My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this novel. Well written, this poignant account of love and longing is actually a story within a story. Peony is a young girl who is betrothed to a man she has never met when she meets and falls in love with the boy next door. Cloistered within the walls of her father's home and constrained by the values of her society she sees no way out of her situation and becomes consumed by an epic love poem. When she literally dies of heartache the plot takes a fascinating turn into supernatural realms.
Fast paced and multi-dimensional this book left me feeling more emotions than I could keep track of. I recommend it as a good love story, a good ghost story, and a fascinating insight into the history of Chinese society and women.
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Review: Peony in Love by Lisa See
Review: The Girl with Glass Feet by Ali Shaw
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ali Shaw manages to surprise and delight with an ending that you both anticipate and fear in a heartwarming and emotionally shattering story about the true value of love and life.
The girl with glass feet was a really insightful look into what makes a relationship valuable. Almost afraid to turn the page for fear of its ending, the story gently touches upon secret dreams and fears as it explores the last days of a woman who knows she is doomed.
I would tell potential readers that the pace was a bit slow in the beginning, but the main characters were intriguing enough to keep me interested as the plot developed. It's worth the read, especially if you are a lover of deep and transcendent characters.
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