This is the first book I have read by Richard Preston, and it was recommended to me by my professor. Reading this book, I was in awe. It was fascinating, intriguing, and even scary. This book shaped my interest in public health and its connection to the U.S. defense. The first part of the book focused on the influential mobilization of the Smallpox Eradication Program, while the second part focused on the 2001 Anthrax Attack. Some readers were confused as to why Richard Preston decided to group these two seemingly different topics together. However, it seems to me that the author is somewhat criticizing the U.S. government for its defense/preparedness in relation to biological weapons. The United States made such an important decision regarding the research and efforts on smallpox, however, the mere distribution of anthrax had shaken the entire country... Just something to think about. Overall, I really enjoyed Preston's writing. His background in article publications definitely influenced his descriptive interviews within this book. A fascinating read and highly recommended!

I read Tian Guan Ci Fu (TGCF) a while back, before the official licensed work. I really like the two main characters and their interactions, Xie Lian and Hua Cheng, as well as the side characters. The romance is nice, and this was definitely a plot-heavy read. It can get confusing at times due to the long timeline and flashbacks, as well as important character connections. With how long the entire series is, readers might have to read it all at once, re-read scenes, or take notes LOL. Overall, very nice!

Huang Jin Tai, or Golden Stage, was a lovely read. I read it a while back when ChiChilations provided its English translations. The sweet and bickering romance, the flashbacks, and their first meeting. The plot is also quite straightforward, and might be a little rushed near the end. This is one of my most favorite book, and I have enjoyed every scenes and interactions of the main characters.