This book showcases how the Chinese Exclusion Acts 1882 effected the lives of Mei-Lin, her family, and other Chinese who lived in the Seattle area at that time. The author depicted instances of racial injustices, but could only expound on those issues at surface level through Mei-Lin's perspective. Because of this, the book displayed stock encounters and predictable reactions which seemed unbelievable and made me wonder if the author employed a sensitivity writer. The subject matter seemed out of depth for the author as well. Usual tropes that accompany interracial relationships between White men and Asian women arose as well. The pros of the novel were it was set on Orcas Island (a lovely place), and encouraged me to dig in the actual events circling around the Chinese Exclusion Acts of 1882.

I loved this book. I learned a lot about the Chinese immigrants especially in the Pacific Northwest and the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 which I had never heard of. I think this book captures the feelings very well of the two main women characters - I felt like I was right there with them. I also liked the idea of using an embroidered robe to relate part of the story. Very sad but beautiful story!

Great story. I loved that it was set in the PNW and was so educational. Heartbreaking but a good portrayal of history. Fun read.

A tear jerker! The author did a good job of conveying race relations between Chinese and European Americans at the time. Although the plot can be predictable at times, it's based on historical events so it shouldn't come as a surprise. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Interesting premise, but the storyline was predictable with overly convenient plot twists and uninspired writing. And, shouldn't the protagonist be a "woman", not a "girl"? She was a mother, after all.

A friend recommended I read this for the family history research in its plot and our shared love of textiles.

This is the author’s debut novel although an interview in my paperback copy says she’s written several romance novels. I kept feeling she’d not quite left that genre behind her. Too predictable for me although I enjoyed some aspects of it.

This is a wonderful read - the local aspect makes it even more appealing and it is obviously well researched. If you are a fan of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet you will undoubtedly enjoy this book!

Good captivating story based on true events. Love the back and forth from the 1800's to modern day.

The story of two girls, separated by race and time, both searching for freedom, acceptance and love whose histories finally collide in a tale of hatred, racism, love and forgiveness. A very good read.

Every new ethic group has experienced racial prejudices born to ignorance in the US. The courage it takes to survive is such a hostile environment is a part of US history. It's not just about the white Europeans that settled here. This book is an eye-opener.