Fighting the traditions that bind!

The Lotus Shoes: A Novel by Jan Yang     

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Even though she’s from a peasant family Little Flower’s mother, Aa Noeng, had insisted Little Flower have her feet bound from the age of four. In this way Little Flower might make a more prosperous marriage in the future. (“Four Inch Golden Lillies” is the name given to properly bound feet. The explanation of how this custom came into being is told.)

Only that advantage was not to be. Little Flower’s father died and the family fell on hard times. So much so that Aa Noeng sold Little Flower into slavery. She becomes a muizai-

From that time on Little Flower’s spirit was sorely tested but she rose up and in her own way faced down all the hardships she encountered.

Trapped in the same cycle is her spoilt mistress , who continually blames Little Flower for her problems. Linjing is implacable in her dislike and tries to foil any advancement Little Flower might make at every opportunity.

Aa Noeng had been so proud of Little Flowers bound feet. Little Flower soon finds out the disadvantages.

It seems Little Flower is a remarkable embroiderer. That talent might have been her way to a better life if she’d not been Linjing’s slave.

A story of traditions, recurring behaviors, lost trust, sorrow and forgiveness propels this story into one of epic proportions.

Compelling and absorbing!

A Harlequin Trade ARC via NetGalley.                                              

Many thanks to the author and publisher.