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The Ghost Bride summary
Brief summary
The Ghost Bride by Yangsze Choo is a captivating historical fantasy novel set in 19th century Malaya. It follows the story of Li Lan, a young Chinese woman who becomes embroiled in the spirit world and a ghostly marriage proposal.
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The Ghost Bride
Summary of key ideas
Unusual Proposal and Eerie World
In The Ghost Bride by Yangsze Choo, we are introduced to Li Lan, a young Chinese girl living in Malaya during the late 19th century. Struggling with financial hardships, her family receives a proposal from the wealthy Lim family to marry their deceased son, Tian Ching, in a 'ghost marriage' ceremony. This unusual proposition sets the stage for a journey into the afterlife and a world filled with spirits and tradition.
Initially hesitant, Li Lan eventually finds herself in a haunting dream world, where she encounters the ghost of Tian Ching. She also meets Er Lang, a mysterious and charming figure who offers to help her navigate this eerie realm. As she tries to make sense of her new surroundings, she uncovers dark family secrets and learns about the Lim family's involvement with a dangerous and powerful underworld figure.
Twists and Turns
As the story unfolds, Li Lan becomes embroiled in a web of lies, deceit, and manipulation. She discovers that her own father is deeply involved in the Lim family's sinister dealings, and that her mother's tragic death was not an accident, but a murder orchestrated by the Lims. Shocked and devastated by these revelations, Li Lan is determined to break free from this toxic situation and return to the land of the living.
However, her escape is not straightforward. She faces numerous obstacles and dangers, including being trapped in the ghost world and almost becoming a pawn in the Lim family's power struggle. Throughout it all, she relies on her intelligence, resilience, and the help of Er Lang to navigate the treacherous waters of the afterlife.
Love and Redemption
Amidst the chaos and danger, a tender romance blossoms between Li Lan and Er Lang. Their growing affection provides a glimmer of hope and comfort in a world filled with darkness and despair. However, their love is complicated by the fact that Er Lang is not entirely what he seems, and he harbors his own secrets.
As the story reaches its climax, Li Lan must confront the Lims and her own family to break free from their hold. She also uncovers the truth about Er Lang's identity and his connection to her family. In a heart-pounding finale, Li Lan faces the most dangerous adversary yet and must rely on her courage and wits to secure her freedom and a chance at a new life.
Reflecting on the Journey
In the end, The Ghost Bride is not just a tale of supernatural adventures and chilling revelations, but also a story of self-discovery, resilience, and the enduring power of love. Li Lan emerges from her harrowing journey a changed woman, having learned to stand up for herself and make her own choices.
Choo's beautifully crafted narrative takes us on an immersive journey through Chinese folklore, customs, and the afterlife. We are left with a profound appreciation for the rich tapestry of beliefs and traditions that shape Li Lan's world. As the book draws to a close, we are left with a sense of hope and the belief that even in the face of adversity, there is always a chance for redemption and a new beginning.
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What is The Ghost Bride about?
The Ghost Bride by Yangsze Choo is a captivating novel set in 19th century Malaya. It tells the story of Li Lan, a young Chinese woman who is asked to become a ghost bride for a wealthy family's deceased son. As she delves into the eerie world of the afterlife, Li Lan uncovers dark secrets and must navigate between the realms of the living and the dead to protect herself and the ones she loves.
The Ghost Bride Review
The Ghost Bride (2013) is a captivating tale set in colonial Malacca, blending Chinese folklore, romance, and the supernatural. Here's why this book stands out:
- It immerses readers in a rich tapestry of cultural traditions, superstitions, and beliefs, offering a unique insight into historical and mythical realms.
- The protagonist embarks on a thrilling journey through the spirit world and uncovers family secrets, adding layers of mystery and intrigue to the narrative.
- With its unexpected twists and intricate plot, the story keeps readers hooked from the first page to the last, ensuring a compelling and far-from-boring read.
Who should read The Ghost Bride?
Readers who enjoy historical fiction with a supernatural twist
Those interested in exploring Chinese folklore and traditions
People looking for a captivating and atmospheric mystery
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Book summaries like The Ghost Bride
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The Ghost Bride FAQs
What is the main message of The Ghost Bride?
The main message of The Ghost Bride revolves around love, loyalty, and navigating the spirit world.
How long does it take to read The Ghost Bride?
The estimated reading time for The Ghost Bride is several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in about 15 minutes.
Is The Ghost Bride a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Ghost Bride is a captivating story with rich cultural depth and a touch of the supernatural, making it a worthwhile read.
Who is the author of The Ghost Bride?
The author of The Ghost Bride is Yangsze Choo.
What to read after The Ghost Bride?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Ghost Bride, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Happiness by Richard Layard
- The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Simply Complexity by Neil F. Johnson
- Trust Me, I’m Lying by Ryan Holiday
- The World Without Us by Alan Weisman
- The Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz