Eight stars
Any reader looking for an epic, multi-generational story about a city or region need search no further than Edward Rutherfurd. His latest novel takes on one of the most intense settings to date, tackling China and all its history. Rutherfurd confines his narrative time beginning in the mid-19th century, but loses none of the intensity or historical impact. The Great Dynasty is better understood in Rutherfurd's writing and keeps the reader hooked throughout. Stunning in its delivery and full of powerful history, Edward Rutherfurd proves his mettle with this epic novel.
China's power could not be denied in 1839, as the First Opium War pushed across Asia. The British may have a powerful hand on parts of the continent, but it was China's control of opium that could not be ignored. Trade hinged on control of trading routes and the most sought-after items, of which opium was surely a key. Pitting the three major world powers—China, Britain, and America—against one another to control opium, Rutherfurd explores how they were able to deceive one another while pushing an addictive substance onto the masses.
As time progresses, exploration of China's deeply-rooted dynastic adherence and tradition of cultural castes, as well as some of the key roles within the Emperor's own court. From generational traditionalism to household roles, and even the place of eunuchs in the larger power structure, Rutherfurd shows the mentality of the Chinese and how set rules trumped any outside progress as the world changed. Those not entirely familiar with the traditions will likely scratch their heads, but it is the intricacies of each tradition and the detail to which they are described that makes their adherence better understood. These are surely the building blocks of the Chinese mentality of long-standing belief, though the reader can see that they hold a larger and more revered purpose as well.
By the 20th century, power bases were changing, but the Chinese were more concerned with their own internal structure, all without lagging behind. Power remained internalised, but this would help the Chinese to prepare for outside change, with politics emerging as a key wind for change. China's fight to control its political future came to a head with the Boxer Rebellion, which would surely help usher in a new movement and create an appetite for increased power. While Mao was still little known, there is little doubt that he had begun planning what would be his epic revolution of the country.
There is no doubt that Edward Rutherfurd is at the top of his game in this multi-generational piece of historical fiction. While my review explored some of the larger themes and did not delve into specific characters, the reader can rest assured that much of the teaching done in this tome is through the vast array of fictional characters. Rutherfurd offers up some stellar narrative flow and provides excellent character development, all while keeping numerous storylines in tact. There is something about this type of storytelling, tandem narrative that do not regularly intermesh, that keeps the reader on their toes throughout. There is no doubt that the many plot developments and twists throughout will entertain and educate the reader in equal measure, leaving much to the imagination as time progresses. Rutherfurd's detailed research and intricate placement of many of these stories cannot be ignored, nor should they be dismissed. While I remember waiting so long for the publication of this book, I can see now that the delays were well worth it, as Rutherfurd provides something as powerful as it is beautiful. China's history is so much more than the communist state that provides a strong counterbalance to the capitalism many Westerners have become accustomed to in their own countries. The richness of the beliefs and strength of the various perspectives leaves readers in awe and has me wondering what is next in Rutherfurd's vast array of multi-generational novels.
Kudos, Mr. Rutherfurd, for making the long way all the more worthwhile.
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