Title: The Wild Orchid: A Retelling of The Ballad of Mulan
Author: Cameron Dokey
First published February 10, 2009
224 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781416971689 (ISBN10: 1416971688)
Rating: 3.87
Overview
Travel back in time to ancient China where a fearless and skilled warrior, Mulan, sets out to save her aging father and bring honor to her family. Disguised as a man, Mulan joins the emperor’s army and embarks on a journey full of challenges and self-discovery.
But amidst the chaos of war, Mulan finds an unexpected friendship and romance with her division’s commander, Prince Jian. Will Mulan’s secret identity and growing feelings for the prince be revealed?
Follow Mulan’s journey of bravery, loyalty, and love in this timeless retelling of The Ballad of Mulan by Cameron Dokey.
About the Author
Meet Cameron Dokey, an accomplished American author who currently resides in Seattle, Washington. Her love for literature and mythology was instilled in her at a young age by her father, Richard, who was a teacher of Philosophy, Creative Writing, and Western Literature.
In her free time, Cameron enjoys indulging in her collection of over 50 old sci-fi and horror films.
Cameron’s passion for writing has led her to become the author of over a dozen young adult novels. Among her favorite books is J.R.R. Tolkien’s trilogy, “The Lord of the Rings,” while her go-to TV show is “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.”
Aside from writing, Cameron finds pleasure in gardening and is currently learning how to quilt. She shares her home with her husband and three beloved cats.
Editoral Review
Cameron Dokey’s The Wild Orchid is a beautifully written retelling of The Ballad of Mulan that will captivate readers from beginning to end. First published on February 10, 2009, the book is a testament to the author’s talent for blending history, culture, and fantasy seamlessly.
The Wild Orchid tells the story of Mulan, a young woman who disguises herself as a man to replace her ailing father in the army. As she navigates the dangerous terrain of the battlefield, Mulan also grapples with her desire to stay true to herself while fulfilling what she perceives as her duty to her family and country.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its unique perspective on the Ballad of Mulan. Dokey expertly brings the ancient Chinese legend to life with her vivid descriptions of the characters, setting, and conflicts.
The book’s pacing is also excellent, with Dokey deftly building tension as Mulan navigates a world dominated by men. Mulan is a fleshed-out, complex character with relatable struggles, and her journey to self-discovery is both inspiring and thought-provoking.
Dokey’s writing is lush and atmospheric, immersing readers in a world of ancient China that feels both authentic and magical. The author’s attention to detail is impressive, making The Wild Orchid a genuinely immersive reading experience.
The book’s themes of identity, duty, and courage are timeless and resonate with readers of all ages. The story’s historical and cultural significance is also noteworthy, as it serves as a reminder of the struggles and achievements of women in ancient China.
Despite its many strengths, The Wild Orchid does have some limitations. The book’s plot may feel familiar to readers who are familiar with the original Ballad of Mulan, and occasional pacing issues may result in moments of repetition or slowing down of the narrative.
Additionally, some of the supporting characters lack depth and development, making it challenging to connect with their struggles. Overall, The Wild Orchid is a highly recommended read for fans of historical fiction and fairy tale retellings.
Cameron Dokey’s masterful storytelling, combined with her stunning descriptions, make this book a delight to read. The Wild Orchid deftly combines fantasy elements with history and culture, creating a vibrant world that readers will not soon forget.
The Washington Post gives The Wild Orchid a well-deserved rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
