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My Splendid Concubine
No Westerner has ever achieved Robert Hart's status and level of power in China. During the nineteenth century, driven by a passion for his adopted country, Hart became the "godfather of China's modernism," inspector general of China's Customs Service, and the builder of China's railroads, postal and telegraph systems, and schools, but his first real love is Ayaou, a young concubine.
641 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2007
313 people are currently reading
825 people want to read
About the author
Lloyd Lofthouse
13 books27 followersLloyd joined the United States Marines and served in Vietnam in 1966 as a field radio operator. Soon after graduating with a BA in journalism from Fresno State University, California, Lloyd started teaching English, literature, reading and journalism in the public schools from 1975 to 2005. Along the way, he enjoyed working as a maitre d' in a multi-million dollar nightclub and taught himself to count cards where he made some money in Las Vegas. If Lloyd stuck to what he learned about counting cards, he always left Vegas with more money than he arrived with.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
December 9, 2012
Writing a book is hard. As a writer, I know how difficult it is to put the pen to paper and put what you have to say out there for the world to see and then be ripped apart. I try to be fair in my reviews and, even when they aren't very good, look for the positive and leave the choice of whether or not to read the book up to my readers. My reviews are my opinion - nothing more.
But sometimes, you come across a book that is so bad that it becomes a moral duty to spare others the pain of reading it. I really hate to go that far in a review, but this book is so bad I even feel bad for Lofthouse's wife. Let me explain.
My Splendid Concubine claims to be about how Robert Hart, one of the most important and influential Western men in Chinese history, kept his concubine, his one true love, a secret. As a customs officer in Ningpo, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou from 1854-1908, Robert Hart spent his life trying to keep the faltering Qing dynasty from going bankrupt. He was an Imperialist when most of the rest of the world wasn't (including most Chinese people). While the dynasty did fall in 1911, Hart was often referred to the only true Western friend of China. In short, Robert Hart is a fascinating individual who led an amazing life during one of the most dynamic times of Chinese history.
What the book is actually about, though, is the one year of Robert's life in China when he had two concubines - sisters. Which one is the splendid one? I have no idea.
Now, I have no problem with the book focusing on this one part of his long life. I like a good romance and to focus on the Victorian gentleman hiding away his secret Chinese lover sounded very exciting. The problem is the delivery. The book is extremely soft-core pornish. Almost every single page describes Hart's erection in some manner. Only a quarter of a way through the book I knew far more about Robert Hart's erections than any woman should, even his concubine(s). He is also described as a rather perverted individual (and not in a good way). The book is supposed to be about an epic love, yet Hart views every woman he sees only as an object of sexual desire. He has the uncanny ability to "feel the heat" of a woman simply by being in her presence, even if she is a 6-year old girl. He even lusts after his own sister, Mary, wishing they weren't blood related. He only meets one Western woman in the course of the book, and his description focuses solely on the woman's breasts. He does not see women as people (like he claims, repeatedly, ad nauseum), but as a collection of skin, breasts, wetness, and warmth.
Hart is also portrayed as a hypocrite with a superiority complex. He repeatedly says that be found the ownership of women to be wrong, yet he then proceeds to purchase two. This was OK in his mind because 1) he was in love, and 2) it was "more like a dowry," (even though in neither case the money went to the girls' father).
The "struggle" of Hart's religious upbringing clashing with his love of both his concubines is supposed to be the "poignant" part of Lofthouse's narrative. But, again, the delivery is a failure. The struggle is simple: Christians have one wife while the Chinese (can) have many. Just because someone is Chinese, it does not automatically mean they have many wives and concubines, but it is allowed and encouraged if one can afford it. But to be Christian, one may only have one wife - no exceptions. But rather than being either Christian or Chinese, Hart attempts to be both. In one of the most maddening and stupidly humorous expressions of this problem Hart says (in a paraphrase), 'wait, it isn't a preacher who is allowed to judge me; only God can tell me what to do,' even though Hart never has a discussion of multiple wives with the missionary preacher. The only person telling Hart that he can't love two women is his bible, the word of God. Even when God speaks, he doesn't listen. In fact, the only admonition the preacher actually gives him is that he should introduce the women to the bible. However, Hart refuses to do this because "then they might leave him." He realizes the bible is truth, but wants to break it's covenants for his own satisfaction. To do so he must keep his women in ignorance of the truth (possibly damning their immortal souls) just so he can keep them both in his possession and bed and fantasies. Throughout the book he makes bad decisions for his girls because of his own selfishness.
The overall structure of the book is also severely lacking. The book opens with Hart, in his 80s, going to see the Dowager Empress Cixi. He goes there to talk to her about the fact that he "had a concubine once." The book then flashes back to tell the tale. But the ending never goes back to the scene with the empress to explain why he would tell her this. You never find out which concubine is the "splendid" one. You never even find out who was trying to kill him for most of the book. There is no closure to this book. It was an obnoxious read with an abrupt and painful ending. There is a sequel, Our Hart: Elegy for a Concubine, but I really can't take any more of Lofthouse's writing.
The real pain of the book is the negative characterization of Hart. The perverted, selfish, idiotic representation in this book is the most unfair characterization of this influential man imaginable. It makes me want to write my own narrative of Hart's life just so salvage his reputation. I think I'll add that to my list of possible books to work on.
