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Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters #3
Bitter Winds
The third book of the Tales of the Scavenger’s Daughters series, Bitter Winds continues the saga of Chinese couple Benfu and Calli, and the abandoned young women in their care.
Since the night her sister was almost burned alive in a fire and they were taken from their mother, Ivy has been the self-appointed guardian and guide to her blind twin, Lily. When Lily is snatched away and put behind locked doors, Ivy will do whatever it takes to get her sister home, even it means putting her own life in danger.
After Benfu and Calli’s long-lost daughter, Li Jin, is finally reunited with her birth parents, she opens a shelter for displaced people, turning her fortune from destitution and abuse to family and fulfillment. But her friend Sami remains consumed by bitterness—and Li Jin soon realizes she needs to make a difficult choice between revisiting the past or nurturing her own future.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 8, 2014
610 people are currently reading
1230 people want to read
About the author
Kay Bratt
55 books2,077 followersWriter, Rescuer, Wanderer
Kay Bratt is the powerhouse author behind 40 internationally bestselling books that span genres from mystery and women’s fiction to memoir and historical fiction. Her books are renowned for delivering an emotional wallop wrapped in gripping storylines. Her Hart's Ridge small-town mystery series earned her the coveted title of Amazon All Star Author and continues to be one of her most successful projects out of her more than two million books sold around the world.
Kay's literary works have sparked lively book club discussions wide-reaching, with her works translated into multiple languages, including German, Korean, Chinese, Hungarian, Czech, and Estonian.
Beyond her writing, Kay passionately dedicates herself to rescue missions, championing animal welfare as the former Director of Advocacy for Yorkie Rescue of the Carolinas. She considers herself a lifelong advocate for children, having volunteered extensively in a Chinese orphanage and supported nonprofit organizations like An Orphan's Wish (AOW), Pearl River Outreach, and Love Without Boundaries.
In the USA, Kay served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children in Georgia, as well as spearheaded numerous outreach programs for underprivileged kids in South Carolina. Most recently Kay spent a year volunteering as a Hospice volunteer.
As a wanderlust-driven soul, Kay has called nearly three dozen different homes on two continents her own. Her globetrotting adventures have taken her to captivating destinations across Mexico, Thailand, Malaysia, China, the Philippines, Central America, the Bahamas, and Australia. Today, she and her soulmate of more than 30 years find their sanctuary in St. Augustine, Florida.
Described as southern, spicy, and a touch sassy, Kay loves to share her life's antics with the Bratt Pack on social media. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to join the fun and buckle up for the ride of a lifetime. Explore her popular catalog of published works at Kay Bratt Dot-Com and never miss a new release (or her latest Bratt Pack drama) by signing up for her monthly email newsletter. For more information, visit www.kaybratt.com.
Kay Bratt is the powerhouse author behind 40 internationally bestselling books that span genres from mystery and women’s fiction to memoir and historical fiction. Her books are renowned for delivering an emotional wallop wrapped in gripping storylines. Her Hart's Ridge small-town mystery series earned her the coveted title of Amazon All Star Author and continues to be one of her most successful projects out of her more than two million books sold around the world.
Kay's literary works have sparked lively book club discussions wide-reaching, with her works translated into multiple languages, including German, Korean, Chinese, Hungarian, Czech, and Estonian.
Beyond her writing, Kay passionately dedicates herself to rescue missions, championing animal welfare as the former Director of Advocacy for Yorkie Rescue of the Carolinas. She considers herself a lifelong advocate for children, having volunteered extensively in a Chinese orphanage and supported nonprofit organizations like An Orphan's Wish (AOW), Pearl River Outreach, and Love Without Boundaries.
In the USA, Kay served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children in Georgia, as well as spearheaded numerous outreach programs for underprivileged kids in South Carolina. Most recently Kay spent a year volunteering as a Hospice volunteer.
As a wanderlust-driven soul, Kay has called nearly three dozen different homes on two continents her own. Her globetrotting adventures have taken her to captivating destinations across Mexico, Thailand, Malaysia, China, the Philippines, Central America, the Bahamas, and Australia. Today, she and her soulmate of more than 30 years find their sanctuary in St. Augustine, Florida.
Described as southern, spicy, and a touch sassy, Kay loves to share her life's antics with the Bratt Pack on social media. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to join the fun and buckle up for the ride of a lifetime. Explore her popular catalog of published works at Kay Bratt Dot-Com and never miss a new release (or her latest Bratt Pack drama) by signing up for her monthly email newsletter. For more information, visit www.kaybratt.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
October 4, 2017
Writing this review makes me incredibly sad, because while I loved the first two books, this one just did not ring any of my bells.
I read about 23% of it and just didn't want to pick it up anymore. The plot seemed too obvious and boring. I think this is more me than the book, as I loved the other ones and want to read the other books by this author. So it's more a case of right book, just the wrong time. I might pick it up again in the future, but until then, I am going to give this 2.5 stars, rounding up to 3 stars because of the first two books.
My thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
I read about 23% of it and just didn't want to pick it up anymore. The plot seemed too obvious and boring. I think this is more me than the book, as I loved the other ones and want to read the other books by this author. So it's more a case of right book, just the wrong time. I might pick it up again in the future, but until then, I am going to give this 2.5 stars, rounding up to 3 stars because of the first two books.
My thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
July 18, 2017
Kay Bratt has definitely become my go to author! Every book she writes brings me into the world of the story being told. I am always amazed by the beauty of Kay's stories. She brings home to me and her many other devoted fans an insider's view of the Chinese way of life.
Bitter Winds is the final book in The Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters series. In a culture where girls are seemingly not valued, we read about a family devoted to showing girls how wanted they really are. The devotion and love of Benfu and Calli to each other and to their daughters - their garden of flowers, is heart stopping and breathtaking. I loved seeing how the story of this family came full circle through love, hard work and just basic belief in knowing that things will turn out the way they are supposed to.
I would recommend this entire series but must say that Bitter Winds is a must read! I am looking forward to more books by Kay Bratt.
I was given an ARC (advanced readers copy) in advance for my honest review.
Bitter Winds is the final book in The Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters series. In a culture where girls are seemingly not valued, we read about a family devoted to showing girls how wanted they really are. The devotion and love of Benfu and Calli to each other and to their daughters - their garden of flowers, is heart stopping and breathtaking. I loved seeing how the story of this family came full circle through love, hard work and just basic belief in knowing that things will turn out the way they are supposed to.
I would recommend this entire series but must say that Bitter Winds is a must read! I am looking forward to more books by Kay Bratt.
I was given an ARC (advanced readers copy) in advance for my honest review.
May 22, 2014
Bitter Winds: Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters, Book 3
Book Synopsis:
Li Jin, given the name Dahlia by Benfu and Calli at her birth, tattooed with a beautiful little dahlia flower on her heel as a baby, was just a month old when she was kidnapped by Benfu's mother and sent away into obscurity. Thirty years later, Benfu and Calli's adopted daughter, Linea, conducted a time-consuming search to find that stolen daughter. Tirelessly, Linea expended her love and effort in the hope of finding Dahlia, so as to grant some measure of peace and happiness to the two people who had showered so much love on her and so many other orphaned and abandoned girls.
Finally finding Li Jin, the reunion was bitter sweet. Li Jin had to work to get beyond her own bitter feelings for the people she believed had abandoned her at a young age. In the face sheet to the Prologue, Kay Bratt includes a saying by Lao Tzu: "A violent wind does not last for a whole morning; a sudden rain does not last for the whole day." We can assume that these "Bitter Winds," that are coming to the family in this book will at some point abate. But it is how the family deals with the winds that shows the character of those assaulted by them.
