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China China Trilogy #1
The House Filler
A family saga set in China during the most tumultuous time of the twentieth century including the Japanese invasion, the civil war, and the Communist takeover.
The House Filleris told through the experiences of Golden Phoenix, a woman who faces war, poverty, and political oppression as she fights for survival, freedom and happiness. After the untimely death of her husband, Golden Phoenix is determined to keep her family together. However, poverty forces her to make the heart-wrenching decision to give her teenage twins to the Red Army. During the upheaval of the Japanese invasion of her hometown, she is separated from her two young girls, and her remaining son leaves to fight with the Nationalist army. Golden Phoenix, along with her adopted son, remains to endure the horror and hardship of war. When the civil war ends with the Communists in power in 1949, one of her twins, who had joined the Communist Party, is wrongly accused of being a traitor and is sentenced to death. Golden Phoenix and her family must find a way to save her son's life.
The House Filleris a moving and powerful portrayal of one family's struggle to survive in the face of an historical upheaval and political oppression.
The House Filleris told through the experiences of Golden Phoenix, a woman who faces war, poverty, and political oppression as she fights for survival, freedom and happiness. After the untimely death of her husband, Golden Phoenix is determined to keep her family together. However, poverty forces her to make the heart-wrenching decision to give her teenage twins to the Red Army. During the upheaval of the Japanese invasion of her hometown, she is separated from her two young girls, and her remaining son leaves to fight with the Nationalist army. Golden Phoenix, along with her adopted son, remains to endure the horror and hardship of war. When the civil war ends with the Communists in power in 1949, one of her twins, who had joined the Communist Party, is wrongly accused of being a traitor and is sentenced to death. Golden Phoenix and her family must find a way to save her son's life.
The House Filleris a moving and powerful portrayal of one family's struggle to survive in the face of an historical upheaval and political oppression.
250 pages, Paperback
Published October 27, 2023
3350 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
May 2, 2024
A must-read
I thoroughly enjoyed reading . It is absolutely a page-turner for me. What it describes is a real China, deeply loved, felt, and missed by millions of Chinese diaspora scattered around the world. It is the real life lived by real people, down-trodden, manipulated and eventually trampled into dust by invisible forces that only historians would be able to parse out in hindsight. Yet those ill-fated ordinary people still worked hard, never gave up. The story is told in a unhurried, rhythmical tone with a tinge of nostalgia. I am particularly impressed by the author's dedication and fidelity in bringing out the authentic flavor of the Chinese language itself. A lot of times her seemingly word-for-word rendition of many Chinese vernaculars into English is eye-brightening and even mind-blowing. A must-read. Strongly recommended.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading . It is absolutely a page-turner for me. What it describes is a real China, deeply loved, felt, and missed by millions of Chinese diaspora scattered around the world. It is the real life lived by real people, down-trodden, manipulated and eventually trampled into dust by invisible forces that only historians would be able to parse out in hindsight. Yet those ill-fated ordinary people still worked hard, never gave up. The story is told in a unhurried, rhythmical tone with a tinge of nostalgia. I am particularly impressed by the author's dedication and fidelity in bringing out the authentic flavor of the Chinese language itself. A lot of times her seemingly word-for-word rendition of many Chinese vernaculars into English is eye-brightening and even mind-blowing. A must-read. Strongly recommended.
April 29, 2024
I found this story to be very compelling reading. I rarely get emotional, but this book brought out some strong feelings at points. Bravo! This story follows an average Chinese person during the end of dynastic China and entering the modern turbulent world having to try to adapt to and then survive in the new regime, which imposed its new form of servitude upon the masses. She suffers many terrible wrongs but doesn't lose her humanity and remains steadfast in her determination to create a better life for her and her family despite the odds. I also found this book to be enlightening about many things about Chinese life which intrigued me. Tong Ge clearly knows history and literature, which is great to see these days. I really enjoy the writer's easy style of writing, which helped make it a real page turner and kept me hoping for the protagonist to overcome increasingly monumental odds. I could and want to say quite a bit more but I want the next reader to discover all this and more for him/herself.
April 16, 2024
Intriguing story that takes you through the the happy and sad times of a Chinese woman during wars and other hardships. I'm looking forward to book #2 of this exciting trilogy.
October 25, 2024
The House Filler by author Tong Ge is one work of historical fiction that you’re not going to want to miss. This first book in the China China Trilogy is a must-read and will be a book that 1) you won’t soon forget and 2) that will spur you on to reach for the next book in the trilogy.
The House Filler draws the eye of readers with a red background that dominates the cover. On this red background is the image of a woman looking off to the right of the cover. A few strands of hair hang loose to frame her face, while the rest is tied back in the bun symbolizing she is a wife. Across her face and neck is a swath of red color. Upon learning the name of this character, we believe that that is meant to symbolize a portion of her name, and her strength and resilience – phoenix.
The woman on the cover is wearing a collar tunic and across the front of this tunic is a depiction of China. Each province of this massive country is outlined in red. This showcases just how vast this country is and gives readers a better appreciation for what is to come in the story. Beneath the outline of China is a grey mass that spans across the woman’s front reaching across her from right to left. The questions of “What is it?” and “What is the meaning of it?” are strong, but they provide a nice contrast to the cover.