I really didn't know how this book was published until I realized that the forward was written by Anchee Min, Lofthouse's wife. Anchee Min is one of the most important writers of English Chinese literature today. I have several books written by her and have enjoyed her writing. I can only guess that Lofthouse was able to get his book published by riding his wife's coattails and I can just imagine poor Min having to grit through her teeth as she had to smile and say, "yeah, Lloyd, this book is great." Poor woman.
I'm not really sure how to rate this book as I can't give it anything less than one star, but that seems like a stark insult to any books that I have given two stars to.
But sometimes, you come across a book that is so bad that it becomes a moral duty to spare others the pain of reading it. I really hate to go that far in a review, but this book is so bad I even feel bad for Lofthouse's wife. Let me explain.
My Splendid Concubine claims to be about how Robert Hart, one of the most important and influential Western men in Chinese history, kept his concubine, his one true love, a secret. As a customs officer in Ningpo, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou from 1854-1908, Robert Hart spent his life trying to keep the faltering Qing dynasty from going bankrupt. He was an Imperialist when most of the rest of the world wasn't (including most Chinese people). While the dynasty did fall in 1911, Hart was often referred to the only true Western friend of China. In short, Robert Hart is a fascinating individual who led an amazing life during one of the most dynamic times of Chinese history.
What the book is actually about, though, is the one year of Robert's life in China when he had two concubines - sisters. Which one is the splendid one? I have no idea.
Now, I have no problem with the book focusing on this one part of his long life. I like a good romance and to focus on the Victorian gentleman hiding away his secret Chinese lover sounded very exciting. The problem is the delivery. The book is extremely soft-core pornish. Almost every single page describes Hart's erection in some manner. Only a quarter of a way through the book I knew far more about Robert Hart's erections than any woman should, even his concubine(s). He is also described as a rather perverted individual (and not in a good way). The book is supposed to be about an epic love, yet Hart views every woman he sees only as an object of sexual desire. He has the uncanny ability to "feel the heat" of a woman simply by being in her presence, even if she is a 6-year old girl. He even lusts after his own sister, Mary, wishing they weren't blood related. He only meets one Western woman in the course of the book, and his description focuses solely on the woman's breasts. He does not see women as people (like he claims, repeatedly, ad nauseum), but as a collection of skin, breasts, wetness, and warmth.
Hart is also portrayed as a hypocrite with a superiority complex. He repeatedly says that be found the ownership of women to be wrong, yet he then proceeds to purchase two. This was OK in his mind because 1) he was in love, and 2) it was "more like a dowry," (even though in neither case the money went to the girls' father).
The "struggle" of Hart's religious upbringing clashing with his love of both his concubines is supposed to be the "poignant" part of Lofthouse's narrative. But, again, the delivery is a failure. The struggle is simple: Christians have one wife while the Chinese (can) have many. Just because someone is Chinese, it does not automatically mean they have many wives and concubines, but it is allowed and encouraged if one can afford it. But to be Christian, one may only have one wife - no exceptions. But rather than being either Christian or Chinese, Hart attempts to be both. In one of the most maddening and stupidly humorous expressions of this problem Hart says (in a paraphrase), 'wait, it isn't a preacher who is allowed to judge me; only God can tell me what to do,' even though Hart never has a discussion of multiple wives with the missionary preacher. The only person telling Hart that he can't love two women is his bible, the word of God. Even when God speaks, he doesn't listen. In fact, the only admonition the preacher actually gives him is that he should introduce the women to the bible. However, Hart refuses to do this because "then they might leave him." He realizes the bible is truth, but wants to break it's covenants for his own satisfaction. To do so he must keep his women in ignorance of the truth (possibly damning their immortal souls) just so he can keep them both in his possession and bed and fantasies. Throughout the book he makes bad decisions for his girls because of his own selfishness.
The overall structure of the book is also severely lacking. The book opens with Hart, in his 80s, going to see the Dowager Empress Cixi. He goes there to talk to her about the fact that he "had a concubine once." The book then flashes back to tell the tale. But the ending never goes back to the scene with the empress to explain why he would tell her this. You never find out which concubine is the "splendid" one. You never even find out who was trying to kill him for most of the book. There is no closure to this book. It was an obnoxious read with an abrupt and painful ending. There is a sequel, Our Hart: Elegy for a Concubine, but I really can't take any more of Lofthouse's writing.
The real pain of the book is the negative characterization of Hart. The perverted, selfish, idiotic representation in this book is the most unfair characterization of this influential man imaginable. It makes me want to write my own narrative of Hart's life just so salvage his reputation. I think I'll add that to my list of possible books to work on.
I really didn't know how this book was published until I realized that the forward was written by Anchee Min, Lofthouse's wife. Anchee Min is one of the most important writers of English Chinese literature today. I have several books written by her and have enjoyed her writing. I can only guess that Lofthouse was able to get his book published by riding his wife's coattails and I can just imagine poor Min having to grit through her teeth as she had to smile and say, "yeah, Lloyd, this book is great." Poor woman.
I'm not really sure how to rate this book as I can't give it anything less than one star, but that seems like a stark insult to any books that I have given two stars to.
July 29, 2011
I was a bit disappointed with this book. I had high hopes for it but found it really lacking. I thought it would be about Hart's life in China, his work, how he became so valued by the Chinese government, etc. It was primarily about Hart's constant struggle with his religious beliefs and the keeping of concubines....I thought this would just be one part of the story but instead it overpowered everything else. I didn't need some of the detailed descriptions of Hart's sexual encounters to understand his conflict. I found myself skipping passages. I did like his attempt at learning...through his servant and his teacher...about Chinese philosophy, medicine, and religion. I wish these aspects would have been focused on a little more.
August 27, 2014
It's very curious that the author chose to concentrate on Hart's sex life when no one considers that the most interesting thing about him. His bringing Western business sensibilities to the Eastern world certainly would have been more engaging. i would have expected more poetic prose about his taste for Orientals from an Irishman like Hart than just bald mentions of physical attraction.
September 28, 2012
This most amazing book took me on a journey that was deep, vivid, and brilliantly written.
I felt like I was part of the exotic odyssey of Sir Robert Hart, the 19th century British Inspector General of China's Customs Service. So well-written was the book, I was there, side-by-side with Hart, discovering the Chinese culture along with him, learning about the joys and dangers of colonial China just as Hart learns of them.
Because author Lloyd Lofthouse is a master at infusing fact with story, mixing "scene and sequel," action and thoughtfulness, all that I learned alongside Sir Robert was fascinating, jaw-dropping, heart-pounding, and deeply satisfying.
This talent that Mr. Lofthouse has of making the reader feel like a part of the story, makes the characters and the scenes come to life. Yes, I'm reading a book, but yes, the characters jump out of the pages and live their lives in front of my eyes.
Mr. Lofthouse researched his real-life historical character, Robert Hart, extensively - so the reader gets an "inside" look at this profound man's life.
And although Hart's story takes place over a century ago, it is timeless. It's the story of a man who embraces a new culture without judgment, embraces love without hesitation, and ultimately teaches the rest of the world how it may be possible for us all to live together in peace.
Writer Anchee Min says in the book's forward, Robert Hart "was the father of China's modernization." Not because Hart forced western ideas into China, but because he made it his life's work to learn the Chinese languages, learn the literature, and become part of the Chinese world. From inside - that's how he made changes.
To me, "My Splendid Concubine" is writing at its best. I can't recommend this book strongly enough. It's fascinating, it draws you in, and it stays with you long after you've finished the read.
I felt like I was part of the exotic odyssey of Sir Robert Hart, the 19th century British Inspector General of China's Customs Service. So well-written was the book, I was there, side-by-side with Hart, discovering the Chinese culture along with him, learning about the joys and dangers of colonial China just as Hart learns of them.
Because author Lloyd Lofthouse is a master at infusing fact with story, mixing "scene and sequel," action and thoughtfulness, all that I learned alongside Sir Robert was fascinating, jaw-dropping, heart-pounding, and deeply satisfying.
This talent that Mr. Lofthouse has of making the reader feel like a part of the story, makes the characters and the scenes come to life. Yes, I'm reading a book, but yes, the characters jump out of the pages and live their lives in front of my eyes.
Mr. Lofthouse researched his real-life historical character, Robert Hart, extensively - so the reader gets an "inside" look at this profound man's life.
And although Hart's story takes place over a century ago, it is timeless. It's the story of a man who embraces a new culture without judgment, embraces love without hesitation, and ultimately teaches the rest of the world how it may be possible for us all to live together in peace.
Writer Anchee Min says in the book's forward, Robert Hart "was the father of China's modernization." Not because Hart forced western ideas into China, but because he made it his life's work to learn the Chinese languages, learn the literature, and become part of the Chinese world. From inside - that's how he made changes.
To me, "My Splendid Concubine" is writing at its best. I can't recommend this book strongly enough. It's fascinating, it draws you in, and it stays with you long after you've finished the read.
June 30, 2012
I have been a lover of Chinese historical novels since I first read Lisa See's Snow Flower and the Secret Fan years ago. But when I saw this book my phobia of large books kicked it. I have no idea why I have this issue but I do. Even with Harry Potter (book 7). LOL!
This story about Robert Hart was a little hard for me to get into in the beginning. It was like reading a history book rather than a love story. But I soon came to realize it was just a set up and the book had me hooked. Robert Hart was a man who ended up in China solely to prove to his family he wasn't a failure. And boy, did he! The author tells this rich culture's history with love and respect that a lot of authors forget. The Chinese have more of an appreciation for nature and harmony in all they do. The author pulled those two central themes throughout the book, chapter by chapter. You can feel it through his descriptions of areas and the selections of poems included in the book.
I really enjoyed reading about the internal struggles Robert had with his new found life in China versus his upbringing in Ireland. The conflict of religion, customs and attitudes was so real and heartfelt that I completely understood his position and thinking throughout the book.
Robert's concubine Ayaou is extremely well written even though she doesn't have much dialog. Ayaou is a young girl who only knows one thing and that is how to be a concubine for the "foreign devils". The book clearly paints her status in the Chinese culture. At times you may want to scream at her for not listening to Robert but in the end she will make you understand where her thinking is coming from.
The writing style took me a minute to get use to but like I said I was hooked. There were moments in the book that dragged a bit and I felt were a bit repetitive but the story as a whole was dynamic.
This book is a great read for anyone traveling to China, anyone studying Chinese and/or Chinese History or just loves Historical Novels. I honestly feel this book should be on the college required reading list for all international business students.
This story about Robert Hart was a little hard for me to get into in the beginning. It was like reading a history book rather than a love story. But I soon came to realize it was just a set up and the book had me hooked. Robert Hart was a man who ended up in China solely to prove to his family he wasn't a failure. And boy, did he! The author tells this rich culture's history with love and respect that a lot of authors forget. The Chinese have more of an appreciation for nature and harmony in all they do. The author pulled those two central themes throughout the book, chapter by chapter. You can feel it through his descriptions of areas and the selections of poems included in the book.
I really enjoyed reading about the internal struggles Robert had with his new found life in China versus his upbringing in Ireland. The conflict of religion, customs and attitudes was so real and heartfelt that I completely understood his position and thinking throughout the book.
Robert's concubine Ayaou is extremely well written even though she doesn't have much dialog. Ayaou is a young girl who only knows one thing and that is how to be a concubine for the "foreign devils". The book clearly paints her status in the Chinese culture. At times you may want to scream at her for not listening to Robert but in the end she will make you understand where her thinking is coming from.
The writing style took me a minute to get use to but like I said I was hooked. There were moments in the book that dragged a bit and I felt were a bit repetitive but the story as a whole was dynamic.
This book is a great read for anyone traveling to China, anyone studying Chinese and/or Chinese History or just loves Historical Novels. I honestly feel this book should be on the college required reading list for all international business students.
May 2, 2016
I could NOT finish this book. Every time I found myself about to snuggle up and read I dreaded having to sit down with this sorry piece of literature. Why you ask? Three reasons:
1) The poor attempt at feminism:
Good try. But just having the main character says he's disgusted that Chinese women are treated like property is not enough. Then to go and have said main character buy two women of his own? It brings forth to mind, the appropriate and always poignant expression, "wtf?".
The White man is quick to criticize the Chinese customs, yet will almost willfully engage in them himself (and honestly, is that surprising? No. No it isn't.) He's hypocritical and a pervert to boot. He is attracted to EVERY SINGLE woman he comes into contact with. It doesn't matter if it's another man's concubine, a six-year-old girl, or his own sister, he wants to fuck 'em all!
It also got old very quickly to hear about the situation his dick was in almost every two pages. I swear to god if I had to read another, "He could feel his erection pressing against his pants." type situation again, I would've thrown the book into the nearest fire I could find. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a prude. I enjoy a nice saucy story like any other lassie or lad, yet the creativity with which the author described Robert's sexual encounters was entirely lacking.
2) The super duper awkward writing style:
At times, it felt as if I was reading a textbook. The way in which the author blatantly described Chinese customs and practices as if he was lecturing to a crowd of students was frustrating. A good piece of work has a way of explaining things without outwardly doing so.
The sentence structure, grammar, and flow of the words was stilted and awkward as well. If I hadn't researched the author a bit I would've thought that a robotic slug had typed an afternoon away writing this piece of drivel. I myself am not a writer, and those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. Yet! I do not desire to write and publish a book. If you're going to write a piece of literature you better edit the shit out of it and sift through every single letter with a fine-tuned comb (in my humble opinion at least).
3) The story line:
I really don't think the purpose of this book was to celebrate the life and times of Robert Hart. I legitimately think that the author used a historical figure he knew enough about to make the type of story a desperate, middle-aged, housewife might enjoy. This was one controlling sociopath, a manic pixie dream girl with no mind if her own, and a couple of chains and whips away from being Dakota Johnson's next big movie role.
I literally cannot tell you what the story was about. Whenever a story line began to creep it's head out of the shadows, it was swallowed up by a clichéd, and honestly boring, sexual adventure.
So there it is. I love, love, love historical fiction! Especially one that has a romantic subplot and strong female figure(s). Which was why I was so looking forward to reading this book. I was highly disappointed, obviously. Two stars for effort.
1) The poor attempt at feminism:
Good try. But just having the main character says he's disgusted that Chinese women are treated like property is not enough. Then to go and have said main character buy two women of his own? It brings forth to mind, the appropriate and always poignant expression, "wtf?".
The White man is quick to criticize the Chinese customs, yet will almost willfully engage in them himself (and honestly, is that surprising? No. No it isn't.) He's hypocritical and a pervert to boot. He is attracted to EVERY SINGLE woman he comes into contact with. It doesn't matter if it's another man's concubine, a six-year-old girl, or his own sister, he wants to fuck 'em all!
It also got old very quickly to hear about the situation his dick was in almost every two pages. I swear to god if I had to read another, "He could feel his erection pressing against his pants." type situation again, I would've thrown the book into the nearest fire I could find. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a prude. I enjoy a nice saucy story like any other lassie or lad, yet the creativity with which the author described Robert's sexual encounters was entirely lacking.