The publishers reveal that Li Jin opens a shelter for homeless or displaced people. She wants to change her past life from one of abuse, discouragement, and hopelessness to embrace the new-to-her concepts of family, acceptance of love, and fulfillment.
Li Jin's beautiful new relationship with Sami is to be tested and tried when Sami does not embrace this new life, but is consumed with bitterness and a desire to obtain revenge on those who have hurt her. Things become even more strained after Sami gives birth to her baby--a little girl.
Complications get even more strained when blind Lily is detained and put in a kind of jail. Her sister became her guardian after a terrifying night when Lily was almost burned to death in a fire in their home; now, Ivy is fraught with anxiety, guilt, and anxiety for her sister. She is determined to do whatever it takes to get her out--even if it means jeopardizing her own freedom or her own life.
WHAT I THINK ABOUT THE BOOK: BITTER WINDS:
Bitter Winds reminds me in so many ways of the story by O. Henry, The Gift of the Magi (see my review of this book by following this link.). It all started in Tales of The Scavenger's Daughters, when Benfu gave Lily his priceless violin. All the girls saw the example he set in his gift of love. Now, in Bitter Winds, Ivy, and other characters will make their own gifts of love, just as Benfu, just as in The Gift of the Magi. I won't tell you what they are, as it would spoil the beauty and suspense Kay Bratt has worked so hard to give to us as readers of this beautiful book.
Second, as I mentioned, above, the continuity flows throughout the book and the trilogy. First , in Book One, we saw Benfu and his daughters--Linea, notably--take center stage. Then in Book Two we saw Linea bring Li Jin (Dahlia) into the family when she searches and finds Benfu and Calli's baby girl, Dahlia. Now in Book Three we see Li Jin establish a home for the destitute children and elder homeless; this home becomes pivotal in the redemption attempt to get "Lily" out of detention. And, of course, Lily and Ivy have been woven into the story throughout all three books, as have other supporting characters like Jet and Sky.
Third, I was very much drawn to the family relationships in this book (actually, all three books). I loved to see the troubled mothers especially (Benfu's and later, Lily's and Ivy's mother--By the way, what did you think about the "vision" or the "meeting" Ivy has with her mother while she is in the institution?). The stressful relationships with the fathers (Benfu and his father, Jet and his father, and, of course Sky has his own troubles with his family, as well).
We also see Sami's dysfunctional family, with a mother who is cold, controlled and bitter who does not protect her; we see her father sell her to the highest bidder for sex at a party, damaging Sami irretrievably. We see the damage done to Jojo by Erik in his parental role (the story about the yoyo was heartwrenching!). And, finally we see Sami's damaged relationship with her newborn daughter. We also get to see the hope of a new, healthy family beginning with Li Jin, Sky and Jojo.
Fourth, Benfu makes much of the damage that China is doing to families, basically destroying families. He sees it first hand when his own family is destroyed in the Cultural Revolution. Then, throughout the books we see injustice piled upon injustice in the laws China wields against its poor, homeless, destitute, orphaned, and powerless. We also are given snapshots of corrupt, callous, and unfeeling government officials.
Finally, even though Kay Bratt includes these characters in the story, these unjust laws, and these corrupt persons, never does she over write. I mean that she never sounds as if she is standing on a soap box preaching at us and beating her chest. She, instead, makes the pain feel personal; she shows us what it is like instead of openly condemning people or institutions--in other words, she lets us make our own decisions about injustice and unfairness. We are the judges.
MY RECOMMENDATIONS AND RATING FOR THIS BOOK:
This book is a sensitive portrayal of a family and in many ways society, set in Post Cultural Revolutionary China. The material contained within is, in many ways, for adult reading. We have themes of physical abuse of women and children, rape, prostitution, bribery, thievery, and suffering both internal and physically. Even so, this book is a wonderful picture of a family of love, devotion, and faithfulness. We see the best in Benfu and Calli's love and lifelong devotion to orphan and abandoned girl children. So, while it is not a book I would give to an immature or sensitive person, it is wonderful for adults--obviously, the intended audience.
Because of all the things I said, above, I give this book a 4.5 star rating out of 5. So, I round up to accommodate the star system on goodreads. Congratulations to Kay Bratt for writing such a beautiful book. Kay Bratt continues her work as an advocate for children, "to be the voice for children who cannot speak for themselves." You can visit her facebook page for more information about her work.
Kay Bratt tweeted me this wonderful message about my book review today
(04-08-14). I have already sent my appreciation and thanks to Ms. Bratt
for her thoughtfulness.
Thank you for joining me this week as we have looked at a trilogy of books by Kay Bratt: The Tales of The Scavenger's Daughters. Please join me next week when we will open the pages of a new book. Until then, I hope you pick up a book and read it...if you enjoy it, let me know what you think about it. I'm very eclectic in my taste in books and would love to hear from you about what you like. Be kind to one another, especially your family members. And, as Li Jin says, don't let someone else steal your joy (p.300).
Until next time...many happy pages of reading!
"If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly,
our whole life would change."--Buddha [18]
All my love, Sharon.
Book Synopsis:
Li Jin, given the name Dahlia by Benfu and Calli at her birth, tattooed with a beautiful little dahlia flower on her heel as a baby, was just a month old when she was kidnapped by Benfu's mother and sent away into obscurity. Thirty years later, Benfu and Calli's adopted daughter, Linea, conducted a time-consuming search to find that stolen daughter. Tirelessly, Linea expended her love and effort in the hope of finding Dahlia, so as to grant some measure of peace and happiness to the two people who had showered so much love on her and so many other orphaned and abandoned girls.
Finally finding Li Jin, the reunion was bitter sweet. Li Jin had to work to get beyond her own bitter feelings for the people she believed had abandoned her at a young age. In the face sheet to the Prologue, Kay Bratt includes a saying by Lao Tzu: "A violent wind does not last for a whole morning; a sudden rain does not last for the whole day." We can assume that these "Bitter Winds," that are coming to the family in this book will at some point abate. But it is how the family deals with the winds that shows the character of those assaulted by them.
The publishers reveal that Li Jin opens a shelter for homeless or displaced people. She wants to change her past life from one of abuse, discouragement, and hopelessness to embrace the new-to-her concepts of family, acceptance of love, and fulfillment.
Li Jin's beautiful new relationship with Sami is to be tested and tried when Sami does not embrace this new life, but is consumed with bitterness and a desire to obtain revenge on those who have hurt her. Things become even more strained after Sami gives birth to her baby--a little girl.
Complications get even more strained when blind Lily is detained and put in a kind of jail. Her sister became her guardian after a terrifying night when Lily was almost burned to death in a fire in their home; now, Ivy is fraught with anxiety, guilt, and anxiety for her sister. She is determined to do whatever it takes to get her out--even if it means jeopardizing her own freedom or her own life.
WHAT I THINK ABOUT THE BOOK: BITTER WINDS:
Bitter Winds reminds me in so many ways of the story by O. Henry, The Gift of the Magi (see my review of this book by following this link.). It all started in Tales of The Scavenger's Daughters, when Benfu gave Lily his priceless violin. All the girls saw the example he set in his gift of love. Now, in Bitter Winds, Ivy, and other characters will make their own gifts of love, just as Benfu, just as in The Gift of the Magi. I won't tell you what they are, as it would spoil the beauty and suspense Kay Bratt has worked so hard to give to us as readers of this beautiful book.
