What do you think?
Rate this book
Blazing China
For Fans of Amy Tan and Francine Rivers,
Blazing China
takes you on an extraordinary journey of a family, facing adversity and persecution with unyielding courage.
Live or believe? God or survival?
Ordinary Christians. Extraordinary circumstances. Beliefs under siege outside and conflicts within. Where do these women stand?
Leesan wants to produce heirs to carry on the Lee family name and manage their enormous estates. When she delivers identical twin girls, Ann-Ann and May-May, just before the Cultural Revolution in China, she cannot imagine how much their world is about to change. Now, with her husband dead, their land forfeited to the government, and their lives in jeopardy, Leesan, her mother-in-law, Su-Ann, and her daughters must surrender all that’s left of the past, even as they struggle to hold on to their Christian faith.
As the persecution intensifies, Red Guards murder those caught attending their home church, and the survivors are scattered in different directions. From Beijing to Inner Mongolia, from Hong Kong to California, hardship and the clash between ideologies challenge their faith, love, and loyalty.
Should they choose survival over God?
Although the author follows the “less is more” principle, readers sensitive to sexual situations may find this book unsuitable, as it contains scenes intended to portray characters' attitudes towards sexual morality.
Live or believe? God or survival?
Ordinary Christians. Extraordinary circumstances. Beliefs under siege outside and conflicts within. Where do these women stand?
Leesan wants to produce heirs to carry on the Lee family name and manage their enormous estates. When she delivers identical twin girls, Ann-Ann and May-May, just before the Cultural Revolution in China, she cannot imagine how much their world is about to change. Now, with her husband dead, their land forfeited to the government, and their lives in jeopardy, Leesan, her mother-in-law, Su-Ann, and her daughters must surrender all that’s left of the past, even as they struggle to hold on to their Christian faith.
As the persecution intensifies, Red Guards murder those caught attending their home church, and the survivors are scattered in different directions. From Beijing to Inner Mongolia, from Hong Kong to California, hardship and the clash between ideologies challenge their faith, love, and loyalty.
Should they choose survival over God?
Although the author follows the “less is more” principle, readers sensitive to sexual situations may find this book unsuitable, as it contains scenes intended to portray characters' attitudes towards sexual morality.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2023
55 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
R.F. Whong
13 books79 followersFrom a young age, I cultivated a profound love for reading and writing. I would spend hours at the library, devouring every book on a single shelf before moving on to the next. It seems I have a longing that can’t be satisfied by reality. Immersing myself in literature allows me to escape into worlds where I could become someone graceful, witty, and popular.
Currently, I work for a small biotech company and have published 120+ scientific books and papers. As a latecomer to the world of creative writing, I’ve released several books under different pen names. Fiction titles were published under R. F. Whong, while non-fiction books were published under Ruth Wuwong. I’m delighted to share that I've been named a 2025 Featured Author by the Minnesota Anoka County Library, and my book, Echoes over Stormy Sea, previously titled Echoes across the China Sea, was the Scrivenings Press 2024 GetPubbed contest winner in the historical fiction genre.
I’m married to my wonderful husband, a retired pastor who encourages me to pursue my dreams. We served together at three different churches from 1987 to 2020. Our adult son works in a nearby city.
Currently, I work for a small biotech company and have published 120+ scientific books and papers. As a latecomer to the world of creative writing, I’ve released several books under different pen names. Fiction titles were published under R. F. Whong, while non-fiction books were published under Ruth Wuwong. I’m delighted to share that I've been named a 2025 Featured Author by the Minnesota Anoka County Library, and my book, Echoes over Stormy Sea, previously titled Echoes across the China Sea, was the Scrivenings Press 2024 GetPubbed contest winner in the historical fiction genre.
I’m married to my wonderful husband, a retired pastor who encourages me to pursue my dreams. We served together at three different churches from 1987 to 2020. Our adult son works in a nearby city.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 22, 2024
Historical fiction set in China written by someone who is actually Chinese? Sign me up. I didn't even read the blurb, I just went right in.
I was planning on starting with the sequel actually, not knowing they were connected, but luckily I somehow clicked on this first so here we are.
I also wasn't going to read the whole book in one go, but...well...I first said I'll do 30%, then 50%, then 70% and at that point I knew I had to finish it because I really wanted to know what was going to happen to the characters, if they'd all make it out okay, if they'd find happiness and God etc. They did, for the most part. But that's what book two is for!!
The time period is interesting to read about, but it's also difficult to get through some scenes. The author doesn't shy away from showing some of the worst things that occurred, based on stories from people who lived it.
It's different from a lot of Christian novels for that reason, I can see where the Francine Rivers comparison comes in. I wish more Christian fiction was like this, tackling difficult topics without shame. I wouldn't say it's that graphic either, but I also read pretty much everything, so for some readers it might be.
