Set in nineteenth-century China, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan recounts the story of Lily and Snow Flower, two best friends who endure the foot binding tradition together. It follows their familial journeys, explores their experiences with love and marriage, and describes their adventures in motherhood. But while Lily is lucky enough to marry into wealth and lead a life of good fortune, Snow Flower’s family history and secrets force her to accept a less fulfilling future. When a misunderstanding arises between the two, their friendship hangs in the balance.
This novel is full of references to China’s warn-torn past and deep-seated traditions. While the relationship between Lily and Snow Flower is the focal point of the book, readers learn a lot about the country’s history and values. An absolute must-read for historical fiction lovers, this book is available at Acorn and in the SWAN consortium.