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.

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.

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

Yangsze Choo

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read The Ghost Bride | SuperSummary

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Overview

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The Ghost Bride Summary

Background

The Ghost Bride Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Malaya, 1893”

Part 1, Chapters 1-10

The Ghost Bride Part 1, Chapters 1-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Afterworld”

Part 2, Chapters 11-19

The Ghost Bride Part 2, Chapters 11-19 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Plains of the Dead”

Part 3, Chapters 20-30

The Ghost Bride Part 3, Chapters 20-30 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Malacca”

Part 4, Chapters 31-40

The Ghost Bride Part 4, Chapters 31-40 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Ghost Bride Character Analysis

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Themes

The Ghost Bride Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Ghost Bride Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Ghost Bride Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Ghost Bride Essay Topics

The Ghost Bride

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Ghost Bride?

Reading Age

Book Details