There's a lot of faith content, so if you're not a Christian this might bug you.
I really like the writing style, because the Chinese comes through. As in, it sounds like a lot of translated novels I've read, the way of speaking and such. And obviously the story was engaging from beginning to end.
I'll be jumping into Detour to Agape next, and then the rest of R. F. Whong's books, everyone wish me luck!!
I was planning on starting with the sequel actually, not knowing they were connected, but luckily I somehow clicked on this first so here we are.
I also wasn't going to read the whole book in one go, but...well...I first said I'll do 30%, then 50%, then 70% and at that point I knew I had to finish it because I really wanted to know what was going to happen to the characters, if they'd all make it out okay, if they'd find happiness and God etc. They did, for the most part. But that's what book two is for!!
The time period is interesting to read about, but it's also difficult to get through some scenes. The author doesn't shy away from showing some of the worst things that occurred, based on stories from people who lived it.
It's different from a lot of Christian novels for that reason, I can see where the Francine Rivers comparison comes in. I wish more Christian fiction was like this, tackling difficult topics without shame. I wouldn't say it's that graphic either, but I also read pretty much everything, so for some readers it might be.
There's a lot of faith content, so if you're not a Christian this might bug you.
I really like the writing style, because the Chinese comes through. As in, it sounds like a lot of translated novels I've read, the way of speaking and such. And obviously the story was engaging from beginning to end.
I'll be jumping into Detour to Agape next, and then the rest of R. F. Whong's books, everyone wish me luck!!
April 1, 2024
I expected more from this book. I lived in Asia - on the economy - not supported by a church or non-profit agency. There were episodes that I could not believe. For example, parents letting a teen-aged daughter travel alone to meet her boyfriend to get married - that would never have happened to any of the people I knew in Asia, even in the modern time. The book starts during World War 2 and people are afraid of losing their property and being taken over by Japan, Korea, the US, war lords in China. The book is rambling and it is difficult to tell what family the author is presenting. There are no well developed characters. The plot is confusing. This book did not keep my attention and I never really knew what was happening or who supported whom in the political wars. Unfortunately, the author tries to spice up the book with hints about sexual episodes in the bedroom or elsewhere. There are tidbits indicating a Christian background but it never comes together. Singing Amazing Grace does not a Christian book make. A good editor would have helped the author. Save your time and money.
October 11, 2023
“Blazing China” is an interesting flip on a Christian story. Where as some historical novels talk about the persecution created by Christian beliefs on other cultures, Blazing China does the opposite . It’s a discussion piece on the survival of the Christian spirit. The novels follows Leesan, who starts off in the story as a young woman and slowly progresses to the age of marriage. After a short time, she gives birth to twins and raises a family before her husband died. Around that time, there’s a political crisis, and Leesan has to abandon her daughters. She is in agony, but a new Christian faith guides her to a place where she can live. From there, the protagonist faces political unrest, faith in question, and family conflicts. It’s a sad, but real story that has readers on edge until the end. Check out Blazing China for historical facts, internal reflection, and emotional commentary.
July 19, 2024
Although this is a work of fiction, I found Blazing China, by R. F. Wong, informed my learning about the impact of communism on those of the Christian faith. The story follows the lives of Leesan and her family over a thirty-year time period in China, the US and Hong Kong as they are physically separated, lose communication, and are ultimately reunited.
What hit me hardest were the false accusations made against people and the severe consequences. I was saddened by the oppression and the turning of family members against one another. Yet the story remains hopeful amid the extenuating circumstances. An engaging read.
What hit me hardest were the false accusations made against people and the severe consequences. I was saddened by the oppression and the turning of family members against one another. Yet the story remains hopeful amid the extenuating circumstances. An engaging read.
March 21, 2024
Crossing decades, this story follows several families and how Mao's brutal cultural revolution affects them. The compromises they have to make to survive, the loss and suffering, and the trauma of families ripped apart. That being said, it is positive throughout and seeks out the small moments of joy and the comfort and strength that the characters' Christian faith brings to them.
The style is simple and somewhat distancing but tackles head on a number of themes to do with love, intimate relations, and family jealousies that a lot of Christian books are too squeamish to take on. There is a lot of preaching in this book and quoting from the bible, but the message is never 'preachy' or judgemental but instead very loving and forgiving and understanding.
A great read if you are a Christian. A decent read if you aren't but can cope with Christian themes. Avoid it if you can't stand anything to do with religion.
