Alice Poon finds inspiration in her passion for Chinese poetry, history, and legends. She dedicates her writing career to bringing to life the stories of unsung, iconic women from Chinese history. Her works explore these compelling figures with a deep understanding of their eras and customs.
The novel follows the destinies of three late-Ming courtesans, from the seamy world of girl trafficking and slavery to the cultured scene of poetry, music and theatre in Qinhuai, the decadent pleasure district of Nanjing.
With the fate of East Asia hanging in the balance, one Mongolian woman manipulates her lovers, sons and grandsons through war and upheaval to create an empire that lasted for 250 years.