When the Tamarind Tree Blooms

by Elaine Russell

Geneviève Dubois, half-Lao/half-French, turns eighteen and leaves the French orphanage where she has been trapped for fourteen unhappy years. She is determined to uncover the story of her parents and locate her missing twin brother. Stepping into the deeply divided world of 1931 French colonial Laos, she finds neither French colons nor native Lao readily accept her mixed heritage. Even falling in love is fraught with the cultural restrictions of two dissonant societies. Where does she fit in?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Fiction

402 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 1, 2024

About the author

I am the author of three historical novels and six children's book, which have won numerous awards. Writing is a journey that takes me down many unexpected paths. When I begin a new novel, it feels like some of my characters and their unexpected personalities soon take over. Equally enjoyable as the writing, is the research I do for my books (I have a BA in history). I'm always finding fascinating events or facts that help shape the story. My love of travel and history have contributed significantly to my writing, as I enjoy weaving in the culture and past of other countries into my stories.
My latest historical novel, "When the Tamarind Tree Blooms," (April 2024) is about a young métisse, half-Lao/half-French, in 1931 French colonial Laos, trying to determine where she belongs in the deeply divided French and Lao societies, where neither group readily accepts her mixed heritage. I am also the author of the historical novels "In the Company of Like-Minded Women" (2018) and "Across the Mekong River" (2012) -- now available in a French, "De l'autre côté du Mékong."
My children’s works include two picture books, "All About Thailand" (2016) and "Thai Celebrations for Children," (2022) with Tuttle Publishing. I am also the author of the middle grade Martin McMillan mystery/adventure series, which features skateboarding heroes Martin and Isabel: "The Lost Inca City," "The Secret of the Ruby Elephant," and "The Sacred Stones". And finally, my young adult novel, “Montana in A Minor,” stems from my passion for music, an interest in the complexities of modern family life, and a belief that everyone appreciates a good love story!
I was born in San Francisco and raised on the peninsula. I attended the University of California at Davis where I earned a bachelor’s degree in history, then California State University Sacramento for a master’s degree in economics. I always wanted to write, but came to it somewhat late in life. I live with my husband in Sacramento, California.

Reviews

[madz · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wrote a review earlier reporting that I did not finish the book as it was slow paced, didn’t capture my interest, and said that it just didn’t feel like this book was for me.

Very quickly - about 30 minutes - after I posted this review internally on Netgalley (note: I decided not to share on Goodreads at this time), I received a direct email from the author asking me to reconsider my review and rating as she was upset that it lowered her average rating score. So, at the author’s request I reluctantly went back and tried to read the book again and read up to 25% before deciding to DNF the book again.

Let’s start with what made me choose this ARC, which was the title, cover art, and the plot. I was really interested in reading about Vivi (Genevieve)’s journey, particularly to learn more about her family heritage.

Here’s what didn’t work for me. Vivi as a character felt flat, unrealistic, and just did not feel real. I couldn’t immerse myself in the book and believe in Vivi’s perspective, her voice didn’t seem to match her or her age (it felt like reading a 10 year old’s perspective with a mature adults vocabulary). We were told through Catherine’s perspective that Vivi was someone she “greatly admired”; yet we weren’t shown how Vivi is admirable or what is so great about her. The scene that solidified this for me was when Vivi found Sylvie, I disliked how Vivi was so judgemental when she had just recently been judged and stereotyped by the characters in earlier chapters. I also didn’t connect with Catherine’s character, it was really odd to me that Vivi stayed with her after leaving the orphanage. In a similar vein to my critique above, I felt that we were again told to dislike the Director.

I think this book might be of interest to someone that likes historical fiction or perhaps older audiences.

Thank you to Netgalley and Belles Histories for an ARC of “When the Tamarind Tree Blooms”.

[Lori Ganz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the characters and the story. The ending left me wondering, but that allows some imagination.

