In 1708, exiled Chinese librarian Li Du arrives in Dayan, near the border of China and Tibet, preparing to leave behind his native land forever. He learns that a grand festival is being prepared because the Chinese Emperor—considered a god—would be arriving soon in order to command an eclipse of the sun.
A Jesuit priest is murdered soon after Li Du’s arrival. Though he has no intention of getting involved in solving the mystery, unforeseen circumstances propel Li Du into the role of chief detective.
Jade Dragon Mountain invites readers into a world of lush detail, portraying China’s geography, culture, history, and relationship to the West in the early eighteenth century. Intriguing, well-developed characters make this combination mystery and historical novel an enjoyable, enlightening page-turner. (Minotaur Books)
About the Author
Sonya VanderVeen Feddema is a freelance writer and a member of Covenant CRC in St. Catharines, Ontario.