If you want a religion-free look at the trials of the struggles in China you could try Wild Swans by Jung Chan (my review is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...). There are suggestions that Jung Chan herself is not 100% honest about her part in the story as a teenager, and that she herself was a red guard, raiding houses and taking part in some of the oppression. Having read ‘Blazing China’ I can see that many young people were forced to sign up as a red guard and take part in denunciations and raids even though they hated them, for fear of being denounced themselves. In times such as these, most people do what they have to survive, even when it is repugnant to them. You have to have extremely strong principles or a deep-held faith to stand up to such persecution, overwhelming societal pressure and terror. Fear of condemnation and death is hard wired into us, and only a philosophy or faith that puts death into a different context can enable us to overcome it. So if it is true that Jung Chan has been less than honest about her own actions, then it is a shame, as examining those pressures, crises of conscience and hypocrisies would have made her own book a stronger, more mature and complex piece of work. However it was published over thirty years ago (1991) and maybe things had to be more black and white then to get yourself accepted.
Another compelling and eye-opening novel like ‘Blazing China’ based on true accounts about escaping from oppression (although no Christianity is involved) is ‘The Illiterate Daughter’ by Chia Ghounza Vang (my review is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...) about Laos and the Vietnam war.
The style is simple and somewhat distancing but tackles head on a number of themes to do with love, intimate relations, and family jealousies that a lot of Christian books are too squeamish to take on. There is a lot of preaching in this book and quoting from the bible, but the message is never 'preachy' or judgemental but instead very loving and forgiving and understanding.
A great read if you are a Christian. A decent read if you aren't but can cope with Christian themes. Avoid it if you can't stand anything to do with religion.
If you want a religion-free look at the trials of the struggles in China you could try Wild Swans by Jung Chan (my review is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...). There are suggestions that Jung Chan herself is not 100% honest about her part in the story as a teenager, and that she herself was a red guard, raiding houses and taking part in some of the oppression. Having read ‘Blazing China’ I can see that many young people were forced to sign up as a red guard and take part in denunciations and raids even though they hated them, for fear of being denounced themselves. In times such as these, most people do what they have to survive, even when it is repugnant to them. You have to have extremely strong principles or a deep-held faith to stand up to such persecution, overwhelming societal pressure and terror. Fear of condemnation and death is hard wired into us, and only a philosophy or faith that puts death into a different context can enable us to overcome it. So if it is true that Jung Chan has been less than honest about her own actions, then it is a shame, as examining those pressures, crises of conscience and hypocrisies would have made her own book a stronger, more mature and complex piece of work. However it was published over thirty years ago (1991) and maybe things had to be more black and white then to get yourself accepted.
Another compelling and eye-opening novel like ‘Blazing China’ based on true accounts about escaping from oppression (although no Christianity is involved) is ‘The Illiterate Daughter’ by Chia Ghounza Vang (my review is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...) about Laos and the Vietnam war.
August 1, 2023
Wow, a powerful story! This novel provided a good reminder of how blessed I am to live in a nation where I have never faced persecution for my Christian beliefs. Studying history or reading news accounts allows a spectator’s view of the persecution citizens experienced during China’s transformation to a communist regime. Through the novel, I experience the characters’ bravery and heartbreak as they face persecution, agonize over difficult decisions, and share their few resources with those who have less. Those who show the most gratitude are not those who have the most, but those who appreciate what they have.
The heart-wrenching, yet inspirational historical fiction novel takes place in China and Hong Kong between 1945 and 1975 and follows Leesan, a young widow, AnnAnn and MayMay, her identical twin daughters, and Su-Ann, her mother-in-law, among other characters close to the protagonists. Su-Ann, an extraordinary role model, exuded grace in the most difficult of situations. The communist government seized the property of all landowners and all citizens’ valuables, including Su-Ann’s possessions. At times, various characters struggle with religious doubts as they feel abandoned by God when faced with the atrocities of the new government.
The identical twin sisters present an interesting dynamic. Their personalities and perspective on life are very different.
The author served in churches for over thirty years and bonded with many students from Mainland China who shared stories about hardships resulting from the Cultural Revolution. Ms. Whong based Blazing China on some of these stories. Some characters in the novel engage in sexual relations outside of marriage. The encounters are not graphic and the story does not condone the activity. It is a realistic view of characters who search for validation in wrong places, but learn they can be forgiven and experience the love of Jesus.
I received an ARC copy of Blazing China for my honest review. The review above is my honest opinion, and I enjoyed the book so much, I have purchased a copy for a friend.
The heart-wrenching, yet inspirational historical fiction novel takes place in China and Hong Kong between 1945 and 1975 and follows Leesan, a young widow, AnnAnn and MayMay, her identical twin daughters, and Su-Ann, her mother-in-law, among other characters close to the protagonists. Su-Ann, an extraordinary role model, exuded grace in the most difficult of situations. The communist government seized the property of all landowners and all citizens’ valuables, including Su-Ann’s possessions. At times, various characters struggle with religious doubts as they feel abandoned by God when faced with the atrocities of the new government.
