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"I feel empty, as though I'm leaving behind a piece of myself." As the daughter of the town scavenger, Mari grew up knowing hardship, but she could have never anticipated the struggles facing her as an adult. Feeling alone and isolated, she dreams of a better life. On the other side of town, a little girl is forced to live on the streets, but silently she longs for the one thing she's never known--a family. Max, a struggling American photojournalist, arrives in China with only one goal in mind; to face his demons and put an end to his own unbearable suffering. In Red Skies, the fate of three people who've never met will converge in profound and unexpected ways.
From the bestselling author of 'A Thread Unbroken' comes a fresh glimpse into the life of Benfu's remarkable family. Be swept up in this emotional yet hope filled story of Red Skies, set in the world of Kay Bratt's 'Tales of The Scavenger's Daughters'.
*Red Skies is a companion novel to the series and can be enjoyed first, last, or in between the other books. It can stand alone or be read as part of the series. So dig in at any time! /352 pages
From the bestselling author of 'A Thread Unbroken' comes a fresh glimpse into the life of Benfu's remarkable family. Be swept up in this emotional yet hope filled story of Red Skies, set in the world of Kay Bratt's 'Tales of The Scavenger's Daughters'.
*Red Skies is a companion novel to the series and can be enjoyed first, last, or in between the other books. It can stand alone or be read as part of the series. So dig in at any time! /352 pages
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
581 people are currently reading
1654 people want to read
About the author
Kay Bratt
55 books2,078 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 176 reviews
March 10, 2014
Let me start by saying that I absolutely love Kay Bratt's books. I think that she may be laureled as the modern-day China's Pearl S. Buck. Her stories about the plight of unwanted children in modern-day China due to the one-child law implemented to prevent exponential population growth is mind opening. But sociopolitical discussions aside, her stories are mesmerizing. They are page-turners.
Now, I can start talking about Red Skies as a companion book to the books in The Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters series. You do not have to read the series to understand the story. However, if this is your first Kay Bratt book, you will want to read all her other stories.
The story centers around one of Benfu and Calli's daughters (Mari) and her adventure with an American (Max) who went to China to find a way to deal with his loss. Through a necessary business transaction—Max needing a translator and guide to Beijing and Mari needing money to support herself and her perscription-drug-addicted husband—a strong bond and friendship ensue. Max and Mari meet two street urchin girls and their lives change forever.
As with all of Kay's books, I could not put this one down until I had finished it. Throughout the time I was reading the book, all I could think of is how Ms. Bratt just outdid herself with this story. There were so many twists and turns that I read the book in 1.5 days. I am not a person who has many leisure or reading hours in the day, but the dishes, the house—the work—had to wait. I just couldn't put the book down . I can honestly say that this book, besides being my favorite, is a masterpiece. I would love to see it played out in a great movie story.
And, by the way, Ms. Bratt's characters are so three-dimensional that I forget that I am reading a novel, a work of fiction. Her characters are personable and believable. When they hurt, my heart hurts too.
So, if you are reading this review in order to decide whether to read this book, don't hesitate. Go for it. You won't regret it.
And by the way, I received the book in exchange for an honest review. However, to tell you the truth, I would have bought it anyway. As I said earlier, I love all Ms. Bratt's works, and her novels just keep getting better.
Now, I can start talking about Red Skies as a companion book to the books in The Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters series. You do not have to read the series to understand the story. However, if this is your first Kay Bratt book, you will want to read all her other stories.
The story centers around one of Benfu and Calli's daughters (Mari) and her adventure with an American (Max) who went to China to find a way to deal with his loss. Through a necessary business transaction—Max needing a translator and guide to Beijing and Mari needing money to support herself and her perscription-drug-addicted husband—a strong bond and friendship ensue. Max and Mari meet two street urchin girls and their lives change forever.
As with all of Kay's books, I could not put this one down until I had finished it. Throughout the time I was reading the book, all I could think of is how Ms. Bratt just outdid herself with this story. There were so many twists and turns that I read the book in 1.5 days. I am not a person who has many leisure or reading hours in the day, but the dishes, the house—the work—had to wait. I just couldn't put the book down . I can honestly say that this book, besides being my favorite, is a masterpiece. I would love to see it played out in a great movie story.
And, by the way, Ms. Bratt's characters are so three-dimensional that I forget that I am reading a novel, a work of fiction. Her characters are personable and believable. When they hurt, my heart hurts too.
So, if you are reading this review in order to decide whether to read this book, don't hesitate. Go for it. You won't regret it.
And by the way, I received the book in exchange for an honest review. However, to tell you the truth, I would have bought it anyway. As I said earlier, I love all Ms. Bratt's works, and her novels just keep getting better.
March 30, 2014
I am a huge fan of the books written by Kay Bratt, and in particular, the Tales of the Scavengers Daughters series. This book is a companion to the original three books in the series and lived up to my expectations in every way.
From the very beginning of the book, the reader is brought into the life of Mari, Benfu and Cali's oldest daughter, who is living in Beijing with her husband. At the same time, we are introduced to some street children and Max, an American in China for business and personal reasons. The lives of all of these characters are brought together throughout the book and make for both a heartbreaking and heartwarming story. The character development throughout this book, and all books by Ms Bratt, is amazing.
I've said this before, but I truly feel that Ms Bratt's novels rival those of Lisa See and Amy Tan. I love her attention to detail, character development and story telling. I love that her books focus on issues pertaining to modern day China. As an adoptive mom to one of China's lost girls, these books are near and dear to my heart. I recommend them to anyone interested in China and with this book in particular, the plight of children in China.
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review
From the very beginning of the book, the reader is brought into the life of Mari, Benfu and Cali's oldest daughter, who is living in Beijing with her husband. At the same time, we are introduced to some street children and Max, an American in China for business and personal reasons. The lives of all of these characters are brought together throughout the book and make for both a heartbreaking and heartwarming story. The character development throughout this book, and all books by Ms Bratt, is amazing.
I've said this before, but I truly feel that Ms Bratt's novels rival those of Lisa See and Amy Tan. I love her attention to detail, character development and story telling. I love that her books focus on issues pertaining to modern day China. As an adoptive mom to one of China's lost girls, these books are near and dear to my heart. I recommend them to anyone interested in China and with this book in particular, the plight of children in China.
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review
July 31, 2021
This novel was thoroughly enjoyable as well as educational. The characters were well-developed and so realistic that I felt as though I could step into the story and meet them. Mari, the oldest daughter that was raised by Baba and Yeye when she was rescued from the streets, is married and living near Beijing. There she has her own problems with survival since her husband Bolin was injured and is quickly becoming addicted to pain medication. Her livelihood depends on her taking photos with tourists and then she is hired by an American named Max to be his guide. The story gets complicated because there is a lot of family drama as well as two little girls on the street who need to be rescued. This is such a gut-wrenching story at times, but one that needs to be told about the plight of thousands of children in China. I enjoyed reading Mari’s story, but my favorite character was the courageous little girl named An Ni who faces injury and almost certain death with a bravery rarely seen even among adults. The entire series needs to be read to get the whole picture, and it is well worth reading.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I won a copy of this series from the author via a contest on her Facebook page. 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 won a copy of this series from the author via a contest on her Facebook page. 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.”
March 18, 2014
I loved this book!! It's my favorite book that Kay Bratt has written so far. Her characters have such richness that I felt like I was living the story through Mari's eyes. Kay has done an excellent job of researching the culture and way of life in China. Her stories draw us in and give us a better idea of the lives of the abandoned and/or abducted children. As the grandmother of 3 beautiful little girls adopted from China I appreciate them so much more and I'm so grateful they have joined our family as there forever family. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2022
Wow...this was an amazing series! What a great ending! Couldn't put it down....tears on my cheeks!
November 22, 2014
There are so many cultural and factual inaccuracies in these books, and yet I cannot stop reading them. And I'll likely continue reading them. :/
October 14, 2019
I urge you to read this series by Kay Bratt, "The Scavenger's Daughters". Best books ever!!
January 18, 2021
Red Skies is the fourth and final book in the Tales of the Scavenger’s Daughters series by Kay Bratt. It is the story of the three people who are brought together in amazing ways and their journey together will forever change them all. Marigold “Mari” grew up knowing struggles and hardships. She struggles to support herself and her husband, Bolin, after he has injured himself and can no longer work. One day, as she returns home on a rainy day, she sees a young girl begging on the street corner. Moved to kindness, she stops to talk to the young girl, An Ni, and offers her her jacket, only to be shooed away from a young man, a gang member. Mari walks away but she never forgets the young girl. Mari soon meets Max, an American photojournalist, who claims to be in China on assignment but seems to have a deeper mission, a personal mission. An Ni finds a way to escape the gang she has been forced to beg for. Along with a young girl, Mei, they run from the gang and hide. Soon Mari and Max will cross paths with An Ni and Mei and they will discover a peace and fulfillment that can only be described as miraculous.
Red Skies is a beautiful ending to an amazing series. I loved the character of Mari as she struggles to support her husband, who is in pain and depressed. Her determination and drive to keep going, to love and honor her husband and survive on her own.I enjoyed Max as he was a bit of a mystery, wanting to see places that weren’t on the usual tourist list. It was easy to see that Max was a man tortured by something but what?, we don’t find out until the end. It was a beautiful moment which had me in tears. The convergence of An Ni and Mei’s story with Mari and Max’s is an example of how our paths are connected by no effort of ours but by divine providence or supernatural guidance. Ms. Bratt’s descriptions of China and the Chinese culture are beautiful and detailed. I could easily imagine the sights and sounds of the city, its marketplace and its residents. Red Skies is a beautifully, emotional story to end a great series. I was sad to say goodbye to Benfu, Calli and their amazing daughters but they will forever live and thrive in my imagination.I highly recommend Red Skies.
Red Skies is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
Read about the Zheng family
The Palest Ink (prequel)
The Scavenger’s Daughters (book 1)
Tangled Vines (book 2)
Bitter Winds (book 3)
Red Skies is a beautiful ending to an amazing series. I loved the character of Mari as she struggles to support her husband, who is in pain and depressed. Her determination and drive to keep going, to love and honor her husband and survive on her own.I enjoyed Max as he was a bit of a mystery, wanting to see places that weren’t on the usual tourist list. It was easy to see that Max was a man tortured by something but what?, we don’t find out until the end. It was a beautiful moment which had me in tears. The convergence of An Ni and Mei’s story with Mari and Max’s is an example of how our paths are connected by no effort of ours but by divine providence or supernatural guidance. Ms. Bratt’s descriptions of China and the Chinese culture are beautiful and detailed. I could easily imagine the sights and sounds of the city, its marketplace and its residents. Red Skies is a beautifully, emotional story to end a great series. I was sad to say goodbye to Benfu, Calli and their amazing daughters but they will forever live and thrive in my imagination.I highly recommend Red Skies.
Red Skies is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
Read about the Zheng family
The Palest Ink (prequel)
The Scavenger’s Daughters (book 1)
Tangled Vines (book 2)
Bitter Winds (book 3)
October 30, 2020
Red Skies, the fourth in the Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters, was another heart-rending read.
This time, we concentrated on Mari, one of Benfu and Calla's eldest 'daughters', who lives away from her family, with her husband, near Beijing.
Having been rescued from the streets as a child doesn't mean that she's spared any difficulties as she enters adulthood, and these are what Kay Bratt has explored in this book.
Mari is a 'good wife'. She's nursing her husband back to health after a serious fall, and juggling trying to work, to cover costs of living, with caring for a man, who is a mere shell of himself, and slowly turning to his medication for support, rather than his wife.
An Ni is a young girl, forced into the begging cycle by a gang who found her as a babe. Her path crosses with Mari's one day, and little do they know how intertwined their lives will become.
Max is an American in Beijing on work duty, with a very personal mission he's trying to complete as well.
There are so many layers to this story, from the begging gangs to adoption, to loss, in many forms. But there is always hope.
This time, we concentrated on Mari, one of Benfu and Calla's eldest 'daughters', who lives away from her family, with her husband, near Beijing.
Having been rescued from the streets as a child doesn't mean that she's spared any difficulties as she enters adulthood, and these are what Kay Bratt has explored in this book.
Mari is a 'good wife'. She's nursing her husband back to health after a serious fall, and juggling trying to work, to cover costs of living, with caring for a man, who is a mere shell of himself, and slowly turning to his medication for support, rather than his wife.
An Ni is a young girl, forced into the begging cycle by a gang who found her as a babe. Her path crosses with Mari's one day, and little do they know how intertwined their lives will become.
Max is an American in Beijing on work duty, with a very personal mission he's trying to complete as well.
There are so many layers to this story, from the begging gangs to adoption, to loss, in many forms. But there is always hope.
April 7, 2022
Red Skies is the final book in the Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters. This one does not follow the daughters introduced to us in the first 3 books, but rather Benfu and Calla Lily's elder daughter Mari. Mari is married and she and her husband live near the Great Wall and survive by taking photos of their camel and tourists. When Mari's husband hurts his back, the business and the camel are left to Mari. She meets a photo journalist who offers to pay her to be his guide while he fulfills a list of items he wishes to complete while in China. When the camel is stolen, Mari's hand is forced as she has no income. Mari also sees a child being forced to beg for money (An Ni) and wants nothing more than to help her. This book follows both Mari and An Ni and their own unique stories of survival. While I was disappointed this book didn't follow the other girls from previous books, I think I ended up liking Red Skies the best.
July 10, 2017
Wonderful series! I've read other books by Kay Bratt but this is the very best. She writes with a deep knowledge of the emotions tied to relationships. I am haunted by the Scavenger's Daughters. I also like that her characters are survivors of very tragic pasts and are triumphant in the end! I also enjoyed learning more about China's political situation that was brewing as I was growing up. I remember reading about China and its social and political problems; but, I did not have the overview that this series provides. I would say that my perspective was a patchwork of articles that I had read. Thanks Kay for helping me understand it in the broader context!
September 2, 2020
Finding Stolen Girls
This was a wonderful story and a great addition to the series. In the beginning of this read, I struggled to grasp the understanding of the culture and how it fits in the series. As the story went along the reasoning became clear when Mari showed up. What is great about this book is, there is an American wrapped within the story. The explaining given to him helped me understand why China is, in this book, the way that it is. The best part is one missing daughter of China finds her way home, and the other finds a new one. I recommend this read to all ages!
This was a wonderful story and a great addition to the series. In the beginning of this read, I struggled to grasp the understanding of the culture and how it fits in the series. As the story went along the reasoning became clear when Mari showed up. What is great about this book is, there is an American wrapped within the story. The explaining given to him helped me understand why China is, in this book, the way that it is. The best part is one missing daughter of China finds her way home, and the other finds a new one. I recommend this read to all ages!
March 20, 2018
What a terrific audible book! I felt compassion for Mari and felt so bad for her marriage. I was not expecting her husband's decision and it made me so sad.
As for Max, it was obvious to me why her daughter wasn't accompanying him to China.
Ah Ni, bless her heart and the two street girls. I felt such sorrow for their plight, realizing that this book was talking about the issues of homeless kids who become owned by gangs.
It was a bit of a stretch how the fate of Max, Ah Ni and Mari all came together. However, it all worked and I listened to the story every chance I had.
The very ending... where Max reveals the truth about why he was in China.. so poignant.
I'd love to see this series continue. Love these books!
As for Max, it was obvious to me why her daughter wasn't accompanying him to China.
Ah Ni, bless her heart and the two street girls. I felt such sorrow for their plight, realizing that this book was talking about the issues of homeless kids who become owned by gangs.
It was a bit of a stretch how the fate of Max, Ah Ni and Mari all came together. However, it all worked and I listened to the story every chance I had.
The very ending... where Max reveals the truth about why he was in China.. so poignant.
I'd love to see this series continue. Love these books!
August 26, 2019
Definitely not my favorite book in the series.
