Reviewed for NetGalleyWell, I finally read this book. I tried and tried and tried to read it, and I JUST couldn't get into it. Then I read My Beautiful Enemy and I really enjoyed that story. So, I found this one and I read it. I also really like it. However, I absolutely had to read the other book first. I would recommend people check them out together so that they can read it in whichever order makes the most sense to them. This is the tale of Leighton and Ying Ying, a.k.a. Catherine Blade (protagonists of the subsequent My Beautiful Enemy) as children, growing up in England and China respectively. This is not a romance, as the kids never meet. But you will see the seeds of destiny being planted.I loved the book. This is heart-wrenching, lovely, emotional ... I can't think of enough words that that would do this justice. It's a beautiful and engrossing tale. I love Leighton and Ying Ying. They came alive for me, perfectly human, flawed and all. Smart without being omnipotent. Strong without being invincible. Kind without being overbearing.Sherry Thomas is one the best writers in the business, truly. Her way with words is just astounding. And her characterizations, superb. Reading her really makes me wish she could consult on various TV shows and movies that have problems writing women. Or require the writers to take a characterization workshop with her.All in all, an excellent book on all fronts.GRADE: A
What do You think about The Hidden Blade (2014)?
Marvelous prequel giving us the childhoods of the two main characters from 'My Beautiful Enemy'.
—karelysmichelle
Absolutely beautiful. Loved the characters, the side characters, the setting.
—tiffangel
This is beyond awesome! So glad I read it :))) Review soon!
—Lucho