Second, as I mentioned, above, the continuity flows throughout the book and the trilogy. First , in Book One, we saw Benfu and his daughters--Linea, notably--take center stage. Then in Book Two we saw Linea bring Li Jin (Dahlia) into the family when she searches and finds Benfu and Calli's baby girl, Dahlia. Now in Book Three we see Li Jin establish a home for the destitute children and elder homeless; this home becomes pivotal in the redemption attempt to get "Lily" out of detention. And, of course, Lily and Ivy have been woven into the story throughout all three books, as have other supporting characters like Jet and Sky.
Third, I was very much drawn to the family relationships in this book (actually, all three books). I loved to see the troubled mothers especially (Benfu's and later, Lily's and Ivy's mother--By the way, what did you think about the "vision" or the "meeting" Ivy has with her mother while she is in the institution?). The stressful relationships with the fathers (Benfu and his father, Jet and his father, and, of course Sky has his own troubles with his family, as well).
We also see Sami's dysfunctional family, with a mother who is cold, controlled and bitter who does not protect her; we see her father sell her to the highest bidder for sex at a party, damaging Sami irretrievably. We see the damage done to Jojo by Erik in his parental role (the story about the yoyo was heartwrenching!). And, finally we see Sami's damaged relationship with her newborn daughter. We also get to see the hope of a new, healthy family beginning with Li Jin, Sky and Jojo.
Fourth, Benfu makes much of the damage that China is doing to families, basically destroying families. He sees it first hand when his own family is destroyed in the Cultural Revolution. Then, throughout the books we see injustice piled upon injustice in the laws China wields against its poor, homeless, destitute, orphaned, and powerless. We also are given snapshots of corrupt, callous, and unfeeling government officials.
Finally, even though Kay Bratt includes these characters in the story, these unjust laws, and these corrupt persons, never does she over write. I mean that she never sounds as if she is standing on a soap box preaching at us and beating her chest. She, instead, makes the pain feel personal; she shows us what it is like instead of openly condemning people or institutions--in other words, she lets us make our own decisions about injustice and unfairness. We are the judges.
MY RECOMMENDATIONS AND RATING FOR THIS BOOK:
This book is a sensitive portrayal of a family and in many ways society, set in Post Cultural Revolutionary China. The material contained within is, in many ways, for adult reading. We have themes of physical abuse of women and children, rape, prostitution, bribery, thievery, and suffering both internal and physically. Even so, this book is a wonderful picture of a family of love, devotion, and faithfulness. We see the best in Benfu and Calli's love and lifelong devotion to orphan and abandoned girl children. So, while it is not a book I would give to an immature or sensitive person, it is wonderful for adults--obviously, the intended audience.
Because of all the things I said, above, I give this book a 4.5 star rating out of 5. So, I round up to accommodate the star system on goodreads. Congratulations to Kay Bratt for writing such a beautiful book. Kay Bratt continues her work as an advocate for children, "to be the voice for children who cannot speak for themselves." You can visit her facebook page for more information about her work.
Kay Bratt tweeted me this wonderful message about my book review today
(04-08-14). I have already sent my appreciation and thanks to Ms. Bratt
for her thoughtfulness.
Thank you for joining me this week as we have looked at a trilogy of books by Kay Bratt: The Tales of The Scavenger's Daughters. Please join me next week when we will open the pages of a new book. Until then, I hope you pick up a book and read it...if you enjoy it, let me know what you think about it. I'm very eclectic in my taste in books and would love to hear from you about what you like. Be kind to one another, especially your family members. And, as Li Jin says, don't let someone else steal your joy (p.300).
Until next time...many happy pages of reading!
"If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly,
our whole life would change."--Buddha [18]
All my love, Sharon.
January 19, 2022
Wonderful series!
March 24, 2014
Story Description:
Brilliance Audio|April 8, 2014|Trade Paperback|ISBN: 978-1477848999
The third book of the 'Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters' series, BITTER WINDS continues the saga of Chinese couple Benfu and Calli, and the abandoned young women in their care. Since the night her sister was almost burned alive in a fire and they were taken from their mother, Ivy has been the self-appointed guardian and guide to her blind twin, Lily. When Lily is snatched away and put behind locked doors, Ivy will do whatever it takes to get her sister home, even if it means putting her own life in danger. After Benfu and Calli's long-lost daughter, Li Jin, is finally reunited with her birth parents, she opens a shelter for displaced people, turning her fortune from destitution and abuse to family and fulfillment. But her friend, Sami remains consumed by bitterness and Li Jin soon realizes she needs to make a difficult choice between revisiting the past or nurturing her own future.
My Review:
BITTER WINDS is book three in Kay's "Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters" series.
Lily is sixteen-years-old and blind and wants to exert her independence. Ivy is her twin and has been Lily's eyes since they were born, and there was no one she trusted more in her life. She knows that Ivy will always protect her and look out for her. Being blind is a big deal to other people but not to Lily and she is very ahppy that she can't see the pity in their faces. She didn't even like carrying her white cane because she felt it was like a huge advertisement telling people to look at her becasue she was blind.
Today, Ivy is escorting, Lily to the park so she could put on a concert playing her prized violin. She worried about her Mom and Dad getting older and not always being around to take care of them. She really wanted to make her own money and learn to be independent so Ivy too could go and make her own life. If no one gave her money for playing her violin today, the she'd go home, practice some more and return another day to try again.
Arriving at the park, Ivy deposited Lily on an empty bench to play her concert and she strolled off to look around the park. She didn't want to make Lily nervous by standing there, staring at her while she played.
Lily was playing her concert when she was suddenly arrested by the police! A terrifying ordeal for a blind girl. They threw her into a temporary locked cage while they rounded up more offenders and then transferred them to a paddy wagon and off to jail. When Ivy finally returned to pick up Lily and found her gone she began to panic. Someone in the crowd finally told her the police had taken her away as they thought she was a beggar, but that was not the only reason they had arested her. Ivy took off running, heading home to break the news to her father, Benfu and the rest of the family.
Meanwhile, Lily wasn't the only family member waiting to exert her independence these days. Li Jin, was, Benfu and Calli's only birth child who had been abducted when she was just a toddler was finally back in their lives with a son of her own. Li Jin was also wanting to exert her independence too and had opened up 'Rose Haven' - a shelter for homeless or displaced people. She charged them nothing to stay at her shelter and relied on donations and what she could afford to purchase. Li Jin did all the home-made cooking herself and any one of any age was welcome at Rose Haven from babies to seniors, However, Li Jin had one ball and chain around her ankle in the form of, Sami.
Sami, had come with Li Jin, home to her family but she was a desperately and deeply angry young woman who "...still burns for revenge against the man who corrupted her."
How is, Benfu going to get Lily released from jail when the fine is set out of his reach and the police firmly believe she is involved in more than begging? And how is, Li Jin going to decide whether to help, Sami and leave Rose Haven and her life-long dream behind or let Sami go her own way?
BITTER WINDS is an absolute page-turner! I was so invested in the story I felt as though I was in the book with the characters. I could see the park, the jail and the conditions there. And, I could see, hear and smell all that went on at Rose Haven.
Kay Bratt is one of the most expansive and joyful writers around these days. BITTER WINDS gracefully unravels how tradition, culture, and sense of place affect the human heart. Kay Bratt celebrates the joys and boundaries of storytelling and I look forward with excited anticipation to her next novel. She has never disappointed me yet. Another book well done, Kay!
I would like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of this book in trade for an honest review. All opinions are mine and mine only.
Brilliance Audio|April 8, 2014|Trade Paperback|ISBN: 978-1477848999
The third book of the 'Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters' series, BITTER WINDS continues the saga of Chinese couple Benfu and Calli, and the abandoned young women in their care. Since the night her sister was almost burned alive in a fire and they were taken from their mother, Ivy has been the self-appointed guardian and guide to her blind twin, Lily. When Lily is snatched away and put behind locked doors, Ivy will do whatever it takes to get her sister home, even if it means putting her own life in danger. After Benfu and Calli's long-lost daughter, Li Jin, is finally reunited with her birth parents, she opens a shelter for displaced people, turning her fortune from destitution and abuse to family and fulfillment. But her friend, Sami remains consumed by bitterness and Li Jin soon realizes she needs to make a difficult choice between revisiting the past or nurturing her own future.
My Review:
BITTER WINDS is book three in Kay's "Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters" series.
Lily is sixteen-years-old and blind and wants to exert her independence. Ivy is her twin and has been Lily's eyes since they were born, and there was no one she trusted more in her life. She knows that Ivy will always protect her and look out for her. Being blind is a big deal to other people but not to Lily and she is very ahppy that she can't see the pity in their faces. She didn't even like carrying her white cane because she felt it was like a huge advertisement telling people to look at her becasue she was blind.
Today, Ivy is escorting, Lily to the park so she could put on a concert playing her prized violin. She worried about her Mom and Dad getting older and not always being around to take care of them. She really wanted to make her own money and learn to be independent so Ivy too could go and make her own life. If no one gave her money for playing her violin today, the she'd go home, practice some more and return another day to try again.
Arriving at the park, Ivy deposited Lily on an empty bench to play her concert and she strolled off to look around the park. She didn't want to make Lily nervous by standing there, staring at her while she played.
Lily was playing her concert when she was suddenly arrested by the police! A terrifying ordeal for a blind girl. They threw her into a temporary locked cage while they rounded up more offenders and then transferred them to a paddy wagon and off to jail. When Ivy finally returned to pick up Lily and found her gone she began to panic. Someone in the crowd finally told her the police had taken her away as they thought she was a beggar, but that was not the only reason they had arested her. Ivy took off running, heading home to break the news to her father, Benfu and the rest of the family.
Meanwhile, Lily wasn't the only family member waiting to exert her independence these days. Li Jin, was, Benfu and Calli's only birth child who had been abducted when she was just a toddler was finally back in their lives with a son of her own. Li Jin was also wanting to exert her independence too and had opened up 'Rose Haven' - a shelter for homeless or displaced people. She charged them nothing to stay at her shelter and relied on donations and what she could afford to purchase. Li Jin did all the home-made cooking herself and any one of any age was welcome at Rose Haven from babies to seniors, However, Li Jin had one ball and chain around her ankle in the form of, Sami.
Sami, had come with Li Jin, home to her family but she was a desperately and deeply angry young woman who "...still burns for revenge against the man who corrupted her."
How is, Benfu going to get Lily released from jail when the fine is set out of his reach and the police firmly believe she is involved in more than begging? And how is, Li Jin going to decide whether to help, Sami and leave Rose Haven and her life-long dream behind or let Sami go her own way?
BITTER WINDS is an absolute page-turner! I was so invested in the story I felt as though I was in the book with the characters. I could see the park, the jail and the conditions there. And, I could see, hear and smell all that went on at Rose Haven.
Kay Bratt is one of the most expansive and joyful writers around these days. BITTER WINDS gracefully unravels how tradition, culture, and sense of place affect the human heart. Kay Bratt celebrates the joys and boundaries of storytelling and I look forward with excited anticipation to her next novel. She has never disappointed me yet. Another book well done, Kay!
I would like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of this book in trade for an honest review. All opinions are mine and mine only.
January 11, 2017
I wasn’t aware that “Bitter Winds” was the third in a series when I ordered it; it works as a standalone novel but I think would have made more sense if it had been read in order. The cast of characters is large, and I spent a good bit of time thinking “Now, who is this person again?!?” But the story concentrates mainly on four characters: Lily & Ivy, twin teenagers, Lily being a blind violinist and Ivy her guide through life; Li Jin, who runs the shelter they all live in and acts as chef; and Sami, Li Jin’s friend from a previous book, who has led a thoroughly horrible life up to this point.
Lily wants to make some money by playing her violin in public (which is classed as begging by the Chinese government). When the police make a sweep to remove all the beggars from a festival, Lily gets separated from her sister Ivy. By happenstance she is found holding a leaflet for the forbidden Falun Gong sect, which means imprisonment in a mental hospital and possibly a stay in a ‘reeducation camp’, which carry a huge fine, instead of immediate release with a small fine. Meanwhile, Sami gives birth. She’s far from a natural mother, and wants nothing to do with the child. She also does nothing to help around the shelter, which is a communal situation. Li Jin is overworked, spending a lot of time trying to come up with the money to get Lily released. It’s a tense time for them all, with Lily and Ivy in some very scary situations. The ending is a surprise; we are led to think one thing will happen and it’s the opposite. It’s a bit of a deus ex machina, and I wished the details had been spelled out, but it works.
Li Jin is almost too good to be real, although without having read the first two books I could be missing a lot. Sami actually turns out to be the most interesting person in the end. Lily and Ivy are fairly well fleshed out, but no one is really developed all that well. Once again, I could be missing a lot because of this being the first of the books I’ve read. I’m not totally sure if I’ll seek out the others; it was a nice read but not really gripping.
Lily wants to make some money by playing her violin in public (which is classed as begging by the Chinese government). When the police make a sweep to remove all the beggars from a festival, Lily gets separated from her sister Ivy. By happenstance she is found holding a leaflet for the forbidden Falun Gong sect, which means imprisonment in a mental hospital and possibly a stay in a ‘reeducation camp’, which carry a huge fine, instead of immediate release with a small fine. Meanwhile, Sami gives birth. She’s far from a natural mother, and wants nothing to do with the child. She also does nothing to help around the shelter, which is a communal situation. Li Jin is overworked, spending a lot of time trying to come up with the money to get Lily released. It’s a tense time for them all, with Lily and Ivy in some very scary situations. The ending is a surprise; we are led to think one thing will happen and it’s the opposite. It’s a bit of a deus ex machina, and I wished the details had been spelled out, but it works.
Li Jin is almost too good to be real, although without having read the first two books I could be missing a lot. Sami actually turns out to be the most interesting person in the end. Lily and Ivy are fairly well fleshed out, but no one is really developed all that well. Once again, I could be missing a lot because of this being the first of the books I’ve read. I’m not totally sure if I’ll seek out the others; it was a nice read but not really gripping.
April 4, 2014
Bitter winds is the third book in the series Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters by Kay Bratt. I saw another review that said you don't have to read the other books but in my opinion it is helpful to read them. I think I would feel like I did not know what was going on if I had not read the other books in the series. The story picks up where Tangled Vines finishes. Benfu and Calli's biological daughter Dahlia or Li Jin, as she prefers as that is what she has been called her entire life, now lives with Benfu and Calli and they have opened Rose Haven in an old shoe factory. Rose Haven is a place where homeless people and orphans can come and live. Li Jin, Benfu and Calli hope to be able to have Rose Haven classified as a Social Welfare Institute in order to obtain additional support from the government. In addition to the continuation of Dahlia's story and her relationship with her friend Sami (who really irritated me at first but in the end made up for it) we learn more about Lily their adopted daughter who is blind. I am constantly astounded at the human rights violations that China is able to get away with and much of that is evident in this story. Kay Bratt has done an excellent job of researching this book and using actual facts in the book. I am happy because I think there must be at least one more book coming since there were a few things that just seem like they will be continued in a later book. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2015
I didn't find this novel quite as good as the second in the series, "Tangled Vines", but I still enjoyed it greatly. I enjoy reading of Benfu, Cali and their family of adopted daughters and I feel as though I truly know them after reading all three novels in quick succession. Their stories are full of hope, based upon the strength of the human spirit and the compassion that one person shows to another human being. I always finish these novels feeling slightly better about the world, even in the face of all the terrible things that occur every day. No matter where you live there are always good people to be found and Benfu, Cali and their daughters are shining examples of this. In this novel they have come together to create a place for homeless and abandoned people to come and be part of a loving community that works together to thrive: "Rose Haven". Unfortunately though the future of Rose Haven is threatened when one of their daughters is wrongly imprisoned and they must pay a hefty fine for her release. In spite of this terrible persecution and blatant disregard for human rights the focus of this story is once again upon the good people who come together to help out with the situation. An enjoyable read that made me smile.
March 3, 2015
it's ok
Can't really recommend but it passed the time. Can't put my finger on it but maybe it was just too sappy for me.
Can't really recommend but it passed the time. Can't put my finger on it but maybe it was just too sappy for me.
January 14, 2021
Bitter Winds is the third book in The Scavenger’s Daughters series by Kay Bratt. Ever since the night her blind twin sister, Lily, almost burned alive in a fire and they were taken from their mother, Ivy appointed herself protector and guide for her. When Lily is snatched away and locked away in a mental hospital, Ivy will do whatever it takes to get Lily home, safe and sound. What lengths will she go to get her sister home? At the same time, Benfu and Calli’s long-lost daughter, Li Jin, has reunited with her birth parents and embraced her adopted sisters with joy. She opens a shelter for displaced people and pours herself into helping others who desperately need it. But when her friend Sami is consumed by bitterness and doesn't seem to understand that she is a welcome part of the family too, Li Jin must make a difficult choice between her friend and her new family. What choice will she make?
I think Bitter Winds is my favorite book in this series. Filled with drama, suspense, hope and love, the story kept me on the edge of my seat and waiting for what would happen next. I went through all the emotions while reading it. I was angry at certain characters’ behaviors and cried with the characters cried as they suffered and grieved. I was scared with the events in the mental hospital and held my breath in anticipation of what might happen next. And I smiled through my tears at the ending. I loved seeing the growth in the characters especially Li Jin as she works through the events of her past and her new hope for her future. I like the description of holding grudges as “eating bitterness” as grudges eat away at you. I also love to read how the title works itself in the story and that’s true for all the books in this family saga. I highly recommend Bitter Winds.
Bitter Winds is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
Other books in the Zheng Family Saga
The Palest Ink (prequel)
The Scavenger’s Daughters (book 1)
Tangled Vines (book 2)
Red Skies (book 4, review coming soon)
I think Bitter Winds is my favorite book in this series. Filled with drama, suspense, hope and love, the story kept me on the edge of my seat and waiting for what would happen next. I went through all the emotions while reading it. I was angry at certain characters’ behaviors and cried with the characters cried as they suffered and grieved. I was scared with the events in the mental hospital and held my breath in anticipation of what might happen next. And I smiled through my tears at the ending. I loved seeing the growth in the characters especially Li Jin as she works through the events of her past and her new hope for her future. I like the description of holding grudges as “eating bitterness” as grudges eat away at you. I also love to read how the title works itself in the story and that’s true for all the books in this family saga. I highly recommend Bitter Winds.
Bitter Winds is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
Other books in the Zheng Family Saga
The Palest Ink (prequel)
The Scavenger’s Daughters (book 1)
Tangled Vines (book 2)
Red Skies (book 4, review coming soon)
April 5, 2021
This is the third book in The Scavenger’s Daughters series and was an excellent addition to the series. In this book the characters of Li Jin, Sami, Ivy and Lily are more the focus and are thus more developed. Li Jin is operating a house for the homeless and her family has pitched in and supports the project, even living on the premises. Sami, who followed Li Jin to the city of Wuxi, seems to regret her life choices but feels boxed in, even more so after she gives birth to a baby girl named Lan. Sami is not a very likable character, particularly since she ignores the cries of her own infant, but she is one for whom I felt sorry because of her past. The twins, Ivy and Lily, fall into the hands of the government oppressors when Lily is trying to play her beloved violin at a festival. Lily ends up being arrested for taking part in the Falun Gong movement and Ivy has to try to rescue her. The plot was complicated and kept me reading because of the twists that kept occurring. Just like the other books in the series, I learned a great deal about Chinese history and culture by reading it. I really enjoyed learning more about Li Jin and I liked how the twins were growing up and becoming more independent, even Lily who is blind. I look forward to the next book in the series and highly recommend this book to those who want a story that is told from the heart and that is also informative. This book can be read as a standalone, but I don’t know why anyone would not want to read the entire series. It is so good!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via an online contest. I was not required to write a positive review, The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via an online contest. I was not required to write a positive review, The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
June 16, 2017
I love Benfu and Calli and their family of rescued daughters. This book mostly focuses on Ivy and Lily, the sixteen-year old twin girls who are growing up. Lily is blind, but sometimes feels smothered by her protective twin. She wants some Independence and a chance to show some self-sufficiency. She wants confirmation from strangers that she really does play the violin as well as her family says, so she talks Ivy into taking her to a park play at a festival. Ivy gets annoyed with her and leaves for awhile. In the meantime, cops come and arrest Lily for apparent begging. They would have released her, but Sky was arrested and thrown in the same improvised cell. Since Sky was caught handing out Falun Gong pamphlets and was being sent to a reeducation camp again, Lily is assumed to be guilty of also following that movement. She is sent to a mental institution. Her family can't seem to get her out. Eventually, it seems that a huge fine might get her released or it might not, but where will the family get the funds?
Meanwhile, in contrast to the love and devotion and generosity within the family, we witness the mental health problems, selfishness, and bad parenting style of Sami, Li Jen (Dahlia's) friend from the women's shelter.
This book uncovers the civil rights abuses in China that allow people to be thrown into mental hospitals and/or reeducation centers and then abused while there. Meanwhile, people who actually need mental health care are left homeless. The book also explores how some people are left so damaged by traumatic childhoods that they can't feel anything but anger, while others can still find love for others. The book also explores the bonds between sisters, especially twins, and the pains of trying to grow up and pursue separate lives.
Meanwhile, in contrast to the love and devotion and generosity within the family, we witness the mental health problems, selfishness, and bad parenting style of Sami, Li Jen (Dahlia's) friend from the women's shelter.
This book uncovers the civil rights abuses in China that allow people to be thrown into mental hospitals and/or reeducation centers and then abused while there. Meanwhile, people who actually need mental health care are left homeless. The book also explores how some people are left so damaged by traumatic childhoods that they can't feel anything but anger, while others can still find love for others. The book also explores the bonds between sisters, especially twins, and the pains of trying to grow up and pursue separate lives.
April 10, 2014
Bitter Winds: Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters, Book 3
Li Jin, given the name Dahlia by Benfu and Calli at her birth, tattooed with a beautiful little dahlia flower on her heel as a baby, was just a month old when she was kidnapped by Benfu's mother and sent away into obscurity. Thirty years later, Benfu and Calli's adopted daughter, Linea, conducted a time-consuming search to find that stolen daughter. Tirelessly, Linea expended her love and effort in the hope of finding Dahlia, so as to grant some measure of peace and happiness to the two people who had showered so much love on her and so many other orphaned and abandoned girls.
