Empress Orchid - by Anchee Min (Paperback)

About the Book

From a master of the historical novel, "Empress Orchid" sweeps readers into the splendid heart of the Forbidden City to tell the fascinating story of a young Chinese concubine who becomes China's last empress.

Book Synopsis

From a master of the historical novel, Empress Orchid sweeps readers into the heart of the Forbidden City to tell the fascinating story of a young concubine who becomes China's last empress. Min introduces the beautiful Tzu Hsi, known as Orchid, and weaves an epic of a country girl who seized power through seduction, murder, and endless intrigue. When China is threatened by enemies, she alone seems capable of holding the country together.
In this "absorbing companion piece to her novel Becoming Madame Mao" (New York Times), readers and reading groups will once again be transported by Min's lavish evocation of the Forbidden City in its last days of imperial glory and by her brilliant portrait of a flawed yet utterly compelling woman who survived, and ultimately dominated, a male world.

Review Quotes

powerful and brilliantly conceived Booklist, ALA, Starred Review

[an] absolutely addictive book, a marvel of perfectly executed narrative The Baltimore Sun

An exotic tale filled with historical insight, richly transporting in its details, and compelling to the end.

O, The Oprah Magazine

fascinating reading The San Francisco Chronicle

While the historical research impresses, Min's prose brings immediacy to the period. (Critic's Choice) People Magazine

nervously riveting and oddly beautiful. The reader...can end up gasping for breath.

The Star Tribune

renders a beautiful description of a world where ritual is elaborately detailed The Denver Post

keeps you riveted with heart-wrenching scenes of desperate failure and a sensuality that rises off its heated pages.

Elle

a stirring, exotic novel that is a treat for the senses and intellect alike.

Los Angeles Times

Readers who appreciate well-crafted fiction will know to applaud Min's talent and exceptional work.

Orlando Sentinel