[Mohi Uddin · Rating 3 out of 5]

"When the Tamarind Tree Blooms" offers readers a glimpse into the historical tapestry of pre-independence Laos, weaving together elements of culture, resilience, and the complexities of colonial rule. While the novel presents an intriguing narrative set against a vivid backdrop, it falls short in certain areas that detract from its overall impact.

Set amidst the captivating landscapes of Laos, the story follows the life of Geneviève Dubois, a half-Lao, half-French girl of eighteen whose fate is shaped by the tumultuous political climate of their time. The author tries to portray the various facets of Laotian society but somehow fails to cash in on the premise.

The book remains an out-and-out romance with very few details in the background. I would have loved a bit more of history and less of the saucy stuff. However, it brings to the fore the vices against a section of society which happens in almost all societies.

"When the Tamarind Tree Blooms" faces challenges that affect its overall impact. The pacing at times feels uneven, with certain sections bogged down by excessive romance, leading to a slowdown in the narrative's momentum.


Despite these drawbacks, the novel offers a compelling glimpse into Laos's history and the struggles faced by its people during a pivotal period. Readers with a keen interest in historical fiction, might not find the moments of intrigue and cultural richness within these pages.


In conclusion, "When the Tamarind Tree Blooms" is a commendable attempt at capturing the spirit of a nation's past, albeit with certain flaws that temper its impact.

[ballysharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing, amazing book! Now one of my favorites!

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating Look at Life in French Laos as a Matis

For those who like to read about life in other countries. Who are the marginalized citizens? How a brave young woman fights to overcome her heritage.

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

a wonderfully written story.

I had a hard time putting this book down. I loved the story and was sorry when the book ended.

[Julie McDonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

French colonial Laos, 1931, is a vibrant and intriguing setting for a young woman’s coming-of-age story. After growing up cloistered in a rigid orphanage, trained to be a ladylike French citizen, Genevieve at 18 is released into the streets of Vientiane without a job and unable to speak Lao. Finding shelter with a single friend, she quickly discovers that both French and Lao shun her as a metisses, or “halfbreed.” As Genevieve explores this new world, searching for clues to her past and learning whom to trust, we get to explore with her. We dance and dine in the exclusive colonial clubhouse, travel through jungle villages built on stilts, and watch sunset glow on the Mekong Delta in a haze of new romance. Genevieve’s journey of discovery, through grief, betrayal, hope and kindness, is a captivating read.

[Clayton Owen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tamarind tree did blooms

When I first started reading this book, I thought it was for young adults but by the third chapter I was caught up with the cul!ture, the story and the characters.

[May · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know so very little about Laos. This novel portrays Laos under colonial French rule believably. Time and place are central to the story and enhanced my appreciation.

[Lynn DeSimone · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Tamarind Tree Blooms

Loved this book and the author. This is about orphanages and how prejudice and ignorance was so rampant in the 1930's. The characters are so wonderful. There is a lot of heartache and tears in the story, but live goes on. I wish there was a follow up book, so many stories left unanswered.

[Margo Williamson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting look at fair away places and cultures. A typical historic fiction with romance tones. It left me wanting to know more.

[Nancy Cashman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting book

I really liked this book. You learn a little about the culture and life in Loa controlled by France. The struggles with being biracial and being an orphan.Kept me turning pages

[Julie Wiersig · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent story!!!

I so enjoyed reading this book, When the Tamarind Tree Blooms! I learned a lot about the history and places in Laos and French.
I loved the characters so much! I’m sad to finish reading this book!!

[Vanessa Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for an advance copy.

When the Tamarind Tree blooms is the beautifully told story of Genevieve Duboise, a mixed race orphan in Laos who turns 18 and is able to leave the French orphanage she grew up in. Genevieve goes on a journey to find her family, discover what it is to love, and find her place in a world that is not accepting of half Lao half French people.

There is so much about the Lao culture in this book, from their daily life to traditional ceremonies and the food they eat, but it has been weaved effortlessly into a captivating story that kept my attention to the very end. This look into the Lao life style was a major reason I loved this book.

