THE BRIDGE OF HEAVEN

A quaint and exotic and elusively charming novel of customs, history of the last of the Empire of China and narrative with innocent appeal. The changing scene, the reforms, revolts, social and political complexions, against which characters typical of the times play their very human, sometimes amusing parts -- all handled daftly and with an astute showmanship. Remember Lady Precious Stream? This again proves Mr. Helung's rare gift. The story is of one Ta Tung, adopted and then cast off by miserly Li Mink, but befriended by Li Ming's brother. He marries Lotus Fragrance, advances from obscurity to political circles, from the provinces to the capitol. His ex-adopted brother rises to power, while Ta Tung is exiled, leaving Lotus Fragrance behind, to bear their daughter.....A special item for a special market.