The House Filler by author Tong Ge is a historical fiction novel that takes place in the early 1900s in China. Told from the first person point of view, The House Filler immediately draws readers in with the line “I met the man I grew to love and the man I came to hate on the same day.” If you’re like us, your first thought is that this going to be a love-hate relationship that we read about. That the main character of this story will grow to love the man she meets in this book, but then he’ll show her his ugly side. Well, author Ge surprises us by saying that this is not the case. This is a happy aspect of this story, and one we greatly appreciated.
The main character of this story, Golden Phoenix – Hu Jinfeng is a truly remarkable character. She is the youngest of her siblings, the only girl, and is in her twenties. She was older than the “typical” marrying age during that time period, but her moment has finally come at the beginning of this book. What readers will truly appreciate is how quickly author Ge introduces the title of this story. You’re barely two paragraphs in and you’re getting the title tied into the story. It’s a delightful element.
Author Ge beautifully captures the historical element of this book from page one. Author Ge weaves the customs and traditions of the Chinese into The House Filler. Golden Phoenix had her feet bound as a child, unfortunately (in society’s mind at that time) her feet were not the “perfect size” preferred by most men. Author Ge sprinkles throughout this book believed omens and traditions that go to enhance The House Filler’s rich historical aspect.
The more you read of The House Filler the more this book sounds like it could be a biography of Golden Phoenix. The story, told from her perspective, is engaging and gripping. Author Ge shares Golden Phoenix’s memories of various shifts in China from her childhood and moving forward into the years that come later in the story.
As The House Filler progresses readers are introduced to Golden Phoenix’s husband, in-laws, and the “pivotal” man that she will quickly grow to hate. The dynamics between Golden Phoenix and her husband’s family are truly interesting. The expectation is for her to behave a particular way, however, as she is the wife she should be treated better by the daughter-in-law than she is. Author Ge utilizes the husband to explain why she is not at this time. Until she is able to have a child (preferably a son) she will have certain expectations heaped upon her.
Golden Phoenix, as the main character, is truly engaging. She is written as strong and determined in the face of a multitude of situations that she is made to endure. The House Filler sees Golden Phoenix become more than just a “tianfang.” Author Ge shapes Golden Phoenix into a shining star of determination and resilience.
The deeper readers go into The House Filler the more author Ge showcases exactly what Golden Phoenix must endure. The House Filler is broken up into multiple sections each one focusing on a specific period of time and the monumental moments in those eras. Each time period focuses on Golden Phoenix, her family, and the impacts of each specific situation.
The House Filler gives readers an epic family saga that will literally have you page-turning to find out what is going to happen next with Golden Phoenix and her family. The beginning and middle years of the twentieth century were truly a tumultuous time for China.
Author Ge hits her characters and readers with the Japanese Invasion, the civil war, and then the takeover of the Communist party. It’s a series of wild eras that keep Golden Phoenix and her family in constant chaos and fear. It’s also what keeps readers glued to the pages to find out what is going to happen next.
Is everything dangerous and chaotic in The House Filler? No, it’s not. There are many heartwarming moments scattered throughout this story. Golden Phoenix has many a happy moment in her life as it unfolds on the pages. She finds happiness and love, she has a family, and she has a home. But, nothing lasts forever, and that is the case as her story unfolds.
The House Filler reads like it could have been a true story. Golden Phoenix experiences so much in one lifetime. It’s a roller coaster of drama. Golden Phoenix is allowed brief breathers but it’s never for long. She must fight off a man who constantly tries to steal what belongs to her and her family. With the invasion of the Japanese, she is forced to flee her home and give up her children to fight in the war.
Readers will be pulled to the edge of their seats with each separation of Golden Phoenix from her children. You’ll be fueled by the desire and the need to know…”What happened to them?” “Will she ever see them again?” When The House Filler grips you, you’ll be hard-pressed to put this book down.
We say this a lot throughout this review, but The House Filler could be based on a true story. The way that this story draws to a close gives readers the sense that they could have potentially met these characters if they traveled to China during the periods that unfold. This book has an ending that will surprise readers. Don’t worry, we won’t spoil it for you, but we will say this – it’s an ending that will make sure you don’t forget this story anytime soon.
Readers who enjoy historical fiction are going to want to grab The House Filler. Set in China during one of the most tumultuous and chaotic times this novel will be one that you will enjoy from beginning to end. If you frequently read books about China, this is a book worth grabbing.
Pros:
Realistic characters and scenarios
Informative and based on real-life events over the years.
Page-turner
Hard to put down
Gripping storyline
Cons:
None of merit
Cover Score: 8.8/10
Overall Book Score: 9.8/10
The House Filler draws the eye of readers with a red background that dominates the cover. On this red background is the image of a woman looking off to the right of the cover. A few strands of hair hang loose to frame her face, while the rest is tied back in the bun symbolizing she is a wife. Across her face and neck is a swath of red color. Upon learning the name of this character, we believe that that is meant to symbolize a portion of her name, and her strength and resilience – phoenix.