2) The super duper awkward writing style:
At times, it felt as if I was reading a textbook. The way in which the author blatantly described Chinese customs and practices as if he was lecturing to a crowd of students was frustrating. A good piece of work has a way of explaining things without outwardly doing so.
The sentence structure, grammar, and flow of the words was stilted and awkward as well. If I hadn't researched the author a bit I would've thought that a robotic slug had typed an afternoon away writing this piece of drivel. I myself am not a writer, and those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. Yet! I do not desire to write and publish a book. If you're going to write a piece of literature you better edit the shit out of it and sift through every single letter with a fine-tuned comb (in my humble opinion at least).
3) The story line:
I really don't think the purpose of this book was to celebrate the life and times of Robert Hart. I legitimately think that the author used a historical figure he knew enough about to make the type of story a desperate, middle-aged, housewife might enjoy. This was one controlling sociopath, a manic pixie dream girl with no mind if her own, and a couple of chains and whips away from being Dakota Johnson's next big movie role.
I literally cannot tell you what the story was about. Whenever a story line began to creep it's head out of the shadows, it was swallowed up by a clichéd, and honestly boring, sexual adventure.
So there it is. I love, love, love historical fiction! Especially one that has a romantic subplot and strong female figure(s). Which was why I was so looking forward to reading this book. I was highly disappointed, obviously. Two stars for effort.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2012
The Concubine Saga is a fictional of account of a real person, Robert Hart. He was was a British consular official in China, who served as the second Inspector General of China's Imperial Maritime Custom Service from 1863 to 1911. He was born in Ireland but left in disgrace as a young man. He evidently was a very sexual young man and was unable to control his desires, according to his religious upbringing he went to China after he was awarded the position of student interpreter in the China consular service. Not long after he arrived he met the woman, Ayaou who was to become his concubine and with whom he would have three children. According to this story he also had Ayaou's sister come into the household as he didn't want her to be sold to cruel people and he had feelings for her also even though he was in love with Ayaou. Because of Robert's ability to handle delicate negotiations with the Chinese, he was able to move up the ranks to become a respectable and trusted man in China. In his personal life he was still at odds with his religion and his lifestyle as having concubines was not accepted in polite society.
To further his understanding of the Chinese he learned "how to think like a Chinese" and learn all that he could learn about his adopted country and their customs and languages. This all helped him and because of his diplomatic skills he was able to work effectively with the Chinese and be the go between, if you will, for China and China's trading deals with other countries such as America, France and Germany. He was also very instrumental in establishing custom houses, railroads and various other programs to aid the Chinese. Because of his communication skills, patience, good judgement and good relations with the Chinese he earned himself the nickname of "our Hart".
When I started reading this story I was a little intimidated as, one: I had never heard of Sir Robert Hart and two: I knew very little about China. The author's depiction of Hart's life in China and with his relationships with Ayaou and her sister was told in descriptive detail and such beauty of the Chinese culture that I did not want it the story to end. A very well written and impeccably researched story that I highly recommend to the historical fiction fan. A lot of history but not written like a history book. This book does have a lot of sexual content in it but told in a very tasteful way. I really enjoyed this book.
To further his understanding of the Chinese he learned "how to think like a Chinese" and learn all that he could learn about his adopted country and their customs and languages. This all helped him and because of his diplomatic skills he was able to work effectively with the Chinese and be the go between, if you will, for China and China's trading deals with other countries such as America, France and Germany. He was also very instrumental in establishing custom houses, railroads and various other programs to aid the Chinese. Because of his communication skills, patience, good judgement and good relations with the Chinese he earned himself the nickname of "our Hart".
When I started reading this story I was a little intimidated as, one: I had never heard of Sir Robert Hart and two: I knew very little about China. The author's depiction of Hart's life in China and with his relationships with Ayaou and her sister was told in descriptive detail and such beauty of the Chinese culture that I did not want it the story to end. A very well written and impeccably researched story that I highly recommend to the historical fiction fan. A lot of history but not written like a history book. This book does have a lot of sexual content in it but told in a very tasteful way. I really enjoyed this book.
May 31, 2013
My Splendid Concubine is a biographical novel about the life of Robert Hart, a British official in China. Born in Ireland, while he attended university, he gained a reputation for his rampant sexual escapades, despite his strict religious upbringing. His father intervened, put a stop to his womanizing, and arranged a post for him as a student interpreter in China. There he met, rescued, and fell in love with Ayaou, a young teen who, with her two sisters, were being sold into slavery/prostitution by their father. Struggling with the social norms and morals of the time, unable to marry her, he finally took her as his concubine. She bore him three children over the years. He was able to rescue one of Ayaou’s younger sisters, and the three set up a household.
Robert’s business acumen and strong communication skills brought him great success and he was soon promoted into more affluent positions. Soon, he gained a reputation of trust and respect from the highest levels of Chinese politicians, royalty, and officials. Despite his success, he struggled with his religious values and in the taking of concubines, a widely accepted practice among Caucasian men even though it was unacceptable in polite society.
