Robert S. Elegant
Robert S. Elegant was an American author and journalist known for his works on Asia, particularly China and Hong Kong. He wrote both fiction and non-fiction, and his career spanned several decades, during which he received numerous accolades for his insightful and detailed writing.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Dynasty
Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing China, this sweeping historical saga chronicles the rise and fall of a powerful family over several generations. The narrative intricately weaves together themes of ambition, love, betrayal, and resilience as it follows the family's journey from humble beginnings to immense wealth and influence. As political upheavals and societal transformations unfold, the characters navigate personal and collective challenges, revealing the complexities of loyalty and the relentless pursuit of power. This epic tale offers a vivid portrayal of a nation's tumultuous history through the lens of one family's enduring legacy.
The 17008th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. Manchu
Set against the backdrop of 19th-century China, this historical novel weaves a tale of political intrigue, cultural clashes, and personal ambition. The story follows the rise of a young Manchu prince navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing empire, where traditional values are challenged by Western influences and internal strife. As he grapples with loyalty, love, and power, the prince's journey reflects the broader struggles of a nation on the brink of transformation, capturing the essence of a pivotal era in Chinese history.
The 17008th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
3. Mandarin
Set against the backdrop of 19th-century China, this historical novel weaves a tale of political intrigue, cultural clashes, and personal ambition. The story follows the journey of a young Englishman who becomes deeply entangled in the complex world of Chinese politics and society. As he navigates through the opium trade, diplomatic tensions, and the intricacies of the Qing Dynasty, he finds himself torn between his Western upbringing and the allure of the East. Through richly detailed settings and a cast of compelling characters, the narrative explores themes of loyalty, power, and the transformative impact of cultural exchange.
The 17008th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
4. From A Far Land
Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous Boxer Rebellion in China, this historical novel weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and cultural clash. The story follows the journey of a young American woman who travels to China to join her missionary parents, only to find herself entangled in the political and social upheaval of the time. As she navigates the complexities of a foreign land, she encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motives and secrets, leading to a gripping narrative that explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the impact of imperialism.
The 17008th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon