisa See

adventurous informative fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

 A beautifully written and insightful novel that gave me a unique perspective on womanhood from a conservative background. As a young unmarried woman myself, I found the details on marriage, moving into the in-laws' house, pregnancy and post-pregnancy very informative and relished the atmosphere created by See, almost as preview of what could potentially come, albeit in vastly different circumstances and backgrounds. There was added delight in reading the Chinese euphemisms  for topics often brushed aside—such as moon water for periods and honey pot for chamber pots. 

While stronger character development would have further strengthened the novel, overall, it is an immersive read, rich in detail and written with great sensitivity in building authentic and fully-realized female characters of that time.
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