Lloyd Lofthouse has written a “no-holds-barred” accounting of his tumultuous life. The author does not shy away from Hart’s strong sexual drive and encounters. He delves deeply into the relationships with Ayaou and her sister, bringing to life the heart-wrenching dilemma Hart faced. The author described the contrast between Hart’s sexual values and those of the women with great insight, for in China, being a concubine was far better than slavery or prostitution. Lofthouse’s first-hand experience in the Vietnam war, and the time he spent in the Orient, are evident throughout the novel in the vivid descriptions and detailed scenes.
Readers should understand before purchasing this novel that there are some graphic sex scenes, but I found it necessary in order to understand Hart, his personality, and what drove him. A provocative novel that brings to life lesser known practices and norms of China and its people. Highly recommended.
Robert’s business acumen and strong communication skills brought him great success and he was soon promoted into more affluent positions. Soon, he gained a reputation of trust and respect from the highest levels of Chinese politicians, royalty, and officials. Despite his success, he struggled with his religious values and in the taking of concubines, a widely accepted practice among Caucasian men even though it was unacceptable in polite society.
Lloyd Lofthouse has written a “no-holds-barred” accounting of his tumultuous life. The author does not shy away from Hart’s strong sexual drive and encounters. He delves deeply into the relationships with Ayaou and her sister, bringing to life the heart-wrenching dilemma Hart faced. The author described the contrast between Hart’s sexual values and those of the women with great insight, for in China, being a concubine was far better than slavery or prostitution. Lofthouse’s first-hand experience in the Vietnam war, and the time he spent in the Orient, are evident throughout the novel in the vivid descriptions and detailed scenes.
Readers should understand before purchasing this novel that there are some graphic sex scenes, but I found it necessary in order to understand Hart, his personality, and what drove him. A provocative novel that brings to life lesser known practices and norms of China and its people. Highly recommended.
January 16, 2010
A fascinating trip into a lost world, Lofthouse does a great job taking us back in time to a beautiful, almost mythical China. But Lofthouse doesn't shy away from balancing the romantic with the reality. We are not spared the poverty, violence, colonial or sexual exploitation.
His protagonist, Robert Hart, is an engaging character, caught between the morals of his religious Irish background, and his unquenchable thirst to understand the ancient Chinese culture. Sometimes it’s hard to understand how he can withstand the seduction of the women who fall his way (the rest of us are only human), while one cannot fail to admire his prowess in battle and his moral fiber when he stands up to evil.
It is hard to believe that this is a fictional account of a very real man and a very real story, and this makes the ending all the harder. Without giving anything away, the final scenes of the book haunted me for days afterwards.
If anything is frustrating, it is that the reader is left feeling the story is incomplete. This can only be rectified with a sequel. Robert Hart needs to continue along his path, and I for one am anxious to follow his progress.
Alon Shalev
His protagonist, Robert Hart, is an engaging character, caught between the morals of his religious Irish background, and his unquenchable thirst to understand the ancient Chinese culture. Sometimes it’s hard to understand how he can withstand the seduction of the women who fall his way (the rest of us are only human), while one cannot fail to admire his prowess in battle and his moral fiber when he stands up to evil.
It is hard to believe that this is a fictional account of a very real man and a very real story, and this makes the ending all the harder. Without giving anything away, the final scenes of the book haunted me for days afterwards.
If anything is frustrating, it is that the reader is left feeling the story is incomplete. This can only be rectified with a sequel. Robert Hart needs to continue along his path, and I for one am anxious to follow his progress.
Alon Shalev
December 19, 2009
This book is a fictionalized account of Robert Hart who was known as the 'Godfather of China's modernism'. Hart was born and raised in Ireland . In 1954 we went to China to work for the British Consulate as an interpreter.
Robert Hart was set on making up for his days of drinking and womanizing in Ireland. He went to China to prove himself and "grow up." When faced with the possibility of getting a concubine for himself, he felt quite conflicted. However, it was what men did in China, even most of the "foreign devils". He got a Chinese instructor and immersed himself in Chinese customs and culture.
He did end up getting two concubines, his first year in China. Ayaou and her younger sister Shao-mei. He taught Ayaou and Shao-mei how to read and enjoyed life with them both.
When he first met Ayaou,
Read the full review here:
http://teddyrose.blogspot.com/2009/06...
Robert Hart was set on making up for his days of drinking and womanizing in Ireland. He went to China to prove himself and "grow up." When faced with the possibility of getting a concubine for himself, he felt quite conflicted. However, it was what men did in China, even most of the "foreign devils". He got a Chinese instructor and immersed himself in Chinese customs and culture.
He did end up getting two concubines, his first year in China. Ayaou and her younger sister Shao-mei. He taught Ayaou and Shao-mei how to read and enjoyed life with them both.
When he first met Ayaou,
Read the full review here:
http://teddyrose.blogspot.com/2009/06...
September 3, 2010
This could have been a 'splendid' biography of Sir Robert Hart, a British ex-pat who had an illustrious career in China starting in the British consulate and becoming the Inspector general of China. He was renowned for his diplomatic and managerial skills and was fluent in mandarin and customs of China. However the book reads like some kind of soft porn with his concubines and only touches on what life in China would have been like in the late 1800's. I go fed up reading about his erect member.......
