What do you think?
Rate this book
The Forbidden City #2
The Fragrant Concubine
Longlisted for both the Mslexia Novel Competition and the Historical Novel Society Indie Award.
China, 1760. The Emperor conquers Altishahr, a Muslim country to the west of his empire and summons a local woman from his new dominion to come to the Forbidden City as his concubine.
Meanwhile in the market of Kashgar a girl named Hidligh is kidnapped by Iparhan, a woman scarred by the Emperor’s conquest of her homeland and bent on vengeance. Iparhan offers her a deal: Hidligh will become the Emperor’s concubine, living a life of luxury. In return she will act as Iparhan’s spy.
But when Hidligh arrives in the Forbidden City, she enters a frightening new world. Every word she utters may expose her as an imposter. Iparhan is watching from the shadows, waiting to exact her revenge on the Emperor. The Empress is jealous of her new rival. And when Hidligh finally meets the Emperor, she finds herself falling in love…
Editor’s Choice book reviewed by the Historical Novel Society: "I enjoyed the human drama, the love and hurt, the scheming for revenge, rivalries and loyalties in the Forbidden City. Reading this novel was a moving and wonderful excursion into a different time."
"A passionate story, richly imagined in the spaces of real history. Melissa Addey meticulously evokes a strange, beautiful and harsh society." Emma Darwin, award-winning author of The Mathematics of Love and A Secret Alchemy.
"Melissa Addey has given us a new take on the cherished but controversial legend of ‘the Fragrant Concubine,’ one that weaves together the many conflicting versions of the story and plausibly embraces how romance might have blossomed between the brilliant Manchu monarch and his fragrant Muslim consort." Professor James Millward, author of A Uyghur Muslim in Qianlong’s Court: The Meanings of the Fragrant Concubine
There are many versions of the legend of the Fragrant Concubine.
It is true that in 1760 the Chinese Emperor Qianlong conquered Turkestan and that a Muslim woman from that region was sent to the Forbidden City as his concubine. It seems she was something of a favourite, being promoted twice and given many gifts.
But other stories have grown up around her.
In China they say that her body emitted an irresistible natural fragrance and the Emperor was besotted with her. She was homesick, but he gave her many gifts to remind her of home and at last she fell in love with him and they lived happily ever after.
But in her homeland they say that the woman was named Iparhan and born to a family of rebels. Brought to court by force, she kept daggers hidden in her sleeves to protect her honour. At last she took her own life rather than submit to the Emperor’s desire for her.
I found myself wondering which woman was the real Fragrant Concubine. Which ending was true: the sad one or the happy one?
This novel is about what might have happened.
China, 1760. The Emperor conquers Altishahr, a Muslim country to the west of his empire and summons a local woman from his new dominion to come to the Forbidden City as his concubine.
Meanwhile in the market of Kashgar a girl named Hidligh is kidnapped by Iparhan, a woman scarred by the Emperor’s conquest of her homeland and bent on vengeance. Iparhan offers her a deal: Hidligh will become the Emperor’s concubine, living a life of luxury. In return she will act as Iparhan’s spy.
But when Hidligh arrives in the Forbidden City, she enters a frightening new world. Every word she utters may expose her as an imposter. Iparhan is watching from the shadows, waiting to exact her revenge on the Emperor. The Empress is jealous of her new rival. And when Hidligh finally meets the Emperor, she finds herself falling in love…
Editor’s Choice book reviewed by the Historical Novel Society: "I enjoyed the human drama, the love and hurt, the scheming for revenge, rivalries and loyalties in the Forbidden City. Reading this novel was a moving and wonderful excursion into a different time."
"A passionate story, richly imagined in the spaces of real history. Melissa Addey meticulously evokes a strange, beautiful and harsh society." Emma Darwin, award-winning author of The Mathematics of Love and A Secret Alchemy.
"Melissa Addey has given us a new take on the cherished but controversial legend of ‘the Fragrant Concubine,’ one that weaves together the many conflicting versions of the story and plausibly embraces how romance might have blossomed between the brilliant Manchu monarch and his fragrant Muslim consort." Professor James Millward, author of A Uyghur Muslim in Qianlong’s Court: The Meanings of the Fragrant Concubine
There are many versions of the legend of the Fragrant Concubine.
It is true that in 1760 the Chinese Emperor Qianlong conquered Turkestan and that a Muslim woman from that region was sent to the Forbidden City as his concubine. It seems she was something of a favourite, being promoted twice and given many gifts.
But other stories have grown up around her.
In China they say that her body emitted an irresistible natural fragrance and the Emperor was besotted with her. She was homesick, but he gave her many gifts to remind her of home and at last she fell in love with him and they lived happily ever after.
But in her homeland they say that the woman was named Iparhan and born to a family of rebels. Brought to court by force, she kept daggers hidden in her sleeves to protect her honour. At last she took her own life rather than submit to the Emperor’s desire for her.
I found myself wondering which woman was the real Fragrant Concubine. Which ending was true: the sad one or the happy one?
