Along The River: A Chinese Cinderella Novel (2010) - Plot & Excerpts
The premise for this novel was a romance set in Song Dynasty between two lovers in different social classes. A girl from a well to do family and a barbarian orphan fall head over heels for each other. I loved the premise for this novel, but the author focused too much on historical details such as the ranking system for nobles, castration, foot binding, and etc. It mentioned the origins of several famous Chinese paintings. Granted, there aren't many historical fiction books out there for young adults about ancient China, but this wasn't excellently written as it could've been. I think if I hadn't prepared for a romance, it would've decent. But if you're looking for a historical fiction read go ahead! CC fell down from the roof. She sees herself living eight hundred years ago, during the Song Dynasty in China. Her name was Mei Lan, she had an older brother and a good friend/servant named Ah Li. And Ah Li was very good at painting and calligraphy.I love the transition part of the story from the character CC to MeiLan. CC fell and hurt her head. Therefore, out of unconsciousness, CC was able to see herself living as MeiLan during the SOng Dynasty. Then MeiLan fell down while escaping from the soldiers and CC came back to conscious again.
What do You think about Along The River: A Chinese Cinderella Novel (2010)?
A good read even if it is for young adults and without a defined end
—kimberley
Very interesting topic and new perspective
—Bailey