July 12, 2013
I loved this work of historical fiction. THe author details everyday life in China in the 1850-60s and the clash in culture between the west and the east. The love story is fascinating as Robert tries to meld his love for a Chinese girl and his Western values. His rise in power also reveals how astute and insightful Hart is. I read about his actual accomplishments and it is stunning what this man did for China and the west. Hard to tell how much is based on truth - but it certainly reads true. A must read.
February 13, 2016
Brilliant book, one of my all time favourites.
November 25, 2019
Horrible. Nobody wants to read about white dudes lusting after young asian girls ok.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2019
I'm giving this two stars instead of one only because I managed to read over 60% of this book before casting it aside.
I know Robert Hart was a real individual and many of his writings are still available today. There is mention that he destroyed the first two journals he kept upon his residency in China. One wonders what they must have revealed that he felt compelled to eliminate them.
I did enjoy the explanations of Chinese culture, although since this is fictionalized I wonder how accurate they are. I would certainly hesitate to espouse anything I read here in a conversation without apologizing for how I came by such "knowledge."
Yes, this book goes too far in its descriptions of sexual fantasies and intimacies. The story would have been equally well served without these explicit details. I'm also left doubting if Hart really loved his concubine or just felt compelled to take care of her as his Christian duty, noblesse oblige if you will.
I did very little follow-up after quitting this volume but did read that history does not reveal what happened to Ayaou other than Hart apparently gave her a substantial sum of money. He discarded her to marry a Westerner with whom had three legitimate children. His three bastard children with Ayaou were shipped to foster homes in England, depriving her of the comfort of motherhood. I do not know if there is more information on them or not. I also found no mention of a second concubine, Ayaou's sister, so don't know if she was fact or fiction.
I know Robert Hart was a real individual and many of his writings are still available today. There is mention that he destroyed the first two journals he kept upon his residency in China. One wonders what they must have revealed that he felt compelled to eliminate them.
I did enjoy the explanations of Chinese culture, although since this is fictionalized I wonder how accurate they are. I would certainly hesitate to espouse anything I read here in a conversation without apologizing for how I came by such "knowledge."
Yes, this book goes too far in its descriptions of sexual fantasies and intimacies. The story would have been equally well served without these explicit details. I'm also left doubting if Hart really loved his concubine or just felt compelled to take care of her as his Christian duty, noblesse oblige if you will.
I did very little follow-up after quitting this volume but did read that history does not reveal what happened to Ayaou other than Hart apparently gave her a substantial sum of money. He discarded her to marry a Westerner with whom had three legitimate children. His three bastard children with Ayaou were shipped to foster homes in England, depriving her of the comfort of motherhood. I do not know if there is more information on them or not. I also found no mention of a second concubine, Ayaou's sister, so don't know if she was fact or fiction.
January 13, 2021
I liked this book very much. I'm not sure why some reviewers were surprised that the book was primarily about Robert Hart's relationship with his concubine rather than just a biography of him. It is clear that Hart's love for Ayaou, his concubine greatly influenced him in that he wanted to understand how the Chinese people thought. And she, her sister and Guan-Jiah, his servant all helped him to learn how the Chinese thought. They also helped him learn Mandarin chinese so that he spoke it perfectly. All of this helped him become invaluable to the Chinese Emperor in his dealings with Great Britain and France.
So, his concubine was invaluable to him and was certainly part of the reason why he was so successful during his time in China. There is plenty in the book about what is going on in China at the time. There were a lot of problems in China and Hart loved China and the Chinese people so much that he was determined to help them have better lives.
I learned a lot about China during the time of the Opium wars and the years after that. The book seemed to be well researched.
So, his concubine was invaluable to him and was certainly part of the reason why he was so successful during his time in China. There is plenty in the book about what is going on in China at the time. There were a lot of problems in China and Hart loved China and the Chinese people so much that he was determined to help them have better lives.
I learned a lot about China during the time of the Opium wars and the years after that. The book seemed to be well researched.
March 12, 2018
A disappointing read for a number of reasons. I had hoped this book would focus on the interaction of Western and Chinese culture, and it did to some extent, but mostly in the context of the struggle between Hart’s Christian faith and his physical desire for his Chinese concubines. Hart became an integral part of the Chinese imperial administration, but his impact is often “told” and seldom “shown.”
The quality of writing is amateurish. The dialog is often horrible — either exposition masquerading as speech or just unbelievable. The prose is wooden; declarative sentence after declarative sentence. If it weren’t for the many lurid sex scenes and occasional gory battle or execution, one could almost imagine this was written for a young audience.
Despite what I can only hope are the author’s best intentions, it was difficult to accept this as a serious look at an important historical figure.
The quality of writing is amateurish. The dialog is often horrible — either exposition masquerading as speech or just unbelievable. The prose is wooden; declarative sentence after declarative sentence. If it weren’t for the many lurid sex scenes and occasional gory battle or execution, one could almost imagine this was written for a young audience.
Despite what I can only hope are the author’s best intentions, it was difficult to accept this as a serious look at an important historical figure.
