CHINA

I read about two thirds and stopped. If I was to be generous, the book was a good idea.I just didn't like the writing style. I found it bordering on smug and self satisfied. It read, at points, how I imagine an overcooked Mills and Boon might read.If you like low brow Victorian pastiche, then this is the book for you!

Promised so much but delivered so little. Padded with just irrelevant drivel. Battled through 650 pages but just couldn't be bothered to make it to the end.!!!

I have read most of Rutherford's books and really enjoyed them. This book starts well but gets quite slow and boring the middle. The story of Laquer Nail is a bit superfluous and doesn't gel with the style of the rest of the book. Disappointed.

At first I was disappointed. Unlike Rutherfurd's other historical novels, this one deals with only a short section of the history of China, the mid to late nineteenth century. I was hoping for his usual broad sweep through the millennia, especially with a country like China, whose written history goes back further than most. However, this novel goes in depth into the psyche of China, presented through the eyes of several main characters from a wide spectrum of Chinese society, as well as from the viewpoint of several Westerners. It took a while to get into the book; the Chinese characters were more relatable than the Englishman, John Trader, whose story forms the first section. But in the end I gave it 5 stars as Rutherfurd's research is meticulous and well-rounded. I feel I understand China better now.

If you have enjoyed all of Edward Rutherfurds other books, this will not disappoint you. I found it transported me completely. My imagination was given the type of treat that made this impossible to put down. Poetic licence has been utilised in a way that seamlessly entwines fact and fiction. A fantastic read that no doubt, will stay with you. Highly recommended.