There is a good bit of history weaved into the story, as well, but not enough to feel like I was being educated instead of entertained. I do not like to read something that feels like a history book, and this was perfect for me.

I thought the writing overall was beautiful. Some very mature themes were discussed but in a way that wasn't for shock value and didn't come off as crude. Loss and trauma are part of Genevieve's journey and that made me tear up a couple of times. It read almost like a poem. I will be recommending it to my reader friends.

[Susan Garatino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense Read

How could someone experience so much trauma in so short a life? Vivi was separated from her mother and relatives at age four. Brought up in a very strict orphanage at the hands of a very cold and demanding director, she had only the briefest , shadowy memories of her life before the orphanage. She and bff Bridgette have plans to room together when they reach age 18, but a series of events finds Vivi, who is of mixed race, taken in by her former teacher, Catherine. Vivi looks for work and in so doing comes across an elderly women who calls her by her mother's name... This begins Vivi's journey to find her lost family. Along the way she finds government corruption, misogyny, prejudice, danger and her first love. Did not want the book to end ...is there a sequel?

[Victoria Brackett · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful, heart wrenching story, and a fascinating look into French-Lao culture, of which I knew nothing and am now incredibly curious about. The author obviously researched the time period and background of the area extensively, and did a fantastic job depicting such dynamic characters.

[C.R. Comacchio · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thanks to NetGalley and Belles Histoires for an ARC of this book.

The tamarind tree of the title is a beautiful, hardy tree that blooms in spectacular flowers every May. Laya tells her four year old daughter, Genevieve Dubois, that she will come for her “when the tamarind tree blooms again.” Genevieve is taken from her home to a girls’ orphanage expressly set up by the French Colonial government of Laos for ‘neglected’ Métis children, those of Lao mothers and French fathers, mostly the offspring of servants exploited by their married masters. She remembers little of her mother, not even her name, and nothing of her father or any other family. She grows into a beautiful, intelligent and spirited young woman within the cloister of the strict Catholic orphanage, where the students are turned into “French citizens” by means of a forcible forgetting of their personal history, culture, and language. But every May through the 14 years before her ‘emancipation,’ Genevieve looks for her mother.

Métis children, especially girls, represent the worst of racism and colonialism to both the Lao people and their French colonizers. They fit nowhere and face disrespect and abuse everywhere. The orphanage is an unloving, isolating place that holds little happiness, but they at least receive an excellent French education, however little it prepares them for the world outside its gates.

As the story opens in May 1931, Genevieve will soon be 18 and free to leave. She wants only to get out, work to save money for university, and, most of all, find her parents. She is now also entitled to any information the government has collected regarding her family of origin. But the Director, whom she has crossed on various occasions, refuses to give her the file that she longs to see. Genevieve’s compulsive nature leads her to steal it, and she and her best friend are caught. This sets in motion a series of events not at all resembling the plans that have been made to get her started in the best possible direction. The only hope that remains is that one of her teachers, the young and lovely Catherine Courbet, offers her temporary shelter in her own home, and promises to inquire about suitable employment among her well-set French friends.

Genevieve Dubois’ new life is filled with challenges, some of them soul-crushing, most of them resulting from the racism, sexism, and rigid class hierarchies among both the Lao and the French. She endures much, and sees many false hopes collapse, including her precarious romance with a Lao prince. Through it all, she refuses to surrender her dreams of family reunion and a life worthy of her intelligence.

Although Elaine Russell is not Lao, her biography indicates her deep appreciation for, and first hand knowledge of, Lao culture and the history of French involvement in Indochina. She does not stint in showing the damage that was done and the conflicts initiated in the 19th century that, by the time of Genevieve’s coming of age, were being worsened by the collapse of world markets. Her portrayal of women’s lives, especially those of Metisse girls like Genevieve, is very sensitive. An amazing young woman, Genevieve conducts herself with integrity as she struggles to find out about a past deliberately kept from her, and to choose what it will make her in the present. At times she comes across as too aware of how the others define her as a Métisse, then just as quickly tells herself that being friendlier and more confident will win over the most abject racists. For a highly intelligent girl, she makes some really stupid choices. What the author really succeeds at is demonstrating the hypocrisy and immorality that lead both the Lao and the French elite to flout their own laws and social mores without compunction. The ending is satisfying, but hints at a second volume to enjoy in future. This is a beautiful story and very much worth reading, especially if, like me, you have little knowledge of the history of Indochina and its oppressed people.

[Ethel · Rating 5 out of 5]

May 14, 1931 Vientiane, Laos Geneviève ((Vivi) Dubois will have been at the home for orphaned girls for 14 years. With a promise from her mother that she would come for when the Tamarind tree bloomed she continued to hope. She was 4 years old at that time and soon she would be 18 years old, leaving the orphanage and going out on her own. Genevieve was Métis, half French and half Lao. This was the term used for blended races, one that was looked down upon by both the French and Lao. For Vivi they were fourteen unhappy years at the Society of Assistance for the Métis, a House for Girls Who Were Abandoned. She was a strong-willed child who often was at odds with the Director, Monsieur Bernard. Wanting very much to know about her parentage and the Director telling her that information was confidential, her friend Bridgette coaxed her to get into the Director’s office and look up her files. It was then that she found she had a twin brother, Antoine, along with the name of her French father, Henri Dubois, her Lao mother’s first name and the village they came from. However, that was all she found in the file which didn’t offer much information; but it caused a backlash that set her journey to eventually take matters into her own hands. She would be staying at the house of one of her teachers, Mademoiselle Courbet, but the Director, in his rage, cancelled her employment as a teacher at one of the local schools. Leaving the orphanage on her 18th birthday, she had no prospects for employment, yet she still had a place to stay. Her efforts by both the French and the Lao were often met with disdain and discouragement. Where did she fit in - being neither fully French or fully Lao?

Luckily for Vivi, Catherine Courbet was an understanding woman who offered her help in finding out about her background. Giving her the address of the Assistance Society, the wheels were set in motion. While waiting for a response, she continued looking for employment with little luck. Vivi had a great deal to learn after being sheltered for 14 years. With the help of Catherine and her friend Marguerite, Vivi was given another education while they often protected her from getting hurt. Having found her twin brother, Antoine, she managed to address him letting him know he was her twin and where she could be reached.

Raised in a French Catholic institution didn’t give her any exposure to her Lao religion as a Buddhist, therefore, she decided to visit one on one of her afternoon walks. It was there that she met Bounmy Savang at a Buddhist temple. Little did she know at that time that he was a prince, part of the royal family of Luang Prabang. Hearing about her jobless situation he offered to speak to his cousin, Kham who owns River Transport, a transport company along the Mekong. Need I say more!!

Life kept getting interesting for Geneviève with the introduction of Catherine’s brother, Julian. It wasn’t long before the two men were vying for her attentions. With all of this did Geneviève find her mother? Did she meet her twin, Antoine?

The book was definitely more than a coming-of-age story. No, this was a story of colonialism where the natives of a particular country were looked down upon as those in charge felt they were far superior to the locals. Many were servants living in poverty and having no say in their own land. It is hard to believe the cruelty and lack of respect for those that were conquered. Because this was a French colonial story set in Indochina, I had, myself, little respect for the French; there was a great deal to learn. I’m quite sure if I had read a book about India, I would feel the same way about the British.

