Empress Orchid by Anchee Min

This is the story of the last empress of China, Tzu Hsi. In this book she's known as Orchid, fourth wife (or concubine) of the emperor of China. Orchid sells herself to raise enough money for her mother, brother and sister to live on. At first, she's excited about being in the Forbidden City but soon loneliness and doubt make her life miserable. The emperor, who is supposed to visit different wives every night, is not inclined to do that and Orchid spends months alone and ignored until she finds a way to attract his majesty's attention. There is jealousy and intrigue within and without the courts and this is actually the first book of two. It's very interesting and a good book but I must admit I found it moved slowly. It's great for those who enjoy historical fiction and who are curious about other countries and cultures.