I liked getting to know Mari better. Even though she in a few of the previous books, the reader really gets to know her in this book; her story had me in tears. Max is a great addition to the story, just enough mystery to keep me guessing. Benfu and Callie make an appearance but the rest of the daughters are mentioned only in passing if at all. An Ni and Mei are the heart of the story, and their journey was terrifying.
I had a hard time with this book. I don’t feel like there is enough closure to the story and it didn’t seem as realistic as the previous books in the series.
I liked getting to know Mari better. Even though she in a few of the previous books, the reader really gets to know her in this book; her story had me in tears. Max is a great addition to the story, just enough mystery to keep me guessing. Benfu and Callie make an appearance but the rest of the daughters are mentioned only in passing if at all. An Ni and Mei are the heart of the story, and their journey was terrifying.
I had a hard time with this book. I don’t feel like there is enough closure to the story and it didn’t seem as realistic as the previous books in the series.
February 5, 2020
If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would of. Wonderful story, heart-tugging, lots of emotions. This author has a fantastic way of writing, I have read the whole series and have to say i liked this one the best, but really they all were good. I just couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen. I was sad, I was angry, I was happy while reading this book. I can't say enough about it. So far I have liked everything this author has written. I don't think you will be disappointed.
July 21, 2021
Love the whole series!
I read to relax and get away. I first found Kay Bratt when I read her by the sea series and fell in love with her writing and her ability to take me away and make me want to go to the places she described and find my own adventure there. I have now read the whole scavenger’s daughter series and not only was I entertained but I fell in love with the characters and the place (China) and feel like I’m doing so I even learned something. Her writing and her own story are inspiring and I can’t wait to see where the next book takes me!
I read to relax and get away. I first found Kay Bratt when I read her by the sea series and fell in love with her writing and her ability to take me away and make me want to go to the places she described and find my own adventure there. I have now read the whole scavenger’s daughter series and not only was I entertained but I fell in love with the characters and the place (China) and feel like I’m doing so I even learned something. Her writing and her own story are inspiring and I can’t wait to see where the next book takes me!
July 22, 2018
3.5 stars. I enjoyed this story taking place in China. I think this was one of my Audible deals and the reviews were so good, I gave it a try. Even though the story took predictable turns I delighted in the journey. I would read this author again depending on the story. This was from the middle of a series but I did not find it an issue getting into the characters and setting.
The Audible narrator did a great job.
The Audible narrator did a great job.
March 16, 2019
Again Kay Bratt has hit it out of the park with this continuing story of Benfu and Calli and their daughters. This has been an amazing journey as the lives of these girls are changed by living caring people who become their real family. I strongly recommend reading these books in order. I have now begun the final book in the series The Palest Ink which is the prequel. Very interesting Learning the background. I think this book is well placed as the final one.
August 24, 2019
Great read
The 4th book of this series was as captivating as the first. I have heard about the conditions for the "lost children" of China but never imagined how horrific conditions must be for them especially the girls. I found this book to be captivated as well as addictive. I had a hard time putting this book down. The other 3 books that I have read were just as interesting and they all touched me. I would recommend this series to anyone that is looking for a good book
The 4th book of this series was as captivating as the first. I have heard about the conditions for the "lost children" of China but never imagined how horrific conditions must be for them especially the girls. I found this book to be captivated as well as addictive. I had a hard time putting this book down. The other 3 books that I have read were just as interesting and they all touched me. I would recommend this series to anyone that is looking for a good book
March 5, 2014
Story Description:
"I feel empty, as though I'm leaving behind a piece of myself." As the daughter of the town scavenger, Mari grew up knowing hardship, but she could have never anticipated the struggles facing her as an adult. Feeling alone and isolated, she dreams of a better life. On the other side of town, a little girl is forced to live on the streets, but silently she longs for the one thing she's never known - a family. Max, a struggling American photojournalist, arrives in China with only one goal in mind: to face his demons and put an end to his own unbearable suffering. In RED SKIES, the fate of three people who've never met will converge in profound and unexpected ways.
