Two Years in the Forbidden City by Princess Der Ling provides a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the imperial court in late Qing Dynasty China. The author's first-hand account as a lady-in-waiting to the Empress Dowager Cixi offers a unique perspective on the daily life and customs of the royal family.

Der Ling's vivid descriptions of the Forbidden City transport the reader back in time to a world of ornate palaces, elaborate ceremonies, and intricate court politics. Her intimate knowledge of the royal family and their relationships adds depth to the narrative, offering insights into the personal lives of some of the most powerful figures in Chinese history.

Despite its captivating subject matter, the book can be challenging to read at times due to its dense prose and occasional lack of clarity. Additionally, some readers may find Der Ling's perspective to be somewhat biased, as she was a loyal servant to the Empress Dowager Cixi.

Overall, Two Years in the Forbidden City is a valuable historical document that sheds light on a little-known aspect of Chinese culture. It is recommended for readers with an interest in Chinese history, court life, and the lives of royal women.

Book Description:

THE author of the following narrative has peculiar qualifications for her task. She is a daughter of Lord Yu Keng, a member of the Manchu White Banner Corps, and one of the most advanced and progressive Chinese officials of his generation. she became First Lady-in-Waiting to the Empress Dowager, and while serving at the Court in that capacity she received the impressions which provide the subject-matter of this book. Her opportunity to observe and estimate the characteristics of the remarkable woman who ruled China for so long was unique, and her narrative throws a new light on one of the most extraordinary personalities of modern times. Yielding to the urgent solicitation of friends, she consented to put some of her experiences into literary form, and the following chronicle, in which the most famous of Chinese women, the customs and atmosphere of her Court are portrayed by an intimate of the same race, is a result.