60 pages • 2 hours read
The Ghost Bride
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Book Brief
400
Novel • Fiction
Malacca, Malaysia • 1890s
2013
Adult
18+ years
810L
Super Short Summary
In The Ghost Bride by Yangsze Choo, set in colonial Malacca in 1893, Li Lan, the daughter of a once-respected family, is asked to become a "ghost bride" to a deceased son of a wealthy family to help her family's financial woes. Despite her reluctance, Li Lan is drawn into the spirit world, uncovering dark secrets, seeking justice, and navigating complex relationships, ultimately finding love and her true path. The book references suicide, self-harm, and drug use.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Romantic
Melancholic
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
39,427 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Yangsze Choo's The Ghost Bride weaves an enthralling tale set in 1890s Malaya, rich in cultural and supernatural elements. Reviewers laud its vivid world-building and unique premise blending Chinese folklore and historical fiction. While the romantic subplot and pacing have received mixed reactions, the book's atmospheric charm and imaginative narrative are widely praised.
Who Should Read The Ghost Bride?
Readers who enjoy historical fiction mixed with supernatural elements and a dash of romance will find The Ghost Bride by Yangsze Choo captivating. Similar to Memoirs of a Geisha and The Night Circus, this novel appeals to those interested in culturally rich settings and mystical tales.
39,427 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Er Lang
Er Lang
A mysterious and enigmatic figure who assists Li Lan with his knowledge of the afterlife, bringing humor and depth to her journey with his unique perspective.
Fan
Fan
A ghost Li Lan meets in the afterlife, initially introduced as a character with strong personal desires, who complicates Li Lan's path with her overarching ambitions.
Lim Tian Ching
Lim Tian Ching
A spirit who haunts Li Lan with intentions of marriage, whose presence sparks conflict and mystery revolving around his untimely death.
Yan Hong
Yan Hong
The eldest daughter of the Lim family, whose actions and family connections provide key narrative developments and insights into family and societal dynamics.
400
Novel • Fiction
Malacca, Malaysia • 1890s
2013
Adult
18+ years
810L
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