From the bestselling author of 'A Thread Unbroken' comes a fresh glimpse into the life of Benfu's remarkable family. Be swept up in this emotional yet hope filled story of RED SKIES, set in the world of Kay Bratt's 'Tales of The Scavenger's Daughters'.
RED SKIES is a companion novel to the series and can be enjoyed first, last, or in between the other books. It can stand alone or be read as part of the series. So dig in at any time!
My Review:
Not surprisingly, another beautifully written story by Kay Bratt. She never lets me down and when I pick up one of her novels, I know I'm in for the read of my life!
RED SKIES opens with, Marigold, otherwise known as, Mari, watching a young girl desparately panhandling for money. Mari felt so bad for the girl that she considered giving her the few yuan she had in her pocket and telling her husband, Bolin, that business was slow that day. However, she knew he wouldn't believe her so she kept the money.
Mari remembered her days of begging and panhandling from long ago before she was rescued and taken in by her father, Benfu. Just as she was thinking over those years, two teenage boys came along and stole the only coins the panhandling girl had in her cup. Mari was furious as she knew the girl would somehow have to make that money back or the girl would be badly beaten b her boss. Mari crossed the street and put a five-yuan bil in her cup. The girl was grateful but frightened. She wouldn't tell, Mari which gang she was associated with out of fear but did she her name was, An Ni which would mean, Annie in English.
Mari's job was to take photo's of tourists with her camel, Chu Chu at The Great Wall. Since her husband had hurt his back and was laid up at home spaced out on pain killers, the full responsibility of the job fell to, Mari alone.
One day as she trying to get a very stubborn, Chu Chu up the hill and back into his shed for the night, she was approached by two American tourists who begged her to return to the Wall so the boss could get a photo of himself on the camel to take back home to his daughter. Mari was dead tired but the one tourists, Max, said they would pay her well and it would make his boss very happy. Mari finally relented and they returned to the Great Wall. When they were done, Max stayed behind to help, Mari with Chu Chu and carried her camera and other equipment.
A few days later, Max returned by himself to thank, Mari for staying late the other day. He invited her out for a cup of tea but, Mari knew if Bolin found out he'd be absolutely livid. She thought about Max's offer and the lack of communication and intimacy between herself and Bolin and how lonely she'd been feeling lately. Plus, Max had just saved her about ninety minutes by helping her again put Chu Chu away so she decided go with him.
Over tea, Mari found out, Max was a photojournalist and that his daughter had taught him how to speak Mandarin. Suddenly during the conversation, Max became extremely quiet, asked Mari where the bathrooms were, and quickly left the table. She wondered what had made him turn so quiet all of a sudden.
Max needed to produce a piece of work to submit to his boss but he had writer's block. He knew if he didn't produce something soon he'd be officially washed up - "emotionally and professionally". The only thing that made, Max happy was the fact that, Mari had agreed to be his tour guide around Beijing and he would pay her wages for doing so. They met in the mornings at the tea shop.
Now we have the three main characters: Mari, Max, and An Ni. Believe me, as the story progresses their paths will cross in a way that is so totally unexpected. Mari must deal with some very deep-seated hardships, but all three are searching for something that means a lot to them, and you will not be able to stop yourself from reading once you get started.
RED SKIES evoked so many emotions in me that I laughed, I snickered, and I cried like a baby. There were parts of the story where I wish I could have hopped into the pages of the book. The characters and environment are so real that you forget you're reading fiction. The writing if flawless and so well done that I felt a part of the story, like I was in the book and following along behind them all and could see the sights, hear the sounds, and smell the odours.
RED SKIES is high on my recommendation list and I'll be touting it's virtues to all who'll listen.
I would like to thank Kay Bratt for sending me a .pdf file of the book to read in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Kay! As usual you had me hooked from the first word to the last. Well done!!
"I feel empty, as though I'm leaving behind a piece of myself." As the daughter of the town scavenger, Mari grew up knowing hardship, but she could have never anticipated the struggles facing her as an adult. Feeling alone and isolated, she dreams of a better life. On the other side of town, a little girl is forced to live on the streets, but silently she longs for the one thing she's never known - a family. Max, a struggling American photojournalist, arrives in China with only one goal in mind: to face his demons and put an end to his own unbearable suffering. In RED SKIES, the fate of three people who've never met will converge in profound and unexpected ways.
From the bestselling author of 'A Thread Unbroken' comes a fresh glimpse into the life of Benfu's remarkable family. Be swept up in this emotional yet hope filled story of RED SKIES, set in the world of Kay Bratt's 'Tales of The Scavenger's Daughters'.
RED SKIES is a companion novel to the series and can be enjoyed first, last, or in between the other books. It can stand alone or be read as part of the series. So dig in at any time!
My Review:
Not surprisingly, another beautifully written story by Kay Bratt. She never lets me down and when I pick up one of her novels, I know I'm in for the read of my life!
RED SKIES opens with, Marigold, otherwise known as, Mari, watching a young girl desparately panhandling for money. Mari felt so bad for the girl that she considered giving her the few yuan she had in her pocket and telling her husband, Bolin, that business was slow that day. However, she knew he wouldn't believe her so she kept the money.
Mari remembered her days of begging and panhandling from long ago before she was rescued and taken in by her father, Benfu. Just as she was thinking over those years, two teenage boys came along and stole the only coins the panhandling girl had in her cup. Mari was furious as she knew the girl would somehow have to make that money back or the girl would be badly beaten b her boss. Mari crossed the street and put a five-yuan bil in her cup. The girl was grateful but frightened. She wouldn't tell, Mari which gang she was associated with out of fear but did she her name was, An Ni which would mean, Annie in English.
Mari's job was to take photo's of tourists with her camel, Chu Chu at The Great Wall. Since her husband had hurt his back and was laid up at home spaced out on pain killers, the full responsibility of the job fell to, Mari alone.
One day as she trying to get a very stubborn, Chu Chu up the hill and back into his shed for the night, she was approached by two American tourists who begged her to return to the Wall so the boss could get a photo of himself on the camel to take back home to his daughter. Mari was dead tired but the one tourists, Max, said they would pay her well and it would make his boss very happy. Mari finally relented and they returned to the Great Wall. When they were done, Max stayed behind to help, Mari with Chu Chu and carried her camera and other equipment.
A few days later, Max returned by himself to thank, Mari for staying late the other day. He invited her out for a cup of tea but, Mari knew if Bolin found out he'd be absolutely livid. She thought about Max's offer and the lack of communication and intimacy between herself and Bolin and how lonely she'd been feeling lately. Plus, Max had just saved her about ninety minutes by helping her again put Chu Chu away so she decided go with him.
Over tea, Mari found out, Max was a photojournalist and that his daughter had taught him how to speak Mandarin. Suddenly during the conversation, Max became extremely quiet, asked Mari where the bathrooms were, and quickly left the table. She wondered what had made him turn so quiet all of a sudden.
Max needed to produce a piece of work to submit to his boss but he had writer's block. He knew if he didn't produce something soon he'd be officially washed up - "emotionally and professionally". The only thing that made, Max happy was the fact that, Mari had agreed to be his tour guide around Beijing and he would pay her wages for doing so. They met in the mornings at the tea shop.
Now we have the three main characters: Mari, Max, and An Ni. Believe me, as the story progresses their paths will cross in a way that is so totally unexpected. Mari must deal with some very deep-seated hardships, but all three are searching for something that means a lot to them, and you will not be able to stop yourself from reading once you get started.
RED SKIES evoked so many emotions in me that I laughed, I snickered, and I cried like a baby. There were parts of the story where I wish I could have hopped into the pages of the book. The characters and environment are so real that you forget you're reading fiction. The writing if flawless and so well done that I felt a part of the story, like I was in the book and following along behind them all and could see the sights, hear the sounds, and smell the odours.
RED SKIES is high on my recommendation list and I'll be touting it's virtues to all who'll listen.
I would like to thank Kay Bratt for sending me a .pdf file of the book to read in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Kay! As usual you had me hooked from the first word to the last. Well done!!
