Lady Tan's Circle of Women: A Novel

The latest historical novel from New York Times bestselling author Lisa See, inspired by the true story of a woman physician from 15th-century China--perfect for fans of See's classic Snow Flower and the Secret Fan and The Island of Sea Women.

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Published Jun 6, 2023

368 pages

Average rating: 8.23

1,631 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

What Bookclubbers are saying about this book

✨ Summarized by Bookclubs AI

Readers say *Lady Tan's Circle of Women* is a richly detailed and immersive historical novel that vividly portrays 15th-century China through strong f...

Piac
Jan 22, 2025
8/10 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed the novel Lady Tan's Circle of I thoroughly enjoyed reading the novel -Lady Tan's Circle of Women-. The story captivated me from the very first page, drawing me into its rich historical setting and complex characters. Each chapter unfolded new layers of intrigue and emotion, making it impossible to put the book down.

I found myself eagerly turning the pages, completely absorbed in the lives and struggles of the women portrayed in the story. Overall, it was a compelling read that fully held my attention throughout.
Lady Tan's Circle of Women kept me engaged; I could not put it down.
K Olson
Jan 10, 2025
8/10 stars
This is the 6th Lisa See book that I have read. As always her writing drew me into a time period I know little about which is one of the reasons I love her writing. I especially enjoyed having her come to my book club and explain her writing process. The sheer amount of research that she puts into her work is amazing. It was so interesting how she weaved in true accounts into the fictional story such as the scene with the worm. Highly recommend and I look forward to her next book which she said is 30 years in the making.
WineforReading
May 13, 2024
7/10 stars
Interesting historical fiction about women and china.
frannie-puckett
Mar 10, 2024
8/10 stars
The story of a lady doctor in the early 1500's had so much influence in spite of rules and laws to keep her tucked away.
Margie Pettersen
Oct 27, 2025
10/10 stars
Great historical fiction about like in China I’m 15th century, medical treatments for women, and female friendships. The criminal investigation and the trial that took place were quite fascinating. The punishments were severe! It was very hard being a woman in China in those days. The food binding, the obedience demanded, the mother in law, the role of the husband as master, the concubines, intrigue at the emperor’s palace, are all topics for discussion, but this is mostly a book about two friends and their love for each other.

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