Finally finding Li Jin, the reunion was bitter sweet. Li Jin had to work to get beyond her own bitter feelings for the people she believed had abandoned her at a young age. In the face sheet to the Prologue, Kay Bratt includes a saying by Lao Tzu: "A violent wind does not last for a whole morning; a sudden rain does not last for the whole day." We can assume that these "Bitter Winds," that are coming to the family in this book will at some point abate. But it is how the family deals with the winds that shows the character of those assaulted by them.
The publishers reveal that Li Jin opens a shelter for homeless or displaced people. She wants to change her past life from one of abuse, discouragement, and hopelessness to embrace the new-to-her concepts of family, acceptance of love, and fulfillment.
Li Jin's beautiful new relationship with Sami is to be tested and tried when Sami does not embrace this new life, but is consumed with bitterness and a desire to obtain revenge on those who have hurt her. Things become even more strained after Sami gives birth to her baby--a little girl.
Complications get even more strained when blind Lily is detained and put in a kind of jail. Her sister became her guardian after a terrifying night when Lily was almost burned to death in a fire in their home; now, Ivy is fraught with anxiety, guilt, and anxiety for her sister. She is determined to do whatever it takes to get her out--even if it means jeopardizing her own freedom or her own life.
WHAT I THINK ABOUT THE BOOK: BITTER WINDS:
Bitter Winds reminds me in so many ways of the story by O. Henry, The Gift of the Magi (see my review of this book by following this link.). It all started in Tales of The Scavenger's Daughters, when Benfu gave Lily his priceless violin. All the girls saw the example he set in his gift of love. Now, in Bitter Winds, Ivy, and other characters will make their own gifts of love, just as Benfu, just as in The Gift of the Magi. I won't tell you what they are, as it would spoil the beauty and suspense Kay Bratt has worked so hard to give to us as readers of this beautiful book.
Second, as I mentioned, above, the continuity flows throughout the book and the trilogy. First , in Book One, we saw Benfu and his daughters--Linea, notably--take center stage. Then in Book Two we saw Linea bring Li Jin (Dahlia) into the family when she searches and finds Benfu and Calli's baby girl, Dahlia. Now in Book Three we see Li Jin establish a home for the destitute children and elder homeless; this home becomes pivotal in the redemption attempt to get "Lily" out of detention. And, of course, Lily and Ivy have been woven into the story throughout all three books, as have other supporting characters like Jet and Sky.
Third, I was very much drawn to the family relationships in this book (actually, all three books). I loved to see the troubled mothers especially (Benfu's and later, Lily's and Ivy's mother--By the way, what did you think about the "vision" or the "meeting" Ivy has with her mother while she is in the institution?). The stressful relationships with the fathers (Benfu and his father, Jet and his father, and, of course Sky has his own troubles with his family, as well).
We also see Sami's dysfunctional family, with a mother who is cold, controlled and bitter who does not protect her; we see her father sell her to the highest bidder for sex at a party, damaging Sami irretrievably. We see the damage done to Jojo by Erik in his parental role (the story about the yoyo was heart wrenching!). And, finally we see Sami's damaged relationship with her newborn daughter. We also get to see the hope of a new, healthy family beginning with Li Jin, Sky and Jojo.
Fourth, Benfu makes much of the damage that China is doing to families, basically destroying families. He sees it first hand when his own family is destroyed in the Cultural Revolution. Then, throughout the books we see injustice piled upon injustice in the laws China wields against its poor, homeless, destitute, orphaned, and powerless. We also are given snapshots of corrupt, callous, and unfeeling government officials.
Finally, even though Kay Bratt includes these characters in the story, these unjust laws, and these corrupt persons, never does she over write. I mean that she never sounds as if she is standing on a soap box preaching at us and beating her chest. She, instead, makes the pain feel personal; she shows us what it is like instead of openly condemning people or institutions--in other words, she lets us make our own decisions about injustice and unfairness. We are the judges.
MY RECOMMENDATIONS AND RATING FOR THIS BOOK:
This book is a sensitive portrayal of a family and in many ways society, set in Post Cultural Revolution China. The material contained within is, in many ways, for adult reading. We have themes of physical abuse of women and children, rape, prostitution, bribery, thievery, and suffering both internal and physically. Even so, this book is a wonderful picture of a family of love, devotion, and faithfulness. We see the best in Benfu and Calli's love and lifelong devotion to orphan and abandoned girl children. So, while it is not a book I would give to an immature or sensitive person, it is wonderful for adults--obviously, the intended audience.
Because of all the things I said, above, I give this book a 4.5 star rating out of 5, but we can't give half stars, so, I round up. Congratulations to Kay Bratt for writing such a beautiful book. Kay Bratt continues her work as an advocate for children, "to be the voice for children who cannot speak for themselves." You can visit her Face book page for more information about her work.
Be kind to one another, especially your family members. And, as Li Jin says, don't let someone else steal your joy (p.300).
Li Jin, given the name Dahlia by Benfu and Calli at her birth, tattooed with a beautiful little dahlia flower on her heel as a baby, was just a month old when she was kidnapped by Benfu's mother and sent away into obscurity. Thirty years later, Benfu and Calli's adopted daughter, Linea, conducted a time-consuming search to find that stolen daughter. Tirelessly, Linea expended her love and effort in the hope of finding Dahlia, so as to grant some measure of peace and happiness to the two people who had showered so much love on her and so many other orphaned and abandoned girls.
Finally finding Li Jin, the reunion was bitter sweet. Li Jin had to work to get beyond her own bitter feelings for the people she believed had abandoned her at a young age. In the face sheet to the Prologue, Kay Bratt includes a saying by Lao Tzu: "A violent wind does not last for a whole morning; a sudden rain does not last for the whole day." We can assume that these "Bitter Winds," that are coming to the family in this book will at some point abate. But it is how the family deals with the winds that shows the character of those assaulted by them.
The publishers reveal that Li Jin opens a shelter for homeless or displaced people. She wants to change her past life from one of abuse, discouragement, and hopelessness to embrace the new-to-her concepts of family, acceptance of love, and fulfillment.
Li Jin's beautiful new relationship with Sami is to be tested and tried when Sami does not embrace this new life, but is consumed with bitterness and a desire to obtain revenge on those who have hurt her. Things become even more strained after Sami gives birth to her baby--a little girl.
Complications get even more strained when blind Lily is detained and put in a kind of jail. Her sister became her guardian after a terrifying night when Lily was almost burned to death in a fire in their home; now, Ivy is fraught with anxiety, guilt, and anxiety for her sister. She is determined to do whatever it takes to get her out--even if it means jeopardizing her own freedom or her own life.
WHAT I THINK ABOUT THE BOOK: BITTER WINDS:
Bitter Winds reminds me in so many ways of the story by O. Henry, The Gift of the Magi (see my review of this book by following this link.). It all started in Tales of The Scavenger's Daughters, when Benfu gave Lily his priceless violin. All the girls saw the example he set in his gift of love. Now, in Bitter Winds, Ivy, and other characters will make their own gifts of love, just as Benfu, just as in The Gift of the Magi. I won't tell you what they are, as it would spoil the beauty and suspense Kay Bratt has worked so hard to give to us as readers of this beautiful book.
