Lady Tan's Circle Of Women

Inspired by the true story of a woman physician and writer, this is an absorbing story of female friendship and conflict set in 15th Century China, rich in detail and court intrigue.

Reviews

‘A poignant new story exploring the life of a Chinese woman whose fate is bound by her country’s patriarchal power structures… The quietly affecting reimagining follows Yunxian from her youth learning about the traditional pillars of Chinese medicine to the beginning of her lifelong friendship with a young midwife-in-training to the years after she is sent into an arranged marriage.’ Time

‘See envelops her story in the accepted practices of the time: arranged marriages, the buying and selling of concubines, the pressure to provide male heirs, and the crippling and sometimes deadly practice of female foot binding. Despite the inordinate limits placed on women, See allows their strengths to dominate their stories, even though not all women were graced with lives of fulfillment.’ Washington Post

‘Spellbinding… vividly depicts 15th-century China with artfully woven details, rich characters and descriptive language. See captures a world of propriety and cruelty as she ruminates on the disparity between the lives of men and women, and how women – no matter their class – are treated as possessions of the men around them. But through her strong-willed characters, See also emphasizes how women can act as the anchors of society… an emotional and illuminating epic.’ BookPage

‘Based on true events, this richly imagined historical novel captures the extraordinary lives of two women in the Ming Dynasty’ Woman’s Own

‘Engaging… Based on the writings of an historical Ming dynasty female physician, See’s accomplished novel immerses readers in a fascinating life lived within a fascinating culture.’ Booklist

‘The lives of women in 15th-century China are illuminated in this engrossing novel… Women’s friendships in a world where they have little freedom shape a quietly moving book.’ Kirkus Reviews

‘An appealing tale of female love and loyalty… See adds intrigue with a side plot involving a mysterious death, along with notable depictions of footbinding and the intricacies of Chinese medicine. See’s fans will find much to enjoy.’ Publishers Weekly

‘The deft ways the story addresses issues of class and power are intriguing… But the heart of this tale is indeed its titular circle of women, who rally around each other in ways both large and small … the quiet ways they make space for and uplift one another is touching and heartfelt.’ Paste magazine

‘See’s novel is a portrayal of female strength, resilience, and intelligence… An intimate and absorbing story that immerses readers in the rich cultural and historical context of Ming Dynasty China, revealing the life of a woman whose legacy extends far beyond her time.’ Medium