The House of Doors by Tan Twan Eng
Kuala Lumpur and Penang in 1910 and the 1920s, Dr Sun Yat-sen, Chinese revolutionary and founder of the Republic of China, together with the life of W Somerset Maughan are the backbone of this fictional but fact-based story. Add to that a real life whodunnit, romantic intrigue (homo and heterosexual) and a study of marriage and relationships in general, and you have a very accomplished book. Sun Yat Sen (d. 1925) spent much time in Hertfordshire at the Cottered country home of his lifelong supporter and life-saver, the physician, Sir James Cantlie. The 100th anniversary of his death was commemorated at the Cottered Parish Church of St John the Baptist.
(Ros Cook - bwl 119 Winter 2026 ) |