Second, as I mentioned, above, the continuity flows throughout the book and the trilogy. First , in Book One, we saw Benfu and his daughters--Linea, notably--take center stage. Then in Book Two we saw Linea bring Li Jin (Dahlia) into the family when she searches and finds Benfu and Calli's baby girl, Dahlia. Now in Book Three we see Li Jin establish a home for the destitute children and elder homeless; this home becomes pivotal in the redemption attempt to get "Lily" out of detention. And, of course, Lily and Ivy have been woven into the story throughout all three books, as have other supporting characters like Jet and Sky.
Third, I was very much drawn to the family relationships in this book (actually, all three books). I loved to see the troubled mothers especially (Benfu's and later, Lily's and Ivy's mother--By the way, what did you think about the "vision" or the "meeting" Ivy has with her mother while she is in the institution?). The stressful relationships with the fathers (Benfu and his father, Jet and his father, and, of course Sky has his own troubles with his family, as well).
We also see Sami's dysfunctional family, with a mother who is cold, controlled and bitter who does not protect her; we see her father sell her to the highest bidder for sex at a party, damaging Sami irretrievably. We see the damage done to Jojo by Erik in his parental role (the story about the yoyo was heart wrenching!). And, finally we see Sami's damaged relationship with her newborn daughter. We also get to see the hope of a new, healthy family beginning with Li Jin, Sky and Jojo.
Fourth, Benfu makes much of the damage that China is doing to families, basically destroying families. He sees it first hand when his own family is destroyed in the Cultural Revolution. Then, throughout the books we see injustice piled upon injustice in the laws China wields against its poor, homeless, destitute, orphaned, and powerless. We also are given snapshots of corrupt, callous, and unfeeling government officials.
Finally, even though Kay Bratt includes these characters in the story, these unjust laws, and these corrupt persons, never does she over write. I mean that she never sounds as if she is standing on a soap box preaching at us and beating her chest. She, instead, makes the pain feel personal; she shows us what it is like instead of openly condemning people or institutions--in other words, she lets us make our own decisions about injustice and unfairness. We are the judges.
MY RECOMMENDATIONS AND RATING FOR THIS BOOK:
This book is a sensitive portrayal of a family and in many ways society, set in Post Cultural Revolution China. The material contained within is, in many ways, for adult reading. We have themes of physical abuse of women and children, rape, prostitution, bribery, thievery, and suffering both internal and physically. Even so, this book is a wonderful picture of a family of love, devotion, and faithfulness. We see the best in Benfu and Calli's love and lifelong devotion to orphan and abandoned girl children. So, while it is not a book I would give to an immature or sensitive person, it is wonderful for adults--obviously, the intended audience.
Because of all the things I said, above, I give this book a 4.5 star rating out of 5, but we can't give half stars, so, I round up. Congratulations to Kay Bratt for writing such a beautiful book. Kay Bratt continues her work as an advocate for children, "to be the voice for children who cannot speak for themselves." You can visit her Face book page for more information about her work.
Be kind to one another, especially your family members. And, as Li Jin says, don't let someone else steal your joy (p.300).
March 11, 2019
While this is a stand a line book I highly recommend reading the entire series in order.
I’m not usually one to read a book straight through, rather reading only a couple chapters a day. I haven’t been able to do that with this series. I’ve been drawn in from the beginning and have read the first three in about a week.
I have lived in the Far East a couple times, never China. I can easily picture the villages, people with their little shops and vendor carts, the hundreds of bicycles everywhere. Kay Bratt shows how officials openly take advantage of the people. She takes you beyond those storefronts and into the back alleys where evil things happen. She also brings you back to see that there are good people there willing to not only help their own family but others as well.
While this is a novel and it does have a somewhat feel good ending. It does leave the question of what happens to Sami who gives her all for the happiness of the family.
I’m not usually one to read a book straight through, rather reading only a couple chapters a day. I haven’t been able to do that with this series. I’ve been drawn in from the beginning and have read the first three in about a week.
I have lived in the Far East a couple times, never China. I can easily picture the villages, people with their little shops and vendor carts, the hundreds of bicycles everywhere. Kay Bratt shows how officials openly take advantage of the people. She takes you beyond those storefronts and into the back alleys where evil things happen. She also brings you back to see that there are good people there willing to not only help their own family but others as well.
While this is a novel and it does have a somewhat feel good ending. It does leave the question of what happens to Sami who gives her all for the happiness of the family.
April 7, 2022
Book 3 in this series picks up with Lin Ji (Benfu and Calla Lily's daughter) purchasing a warehouse that she and her family can use to house the homeless and abandoned. Operating on a shoe string budget, she strives to help those who have went through what she endured as a child. Her friend, Sami, is filled with resentment and bitterness and nearly costs Lin Ji her building.
The story also follows the twin daughters, Ivy and Lily as they struggle for independence from one another. Lily was born blind and wants nothing more than to become her own woman. While playing her violin in a local park, the authorities lock her up and threaten to put her away for practicing a form of Qi Gong. Ivy is filled with guilt and seeks a way to get her sister free of the torment of her captors.]
I enjoyed this book in the series but there were some unanswered questions, such as what happened to her violin after it was taken by an imposter. Didn't seem to follow through on this.
The story also follows the twin daughters, Ivy and Lily as they struggle for independence from one another. Lily was born blind and wants nothing more than to become her own woman. While playing her violin in a local park, the authorities lock her up and threaten to put her away for practicing a form of Qi Gong. Ivy is filled with guilt and seeks a way to get her sister free of the torment of her captors.]
I enjoyed this book in the series but there were some unanswered questions, such as what happened to her violin after it was taken by an imposter. Didn't seem to follow through on this.
October 28, 2020
The third book in the Scavenger's Daughters series focussed on the twin girls Benfu and Calla look after, Ivy, and her blind sister, Lily, along with a little more about Sami, the girl who Li Jin, the blood daughter of Benfu and Calla, brought with her to live.
They now have a bigger home, but still, it is filled with folk who they want to help and is run by love and the goodness that runs through the veins of its inhabitants.
Until that is, misunderstandings occur, and one of the twins ends up incarcerated, and Sami stirs up her own trouble.
I'm sure that much of what is written has an element of truth in it. Quite possibly, not all this would happen to just one family, in reality, but it makes for interesting reading, and, as I have mentioned in reviews for the previous books, I feel more educated with each book I read.
They now have a bigger home, but still, it is filled with folk who they want to help and is run by love and the goodness that runs through the veins of its inhabitants.
Until that is, misunderstandings occur, and one of the twins ends up incarcerated, and Sami stirs up her own trouble.
I'm sure that much of what is written has an element of truth in it. Quite possibly, not all this would happen to just one family, in reality, but it makes for interesting reading, and, as I have mentioned in reviews for the previous books, I feel more educated with each book I read.
July 9, 2017
This was the third book in the story of Befu and Calli so I came into it blind.
Ivy is very protective of her blind sister Lily. She feels that she must do everything in her power to protect her. When Lily is abducted Ivy will do all she could to get her safely back.
On the other side Befu and Calli's long lost daughter is found but she is also caught up in the family saga of whether she should look forward or stay in the past.
An intriguing story especially from a female point of view, where the girls of this family are very much loved and cared for in the face and at a time where value for daughters is rather low.
Very interesting setting and a family story with all the ramifications of a complicated family where love and faith will prevail.
Ivy is very protective of her blind sister Lily. She feels that she must do everything in her power to protect her. When Lily is abducted Ivy will do all she could to get her safely back.
