[ccowie]

I must say that I too am really enjoying this book. I'm woefully ignorant of the history of the region so I'm appreciating all that I'm learning. I found some of the simple descriptions of the opium wars, precipitating factors and fallout really helpful. The author really doesn't get too bogged down in unnecessary historical detail or include a hundred characters I can't keep track of.

I also find the Cersai connection to be an interesting one. I wouldn't have thought of that, but I can see a lot of character similarities.

I just finished the lengthy description of her scheme to ensure a daily supply of human breast milk for her tea - and so soon after reading The Grapes of Wrath! I think I'll take a break for a day and pick up a mystery novel.