The woman on the cover is wearing a collar tunic and across the front of this tunic is a depiction of China. Each province of this massive country is outlined in red. This showcases just how vast this country is and gives readers a better appreciation for what is to come in the story. Beneath the outline of China is a grey mass that spans across the woman’s front reaching across her from right to left. The questions of “What is it?” and “What is the meaning of it?” are strong, but they provide a nice contrast to the cover.
The House Filler by author Tong Ge is a historical fiction novel that takes place in the early 1900s in China. Told from the first person point of view, The House Filler immediately draws readers in with the line “I met the man I grew to love and the man I came to hate on the same day.” If you’re like us, your first thought is that this going to be a love-hate relationship that we read about. That the main character of this story will grow to love the man she meets in this book, but then he’ll show her his ugly side. Well, author Ge surprises us by saying that this is not the case. This is a happy aspect of this story, and one we greatly appreciated.
The main character of this story, Golden Phoenix – Hu Jinfeng is a truly remarkable character. She is the youngest of her siblings, the only girl, and is in her twenties. She was older than the “typical” marrying age during that time period, but her moment has finally come at the beginning of this book. What readers will truly appreciate is how quickly author Ge introduces the title of this story. You’re barely two paragraphs in and you’re getting the title tied into the story. It’s a delightful element.
Author Ge beautifully captures the historical element of this book from page one. Author Ge weaves the customs and traditions of the Chinese into The House Filler. Golden Phoenix had her feet bound as a child, unfortunately (in society’s mind at that time) her feet were not the “perfect size” preferred by most men. Author Ge sprinkles throughout this book believed omens and traditions that go to enhance The House Filler’s rich historical aspect.
The more you read of The House Filler the more this book sounds like it could be a biography of Golden Phoenix. The story, told from her perspective, is engaging and gripping. Author Ge shares Golden Phoenix’s memories of various shifts in China from her childhood and moving forward into the years that come later in the story.
As The House Filler progresses readers are introduced to Golden Phoenix’s husband, in-laws, and the “pivotal” man that she will quickly grow to hate. The dynamics between Golden Phoenix and her husband’s family are truly interesting. The expectation is for her to behave a particular way, however, as she is the wife she should be treated better by the daughter-in-law than she is. Author Ge utilizes the husband to explain why she is not at this time. Until she is able to have a child (preferably a son) she will have certain expectations heaped upon her.
Golden Phoenix, as the main character, is truly engaging. She is written as strong and determined in the face of a multitude of situations that she is made to endure. The House Filler sees Golden Phoenix become more than just a “tianfang.” Author Ge shapes Golden Phoenix into a shining star of determination and resilience.
The deeper readers go into The House Filler the more author Ge showcases exactly what Golden Phoenix must endure. The House Filler is broken up into multiple sections each one focusing on a specific period of time and the monumental moments in those eras. Each time period focuses on Golden Phoenix, her family, and the impacts of each specific situation.
The House Filler gives readers an epic family saga that will literally have you page-turning to find out what is going to happen next with Golden Phoenix and her family. The beginning and middle years of the twentieth century were truly a tumultuous time for China.
Author Ge hits her characters and readers with the Japanese Invasion, the civil war, and then the takeover of the Communist party. It’s a series of wild eras that keep Golden Phoenix and her family in constant chaos and fear. It’s also what keeps readers glued to the pages to find out what is going to happen next.
Is everything dangerous and chaotic in The House Filler? No, it’s not. There are many heartwarming moments scattered throughout this story. Golden Phoenix has many a happy moment in her life as it unfolds on the pages. She finds happiness and love, she has a family, and she has a home. But, nothing lasts forever, and that is the case as her story unfolds.
The House Filler reads like it could have been a true story. Golden Phoenix experiences so much in one lifetime. It’s a roller coaster of drama. Golden Phoenix is allowed brief breathers but it’s never for long. She must fight off a man who constantly tries to steal what belongs to her and her family. With the invasion of the Japanese, she is forced to flee her home and give up her children to fight in the war.
Readers will be pulled to the edge of their seats with each separation of Golden Phoenix from her children. You’ll be fueled by the desire and the need to know…”What happened to them?” “Will she ever see them again?” When The House Filler grips you, you’ll be hard-pressed to put this book down.
We say this a lot throughout this review, but The House Filler could be based on a true story. The way that this story draws to a close gives readers the sense that they could have potentially met these characters if they traveled to China during the periods that unfold. This book has an ending that will surprise readers. Don’t worry, we won’t spoil it for you, but we will say this – it’s an ending that will make sure you don’t forget this story anytime soon.
Readers who enjoy historical fiction are going to want to grab The House Filler. Set in China during one of the most tumultuous and chaotic times this novel will be one that you will enjoy from beginning to end. If you frequently read books about China, this is a book worth grabbing.
Pros:
Realistic characters and scenarios
Informative and based on real-life events over the years.
Page-turner
Hard to put down
Gripping storyline
Cons:
None of merit
Cover Score: 8.8/10
Overall Book Score: 9.8/10
July 29, 2025
From the moment I read the line “I met the man I grew to love and the man I came to hate on the same day,” I knew The House Filler would be unforgettable. Tong Ge has written a novel that pulses with emotional truth and historical weight. Jinfeng’s journey is one of quiet desperation and deep endurance. Her life is defined by things done to her: foot-binding, marriage, humiliation. But within that silence, she builds strength. Her embroidery becomes a weapon, her memory a rebellion. The layered storytelling is deeply satisfying. Tong Ge doesn’t just present one woman’s tragedy; she gives us a window into an entire world—its customs, its violence, its tenderness. It’s history brought alive with incredible intimacy. I got this through a book club and I’m thankful beyond words. This novel is not to be missed. One of the best I’ve read in a decade.
