My husband, my son and I absolutely love reading. We have more books in our house than I think most normal people do, but we just cannot stop ourselves from buying more. I have so many favourite books that I thought it would be nice to add a new element to my blog - a monthly book review.
One of my absolute favourite books of all times is The Secret Mandarin by Sara Sheridan. I spotted this book in our local supermarket a year ago, and was instantly drawn in by the beautiful cover. I had to know what it was about - and I am so glad that I did.
The Secret Mandarin is an exquisitely written 'faction' story of actress Mary Penney and her botanist brother-in-law Robert Fortune's journey to collect tea plants from China. A journey thwarted with social and cultural boundaries, and some very gruelling challenges.
From the beginning of the book, I was captivated. I have always had a love of history, but was not very good with dates, so my escape to the beauty of the old world has always come in the form of historical based novels. I really appreciated the botanical aspect of the book and I found myself constantly desperate for more information. Sheridan's writing kept my craving well satiated, and it sometimes felt like we were in constant 'conversation'. I have since followed her on Facebook and Twitter, and am now very aware of just how important extensive research is for her, when she is writing a book.
From the sad cold beginning in England to the beautiful picturesque descriptions of the Chinese countryside - I was transported through the book with excitement, anxiety and exhilaration I longed for their safety and wished for their happiness. I enjoyed every page of the journey, and was devastated when I reached the final line of the book.
The Secret Mandarin has a very special place on my bookshelf - and has been recommended to many of my friends. I look forward to reading more books by this exceptional writer.
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