Since I was young, I’ve often explored the Cheung Po-Tsai Cave on Cheung Chau Island in Hong Kong. Of course, I didn’t stumble upon any pirate treasure. Yet the tale of the pirate king Cheung Po-Tsai and his wife has captivated my imagination and inspired me to write this Dual-time Odyssey series. This is Book 3.
The period of Chinese history in Book 3 is complex and challenging to portray. At times, I wondered if I’d taken on more than I could handle. I tried not to focus on the details of the rise and fall of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. Instead, I explored the common human trait of seeking purpose and justice, regardless of our era or circumstances.
I wrote the book using two distinct voices. This is my third attempt at such an endeavor. Readers will notice different writing styles for the past and present timelines.
Note:
The writing in the chapters about the 1800s sounds European and not Asian. My challenge lies in the fact that, despite having studied numerous ancient Chinese texts, I’ve not encountered any books from nineteenth-century China penned in English. I have, however, become well acquainted with nineteenth-century English literature, particularly through the works of Jane Austen, my favorite author.
