A rebellious child, a chafingly obedient parent and a trip abroad—it sounds like the start of many an adventure story.
With these familiar elements in play, we are thrust into an unfamiliar world. The story builds itself layer by layer as we see this mystical world through Ning’s eyes. It’s a world of gods, goddesses, omens and secret signs that can be read only by the gifted and trained. People are comfortable within its limits. However, you sense the darker elements that make Ning restless and yearning for more.
Ning travels by boat and has already encountered a mysterious bandit, one who ably bests her in fighting. She battles feelings of loneliness, alienation and shame as she recalls her departed mother and the part Ning played in her death.
The author deftly paints in local color, the transition from small-town life to big city environs and Ning’s silent determination set against people who have their own concerns. Some people she meets are happy living in small villages—less complicated lives suit them. Her own mother fled from the capital but didn’t say why except that there was nothing left for her there.
So we already have mysteries and secrets. Ning suspects a conspiracy involving poisoned tea but can’t do anything about it right away, since she’s focused on winning a contest. She is journeying to compete in a trial for a new tea master. If she wins, by imperial decree, the princess will grant her a favor, one Ning hopes will help her ailing sister.
It’s a terrific start to what you suspect will be an epic adventure tale, filled with enigmas, intrigue, betrayal and triumph.
With these familiar elements in play, we are thrust into an unfamiliar world. The story builds itself layer by layer as we see this mystical world through Ning’s eyes. It’s a world of gods, goddesses, omens and secret signs that can be read only by the gifted and trained. People are comfortable within its limits. However, you sense the darker elements that make Ning restless and yearning for more.
Ning travels by boat and has already encountered a mysterious bandit, one who ably bests her in fighting. She battles feelings of loneliness, alienation and shame as she recalls her departed mother and the part Ning played in her death.
The author deftly paints in local color, the transition from small-town life to big city environs and Ning’s silent determination set against people who have their own concerns. Some people she meets are happy living in small villages—less complicated lives suit them. Her own mother fled from the capital but didn’t say why except that there was nothing left for her there.
So we already have mysteries and secrets. Ning suspects a conspiracy involving poisoned tea but can’t do anything about it right away, since she’s focused on winning a contest. She is journeying to compete in a trial for a new tea master. If she wins, by imperial decree, the princess will grant her a favor, one Ning hopes will help her ailing sister.
It’s a terrific start to what you suspect will be an epic adventure tale, filled with enigmas, intrigue, betrayal and triumph.