This novel is about what might have happened.
416 pages, ebook
First published August 10, 2015
442 people are currently reading
1129 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Addey
24 books116 followersI mainly write historical fiction: my first novel, The Fragrant Concubine, was Editor’s Choice at the Historical Novel Society, my latest, The Cold Palace, won the 2019 Novel London award.
I was the Leverhulme Trust Writer in Residence at the British Library and now run regular workshops there. I have a PhD in Creative Writing and have self-published 13 books.
I live in London with my husband and two children.
If you’d like to try my writing, visit my website www.melissaaddey.com to pick up a free novella, The Cup.
I was the Leverhulme Trust Writer in Residence at the British Library and now run regular workshops there. I have a PhD in Creative Writing and have self-published 13 books.
I live in London with my husband and two children.
If you’d like to try my writing, visit my website www.melissaaddey.com to pick up a free novella, The Cup.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
July 14, 2024
I really had a lot of fun reading this one. I thought the premise was fascinating and interesting. The main character was likable and I felt a lot of empathy for her plight. This book also has a nice happy ending.
April 11, 2021
“All legends are true, even the ones that never happened,” he begins. My scarlet-painted lips move soundlessly with his. For in them we find ourselves.
December 31, 2018
"Before you embark on a journey of revenge - dig two graves" Confucius
Melissa Addey returns us to the 18th century imperial Chinese court for another real-people inspired historical novel of court intrigue, revenge, rebellion and romance. Down through the centuries, the legends of the "Fragrant Concubine" have spoken of a Muslim woman from a conquered province who was sent to the Forbidden City as a concubine, but the legends differ greatly in their depictions of this woman. By way of reconciling the differences, Ms Addey's diligent research and her clever imagination have brought us a suspenseful spy thriller, a delicious love story, and an almost-Shakespearean tragedy. Her detailed descriptions of court life make this period of Chinese history a vividly real world, and her well-drawn characters fill it with their hopes, their dreams, their fears and their strange fates. Friendship, heartbreak, true love and thwarted ambitions play out with life-and-death consequences from page one to the end, holding the reader spellbound, at times incredulous, but satisfied at the end. Fascinating reading!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout. This is a voluntary, independent, and uncompensated review.
Melissa Addey returns us to the 18th century imperial Chinese court for another real-people inspired historical novel of court intrigue, revenge, rebellion and romance. Down through the centuries, the legends of the "Fragrant Concubine" have spoken of a Muslim woman from a conquered province who was sent to the Forbidden City as a concubine, but the legends differ greatly in their depictions of this woman. By way of reconciling the differences, Ms Addey's diligent research and her clever imagination have brought us a suspenseful spy thriller, a delicious love story, and an almost-Shakespearean tragedy. Her detailed descriptions of court life make this period of Chinese history a vividly real world, and her well-drawn characters fill it with their hopes, their dreams, their fears and their strange fates. Friendship, heartbreak, true love and thwarted ambitions play out with life-and-death consequences from page one to the end, holding the reader spellbound, at times incredulous, but satisfied at the end. Fascinating reading!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout. This is a voluntary, independent, and uncompensated review.
October 6, 2015
3.5 stars. "The Fragrant Concubine" is the story of Hidligh, a young woman who becomes mistress to China's emperor. The twist in the book comes when not everything is as it first seems with her. She is asked to be a spy at the Emperor's court by Iparhan, a woman bent on getting even with the Emperor. She wants to use Hidligh to get her vengeance. The author uses a combination of myth and historical fact to weave a story of the fragrant concubine.
I love books set in places that I am not familiar with and with characters that are unlike others that I have read before. The setting was especially captivating to me. This book takes place in the 1700s in China, which is a time and location that I have not read much about. The author takes us into the court of the Emperor, a place that is filled with social rules and obligations. At first, Hidligh is not familiar with any of the rules she will have to follow. One of my favorite parts in the book is when Iparhan and her servants are trying to teach Hidligh how to be a proper lady.
The writing of the book was pretty good. I found myself wanting a little more action in some parts. There were a couple places where the narrative got a little long winded but for the most part, the book flowed nicely. I appreciated all of the historical detail that the author added to the book; it really pulled me into the story. Overall, this was a good read!
I love books set in places that I am not familiar with and with characters that are unlike others that I have read before. The setting was especially captivating to me. This book takes place in the 1700s in China, which is a time and location that I have not read much about. The author takes us into the court of the Emperor, a place that is filled with social rules and obligations. At first, Hidligh is not familiar with any of the rules she will have to follow. One of my favorite parts in the book is when Iparhan and her servants are trying to teach Hidligh how to be a proper lady.
The writing of the book was pretty good. I found myself wanting a little more action in some parts. There were a couple places where the narrative got a little long winded but for the most part, the book flowed nicely. I appreciated all of the historical detail that the author added to the book; it really pulled me into the story. Overall, this was a good read!
