This was an intriguing book that described a time, place and culture about which I knew little. I would have liked this book more if it had given more description of the Japanese, Chinese and Mongolian cultures of the time period. It was clearly a time of great change from the ancient to the modern and a broader view of society would have been helpful. The main character was not a very likable person but was never boring. She was, perhaps understandably, rather shallow. That being said, it was a very interesting story.

This was an easy book to read and an enjoyable one. Some of it rang very true, especially the parts about living in a small community. However, I thought the resolutions of some of the situations were a little too pat. That being said, there were some very imaginative touches. I especially enjoyed reading about the grocery store contests!