This book was superb, one I would highly recommend. My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Anjana · Rating 3 out of 5]

The things I liked best about this book were the historical setting and the information itself. I had never read a book based on 1931 French Colonial Laos before, and it was a fascinating visit. In some ways, the world the book talks about is a mirror of several other naturally wealthy parts of the East that were colonized and used during that time, but it does have some personal touches that seem to make the story stand out in its own way.
The book is a coming-of-age narrative of a young orphan who grew up with no knowledge of her past. She is visibly someone who can be identified as having one White parent and the other Lao. This sets her apart from regular society because she fits in neither group, thanks to her French upbringing.
This complex lifestyle and the lack of options for her, once she is old enough to move out and earn by herself, were hard to imagine. Our protagonist sets out to find her past and earn enough to be able to support herself on the way. There is also a dream of actually studying in France at some point.
I was not as interested in the plot itself as I had hoped, given my fascination with the location. I even googled a lot of information to better imagine the world that was. I liked the writing - it was simple and straightforward. The mistakes the young woman makes as she figures things out and some of the darker turns of events were almost expected but still shocking when they happened.
I would recommend this to fans of historical fiction who ae looking for a non-war based book set in a different spot in history.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.

[Marie Paule · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Tamarind Tree Blooms tells of the coming-of-age of Geneviève Dubois, a Franco-Laotian métis girl raised in an orphanage for children with French nationality in Vientiane during the French colonial era in the1930s. On her eighteenth birthday, Geneviève, known to her friends as Vivi, is allowed to leave the orphanage to start a new life on her own. Unbeknownst to her are the many new challenges and prejudices awaiting her in the outside world. In the colonial society where colonizers and colonized live separately as unequal partners, the mixed blood Vivi finds herself at odds with both sides of her heritage. On the one hand, she feels ostracized in the French community due to her being a métis, yet neither has she found acceptance among Laotians whose culture and language are quite foreign to her. It is against this complex historical setting that the double narrative of the book unfolds: Vivi’s quest of self-discovery via the search for her parents’ past and her romantic relationship with the French educated Laotian prince Bounmy. The two interracial love stories, while a generation apart, come to a similar tragic end under the constrains of the colonial racialist politics.
With Russell’s engaging storytelling talent and her highly effective use of historical materials, the book deftly resurrects through the lens of its female protagonist the culture and life of Laotian society under French rule with its multiple deep-rooted prejudices on race, class and gender from both sides of the colonial divide. When the Tamarind Tree blossoms is indeed a most valuable addition to the literature of historical fiction.

[Sarena · Rating 2 out of 5]

At first, I was really excited to stumble across a book set in French-controlled Laos because books in English that are set in Indochina are a rarity. Perhaps there's a reason for that. Stick with English translations of books written in French such as White Métisse, which was actually written by someone who was half-French, half-Vietnamese.

This book's saving grace was its lush descriptions of Lao culture, food, and history; otherwise, it was a problematic exploration of identity. Having a love triangle was wholly unnecessary and unrealistic, and that rape scene added absolutely nothing to the plot. There were other, more effect ways to explore the trauma and difficulties of being métisse. The plot was also extremely slow and barely anything happened until the last third of the book, and I think the time wasted on the love triangle would've been better spent on Geniviève's parents and brother. There were also plot points that made no sense; why was Bernard so desperate to hide the fact that Geneviève had a twin brother?

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since I will be visiting Laos in January, I wanted to read a few books that were set in Laos. This is a very poignant story of Vivi, a "metisse" in 1930s Laos. Laos was a colony of France's, and a metisse was a person of mixed blood between French and Laotian. Many of the French colonial administration and other French colonials had children with Laotian women. These mixed children were often the targets of bullies and discrimination. They were given French citizenship, however. Vivi grows up in an orphanage not knowing much about her family. She was always told that when she turned 18, she would be given that information. That promise was broken, but when she turned 18, she was invited to live with one of the teachers at the orphanage, Catherine. Catherine is her surrogate parent, friend, and confidante. They become very close. The themes are belonging, discrimination, courage, family, and so much more. I would have given this book 4.5 stars if I could; it was compulsively readable.