January 29, 2017
Unbelievable
This story of a poor, starving, orphan who becomes a royal concubine to a Chinese emperor in mid-1700's is based on fact. Although the writing is good enough to follow and somewhat held my interest, it became more unbelievable as I progressed. The rather fantastic, farfetched ending killed my interest by the last few chapters of the book. It's a rather grotesque play on the Cinderella story in my view. The actual factual history is quite interesting, though. I don't know that I'd recommend this as a good historical romance novel given this supposed possible sequence of events. It doesn't pass the it-could-have-happened-this-way test. Disappointing.
This story of a poor, starving, orphan who becomes a royal concubine to a Chinese emperor in mid-1700's is based on fact. Although the writing is good enough to follow and somewhat held my interest, it became more unbelievable as I progressed. The rather fantastic, farfetched ending killed my interest by the last few chapters of the book. It's a rather grotesque play on the Cinderella story in my view. The actual factual history is quite interesting, though. I don't know that I'd recommend this as a good historical romance novel given this supposed possible sequence of events. It doesn't pass the it-could-have-happened-this-way test. Disappointing.
March 1, 2017
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
' The slightly staccato writing style is cleverly used in places to move the story on, invoking the urgency of the plot while not interrupting the intimacy we feel for the heroine, who is occasionally a little naïve in her thoughts and actions, but this makes her real, human, and utterly believable. As is the story and the drama throughout, be it for the scheme of revenge, the pain, the love, the betrayals or the loyalties.
A moving, fascinating and highly enjoyable tale. Highly recommended.'
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
' The slightly staccato writing style is cleverly used in places to move the story on, invoking the urgency of the plot while not interrupting the intimacy we feel for the heroine, who is occasionally a little naïve in her thoughts and actions, but this makes her real, human, and utterly believable. As is the story and the drama throughout, be it for the scheme of revenge, the pain, the love, the betrayals or the loyalties.
A moving, fascinating and highly enjoyable tale. Highly recommended.'
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
January 28, 2018
Riveting Read!
I stayed up until 2am two nights in a row. I just had to know how the story would end! A very fun journey for those like me that love historical fiction!
I stayed up until 2am two nights in a row. I just had to know how the story would end! A very fun journey for those like me that love historical fiction!
April 30, 2019
The novel is based on a Chinese and an Uygur legend from the days that China invaded the Uygur region. Even today we see people applying from asylum blaming to be oppressed by the now communists Chinese government but in those days it was also a battle of beliefs where a Buddhist empire conquered a Muslim principality.
Lets start with a look at Wikipedia:
Fragrant Concubine
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Khoja Iparhan/Fatimah binti Ali Khojam
和卓．伊帕爾罕
Born
11 October 1734
Died
24 May 1788 (aged 53)
Spouse
Qianlong Emperor
House
Xojam (by birth)
Aisin Gioro (by marriage)
The Fragrant Concubine (Chinese: 香妃; pinyin: Xiāng Fēi; Uyghur: ئىپارخان / Iparxan / Ипархан) is a figure in Chinese legend who was taken as a consort by the Qianlong Emperor of the Qing dynasty in the 18th century. Although the stories about her are believed to be mythical, they may have been based on an actual concubine from western China who entered the imperial harem in 1760 and received the title "Imperial Consort Rong" (容妃; Róng Fēi). Han Chinese and Uyghur tellings of the legend of the Fragrant Concubine diverge greatly, and her experience represents a powerful symbol for both figures. The story became greatly popular during the early 20th century and has since been adapted into several plays, films, and books.
Chinese legend
Although accounts vary as to some details, the basic story among Han Chinese recounts the discovery by the Qianlong Emperor of a Uyghur woman named Iparhan ("Musky Woman"), the granddaughter of Afaq Khoja, a local leader in the oasis city of Kashgar. Even more remarkable than her beauty was the scent her body naturally produced; captivated, the emperor sought her as an Imperial Consort for his harem. She was given as a gift to the emperor and carefully escorted all the way to the imperial palace in Beijing, washing every day along the road in camel's milk to preserve her mysterious fragrance.
Upon her arrival at the imperial palace, the Fragrant Concubine was given a garden and a luxurious room as a sign of the Qianlong Emperor's devotion. Homesick and distraught, she remained disconsolate as the emperor made ever-increasing efforts to recreate her distant village, building her a mosque, miniature oasis, and bazaar outside her windows in an effort to bring her happiness. Finally she relented and came to love him when he sent messengers to Kashgar to return with a jujube tree bearing golden fruit, and the Fragrant Concubine became the emperor's cherished consort until her death. An enduring symbol of national unity and reconciliation, her body was brought back to her home of Kashgar, where she is now entombed, in a procession of 120 bearers in a journey that took over three years.
