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My mother was born in Harbin, Chaina in 1939 to a family of Russian immigrants. My Grandmother was born there in 1918 soon after soviet revolution;and my grandfather was a child when brought to China by his mother running away from soviet revolution in 1917. Needless to say, I was more than interested to read this book. I was mesmerized by the story, the history, and the vividness of the characters, images, and events in the pre-revolutional China. It is one of the best books I have ever read, and I am so surprized it is not widely known and much more popular than it is. I recommended this one to all of my friends. I read it first in a library, but just had to have it in my posession, and now I do! I am sure I am going to read it again!
This book was absolutely wonderful! It starts out in Russia, and the next thing you know, the setting is China. The characters are so vivid and real, as are the descriptions of the surroundings that you can easily visualize everything that's going on (even though it's not always pleasant). There are a few disturbing rather graphic scenes that can raise your rackles, but I'd say the happy scenes outweigh the sad ones. I love the way Furnivall gets you into all the characters, especially Lydia, her mother Valentina, and Chang An Lo. I just can't wait until a sequel comes out. (I really hope one does!)
I had already read "The Red Scarf" by Kate Furnivall. I liked it so much that I wanted to read more by this author. "The Russian Concubine" was a wonderfully written story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I will be on the lookout for more from this talented author! Melody
Second book in a trilogy. Good historical fiction. Recommended.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I really enjoyed this book. I read it right after I read Shanghai Girls and they were both set in the same time frame so I really learned a lot. I liked the underlying theme of remaining strong and not giving up. And also that family is the most important thing, but family can be also be where you don't expect to find it.
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