May 19, 2017
Favorite (so far)
I really enjoyed this entry in the series. The characters were well developed, the plot keep moving, and it was very touching without too much melodrama. The intersections of cultures allowed the author the show the same events through different lenses. I also loved the magical elements of the plot. Very good read.
I really enjoyed this entry in the series. The characters were well developed, the plot keep moving, and it was very touching without too much melodrama. The intersections of cultures allowed the author the show the same events through different lenses. I also loved the magical elements of the plot. Very good read.
November 11, 2017
Wonderful Read
I really enjoyed this book. I found it the most engrossing of the four books in the series I have read so far and I can’t wait to read the next one! The book was gripping right from the beginning and was hard to put down. It was a wonderful, heartwarming story and I highly recommend it.
I really enjoyed this book. I found it the most engrossing of the four books in the series I have read so far and I can’t wait to read the next one! The book was gripping right from the beginning and was hard to put down. It was a wonderful, heartwarming story and I highly recommend it.
January 5, 2021
Heartfelt
I've enjoyed eachbook in this series. Each representing issues that go on every day. I'm retired social worker so this book expressed issues such as addiction, depression, abandonment, loss, hopelessness, suicide and shame that goes with it moreso in some cultures than others.
I've enjoyed eachbook in this series. Each representing issues that go on every day. I'm retired social worker so this book expressed issues such as addiction, depression, abandonment, loss, hopelessness, suicide and shame that goes with it moreso in some cultures than others.
April 25, 2021
This was a short and sweet emotional story. The characters faced many horrific losses, but in the end, things worked out reasonably well for everyone. I would like to think that Max and Mari get married and he whisks her off to America. They really seem to have quite an attraction to one another. And to put the cherry on top, they adopted An Ni and bring her to America also.
May 21, 2021
Another book straight to the heart!
I love meeting more of the Scavenger’s Daughters. This book brought in more of the plights of Chinese girls, beyond the “one-child” law. The street kids were very real; it reminded me of the beggars we saw in Munich — their plight as victims of street gangs.
Now off to see what Kay Bratt book I’ll read next ;-)
I love meeting more of the Scavenger’s Daughters. This book brought in more of the plights of Chinese girls, beyond the “one-child” law. The street kids were very real; it reminded me of the beggars we saw in Munich — their plight as victims of street gangs.
Now off to see what Kay Bratt book I’ll read next ;-)
August 11, 2023
The Entire Series!
This is the first entire series that I’ve read straight through.
Wasn’t sure at first because usually I have found that they become repetitive or run out of story line, but this series didn’t disappoint.
I truly hope that these books bring much needed attention to the plight of abandoned children everywhere.
This is the first entire series that I’ve read straight through.
Wasn’t sure at first because usually I have found that they become repetitive or run out of story line, but this series didn’t disappoint.
I truly hope that these books bring much needed attention to the plight of abandoned children everywhere.
October 28, 2016
Love this series
Each book could stand on its own but I recommend they be read in order. Wonderful family values in each one. The author's knowledge of China and its customs and culture are such that you really feel you are there .
Each book could stand on its own but I recommend they be read in order. Wonderful family values in each one. The author's knowledge of China and its customs and culture are such that you really feel you are there .
May 25, 2017
Enlightening, emotional and enjoyable
I enjoyed this book series. In an easy-to-read format, the book talk me a lot about Chinese history and customs. There were times when the use of American slang distracted me from the story line, but overall it made the book an easy read.
I enjoyed this book series. In an easy-to-read format, the book talk me a lot about Chinese history and customs. There were times when the use of American slang distracted me from the story line, but overall it made the book an easy read.
June 1, 2017
Another great read!
I have enjoyed every book in this series of the Scavengers daughter and this one was no different. In fact this might have been one of my favorites. It certainly doesn't disappoint.
I have enjoyed every book in this series of the Scavengers daughter and this one was no different. In fact this might have been one of my favorites. It certainly doesn't disappoint.
September 9, 2017
I really enjoy these books. Even though the Scavenger and his wife do not play main roles in this story. Mari, their daughter, and her struggles and those of the orphans/missing children she has encountered kept me turning pages.
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