The Book and the Sword. Records of Kindness and Hatred. Volume 1

First time in Russian! “The Book and the Sword” is the legendary wuxia novel by master of Chinese historical fantasy Jin Yong. The author is rightfully called one of the pillars of the “wuxia tripod”: record print runs, dozens of films and TV series, and video games created from the plots of his works have brought Jin Yong worldwide fame.

The story of “The Book and the Sword” takes place in the Qing dynasty era during the reign of the emperor Qianlong (1735–1796). The main plot line is built around the power struggle between the emperor and the Red Flower Order, whose activities are aimed at overthrowing the Manchu government of the Qing. All members of the Order, led by the noble Chen Jialuo, are celebrated martial arts masters for whom any injustice immediately becomes a call to action. They come to help an Islamic tribe and return the sacred book for Muslims—the Quran—kidnapped by mercenaries. As thanks, the leader’s daughter, the beauty Huo Qingtong, gives Chen Jialuo an unusual dagger, whose secret he still has to uncover.

The author skillfully weaves together the stories of fictional and real historical figures (Emperor Qianlong, commander Zhao Huí, “fragrant consort” Xiangfei—an inspiration for Princess Qasili), making readers empathize with the heroes and follow the plot’s development without losing a thread. The eternal battle of good and evil, flawless kung fu, a lost city in the desert, the emperor’s origins mystery, and the brave actions of the Red Flower Order—love and revenge are only part of what you’ll find in “The Book and the Sword.”