[My Humble Thoughts · Rating 5 out of 5]

"When the Tamarind Tree Blooms" presents a compelling narrative that delves into themes of identity, heritage, and belonging against the backdrop of 1931 French colonial Laos. What I particularly enjoyed about this story is the protagonist's journey of self-discovery as she navigates the complexities of her mixed heritage and searches for her family. Geneviève's determination to uncover the truth about her parents and locate her missing twin brother drives the narrative forward, leading her into a deeply divided society where acceptance is elusive. The exploration of cultural tensions and the clash between French and Lao traditions adds depth to the story, offering insights into the challenges faced by individuals caught between two worlds. As Geneviève grapples with questions of where she belongs and who she is, readers are drawn into a captivating tale of resilience, love, and the pursuit of identity in the face of adversity.

[Enid Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those who love historical fiction, this book fit the bill. Taking place in Laos in the early 1930's, it seemed so realistic with the characters experiencing life in an orphanage, coming of age, multiple romances, royalty obligations, travels in the countryside, economic pressures, and temple visits, all under the umbrella of political and class differences. The influence of the French on Laos and its citizens during that time greatly impacted the lives of the characters in this book. Although I appreciated learning more about the historical and racial/class influences, I felt right there with the main characters, having tea in the gardens or eating lunch along the river.

[Jessalyn Langevin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Set in 1930s French colonial Laos, When the Tamarind Tree Blooms tells the story of Genevieve Dubois, a mixed race orphan who leaves the French orphanage at 18 years old and begins to search for her family. Through Genevieve, or Vivi for short, we get a glimpse of life in 1930s Laos.

The detail through which the Elaine Russell described Laos and its political climate, lush scenery, and society was breathtaking. I thoroughly enjoyed getting a glimpse of how Laos and French culture mixed. Additionally, the perspective provided in this novel was also stunning and intriguing. As a half French, half Laos girl, Vivi experiences a resounding amount of discrimination which is unnerving but feels quite realistic and in tune with world events. Vivi’s experience provides a stunning perspective at the concepts of identity and discrimination.

Unfortunately, the story began quite slow and remained that way for a significant portion of the book. Staying engaged was difficult. I felt that there were many lulls in the story until somewhere past the midpoint. Some of the events of the plot feel predictable and Vivi’s character feels somewhat underdeveloped.

Overall, an enjoyable read. I enjoyed getting a glimpse of Laos and the grappling of difficult themes. Would have liked a little more depth to the protagonist.

[Erin Dealey · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Tamarind Tree Blooms is a poignant, well-crafted, coming-of-age story set in 1931 French colonial Laos. Genevieve Duboise, left at a French orphanage long ago, is finally old enough to gain her freedom, but is she ready to face the obstacles and prejudice of a young girl of mixed race? And why was she left at the orphanage in the first place? Elaine Russell does a masterful job of piecing together the history of this era, as well as the mystery surrounding Genevieve's past. It is an indieBRAG Medallion Honoree and well deserves this accolade.

[Debby Larkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully written coming of age tale that effortlessly transports the reader back to 1930s French Colonial Laos and takes us on Genevieve's journey. After leaving a French orphanage where she's spent most of her life, Genevieve searches for answers about her long lost parents and brother. Why was she abandoned? The author's vivid descriptions and fully drawn characters bring this haunting story to life. I highly recommend!

[Sue · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 I had mixed feelings about this book. Although it offered a little bit of knowledge to me about a part of history I knew almost nothing about, it could have offered a little more depth into the culture of Laos. Also the story flowed a unevenly. The first and last parts moved at a good pace, the middle largely dragged. Overall, however, it was an enjoyable read and I would try the other again.

[Laura Swan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was intrigued by Laos, a country of mystery to me. Enjoyed learning about the culture of the Lao and the unfortunately history of other countries using them for profit. I was warmed by Catherine's openness to Vivi, recently sent away from a orphanage with no prospects. The realities of beint bi-racial in a French racist society felt real to me.

[gj indieBRAG · Rating 5 out of 5]

We proudly announce that WHEN THE TAMAIND TREE BLOOMS by Elaine Russel has been honored with the B.R.A.G. Medallion (Book Readers Appreciation Group). It now joins the very select award-winning, reader-recommended books at indieBRAG. This award is a testament to this book's quality and the impact it has had on readers.