June 5, 2025
The House Filler is a gripping, fast-paced novel set against the backdrop of early 20th-century China. At the heart of the story is Jinfeng, also known as Golden Phoenix—a woman considered past marriageable age at twenty-six, who is compelled to wed a widower ten years her senior.
Jinfeng’s feet had been bound in childhood by two elderly witches, leaving her with four-cun feet, a painful reminder of societal expectations. As the narrative unfolds, readers are immersed in traditional Chinese wedding customs, where a woman's value was judged by the size of her feet, her embroidery skills, and her ability to cook.
Haunted by insecurities about her feet, Jinfeng enters her new household only to be stunned: she already has a stepson and even a daughter-in-law. The shock deepens when she discovers that her husband is actually forty-six, not thirty-six as she had been told. She also learns that Qi, the stepson, is the illegitimate child of a servant. Qi and his wife are determined to secure the family inheritance for themselves and fear the arrival of another heir who will take his share too in the estate.
Will Golden Phoenix manage to bear a son and secure her place in the household?
This is a beautifully written novel rich in cultural detail, filled with themes of tradition, betrayal, and intrigue. The author’s writing is engaging and easy to follow. I was especially drawn to the character of Golden Phoenix—her strength, curiosity, and resilience make her unforgettable. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and highly recommend this book.
Jinfeng’s feet had been bound in childhood by two elderly witches, leaving her with four-cun feet, a painful reminder of societal expectations. As the narrative unfolds, readers are immersed in traditional Chinese wedding customs, where a woman's value was judged by the size of her feet, her embroidery skills, and her ability to cook.
Haunted by insecurities about her feet, Jinfeng enters her new household only to be stunned: she already has a stepson and even a daughter-in-law. The shock deepens when she discovers that her husband is actually forty-six, not thirty-six as she had been told. She also learns that Qi, the stepson, is the illegitimate child of a servant. Qi and his wife are determined to secure the family inheritance for themselves and fear the arrival of another heir who will take his share too in the estate.
Will Golden Phoenix manage to bear a son and secure her place in the household?
This is a beautifully written novel rich in cultural detail, filled with themes of tradition, betrayal, and intrigue. The author’s writing is engaging and easy to follow. I was especially drawn to the character of Golden Phoenix—her strength, curiosity, and resilience make her unforgettable. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and highly recommend this book.
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May 3, 2024Your writing style is so unique and captivating. I love the way you develop your characters and hope to see more works from you!
July 18, 2025
4.5 The gripping, tragic, and impactful war book I’ve been waiting for
September 3, 2025
The House Filler made me rethink what historical fiction can do: it didn’t just reconstruct events but excavated emotional economies what people owe one another, how shame is inherited, and how ingenuity in hardship becomes a form of moral agency.
Tong Ge’s tone combines restraint with compassion, and the result is a story that is both rigorous and tender. The ending didn’t tie every knot, and that felt true: life rarely resolves cleanly.
I found myself recommending it to friends who want stories with moral depth and emotional honesty.
Tong Ge’s tone combines restraint with compassion, and the result is a story that is both rigorous and tender. The ending didn’t tie every knot, and that felt true: life rarely resolves cleanly.
I found myself recommending it to friends who want stories with moral depth and emotional honesty.
August 26, 2025
I picked up The House Filler on a whim and didn’t realize it would completely rearrange my heart. Tong Ge’s writing is unflinching and tender in equal measure.What this novel says about marriage, patriarchy, and the silencing of women it’s essential. Jinfeng’s life is one of suffering, but also quiet triumph. She never lets go of her humanity.There were moments I had to put the book down, especially during the broken-tile foot-binding section. But I always came back, because this story needed to be heard.If you value stories that echo with truth, read this. It’s fiery, feminine, and unforgettable.
July 20, 2025
The House Filler by Tong Ge is a compelling family saga set in twentieth-century China. The story unfolds through the life of Golden Phoenix, a woman in her late twenties who was compelled to wed a much older man because of being unmarried till the age of 26.
Following her marriage, hidden tensions and secrets within her new family begin to surface. Her step-son and his wife are consumed by their thirst for power—and if Golden Phoenix were to bear a son, it would mean splitting the family inheritance. Will she give birth to a boy?
After the death of her husband, Golden Phoenix faces the immense challenge of managing the household. Her strength is further tested when the Japanese invade her hometown.
This is a gripping tale of a family struggling to endure through betrayal, war, invasion, loss, and the fight for survival. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The storytelling is vivid and immersive, and Golden Phoenix’s resilience left a lasting impression. It’s an engaging, emotional read that’s hard to put down.
Following her marriage, hidden tensions and secrets within her new family begin to surface. Her step-son and his wife are consumed by their thirst for power—and if Golden Phoenix were to bear a son, it would mean splitting the family inheritance. Will she give birth to a boy?