Uyghur legend
Contemporary Uyghur renditions of the legend are considerably less romantic. She was the child of the ruler of the Yarkent Khanate and her name was Nur Ela Nurhan.[1] Taken away to the imperial palace in Beijing by the Qianlong Emperor, Iparhan arms herself with daggers up her sleeves, on guard against the hated advances of the emperor, until finally she was poisoned.[2]
Apak Khoja and Fragrant Concubine Tomb
Imperial Consort Rong's tomb in the Eastern Qing tombs
The Afaq Khoja Mausoleum (mazar) located outside Kashgar was built in 1640 and, in addition to encompassing a larger complex that includes a functioning mosque and madrasa, houses the coffins of five generations of the Afak Khoja family, including what is purported to be the body of the Fragrant Concubine. In fact, the real Imperial Consort Rong died of illness on 24 May 1788 and was buried in an imperial tomb in Beijing; the legend of the Fragrant Concubine first became closely associated with the Kashgar tomb in the late 19th century, and the connection has since been officially established and endorsed through a proliferation of signs and guided tours.[citation needed]
Source Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fragran...
The Novel "The Fragrant concubine" by Melissa Addey
Writer Melissa Addey wondered how both legends could be so vastly different even when you consider the political implications of the era. She wondered if there could be a version in which both are true.
In the story Iparhan is a Muslim princess who sees her country invaded by the Chinese on the eve of her wedding and in no time she looses her home and her parents. Longing to take revenge on the emperor she hopes to swap places with a cousin who is sent to the Chinese court as a concubine for the emperor. But when that is no longer possible she captures a beggar girl who looks remarkably like her.
Someone once said that revenge is a double-edged sword. Her drive for revenge turns Iparhan into a crazy woman, I think, who destroys everyone who cares for her, and becomes a ruthless killer.
The girl she captures is dead poor and in the beginning does not object that much to the idea of a life in luxury but then is more and more scared by the madwoman.
Things get really complicated when Hidligh is at court and realises she loves the emperor and made good friends and wants to do everything to keep them save but on the other hand will lose her own life if it ever comes clear she was send to the palace to spy. The result is a very thrilling tale with dangers lurking everywhere.
I am not so familiar with Chinese history so the whole setting was intriguing as well. The Forbidden City is nothing like a Middle Eastern harem: all the concubines have their own palaces and most of the time the emperor will come to have dinner there and some horizontal sport. The women are also less secluded. What sounded so alien to me was that one's name changed with promotions and the emperor was not mentioned by his name after he had become emperor.
Life could be tragic or blissfull depending on what the women wanted: some are completely forgotten by the emperor and really lonely and miserable others share a happy lesbian life glad he is not paying them any attention. Others cling to power because the want their child to be the next emperor. Or like the Empress and Hidligh are in love with the man but that is not necessary mutual.
In the end the writer composed the solution for both legends.
I really liked the novel. The story is thrilling and nerve-racking and the cultural setting is interesting.
A 5 stars out of 5.
Lets start with a look at Wikipedia:
Fragrant Concubine
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Khoja Iparhan/Fatimah binti Ali Khojam
和卓．伊帕爾罕
Born
11 October 1734
Died
24 May 1788 (aged 53)
Spouse
Qianlong Emperor
House
Xojam (by birth)
Aisin Gioro (by marriage)
The Fragrant Concubine (Chinese: 香妃; pinyin: Xiāng Fēi; Uyghur: ئىپارخان / Iparxan / Ипархан) is a figure in Chinese legend who was taken as a consort by the Qianlong Emperor of the Qing dynasty in the 18th century. Although the stories about her are believed to be mythical, they may have been based on an actual concubine from western China who entered the imperial harem in 1760 and received the title "Imperial Consort Rong" (容妃; Róng Fēi). Han Chinese and Uyghur tellings of the legend of the Fragrant Concubine diverge greatly, and her experience represents a powerful symbol for both figures. The story became greatly popular during the early 20th century and has since been adapted into several plays, films, and books.
Chinese legend
Although accounts vary as to some details, the basic story among Han Chinese recounts the discovery by the Qianlong Emperor of a Uyghur woman named Iparhan ("Musky Woman"), the granddaughter of Afaq Khoja, a local leader in the oasis city of Kashgar. Even more remarkable than her beauty was the scent her body naturally produced; captivated, the emperor sought her as an Imperial Consort for his harem. She was given as a gift to the emperor and carefully escorted all the way to the imperial palace in Beijing, washing every day along the road in camel's milk to preserve her mysterious fragrance.
Upon her arrival at the imperial palace, the Fragrant Concubine was given a garden and a luxurious room as a sign of the Qianlong Emperor's devotion. Homesick and distraught, she remained disconsolate as the emperor made ever-increasing efforts to recreate her distant village, building her a mosque, miniature oasis, and bazaar outside her windows in an effort to bring her happiness. Finally she relented and came to love him when he sent messengers to Kashgar to return with a jujube tree bearing golden fruit, and the Fragrant Concubine became the emperor's cherished consort until her death. An enduring symbol of national unity and reconciliation, her body was brought back to her home of Kashgar, where she is now entombed, in a procession of 120 bearers in a journey that took over three years.
Uyghur legend
Contemporary Uyghur renditions of the legend are considerably less romantic. She was the child of the ruler of the Yarkent Khanate and her name was Nur Ela Nurhan.[1] Taken away to the imperial palace in Beijing by the Qianlong Emperor, Iparhan arms herself with daggers up her sleeves, on guard against the hated advances of the emperor, until finally she was poisoned.[2]
Apak Khoja and Fragrant Concubine Tomb
Imperial Consort Rong's tomb in the Eastern Qing tombs
The Afaq Khoja Mausoleum (mazar) located outside Kashgar was built in 1640 and, in addition to encompassing a larger complex that includes a functioning mosque and madrasa, houses the coffins of five generations of the Afak Khoja family, including what is purported to be the body of the Fragrant Concubine. In fact, the real Imperial Consort Rong died of illness on 24 May 1788 and was buried in an imperial tomb in Beijing; the legend of the Fragrant Concubine first became closely associated with the Kashgar tomb in the late 19th century, and the connection has since been officially established and endorsed through a proliferation of signs and guided tours.[citation needed]
Source Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fragran...
The Novel "The Fragrant concubine" by Melissa Addey
Writer Melissa Addey wondered how both legends could be so vastly different even when you consider the political implications of the era. She wondered if there could be a version in which both are true.
In the story Iparhan is a Muslim princess who sees her country invaded by the Chinese on the eve of her wedding and in no time she looses her home and her parents. Longing to take revenge on the emperor she hopes to swap places with a cousin who is sent to the Chinese court as a concubine for the emperor. But when that is no longer possible she captures a beggar girl who looks remarkably like her.
Someone once said that revenge is a double-edged sword. Her drive for revenge turns Iparhan into a crazy woman, I think, who destroys everyone who cares for her, and becomes a ruthless killer.
The girl she captures is dead poor and in the beginning does not object that much to the idea of a life in luxury but then is more and more scared by the madwoman.
Things get really complicated when Hidligh is at court and realises she loves the emperor and made good friends and wants to do everything to keep them save but on the other hand will lose her own life if it ever comes clear she was send to the palace to spy. The result is a very thrilling tale with dangers lurking everywhere.
I am not so familiar with Chinese history so the whole setting was intriguing as well. The Forbidden City is nothing like a Middle Eastern harem: all the concubines have their own palaces and most of the time the emperor will come to have dinner there and some horizontal sport. The women are also less secluded. What sounded so alien to me was that one's name changed with promotions and the emperor was not mentioned by his name after he had become emperor.
Life could be tragic or blissfull depending on what the women wanted: some are completely forgotten by the emperor and really lonely and miserable others share a happy lesbian life glad he is not paying them any attention. Others cling to power because the want their child to be the next emperor. Or like the Empress and Hidligh are in love with the man but that is not necessary mutual.
In the end the writer composed the solution for both legends.
I really liked the novel. The story is thrilling and nerve-racking and the cultural setting is interesting.
A 5 stars out of 5.
March 21, 2019
He has conquered another kingdom and wants one woman for his harem. They want revenge so they make a real with her to act as a spy. She does it but when she meets him for the first time she starts to call in love. What will happen? Will they get revenge? Will she fall in love? See what will happen
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Want to read
April 24, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/24/2021)! 🎁
November 12, 2015
The Fragrant Concubine is a wonderfully detailed historical novel set in China during the eighteenth century. It expertly blends fact and legend together to create a fascinating look at the court of the Qianlong Emperor through the eyes of a street girl who - due to the plotting of an obsessed noblewoman - becomes one of the most feted concubines in the Empire. This was a period of history I was entirely ignorant of prior to reading the book, but the world is conveyed in such rich colour that it made me want to read more about it. By the end I was sorry to be saying goodbye to Hidligh, and was pleased to read in the afterword that Addey is planning another volume focusing on an earlier court.
December 31, 2018
From a Turkestan Beggar to Imperial China c. 1760
This is a book of historical fiction during the Chinese expansion of 1760. The book is accurate as far as historical markers and the author has taken pains to make the story plausible. The richness of the royal life is fully detailed, as well as the discrepancy between the classes. I have read many novels about ancient China and this one is one of the best of this time period. I received this book for free and this is my honest review.
This is a book of historical fiction during the Chinese expansion of 1760. The book is accurate as far as historical markers and the author has taken pains to make the story plausible. The richness of the royal life is fully detailed, as well as the discrepancy between the classes. I have read many novels about ancient China and this one is one of the best of this time period. I received this book for free and this is my honest review.
April 9, 2017
This was a very engrossing read. I loved each fully developed character especially Hidligh. Her love of the emperor was well done. I could not put this one down and felt transported into each scene with descriptions of the court and the Forbidden City. Highly recommend this one.
November 15, 2018
Omg💞💞
I Loved this book this is the first I have read by this author but I will be reading more I just couldn't put this book down it draws you in and when its over you just want more of it... A few misspelled words other than that Great Book. 💕💕
I Loved this book this is the first I have read by this author but I will be reading more I just couldn't put this book down it draws you in and when its over you just want more of it... A few misspelled words other than that Great Book. 💕💕
June 5, 2022
First, the good: The book uses facts and legends about a concubine in 18th century China and weaves a story around the rather minimal info available. It is a place and period in history that has received little attention, and offers a peek behind the veils of the life of a court concubine. This is why I bought the book and I found it enlightening.
The Bad (and it is a big bad): The plot centers on a most unbelievable premise that spins out in further implausible, far fetched, and bizarre directions. Nearly every page I found myself saying:"Really?!" Just a brief sampling of these:
A street girl near starvation is picked out who is has the appearance of an identical twin to the scheming woman seeking revenge and revolt against the Emperor. Schemer, however, has a nasty scar down her face, but she can cosmetically cover it and also duplicate it on the street girl and no one can tell the difference.
This ignorant street girl is taught poetry, language, manners, dress, protocols, gestures and postures of the court--in several months.
The boyfriend of the schemer becomes a master cook of hundreds of recipes in two weeks and oh, by the away, poses as eunuch and gets into the palace. And so on, and so on.
18th century Kashgar. Hidligh has only ever wanted safety and a full belly. On the street and living hand-to-mouth, the beautiful young woman is rapidly running out of any option but prostitution. So when she’s abducted by a Muslim noblewoman, she has little choice but to agree to the deal she’s offered: pose as a concubine to the Emperor of China and act as a spy.
Reaching the Forbidden City and working hard to win over her eunuchs and the other concubines, she succeeds in gaining the monarch’s affections. But as her shadowy “benefactor” loses patience, Hidligh finds herself entangled in a deadly web of vengeance and assassination.
With the fate of the Qing Dynasty hanging in the balance, is the Emperor right to fall in love with Hidligh? Or is his life in danger? And with secrets piling up around her and growing feelings for the Emperor, is Hidligh in too deep?
The Fragrant Concubine is the enthralling second book in the Forbidden City historical fiction series. Inspired by the mythology that grew up around a real woman, if you enjoy romance, suspense and a chance to see inside an extraordinary imperial court, you’ll be gripped by Melissa Addey’s absorbing novel.
The Bad (and it is a big bad): The plot centers on a most unbelievable premise that spins out in further implausible, far fetched, and bizarre directions. Nearly every page I found myself saying:"Really?!" Just a brief sampling of these:
A street girl near starvation is picked out who is has the appearance of an identical twin to the scheming woman seeking revenge and revolt against the Emperor. Schemer, however, has a nasty scar down her face, but she can cosmetically cover it and also duplicate it on the street girl and no one can tell the difference.
This ignorant street girl is taught poetry, language, manners, dress, protocols, gestures and postures of the court--in several months.
The boyfriend of the schemer becomes a master cook of hundreds of recipes in two weeks and oh, by the away, poses as eunuch and gets into the palace. And so on, and so on.
18th century Kashgar. Hidligh has only ever wanted safety and a full belly. On the street and living hand-to-mouth, the beautiful young woman is rapidly running out of any option but prostitution. So when she’s abducted by a Muslim noblewoman, she has little choice but to agree to the deal she’s offered: pose as a concubine to the Emperor of China and act as a spy.
Reaching the Forbidden City and working hard to win over her eunuchs and the other concubines, she succeeds in gaining the monarch’s affections. But as her shadowy “benefactor” loses patience, Hidligh finds herself entangled in a deadly web of vengeance and assassination.
With the fate of the Qing Dynasty hanging in the balance, is the Emperor right to fall in love with Hidligh? Or is his life in danger? And with secrets piling up around her and growing feelings for the Emperor, is Hidligh in too deep?
The Fragrant Concubine is the enthralling second book in the Forbidden City historical fiction series. Inspired by the mythology that grew up around a real woman, if you enjoy romance, suspense and a chance to see inside an extraordinary imperial court, you’ll be gripped by Melissa Addey’s absorbing novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2019
I must say that this is my favourite book in the Forbidden City Series, set in China in 17th century, revolving around the life within the walls. I loved it more because this book gives us a look into two very different cultures, not just one, and in the beginning of the book we travel through the marketplace and streets of Kashgar with a starving street rat called Hidligh, and through the desert wastes of Altishahr where our story starts to become captivating. Poor Hidligh falls into the hands of Iparhan, who is a rebel of the White Mountain Brotherhood, and who has just experienced the death of all her family at the hands of the conquering Emperor who has now taken their land and made it his. She has vowed to get revenge against the Emperor and uses Hadligh, who is her perfect double to do so. From hereon the story takes on a real edge of the seat thrilling read which I could not put down till the last line was read. Totally enthralled by the descriptions of the Forbidden city behind its red walls, the life the many women of the emperor lead surrounded by eunuchs and servants in the lap of luxury, wanting for nothing but their freedom! The jealousy and backstabbing between the women all rivalling each other for status, where everything is taken to extreme, and the boredom of their days spent waiting on the pleasure of one man, the Son of Heaven. Iparhan knows no bounds and will stop at nothing to get her revenge, she is an embittered, full of hatred character, using even her betrothed Nurmat, to gain her evil ends. Hidligh thinks she is only going to be a concubine to the Emperor who she will probably hardly ever even see, but that at least she would have a roof over her head and as much food to eat as she wanted, never expecting things to turn out the way they did. As always Melissa Addey writes from the heart and carries us, her readers with her on these exotic experiences of far off lands and ancient times captivating us with her beautiful writing.
