Sunday 3 March 2013

The Gilded Fan by Christina Courtnay

Received for review
  • Paperback: 400 pages
  • Publisher: Choc Lit (7 Feb 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1781890080
  • ISBN-13: 978-1781890080
How do you start a new life, leaving behind all you love?

It’s 1641, and when Midori Kumashiro, the orphaned daughter of a warlord, is told she has to leave Japan or die, she has no choice but to flee to England. Midori is trained in the arts of war, but is that enough to help her survive a journey, with a lecherous crew and an attractive captain she doesn’t trust?

Having come to Nagasaki to trade, the last thing Captain Nico Noordholt wants is a female passenger, especially a beautiful one. How can he protect her from his crew when he can’t keep his own eyes off her?

During their journey, Nico and Midori form a tentative bond, but they both have secrets that can change everything. When they arrive in England, a civil war is brewing, and only by standing together can they hope to survive…

Cover:  One of the most stunning covers I own.  It is really is beautiful.  And on last week's Booking Through Thursday I had several comments from fellow readers admiring the gorgeous cover.

I loved this book!  I'd never really read a historical novel set in/about Japan and I was completely engrossed.  Midori is forced to flee Japan under the threat of death because of her mixed parentage.  She leaves on a trade ship captained by Nico.
I really enjoyed seeing the clash of cultures Midori faced, her English and Japanese sides seemingly in competition. 
Midori was a delightful character.  She was so strong and independent.  And Nico was definitely a swoon worthy hero.  Their romance wasn't instant, yes the attraction was sizzling, but instead slowly building over a number of years.
I really love historical novels but had no idea about the shogun persecuting practicing Christians in Japan, and I loved learning something new.
The English Civil War and the siege of Plymouth was also interesting to read about.
I definitely recommend this for historical or romance fans!  It explores religion, culture, war, love, family and standing up for what's right whilst taking you around the world.
5/5 stars!

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