After the death of her husband, Golden Phoenix faces the immense challenge of managing the household. Her strength is further tested when the Japanese invade her hometown.
This is a gripping tale of a family struggling to endure through betrayal, war, invasion, loss, and the fight for survival. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The storytelling is vivid and immersive, and Golden Phoenix’s resilience left a lasting impression. It’s an engaging, emotional read that’s hard to put down.
August 26, 2025
What a haunting, unforgettable novel. Tong Ge captures cruelty and beauty in equal measure, making you live every step Jinfeng takes. The broken-tile foot-binding scene left me gutted, but I couldn’t look away. The resilience in her quiet rebellion is extraordinary. A spicy, slow-burn story that lingers long after the last page.
November 24, 2025
I started The House Filler expecting a quiet read, but what I got was a powerful exploration of grief, healing, and identity. It’s written with such raw honesty that it felt like the author was speaking directly to me.
September 29, 2025
I weep for the Chinese people, so similar to trials and tribulations of Russians and other oppressed peoples .
There is nothing happy in this story . The reason I give it a five star is for the brutal and painful truth this book shows the world .
My grandfather spent 10 years in a hard labour camp for refusing to close his business , as the Communists demanded. My parents’ apartment was part of a large villa that was taken by the Communist government and deemed to be too large for one family . Broken up into five apartments ( ours being of them) the owner was relegated to a tiny apartment in the attic, having to pay rent to the government for her little space. The villa had been in her family for generations . Beware of Socialism - a shortcut to Communism .
There is nothing happy in this story . The reason I give it a five star is for the brutal and painful truth this book shows the world .
My grandfather spent 10 years in a hard labour camp for refusing to close his business , as the Communists demanded. My parents’ apartment was part of a large villa that was taken by the Communist government and deemed to be too large for one family . Broken up into five apartments ( ours being of them) the owner was relegated to a tiny apartment in the attic, having to pay rent to the government for her little space. The villa had been in her family for generations . Beware of Socialism - a shortcut to Communism .
October 6, 2024
The House Filler* by Tong Ge is a riveting family saga that paints a vivid portrait of survival and resilience set against the backdrop of China’s most turbulent historical events in the 20th century. Through the eyes of Golden Phoenix, the protagonist, readers are drawn into a world of war, loss, and sacrifice as she navigates the Japanese invasion, civil war, and the Communist takeover. The story weaves a narrative of personal determination amidst widespread chaos, making it a powerful commentary on human endurance in the face of unimaginable hardship.
Golden Phoenix is a remarkable character whose journey forms the heart of the novel. As a woman left to care for her family after the death of her husband, she faces unimaginable choices, including the painful decision to give her teenage twins to the Red Army to ensure their survival. Her maternal instinct drives her forward as she experiences the separation from her daughters during the Japanese invasion and sees her other son depart to fight for the Nationalists.
The strength of *The House Filler* lies in its depiction of the personal cost of political and social upheaval. The novel explores not only Golden Phoenix's courage but also the resilience of her family, including her adopted son who remains by her side through war’s devastation. The political oppression of the Communist era comes to the forefront when her son, a twin who joined the Communist Party, is accused of treason and sentenced to death. This episode, fraught with tension and emotional pain, highlights the fragility of human lives under authoritarian rule and the fight for justice and survival in such an environment.
Tong Ge’s narrative is a blend of historical and emotional storytelling. The book’s historical events serve as more than just a backdrop—they shape the characters’ lives and decisions, bringing to light the deep scars left by war, poverty, and political oppression. The author’s skill in portraying these monumental events through personal experiences gives the novel a powerful, intimate feel, inviting readers to empathize with the characters’ suffering and triumphs.
Golden Phoenix is a remarkable character whose journey forms the heart of the novel. As a woman left to care for her family after the death of her husband, she faces unimaginable choices, including the painful decision to give her teenage twins to the Red Army to ensure their survival. Her maternal instinct drives her forward as she experiences the separation from her daughters during the Japanese invasion and sees her other son depart to fight for the Nationalists.
The strength of *The House Filler* lies in its depiction of the personal cost of political and social upheaval. The novel explores not only Golden Phoenix's courage but also the resilience of her family, including her adopted son who remains by her side through war’s devastation. The political oppression of the Communist era comes to the forefront when her son, a twin who joined the Communist Party, is accused of treason and sentenced to death. This episode, fraught with tension and emotional pain, highlights the fragility of human lives under authoritarian rule and the fight for justice and survival in such an environment.
Tong Ge’s narrative is a blend of historical and emotional storytelling. The book’s historical events serve as more than just a backdrop—they shape the characters’ lives and decisions, bringing to light the deep scars left by war, poverty, and political oppression. The author’s skill in portraying these monumental events through personal experiences gives the novel a powerful, intimate feel, inviting readers to empathize with the characters’ suffering and triumphs.
September 24, 2025
There are books you read for entertainment, and then there are books like The House Filler, which you read for understanding and empathy. Tong Ge’s storytelling is immersive, bringing me directly into the courtyards, markets, and traditions of Kaifeng in the early 1900s. The detail is astonishing without ever overwhelming the story, and I constantly felt like I was walking beside Jinfeng.
