First, let me say that this was not an easy read for me. I don't consider myself a prude, but the education Violet received on becoming a courtesan was graphic without being pornographic. THE VALLEY OF AMAZEMENT provides some insight into a different culture, values and time. The relationships between mothers and daughters in the story is the primary story but the cultural and historical lessons are no less important. Don't expect this to be a light read, it isn't but it is definitely worth the time you'll invest in completing it.

A typical Amy Tan book - explores mother/daughter relationship issues. But I learned a lot about Chinese culture back in the days of the Boxer Rebellion. It was enjoyable.

I found this book absorbing from the first page! The insight into the Chinese culture, traditions and ways of courtesan life from a Western point of view were astounding.This book was very hard to put down. The characters were all very different as well as being addictive, I was left wanting to know more about them.

The tenacity of the women portrayed in this book made it very inspiring. The hardships they endured and the coping mechanisms they developed were brilliant, especially in the face of their role in society and the political climate of the day.

This is not the Amy Tan that I have enjoyed in her previous books!