A delicious brew of information on the history of tea cultivation and consumption in the Western world…a remarkably riveting tale. Booklist, (starred review)

Journalist Rose  is a rarity, an author who skillfully narrates her own lush work, capturing every nuance perfectly. Library Journal, (starred review)

Sarah Rose steeps us in the story of Robert Fortune. National Geographic Traveler

“Written in an engaging and lively tone, Sarah Rose’s book is as much an adventure story as a piece of history.” Catholic Herald

Bloggers are pouring on praise too, people not related to me and not paid to read my book:

You easily picture the movie version with its Indiana Jones for the botany set. Who knew tea could be so…hot? Food for Thought at Barnes&Noble

How often has the fate of empires hinged on botanists? … I think about the clash between cultures at that time, or orientalism and imperialism, or nationalism and profit, and am fascinated by a prospect of a person moving through that mix and escaping unharmed. (Denver Botanic Gardens)

… a surprising page-turner. This story is absolutely fascinating. (Basil and Spice)

Author Sarah Rose delves into the seductive past and retrieves the best, most aromatic leaves for our enjoyment. (Cineaste’s Bookshelf)

An exciting bit of historical adventure that’s an exciting read, reminding us that concerns over globalization and intellectual property are nothing new. (The Die is Cast)

Rose tells Fortune’s own dramatic story well. (Blogtrotter)

A “tea history” book for those who don’t like history, this book reads like a novel and will take you on a rollercoaster of a ride from first page to last. (Tea with Friends)

A fascinating tale….a good read for anyone who wishes to better understand one element that contributed to the building and destruction of empires or a reader who just wants a well written and entertaining read. (Civil War Novels)

Tea world, transformed forever.  (Tea Hawk)

I highly suggest taking a look at this scandalous slice of history….Tea lovers and history lovers: rejoice! (Newtonville Books)

A fascinating look at Fortune’s adventures, as well as an intimate look into the history of tea… I thoroughly enjoyed his tale. Rose is a compelling writer. (The Passionate Foodie)

A thrilling narrative that combines history, geography, botany, natural science, and old-fashioned adventure. (Birdbooker Report)

Not only is the narrative entertaining, but it’s also extremely informative.  I love learning something new.  For instance, did you know that black and green teas come from the same plant? (Collateral Bloggage)

The author has written a well-researched tale with the skill of a good story teller.  A delightful new book that both entertains and informs! (Silver Tips Tea Blog)

A wonderful example of what a historical book can be. (Review of the Scrolls)

The tea industry would never again be the same in the wake of the massive global changes brought about by British Empire-building. (Tea Writings)

Tea has a dirty, murderous, and unsavoury history, one that not too many people know about while reading their history books in school. (Learning About China for Children)

Hopefully readers of this book will not only be tea aficionados; the story and writing is sure to appeal to a wide variety of other readers as well. (Southwestern Vine Street)

Fascinating, and duly filed away for future inspiration for a story! (Rabia Gale)

Tea has a dirty, murderous, and unsavoury history. (Red Room)

Seems like the T-Ching likes Robert Fortune too - T Ching

“If you like tea (and presumably you do, or why would you be reading this blog?) go get it from your local library or bookshop or friend and read it.” – Tea For You and Me

Someone in Maine is pre-ordering her copy (ok, ok, so she’s a friend, but still…) - Travels With Hillary