December 14, 2023
I could push this to 3.5 stars...but no more. I usually appreciate clear, concise, stripped down storytelling...but this is one of those stories where I find the story is going by TOO fast. I'm not getting to know the characters well enough, as they fall to the merciless forces of history. This needs to be twice the length...with deeper, more detailed emotional development. This is a story that begs to be emotionally exhausting, and tear at the heart...but in many ways, it only waves in that direction, with the odd flash of intensity. So much potential here, waiting to be realized...
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April 24, 2024Excellent read. This is the first book of a trilogy and I really enjoyed it. However, if I'd realized the other two books have not been written yet, I never would have started it. I hate having to wait for the next one, I've usually forgotten who's who by then.
September 11, 2024
A testament to the power of spirit! – A must read
Canadian author Tong Ge, born in China, writes with such eloquent ease that her story flows seamlessly, magnetizing the reader’s attention and commitment from the first to the last page. Sharing Chinese history and culture in a mesmerizing novel, she opens in a time off peace, 1918 – 1937, allowing the primary character Hu Jinfeng (‘Golden Phoenix’) to relate customs of family status, marriage contracts, expectations of children, etc. in a gentle conversational style. For those questioning the book’s title, women marrying a widower were tianfang – ‘a house filler’ – and it is this degree of casual sharing of idiosyncrasies of the time in peaceful China that inform us of the state of women’s rights: as Hu Jinfeng states, ‘Women raised as martial artists or warriors didn’t have their feet bound. I wished I was a warrior with natural feet and could ride horses and shoot arrows. But I was not a warrior, nor could I escape the destiny of most women – to be a good daughter-in-law, a good wife and, one day, a good mother… A woman’s worth was measured in three things: the size of her feet, the quality of her needlework and her cooking skills.’ Hu Jinfeng’s family life begins.
‘As a Chinese expression puts it, blessings do not come in pairs, and calamities never come alone.’ With this pungent aside, the course of Hu Jinfeng’s life changes as she and her family and her country endure war, poverty, the Japanese invasion, the Chinese civil war, the rise of Communism (even one of her own twin boys was caught up in the horror of being accused as a traitor to the Communist party), and other challenges. Through her committed bravery, Hu Jinfeng survives and her struggles and intransigent spirit provide an inspiration to us all.
This is one of the most inviting books encountered in seasons, so beautifully written and gently meaningful that the story remains in the mind – and invitation to understand and appreciate Chinese culture and heritage from a very gifted author. Highly recommended
Canadian author Tong Ge, born in China, writes with such eloquent ease that her story flows seamlessly, magnetizing the reader’s attention and commitment from the first to the last page. Sharing Chinese history and culture in a mesmerizing novel, she opens in a time off peace, 1918 – 1937, allowing the primary character Hu Jinfeng (‘Golden Phoenix’) to relate customs of family status, marriage contracts, expectations of children, etc. in a gentle conversational style. For those questioning the book’s title, women marrying a widower were tianfang – ‘a house filler’ – and it is this degree of casual sharing of idiosyncrasies of the time in peaceful China that inform us of the state of women’s rights: as Hu Jinfeng states, ‘Women raised as martial artists or warriors didn’t have their feet bound. I wished I was a warrior with natural feet and could ride horses and shoot arrows. But I was not a warrior, nor could I escape the destiny of most women – to be a good daughter-in-law, a good wife and, one day, a good mother… A woman’s worth was measured in three things: the size of her feet, the quality of her needlework and her cooking skills.’ Hu Jinfeng’s family life begins.
‘As a Chinese expression puts it, blessings do not come in pairs, and calamities never come alone.’ With this pungent aside, the course of Hu Jinfeng’s life changes as she and her family and her country endure war, poverty, the Japanese invasion, the Chinese civil war, the rise of Communism (even one of her own twin boys was caught up in the horror of being accused as a traitor to the Communist party), and other challenges. Through her committed bravery, Hu Jinfeng survives and her struggles and intransigent spirit provide an inspiration to us all.
This is one of the most inviting books encountered in seasons, so beautifully written and gently meaningful that the story remains in the mind – and invitation to understand and appreciate Chinese culture and heritage from a very gifted author. Highly recommended
October 1, 2024
The Review
What a dynamic and compelling novel. The author immediately found the perfect balance between historical fiction storytelling and character-driven narrative. The stark cultural contrast will immediately stand out to readers, exploring everything from women’s rights and place in society to family dynamics, beauty standards, and much more. The political drama and upheaval of that era helped elevate the protagonist's personal stakes in this novel as well.
The emotional depth of the protagonist’s journey and the rich themes of the narrative stood out in this novel. The exploration of loyalty, love, and family all played a heavy hand in the book, and the realism and attention to detail made the story feel more engaging and highlighted the human condition in the face of overwhelming tragedy or hardships suffered during these historical times.
The Verdict
A truly memorable and thoughtful read, author Tong Ge’s “The House Filler” is a must-read historical fiction novel. The twists and turns in the story, the heartbreaking realities of this era, and the sobering yet powerful finale will stay with readers long after the book ends.
What a dynamic and compelling novel. The author immediately found the perfect balance between historical fiction storytelling and character-driven narrative. The stark cultural contrast will immediately stand out to readers, exploring everything from women’s rights and place in society to family dynamics, beauty standards, and much more. The political drama and upheaval of that era helped elevate the protagonist's personal stakes in this novel as well.