October 2, 2025
This covered an area of history that I am not as knowledgeable about- China’s early conquests of Mongolia and other neighbouring countries were something I’ve only read about briefly, but this brought a small notion of that to life.
The original story is that a Muslim girl was given to the emperor as a concubine after he had colonised her lands and the story goes that they fell in love. This is of course fiction and so was based off assumptions.
The main idea of the story is a body swap trope. We have Irphan who is the Muslim girl whose family was killed by the emperor and is hellbent on revenge. We then have Hidligh who looks exactly like Irphan and is a plant for Irphan to get close to the emperor. But of course, Hidligh falls in love and protests against Irphan’s revenge.
It’s a tense book between these two characters and the author does a wonderful job of maintaining the tension all the way to the end. I found I couldn’t put it down or I was thinking about what was going to happen when I couldn’t read it. My only frustration was that it was so tense- I wanted more of the romance!
The original story is that a Muslim girl was given to the emperor as a concubine after he had colonised her lands and the story goes that they fell in love. This is of course fiction and so was based off assumptions.
The main idea of the story is a body swap trope. We have Irphan who is the Muslim girl whose family was killed by the emperor and is hellbent on revenge. We then have Hidligh who looks exactly like Irphan and is a plant for Irphan to get close to the emperor. But of course, Hidligh falls in love and protests against Irphan’s revenge.
It’s a tense book between these two characters and the author does a wonderful job of maintaining the tension all the way to the end. I found I couldn’t put it down or I was thinking about what was going to happen when I couldn’t read it. My only frustration was that it was so tense- I wanted more of the romance!
July 13, 2021
I love this historical series from Melissa Addey!! I love all her books!! This is the second book in this four book series,The Fragrant Concubine.. Follow the lives ,the lives the herself the concubine as they learn to live and survive behind the four walls of this fantastic empire and the ways how they are to live ,love and die!! In this story it's about the Qing Dynasty,this girl of nothing but to have everything only to become a concubine and spy on the comings and goings on the Forbidden City and face danger and vengeance of the others not knowing who to trust... Exciting and much history in this story where you are out into this world of excitement and danger and riches and so many secrets!!! It's a must read especially if you are like myself wanting to know the secrets and loves of what goes on in this old age China and the beautiful history of this country and it's traditions. On to book three in this. series..
February 16, 2025
A solid 4 stars!
This was a well researched historical novel on the fictionalized lives of a (real) muslim concubine to the Qianlong Emperor of China in 1700s.
I liked how the author mixed historical fact, folklore and rumour to create a very engaging novel that feels more like a fantasy read rather than historical fiction.
The story starts a little slow, but around the 20% mark the plot takes speed and never slows down again wich makes the book hard to put down.
The characters were fine, not terribly flehsed-out but not cardboard either. Hidligh is a nice protagonist, but I think the star of the show is Iparhan. She really is a nuanced villain, making me hate her, even though her back story should have me rooting for her. I did not like her ending though, it felt kind of anti-climatic and out of character for her. For everybody, really. The ending felt kind of rushed on itself.
Anyways, I recommed!
This was a well researched historical novel on the fictionalized lives of a (real) muslim concubine to the Qianlong Emperor of China in 1700s.
I liked how the author mixed historical fact, folklore and rumour to create a very engaging novel that feels more like a fantasy read rather than historical fiction.
The story starts a little slow, but around the 20% mark the plot takes speed and never slows down again wich makes the book hard to put down.
The characters were fine, not terribly flehsed-out but not cardboard either. Hidligh is a nice protagonist, but I think the star of the show is Iparhan. She really is a nuanced villain, making me hate her, even though her back story should have me rooting for her. I did not like her ending though, it felt kind of anti-climatic and out of character for her. For everybody, really. The ending felt kind of rushed on itself.
Anyways, I recommed!
March 30, 2025
Well Researched Historical Fiction
Years ago, historical fiction was my favorite genre, but I'd gotten away from it. Recently, though, I'd become addicted to watching Chinese historical drama, so this book, set in the Quianlong empire, caught my interest. Although there is minimal historical information available for the time period, the author researched her subject meticulously, and her notes at the end of the novel add even more flesh to the story. The character of Hidligh, who becomes Lady He, the concubine, is perhaps the most three-dimensional of anyone in the story; Iparhan is almost a caricature of a villain, though. The one portion of the story that rang completely false for me was Despite this one flaw, I enjoyed the story very well.
