Lady Tan's Circle Of Women

“Illness comes not only from the body but from the spirit.” These words by Lisa See encapsulate the soul of Lady Tan’s Circle of Women, a beautifully woven tale of resilience, love, and the bonds of sisterhood in imperial China. Inspired by the life of Tan Yunxian, a historical woman physician, this novel immerses readers in a world where medicine, tradition, and patriarchy collide. From her privileged upbringing to her unexpected journey into medicine, Lady Tan’s life is both restricted by her time and enriched by her determination to heal. At its heart, this book is about connection—particularly the strength women can offer each other in a world intent on silencing them. Yunxian’s bond with Meiling, her midwife-turned-best friend, is central to her journey. “A circle of women strengthens and protects,” Meiling tells her, a sentiment that shapes Yunxian’s outlook and her courage to defy the expectations imposed upon her. Lisa See brings 15th-century China to life with vivid, meticulous detail. Readers are transported to lush gardens, bustling markets, and hushed sickrooms where “illness is both a curse and a puzzle.” The immersive narrative also uncovers themes of class, gender, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of knowledge. Yunxian’s resilience in pursuing her calling, even as society tries to confine her to the four walls of womanhood, is truly inspiring. As she reflects, “I cannot change the world, but I can change a life.” These words echo her lasting impact as a healer and the profound emotional weight of her story. Lisa See crafts a tale as intricate and meaningful as Yunxian’s medicinal cures—a celebration of tradition, rebellion, and the unyielding power of women’s solidarity.

Great read, a bit intense but very interesting. Teaches you life lessons especially as a women. I would recommend reading the book once

Interesting, well written and so informative . Very good Read.

I loved the intricate detailing of the characters, their circumstances, and the emotions that made them come alive. I could actually visualize the words so well written. Lisa gave us a rare opportunity - that too with such ease - to get a glimpse of the anguish and strength of her characters from an era long gone by but still has relevance. The book works on many levels - from telling an extremely interesting and exciting story to takeaways for life. Thank you for writing such a book Lisa, loved it.

I loved this book. It was a beautiful story about women, friendship and kinship. It provided an insight into the Chinese culture, status of women and medicine. Thoroughly researched and written.

This book is both heart wrenching and uplifting at the same time. Set in 15th century China, women have gone through immense pain followed by unfair beliefs. The norms were believed to bring good marriage prospects. The norms including foot-binding and giving birth to a boy is essential as only he can give imperial exam and become an heir to the family. 550 years ago, there were many norms which made women life extremely difficult. I felt sad for the Respectful Lady and Miss Zhao. This follows the odyssey of Lady Tan who was born in an elite family. After her mother’s death, she became close to her grandparents and begin her training in medicine while oblivion to her destiny. Meanwhile Meiling and Lady Tan become good friends and they help each other. Author has not only shown the life of women back in 15th century but also depicted their emotions and how female friendship brings so much joy and makes life bearable. We all feel fascinated by chinese culture, customs, and Chinese beauty standards and medicine but the pain women have endured is unimaginable.

Lisa See's book reminded me a lot of Jung Chang's Wild Swans that I read over a decade ago. Chinese history has always fascinated me. This book can only be described as 'delicious'. I savoured every page and took in every detail with great fervour. The book is hard to put down. Absolutely recommend for anyone interested in historic fiction.

The poignant incidents in this story are described in such detail that one can feel the emotions almost as a real life participant. The silent strength of women is the story's protagonist.

Great book! I couldn't put it down. A very visual story, easy to follow, with interesting and relatable characters. Friendship, love, murder, mystery... this novel has everything. Will be reading more from this author.

Great characters and a grabbing story line with twists and turns! Lots of historical input and a sight intoaworrldvwith walls and intrigue

I was so identified with the main character that I decided to go to China and start studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine. I’ve reread the book several times ever since and I’m always enchanted by Yuxian and her cases.

What a fantastic book! Lisa See has given us a fascinating look at life in the enclosed aristocratic family atmosphere of 15th century China. In particular are the attitudes towards women, medicine, strict expectations and rigidly imposed etiquette. I am very glad I was not binding my daughters' feet. The descriptions of the process were too real for me! This is well researched. It is written in a clear and interesting style.

Me fascinó como describe los usos y costumbres en China del s.15, y el rol de la mujer y, en contraste, la historia de la protagonista: una mujer médico.