October 24, 2020
Marathon reading
I didnt know anything about robert hart when I began this book, but I watched a couple of videos because I was curious. I couldn't understand the chinese devaluing girl babies so much that they would drown them, use their bodies for target practice, sell them at an early age to lascivious men who use them and throw them away like garbage. I don't believe these things are fiction. I never knew about the opium and how it was used to addict the chinese. I found Robert's change of thinking and some of his resolutions very counterintuitive, but it worked in the chinese culture. L learned a lot about their ways of thinking through the responses of the 2 concubines and the eunuch. I was sorry to see it end and I'm wondering where his children ended up.
I didnt know anything about robert hart when I began this book, but I watched a couple of videos because I was curious. I couldn't understand the chinese devaluing girl babies so much that they would drown them, use their bodies for target practice, sell them at an early age to lascivious men who use them and throw them away like garbage. I don't believe these things are fiction. I never knew about the opium and how it was used to addict the chinese. I found Robert's change of thinking and some of his resolutions very counterintuitive, but it worked in the chinese culture. L learned a lot about their ways of thinking through the responses of the 2 concubines and the eunuch. I was sorry to see it end and I'm wondering where his children ended up.
November 5, 2020
The edition I read was "My Splendid Concubine" and its sequel "Our Heart, Elegy for a Concubine" combined. If just reviewing the first book I would give it a 3, but the sequel brings it up to a solid 4. I read Historical Fiction in large part to better understand the time periods and cultures and when presented as a semi-biography why the person was important to History. The first book showed some about the time period and culture, but was primarily a romance novel. Really no insight on why Robert Hart was such an important Historical figure. The sequel however, while keeping the love story really focused much more on his importance to China. It also did an even better job on understanding the Culture.
October 18, 2023
Not normally my genre to read, historical fiction, but after starting it, I couldn't put it down! A fascinating and educational read outlining how China became a civilized nation of the world during the mid 1800's, while showing the depravity of the western colonial powers seeking commercial dominance over a developing nation. I never understood the opium wars before. I always thought opium originated in China, not imported for sale by westerners and forced upon the populace at large. It was heart breaking to read given the parallels to the drug problem in our country, and the world at large today... great read!
January 4, 2018
It took me six months to read this book because I always found something better to read. Because it is a novel based on a real life Irish man who lived and worked in China in the late 19th century I wanted to finish it for the historical aspect. I am sure there are better historical fiction novels about China available. First criticism, way too long. Other criticisms, choppy writing, poor editing, unrealistic characters. I did however, appreciate the knowledge of Chinese culture that shines through and upon which Robert Hart's real life success was based.
March 9, 2021
This was not the best written historical novel or romance I have read, but the fact that it was obviously well-researched and about something I knew little kept me interested. When I read about a famous person I like to Google them to be sure I am not being led astray by the author, and I wasn't in this case. Plus I enjoyed learning more of what I previously knew about Chinese culture, which is fascinating. The main character, Robert Hart, had such a major impact on where China is today, and that, alone, makes him intriguing and this book well worth reading.
February 14, 2019
This was a fascinating story of Robert Hart's life in China in the 1800's. It brought the history of the time to life and we went into detail the culture and thinking of the Chinese people. It is interesting that a non-Chinese could have so much influence in this country, and I had never heard of him before reading this book.
November 29, 2020
Historical love story
The characters are unforgettable I laughed, cried and cheered them through their life events. I enjoyed reading this book and am still thinking about the storey weeks later. This would be a fantastic pick for a book club. Very well written,, the author put me in China it was so descriptive. More please.
The characters are unforgettable I laughed, cried and cheered them through their life events. I enjoyed reading this book and am still thinking about the storey weeks later. This would be a fantastic pick for a book club. Very well written,, the author put me in China it was so descriptive. More please.
June 28, 2017
Culture clash
I gave this book three stars because the story of the Chinese culture was interesting. I also enjoyed the glimpse of the history of the time. I found the writing a bit repetitive.
I gave this book three stars because the story of the Chinese culture was interesting. I also enjoyed the glimpse of the history of the time. I found the writing a bit repetitive.
September 13, 2017
I'm sorry to say that this is probably the worst book I have ever read. I finished it because we were reading it for book club, and that is the only reason. It is really awful. Please, don't read this book.
August 19, 2020
Great exotic story
This is a fascinating look into Chinese history withholding into cultural differences. The story is a well told combination of adventure, suspense, love, lust, and loyalty.
This is a fascinating look into Chinese history withholding into cultural differences. The story is a well told combination of adventure, suspense, love, lust, and loyalty.
November 30, 2020
Excellent read
It was captivating. Showed cultural differences & customs. Educational & entertaining.
Characters well developed. Historical places mentioned were as described.
Good 👍
It was captivating. Showed cultural differences & customs. Educational & entertaining.
Characters well developed. Historical places mentioned were as described.
Good 👍
December 3, 2020
Wonderful reading.
Story was very meaningful. History written in a most enjoyable way. Characters were very real and and full of life. Held my interest at all times. Hated to see it end.
Story was very meaningful. History written in a most enjoyable way. Characters were very real and and full of life. Held my interest at all times. Hated to see it end.
July 11, 2021
Great read
Wonderful depiction of China and it's culture allowing the reader to understand
the intricacies of mid 19th century China while weaving a tale about one man's experience with many.
Wonderful depiction of China and it's culture allowing the reader to understand
the intricacies of mid 19th century China while weaving a tale about one man's experience with many.
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