Years ago, historical fiction was my favorite genre, but I'd gotten away from it. Recently, though, I'd become addicted to watching Chinese historical drama, so this book, set in the Quianlong empire, caught my interest. Although there is minimal historical information available for the time period, the author researched her subject meticulously, and her notes at the end of the novel add even more flesh to the story. The character of Hidligh, who becomes Lady He, the concubine, is perhaps the most three-dimensional of anyone in the story; Iparhan is almost a caricature of a villain, though. The one portion of the story that rang completely false for me was Despite this one flaw, I enjoyed the story very well.
April 17, 2022
This novel is not great literature, but it is fascinating in its detailed descriptions of places and times; for example, the incredibly lavish decorations on the concubines, clothing and hair, the ranks and rituals of a royal court. It takes a legend and makes it seem real through the eyes of an intelligent and sensitive main character- her experiences of deprivation living on the streets of her native country, her astonishment at the abundance of finery, beauty and pleasures of her new life in the Emperor's court, the ever looming threat of rivalries and of her double, the fear of the discovery of her true identity, all the while growing in grace and learning to love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2022
Beautifully written story!
I knew nothing about this period of Chinese history and it’s social structure. This is a fascinating look at life within the royal palace that touches on the lives, hopes and dreams of all the concubines and even the maids and eunuchs that served their every need. It is also a love story about a young concubine that falls deeply in love with the emperor. There were lots of twists and turns in the story and was a very fine story. Highly recommended!
I knew nothing about this period of Chinese history and it’s social structure. This is a fascinating look at life within the royal palace that touches on the lives, hopes and dreams of all the concubines and even the maids and eunuchs that served their every need. It is also a love story about a young concubine that falls deeply in love with the emperor. There were lots of twists and turns in the story and was a very fine story. Highly recommended!
June 19, 2025
The story continues with the Emperor conquering a new territory and one rebel wants revenge for her people. She kidnaps a street urchin who resembles her and teaches her manners and how to make herself into a woman that the Emperor wants. Plan is moving along nicely until the rebel
decides she wants to kill the Emperor now but the street urchin now called Lady He- has fallen in love with the Emperor. Go figure! Lots of juggling for position within the court and it’s “ladies”. Happy ending and the bad guys lose the fight!
decides she wants to kill the Emperor now but the street urchin now called Lady He- has fallen in love with the Emperor. Go figure! Lots of juggling for position within the court and it’s “ladies”. Happy ending and the bad guys lose the fight!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2020
Ok Book 2 is what I've been waiting for!
I started to read this next book in the series with apprehension and low expectations. Book 1 left me wanting. Book 2 was engaging, intriguing and suspenseful. I bought into the characters and was interested in their lives. What a tale! All right on to Book 3.
I started to read this next book in the series with apprehension and low expectations. Book 1 left me wanting. Book 2 was engaging, intriguing and suspenseful. I bought into the characters and was interested in their lives. What a tale! All right on to Book 3.
September 17, 2022
It’s been a while since I have given 5 stars to a book but this one has it all. Fast-paced, historically viable (although not probable but that’s OK), engaging characters, interesting premise and good writing style. In addition it was free on Kindle unlimited. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
April 26, 2019
Excellent Book
This is an excellent book. It is a romance and a mystery - I read every page, wondering what would happen next and how the story would end. If you read this book, you will not be disappointed!
This is an excellent book. It is a romance and a mystery - I read every page, wondering what would happen next and how the story would end. If you read this book, you will not be disappointed!
November 30, 2019
Mesmerizing
Realistic court life and Manchurian royalty serve lavishly on this tale of love, intrigue, deception, romance and joy. This author puts me there in the palace to witness each act!
Realistic court life and Manchurian royalty serve lavishly on this tale of love, intrigue, deception, romance and joy. This author puts me there in the palace to witness each act!
December 2, 2019
Fascinating tale of Manchu China
Fascinating tale of Manchu China and a concubine from conquered lands. Life in the Forbidden City for women chosen to serve the emperor is revealed in a detailed story .
Fascinating tale of Manchu China and a concubine from conquered lands. Life in the Forbidden City for women chosen to serve the emperor is revealed in a detailed story .
February 8, 2020
Excellent
I greatly enjoyed this romance with its look into early Manchurian Chinese history, its insight into the Forbidden City, and the lives of the concubine and eunuchs. Great story.
I greatly enjoyed this romance with its look into early Manchurian Chinese history, its insight into the Forbidden City, and the lives of the concubine and eunuchs. Great story.
April 30, 2021
Fascinating
I truly don’t rate books 5 stars very often and I don’t necessarily consider this the best written book of all time but the plot was very interesting to me and kept me engaged the whole time I wish the ending had been better though.
I truly don’t rate books 5 stars very often and I don’t necessarily consider this the best written book of all time but the plot was very interesting to me and kept me engaged the whole time I wish the ending had been better though.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews