The book was long and in some spots slow, but the background and culture was very interesting. The sad story is not a happy one...but I overall I did enjoy the book!

Interesting view into chinese culture, even if it is alittle slow, definitely worth reading.

Shaping the role of people within a society takes on many socially accepted practices and views which are introduced at a very young age such as the foot binding of the female characters in this novel.

The book, other than pointing out how the characters in this culture not knowing how to escape their social role while still wanting more out of life, have chosen to enlighten future generations through the use of the arts (the opera which denotes a longing for a different world).

3*** for the Audio book narrated by Janet Song.
In 17th century China, Peony has grown up as the only child of the wealthy Chen family. Her father is a scholar and he has encouraged his daughter’s love of books, opera and poetry. She especially loves the opera – The Peony Pavilion, which is controversial because many young maidens have been lured to their deaths by the strong emotions engendered by the love story.

This is a very Chinese story. Steeped in the long-held traditions of ancestor worship, belief in spirits and strict societal roles, See manages to present a story that celebrates feminism and the women writers who are all but forgotten today. But Peony is young and inexperienced, and she (and other young women characters) irritated me no end.

Song’s narration didn’t help this. She has a slow, almost ponderous delivery, which just did not breathe any life into the work.

I think book clubs may enjoy the exploration of feminism in a very foreign culture.

Peony in Love is filled with Chinese customs, beliefs and history. Lisa See wove this story together with a very different perspective than ever before and does an incredible job teaching us about the opera "The Peony Pavilion", the history of "The Three Wives' Commentary", the social changes that allowed it to be written and the desire of all women to be heard.

Even though the majority of the book is told by a ghost, it is because she is a ghost that you learn so much about the Chinese customs regarding death. Truly I found the book very interesting and really enjoyed it. I cannot wait to discuss this novel at book club and hear their perspectives.

Lisa See is a great author and this is the fourth book I have read from her. Read Peony in Love with an open mind and I think you will truly enjoy, turning the page.