When the description for this book claimed it was about Orchid's rise to power it wasn't kidding. It doesn't fall into the trap of many Asian concubine novels and focus on the make-up and clothes and cattiness of fellow concubines to win the affections of whatever man happens to be in charge. The book contains some of that but certainly it's shorter than most. The story is based on the life of a real woman who ascended to power to become China's last empress. As a result, I became familiar with a great deal of Chinese and Manchu court etiquette and hierarchies of power within that. This book was researched thoroughly. I was surprised to learn that Manchu women don't bind their feet and that it's an exclusively Chinese practice.
I enjoyed the character of Orchid because despite her protests to the contrary, she seemed extremely ambitious, almost to a fault. However, the author gave her a softer side and she wasn't completely inhuman and cruel. She was aggressive about fighting for justice and above all, China. I'll read more by this author.
I enjoyed the character of Orchid because despite her protests to the contrary, she seemed extremely ambitious, almost to a fault. However, the author gave her a softer side and she wasn't completely inhuman and cruel. She was aggressive about fighting for justice and above all, China. I'll read more by this author.
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