The emotional depth of the protagonist’s journey and the rich themes of the narrative stood out in this novel. The exploration of loyalty, love, and family all played a heavy hand in the book, and the realism and attention to detail made the story feel more engaging and highlighted the human condition in the face of overwhelming tragedy or hardships suffered during these historical times.
The Verdict
A truly memorable and thoughtful read, author Tong Ge’s “The House Filler” is a must-read historical fiction novel. The twists and turns in the story, the heartbreaking realities of this era, and the sobering yet powerful finale will stay with readers long after the book ends.
January 11, 2025
The House Filler by Tong Ge is an entertaining historical fiction. It makes me think of all the Chinese dramas I have watched. All of them were family centered. They like this novel showed how the daughter-in-law was at the mercy of her husband and his family. Women seemed to have no rights especially married women. Drama, loss, grief, and tragedy follows Phoenix wherever she went in this book. There were some great blessings such as having a husband who is kind to her and their own kids. A husband who works hard and is happy to have his kids. However, family members on both sides have caused troubles for the new couple and their children. The whole tale has this foreshadow and sad buildup where one knows it might all go downhill soon and fast but not exactly when it will happen. I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere, historical aspects, and Chinese authentic cultures as I read this book. It was amazing! Tong Ge centered the book based on her led female character who is unforgettable and strong despite all the hardships she faces in life.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
November 24, 2025
The House Filler is one of the most powerful historical novels I’ve read in years. Tong Ge takes us into a world that is both distant and intimately familiar, weaving the story of Jinfeng with such honesty that I often forgot she was a fictional character. From the very first scene meeting both the man she would love and the man she would come to hate I was hooked by the sense of inevitability and tragedy.
The book doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of foot-binding, arranged marriages, and the suffocating expectations placed upon women in early 20th-century China. Those passages were difficult to read, yet impossible to turn away from. They felt like necessary truths that deserve to be remembered.
What makes this novel unforgettable, though, is the resilience that shines through. Jinfeng is not just a victim of tradition she is a testament to human endurance, love, and quiet rebellion. By the time I reached the last page, I felt like I had lived her life alongside her, and I’ll carry her story with me for a long time.
The book doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of foot-binding, arranged marriages, and the suffocating expectations placed upon women in early 20th-century China. Those passages were difficult to read, yet impossible to turn away from. They felt like necessary truths that deserve to be remembered.
What makes this novel unforgettable, though, is the resilience that shines through. Jinfeng is not just a victim of tradition she is a testament to human endurance, love, and quiet rebellion. By the time I reached the last page, I felt like I had lived her life alongside her, and I’ll carry her story with me for a long time.
August 18, 2024
5 star rating
BOOK REVIEW – “THE HOUSE FILLER” by TONG GE
I was totally entranced when reading Tong Ge’s ‘The House Filler’. Tong Ge has a true flair for storytelling, and she writes with pure passion. I could not put this book down once I started reading the first sentence. Knowing that this book is based on true events in the life of Golden Phoenix made reading it even more heartfelt and heartbreaking. Even though the main character lived through incredible hardships that I could not begin to fathom, Golden Phoenix’s story is one of immense bravery and is filled with one woman’s strength, love of family, and determination for survival. There were significant historical facts also included to help the reader understand what was going on in China during Golden Phoenix’s life that added to the desperation of people at the time. I can’t wait to read the second and third books in this trilogy.
- M. Aucoin, Calgary, Alberta
BOOK REVIEW – “THE HOUSE FILLER” by TONG GE
I was totally entranced when reading Tong Ge’s ‘The House Filler’. Tong Ge has a true flair for storytelling, and she writes with pure passion. I could not put this book down once I started reading the first sentence. Knowing that this book is based on true events in the life of Golden Phoenix made reading it even more heartfelt and heartbreaking. Even though the main character lived through incredible hardships that I could not begin to fathom, Golden Phoenix’s story is one of immense bravery and is filled with one woman’s strength, love of family, and determination for survival. There were significant historical facts also included to help the reader understand what was going on in China during Golden Phoenix’s life that added to the desperation of people at the time. I can’t wait to read the second and third books in this trilogy.
- M. Aucoin, Calgary, Alberta
November 27, 2025
I wasn’t sure what to expect going into The House Filler, but what I found was a novel that felt like both a personal diary and a sweeping historical portrait. Jinfeng’s life is laid bare with such detail and emotional honesty that I often felt like I was intruding on her most private moments. That vulnerability is what makes the book so powerful.
The author doesn’t romanticize the struggles whether it’s the painful ritual of foot-binding, the deceptions within marriage, or the constant pressure to bear sons. Instead, the novel shines by showing the quiet strength that grows in the cracks of suffering. I admired Jinfeng not just for what she endured, but for how she kept her heart alive in the midst of it all.
By the time I finished, I felt like I had witnessed a lifetime. This book is about resilience, love, betrayal, and survival, but it’s also about the value of one woman’s story in a world that tried to silence her. It left me changed, and I can’t recommend it enough.
