Book Review: Lady Tan's Circle of Women

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Finished Reading: 26th January 2025

Lady Tan’s Circle of Women is the best book I have read in a long time. From the very first page, I felt as though I had been transported 600 years into the past, living among the characters and experiencing their world as if I were truly there. Lisa See’s storytelling is so immersive that I was completely absorbed, drawn into the intricacies of a life so different from any I’ve known, yet rendered with such exquisite detail that it felt entirely real.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the novel was its exploration of medicine. The descriptions of traditional medical practices, remedies, and treatments were utterly compelling, offering a glimpse into the remarkable knowledge and skills that existed at a time when women were often denied formal education. It was incredible to see how Lady Tan, as a female physician, navigated a society that restricted her at every turn, using her intelligence, compassion, and determination to help others.

At the same time, the book was a painful reminder of the many ways women have suffered in the name of pleasing men. While I was in awe of Lady Tan’s medical expertise, it was heartbreaking to see that even she could not escape the deeply ingrained practices that harmed women—most notably foot binding. Reading about this brutal custom was horrifying, and the novel deepened my understanding of its impact in ways I had never fully grasped before. It was devastating to witness a woman so ahead of her time in many ways still feeling obligated to subject her own daughters to this cruelty, but seeing it as an act of love.

What makes this book truly exceptional, however, is the depth of its characters. Lisa See has a rare gift for making every character—regardless of their flaws, background, or beliefs—so compelling that you cannot help but care for them. Each one felt fully realised, with their own struggles, dreams, and moments of resilience. Despite their differences, I found myself loving them all, which is a testament to the author’s genius in crafting such a rich and emotionally complex world.

The level of research and detail that has gone into this novel is extraordinary. It is clear that this was a labour of love, and as a reader, I felt deeply respected by the meticulous care See put into every aspect of the story. It is rare to come across a book that so seamlessly combines historical accuracy, emotional depth, and sheer readability.

I found it almost impossible to put down, and as soon as I finished, I wanted to start all over again. Lady Tan’s Circle of Women is not just a book—it is an experience, one that lingers long after the final page. Reading it felt like a privilege, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.