Lady Tan’s Circle of Women: Book Review
Hi y’all! Today I’m reviewing Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See!
GoodReads Rating: 5/5 stars
In the historical novel, “Lady Tan’s Circle of Women,” Lisa See transports readers to a richly detailed world, immersing us in the complexities and beauty of Ming Dynasty China. Through the story of Tan Yunxian, a woman physician in a male-dominated society, See writes about friendship, gender roles, and the intersection of medicine and tradition.
Tan Yunxian was born into a well-respected family with a legacy of medical knowledge passed down to her through generations of women. From a young age, her grandmother tutored her in healing despite societal expectations that women should not engage in such practices. As she grows, Yunxian forms a tight-knit circle of female friends who support and challenge each other through the trials and tribulations of life.
Yunxian is determined and compassionate. Her passion for medicine and deep empathy drive her to overcome numerous obstacles. Her relationships with her friends, particularly the bond with her closest friend Meiling, showcase the power of female friendship.
The book provides a compelling look at traditional Chinese medicine, blending historical facts with the fictional narrative. See’s meticulous research is evident in the detailed descriptions of medical practices, treatments, and philosophy behind them. See’s attention to detail and ability to weave historical facts into a compelling narrative make “Lady Tan’s Circle of Women” captivating. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing readers to immerse themselves in Yunxian’s world.
I highly recommend this book to fans of historical fiction and those interested in stories of resilience and empowerment!
Thanks for reading!