On the other side Befu and Calli's long lost daughter is found but she is also caught up in the family saga of whether she should look forward or stay in the past.
An intriguing story especially from a female point of view, where the girls of this family are very much loved and cared for in the face and at a time where value for daughters is rather low.
Very interesting setting and a family story with all the ramifications of a complicated family where love and faith will prevail.
March 7, 2018
Kay Bratt's book series is sort of my guilty pleasure. They're definitely not the best written and she gets a little obvious with plotlines and the melodrama. If you're looking for classic, memorable reads, this probably isn't going to do it (ie she can't hold a candle to other contemporary authors writing about women in China such as Lisa See or Amy Tan, those two are amazing), but they're fast reads and fluffy enough plotlines for me to enjoy. Bonus topic in this book: learning a little bit more about Falun Gong which I knew very little about previously.
July 3, 2021
This is the third in the series about Chinese girls rescued by a couple and their lives together. The story line was a bit too predictable and everything sort of working out like a fairly tale in the end.
The portrayal of the blind twin and her co-dependent sibling was well portrayed; as was some of the torturous horrors of being disappeared when suspected of not following the communist party line.
Finding their birth daughter and reuniting was not as punchy as was the abduction, loss and eventual reunification of the lost girl with her own son.
The nicey-nicey stuff of the family that never argued or felt envious was off putting.
What I didn't like was American phrases coming out of the mouths of Chinese people!
The portrayal of the blind twin and her co-dependent sibling was well portrayed; as was some of the torturous horrors of being disappeared when suspected of not following the communist party line.
Finding their birth daughter and reuniting was not as punchy as was the abduction, loss and eventual reunification of the lost girl with her own son.
The nicey-nicey stuff of the family that never argued or felt envious was off putting.
What I didn't like was American phrases coming out of the mouths of Chinese people!
March 20, 2018
This was a great audible book and I enjoyed it. It's a bit far-fetched with the switcheroo (I won't give details so I don't spoil it) but I found the story to be interesting. I've read #2 and #3 and this book tackles the topic of how the Chinese government sent political enemies or normal people to the insane asylum. The treatment described in this book is horrific.
Sami really ticked me off. What a selfish horrible person. I was furious at her indifference to her daughter. That's why the twist at the very end caught me by surprised. It redeemed her. Just a little.
The ending twist with the twins might be a little "out there"-- but the "feather" made me think "hmmm". I don't want to give it away, but that story line is one I wasn't expecting, though it's rather sweet.
I have grown to like this author's books and the narrator did an excellent job. I'm reading #4 now.
However, I feel that story lines haven't been completed in this book and I hope there's a #5 to tie it all together.
Sami really ticked me off. What a selfish horrible person. I was furious at her indifference to her daughter. That's why the twist at the very end caught me by surprised. It redeemed her. Just a little.
The ending twist with the twins might be a little "out there"-- but the "feather" made me think "hmmm". I don't want to give it away, but that story line is one I wasn't expecting, though it's rather sweet.
I have grown to like this author's books and the narrator did an excellent job. I'm reading #4 now.
However, I feel that story lines haven't been completed in this book and I hope there's a #5 to tie it all together.
October 10, 2019
I love these books!
Bitter Winds might be my favorite of Tales of the Scavengers Daughters so far. They have all been great but this one touched my heart even more than the others! I never knew how bad things really were in China, and I am in my 60s. Thank you Kay Bratt for giving us these heart wrenching books. Every time I finish one I have trouble falling asleep. With all the bad things happening to these people they find love and happiness!
Bitter Winds might be my favorite of Tales of the Scavengers Daughters so far. They have all been great but this one touched my heart even more than the others! I never knew how bad things really were in China, and I am in my 60s. Thank you Kay Bratt for giving us these heart wrenching books. Every time I finish one I have trouble falling asleep. With all the bad things happening to these people they find love and happiness!
October 4, 2023
The ending does not feel like the part of the story and feels like it was forcefully made into a happy one. Redeeming Sami was also forced and rushed. With I story like this, which is very close to current events of re-education, in my opinion, the story did not need to have a closed ending to the story. Also towards Ivy and Lily's side, the story is left incomplete with many questions and no satisfaction.
May 20, 2017
Another great read from Kay Bratt!! I love how her characters continue to grow and develop with each book. Callie and Benfu's biological daughter continues her journey to find herself and the twins land themselves in trouble that seems to have no solution. And a unseen hero comes out of the woodwork to help.
March 25, 2019
Wonderful book
This is Ms Bratt's third book in the series, and I didn't think I could like it even more than the others. But it is a very good read. It's truly a lovely read of struggle, family love, and kindness that continues to triumph over all adversity. The pages quickly turn to the ending, and it leaves you with a sense of goodness in a world of adversity.
This is Ms Bratt's third book in the series, and I didn't think I could like it even more than the others. But it is a very good read. It's truly a lovely read of struggle, family love, and kindness that continues to triumph over all adversity. The pages quickly turn to the ending, and it leaves you with a sense of goodness in a world of adversity.
May 21, 2020
This has been a great series. It is well written without the grammar and spelling errors that I see too often. The characters are well developed and flow easily from one book to the next. Each book is not a cliff-hanger, but the characters continue. The books are long enough that you can really see the characters develop. I look forward to the next book.
August 22, 2020
Great addition to the Scavenger’s Daughter series
I love a good series and this was a great addition to the Scavenger’s Daughter series. You get to see a continuation of Li Jin’s story as well as the story of the twins, Lily and Ivy. It was an enjoyable story, but also touched on difficult topics of things that are happening in China. I would definitely recommend this book.
I love a good series and this was a great addition to the Scavenger’s Daughter series. You get to see a continuation of Li Jin’s story as well as the story of the twins, Lily and Ivy. It was an enjoyable story, but also touched on difficult topics of things that are happening in China. I would definitely recommend this book.
August 8, 2023
Well Done!
I read the first one, was a little hesitant about reading the second. I usually don’t like series. The second one did not disappoint!
I moved on to the third, hoping that the story line did not fall flat as it sometimes does in a series of books.
It did not. This is the only series that I can honestly say that I have enjoyed.
I read the first one, was a little hesitant about reading the second. I usually don’t like series. The second one did not disappoint!
I moved on to the third, hoping that the story line did not fall flat as it sometimes does in a series of books.
It did not. This is the only series that I can honestly say that I have enjoyed.
September 15, 2024
I couldn't put it down!
Li Jan, Lily and Ivy are the stars of this story and it is a great one! I was unable to put my kindle down. I don't know how Kay Bratt comes up with these great stories. This is well written. I feel as I am right there with the family and going through everything with them!
Li Jan, Lily and Ivy are the stars of this story and it is a great one! I was unable to put my kindle down. I don't know how Kay Bratt comes up with these great stories. This is well written. I feel as I am right there with the family and going through everything with them!
May 6, 2017
Bitter winds
Another well written story based on many true stories of Chinese life. The story of these young women and their grandparents love is inspiring. Submitted by Mrs. M Shults.
Another well written story based on many true stories of Chinese life. The story of these young women and their grandparents love is inspiring. Submitted by Mrs. M Shults.
May 16, 2017
Enjoy the series, this entry less so
I'm fascinated by Chinese history and I really appreciated some of the topics Ms. Bratt attempted to explore. I was less impressed with execution and started to get frustrated with the repetition of the character traits.
I'm fascinated by Chinese history and I really appreciated some of the topics Ms. Bratt attempted to explore. I was less impressed with execution and started to get frustrated with the repetition of the character traits.
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