Good listen

Well narrated with beautiful imagery of the spirits and monsters. Colourful characters are featured throughout the story.

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suspense filled modern historical folk tale

I loved this story and world, knowing very little of Chinese folklore it was interesting to learn about the magic system. the politics and complications of an immigrant cut alongside old ways vs new western ways but also a nod to chinese imperialism. there's a lot more stories between the lines as in the main plot. unlike other viewers I found the protagonists heros journey an interesting one, she makes mistakes from being sheltered and inexperienced. she puts her self in impossible situations that the author often will let her fail this means when she succeeds you are with her and its believable. she does not give up despite herself and others not believing in her.

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excellent story

I enjoyed learning about a culture about which I know very little whilst listening to a great story.

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An area I hadn't experienced.

First off, the narrator is excellent and she is even better in the sequel, I say that because Audible isn't allowing me to review it even though I have read it.🤦🏻‍♂️
I would recommend both highly and would welcome a third book if and when it appears.

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Fascinating story with kung fu and Chinese folklore and belief system sub-plots.

A very interesting look into the mores and culture of 19C Chinese immigrants in San Francisco. The female heroine is so very woeful at times and narrated with almost hysteria which can get on your nerves. But enjoyed all the same, whilst telling her to ‘pull herself together’whist ranting at the appalling misogyny of the era. . Bring female, I find it unbearable to have such a pathetic female as the protagonist, though came right in the end.

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amazing story really well told

Well developed characterization, giving a wonderful insight into Chinese folk beliefs and culture. Needing more.

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2 people found this helpful

I really tried to enjoy this book.

So honestly I tried to get into this book. I really liked the premise and the narration was excellent.
But I'm sorry, how utterly useless is Li Lin? Time after time I found myself getting frustrated with how the character is written. Every time she attempts something, whether it is to fight a ghost, do a vital task or chat to her dead husbands' friends she is always too weak, doesn't have the luck in is too unprepared, not devious enough, misses a key piece of info or simply doesn't think situations through. Every time there is a moment to throw her a bone it is dampened in a negative again Li lin, it is unrelenting, and as such I never found myself rooting for her or evening liking/ respecting her, because she is never going to have a chance to succeed. Just to underline this fact there is literally a line when she cries out "ai yah, I have failed again." And I was just like 'Oh what a surprise' I keep finding myself rolling my eyes or tutting at her incompetence. If your heroine is so unlikeable then there is no way to build up a relationship with the character. There are many moments when this book reminds me of a Chinese version of Sabrial by Garth Nix, but whereas I love that paragon of Literature, the Girl with Yin eyes promises potential but the author never delivers.
I do like the aspect of Chinese culture and mythology which is interesting enough to make up for the weaknesses in the characterization.

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1 person found this helpful