The author doesn’t romanticize the struggles whether it’s the painful ritual of foot-binding, the deceptions within marriage, or the constant pressure to bear sons. Instead, the novel shines by showing the quiet strength that grows in the cracks of suffering. I admired Jinfeng not just for what she endured, but for how she kept her heart alive in the midst of it all.
By the time I finished, I felt like I had witnessed a lifetime. This book is about resilience, love, betrayal, and survival, but it’s also about the value of one woman’s story in a world that tried to silence her. It left me changed, and I can’t recommend it enough.
September 24, 2025
The House Filler is one of those rare novels that blends history and humanity so seamlessly you forget you’re reading fiction. The story of Jinfeng—caught between duty, tradition, and her own aching desires, felt like stepping into the lives of real people who carried their pain and hope with quiet dignity. Tong Ge writes with the kind of intimacy that makes you feel you’re sitting in the same room as these characters, listening to their secrets.
What struck me most was the depth of emotion woven into every scene. The cultural detail, especially around foot-binding and women’s roles, was heartbreaking yet eye-opening. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t just tell a story, but makes you reflect on generations of silenced women.
What struck me most was the depth of emotion woven into every scene. The cultural detail, especially around foot-binding and women’s roles, was heartbreaking yet eye-opening. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t just tell a story, but makes you reflect on generations of silenced women.
August 26, 2025
Some books you read. Others, you experience. The House Filler is an experience an emotionally raw, sometimes painful, and ultimately beautiful one. Tong Ge does not flinch. She stares truth straight in the eye.
I was deeply moved by Jinfeng’s endurance. Her life is shaped by the constraints of custom, yet she finds power in the smallest acts sewing, silence, a moment of defiance. The emotional complexity here is staggering.
I received this novel from my book club, and it immediately shot to the top of my all-time favourites. For readers looking for something deep, heartfelt, and haunting this is the one.
I was deeply moved by Jinfeng’s endurance. Her life is shaped by the constraints of custom, yet she finds power in the smallest acts sewing, silence, a moment of defiance. The emotional complexity here is staggering.
I received this novel from my book club, and it immediately shot to the top of my all-time favourites. For readers looking for something deep, heartfelt, and haunting this is the one.
August 26, 2025
Tong Ge captures the soul of a forgotten woman, and in doing so, gives voice to thousands more. The House Filler is not just a novel; it is a witness, a monument.
Jinfeng’s trauma is etched into every sentence, and yet Tong Ge never allows her to be merely a victim. She is skilled, thoughtful, patient, and full of yearning. She carries centuries of silence on her shoulders, and still, she stands.
The prose sings with authenticity. From the village courtyard to the brutal ceremony of marriage, every detail feels lived. It’s both painful and mesmerizing.
For those who want more from their historical fiction more depth, more poetry, more soul read this. You’ll never be the same.
Jinfeng’s trauma is etched into every sentence, and yet Tong Ge never allows her to be merely a victim. She is skilled, thoughtful, patient, and full of yearning. She carries centuries of silence on her shoulders, and still, she stands.
The prose sings with authenticity. From the village courtyard to the brutal ceremony of marriage, every detail feels lived. It’s both painful and mesmerizing.
For those who want more from their historical fiction more depth, more poetry, more soul read this. You’ll never be the same.
September 3, 2025
The sense of place in this novel is exquisite: crowded lanes, chapels of household gods, the layered smells of food and smoke. Tong Ge’s world-building is intimate and tactile, and that makes the characters’ losses feel concrete and painful.
I was especially impressed by how the author handles shame and secrecy: they’re not abstract themes but physical practices embedded in the body and the home. Foot-binding, household secrecy, and quiet humiliations are described with a clarity that refuses to romanticize.
This is a book for readers who want historical depth and emotional honesty; it’s both illuminating and heartbreakingly human.
I was especially impressed by how the author handles shame and secrecy: they’re not abstract themes but physical practices embedded in the body and the home. Foot-binding, household secrecy, and quiet humiliations are described with a clarity that refuses to romanticize.
This is a book for readers who want historical depth and emotional honesty; it’s both illuminating and heartbreakingly human.
July 29, 2025
This book was a gift literally, from a book club friend and spiritually. Tong Ge’s storytelling is like embroidery: delicate, precise, and absolutely stunning. Jinfeng is a heroine for the ages. She is quiet, but her silence speaks volumes. Her suffering is vast, but her spirit is resilient. I wanted to protect her, cheer for her, weep with her.Everything about this book, the language, the pacing, the cultural depth was exquisite. It made me reflect, question, and ache. If you only read one historical novel this year, make it this one. It is spicy, soulful, and so satisfying.
September 3, 2025
Tong Ge writes domestic life with the precision of a seamstress: small stitches that together hold an entire family’s story. Golden Phoenix’s choices practical, wounded, fiercely loving reveal how survival often looks like compromise. The book’s sensory detail made everyday life feel monumental.
Her depiction of community the gossiping neighbors, the tense clan meetings, the market sellers gives the story emotional context. I kept picturing the courtyards and lamp-light; the setting is as much a presence as any character.
Her depiction of community the gossiping neighbors, the tense clan meetings, the market sellers gives the story emotional context. I kept picturing the courtyards and lamp-light; the setting is as much a presence as any character.
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