3.6
"Peony in Love" by Lisa See is a captivating historical novel that explores the complexities of love, duty, and tradition in 17th-century China. The story revolves around Peony, a young woman who is passionate about literature and falls deeply in love with a man she has never met, through reading his poetry. See masterfully weaves together the themes of love and literature, as Peony's infatuation with the poet leads her to defy societal expectations and pursue her own desires. However, Peony's tragic fate serves as a reminder of the harsh realities faced by women during this time period, who were often forced to sacrifice their own happiness for the sake of their families. The novel also delves into the world of Chinese opera, as Peony's spirit becomes entangled with a talented opera singer who shares her name. This supernatural element adds a unique and enchanting twist to the story, as Peony navigates the afterlife and comes to terms with her own regrets. See's vivid descriptions of 17th-century China bring the setting to life, immersing readers in a world of opulence and tradition. Her attention to detail and thorough research are evident throughout the novel, making it a rich and educational reading experience. Overall, "Peony in Love" is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that explores the complexities of love, identity, and tradition. Fans of historical fiction and literary fiction will be captivated by See's storytelling and transported to a world that is both foreign and familiar...
Lisa See
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan
A fascinating and heartbreaking story of friendship between two girls in nineteenth-century China, who communicate by using a secret language written on a fan. Like 'Peony in Love', this novel explores the roles of women in Chinese society, the importance of tradition and the power of love and friendship.
Learn MoreAmy Tan
The Joy Luck Club
This novel tells the story of four Chinese women who meet every week to play mahjong and share their experiences of life in America. The novel explores the relationships between mothers and daughters, the clash of cultures and the search for identity, themes that are also present in 'Peony in Love'.
Learn MoreAnchee Min
Empress Orchid
This novel tells the story of the young girl who would become the last empress of China, a story of power, love and betrayal. Like 'Peony in Love', this novel offers a glimpse into the world of Chinese aristocracy and the role of women in this world.
Learn MoreAmy Tan
The Kitchen God's Wife
This novel tells the story of a Chinese immigrant woman who reveals her past to her American-born daughter, a past of love, betrayal and redemption. Like 'Peony in Love', this novel explores the relationships between mothers and daughters, the clash of cultures and the search for identity.
Learn MoreAmy Tan
The Moon Lady
This is a short story about a young girl in China who is chosen to be the Moon Lady for a night, a role that will change her life forever. Like 'Peony in Love', this story explores the role of women in Chinese society and the power of tradition.
Learn MoreW. Somerset Maugham
The Painted Veil
This novel tells the story of a young English woman who marries a bacteriologist and accompanies him to China, a story of love, betrayal and redemption. Like 'Peony in Love', this novel explores the role of women in society and the power of love and tradition.
Learn MoreAmy Tan
The Bonesetter's Daughter
This novel tells the story of a Chinese-American woman who discovers her mother's secret past in China, a past of love, betrayal and redemption. Like 'Peony in Love', this novel explores the relationships between mothers and daughters, the clash of cultures and the search for identity.
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