The identical twin sisters present an interesting dynamic. Their personalities and perspective on life are very different.
The author served in churches for over thirty years and bonded with many students from Mainland China who shared stories about hardships resulting from the Cultural Revolution. Ms. Whong based Blazing China on some of these stories. Some characters in the novel engage in sexual relations outside of marriage. The encounters are not graphic and the story does not condone the activity. It is a realistic view of characters who search for validation in wrong places, but learn they can be forgiven and experience the love of Jesus.
I received an ARC copy of Blazing China for my honest review. The review above is my honest opinion, and I enjoyed the book so much, I have purchased a copy for a friend.
November 14, 2023
Though I am not one for historical reads, I found Blazing China to be rather interesting and encouraging. Life as a christian is filled with many ups and downs and how we endure it can say alot about the person we become. The author told the life of Leesan a young widower who started off on the path of christianity with parents who instilled the faith. Then Leesan fell in love with a man who was a communist and they had to flee to another country for a few years. When things got settled down they returned to China and there they encountered more like tragedies and pains.
The story was nicely written, the author did a fantastic job in giving insight of the settings, and into the characters life. The experiences of persecution christians endured was intense and feeling abandon, especially in the moments when you feel at your lowest, by God is something we as individuals all go through, yet, he is there with us always. Leesan mother-in-law was a source of encouragement and strength and she was a wonderful role model of what it means to be a resilient christian in the faith.
Blazing China is an encouraging read that any christian or non christian can read. Definitely recommend.
The story was nicely written, the author did a fantastic job in giving insight of the settings, and into the characters life. The experiences of persecution christians endured was intense and feeling abandon, especially in the moments when you feel at your lowest, by God is something we as individuals all go through, yet, he is there with us always. Leesan mother-in-law was a source of encouragement and strength and she was a wonderful role model of what it means to be a resilient christian in the faith.
Blazing China is an encouraging read that any christian or non christian can read. Definitely recommend.
October 20, 2023
Interesting Read
“Blazing China” by R.F. Whong is a story of romantic relationships set against the historical background of clashes between communist and Christian ideals and their consequences for ordinary people.
The relentless persecution of Christians in China is a central theme of this novel, which follows the main character’s journey from her teenage years in 1945, through her romantic dreams and encounters, motherhood, a “Sophie’s Choice” moment, adjustments to changing environments, and the eventual happy ending where religious faith triumphs.
This reader would have liked the author’s writing style to allow a deeper personal connection with the internal feelings of the characters instead of mainly relying on describing the characters’ external physical actions.
Overall, an interesting read for those looking for a heavily Christian themed historical romance novel.
“Blazing China” by R.F. Whong is a story of romantic relationships set against the historical background of clashes between communist and Christian ideals and their consequences for ordinary people.
The relentless persecution of Christians in China is a central theme of this novel, which follows the main character’s journey from her teenage years in 1945, through her romantic dreams and encounters, motherhood, a “Sophie’s Choice” moment, adjustments to changing environments, and the eventual happy ending where religious faith triumphs.
This reader would have liked the author’s writing style to allow a deeper personal connection with the internal feelings of the characters instead of mainly relying on describing the characters’ external physical actions.
Overall, an interesting read for those looking for a heavily Christian themed historical romance novel.
May 15, 2024
I don’t usually read Christian fiction; books intended to convey a message can seem preachy and sometimes the story can seem like an afterthought. This book is a great story! I chose this book because I’m interested in China, know a little about it from reading books and visiting many years ago, and wanted to know more. I enjoyed it more than I expected! Twins Ann-Ann and May-May are separated early in life; one grows up with her mother in Hong Kong, the other with her grandmother in China. Their lives are affected by the Cultural Revolution and other hardships. Family and love relationships are well developed in this story as the characters encounter believable and horrifying obstacles. The author makes you care about the characters and provides a vivid sense of a place unfamiliar to most American readers. A very worthwhile and enjoyable read, this reminded me a bit of Christian fiction by Francine Rivers. Like Rivers, this author is a great storyteller.
August 5, 2023
People should read this book and be motivated to stand and protect our country. The characters in Blazing China, especially Christians were, and still are, persecuted for their beliefs, for reading the Bible, for meeting to worship. We Americans are so blessed! The book is wonderfully written and the aspects of the history are eye opening. The characters are so realistic. I read this second in the series but would recommend reading it first and "Detour to Agape" second. This story really touched my heart and made me think about how God has spared us in this country from persecution. It makes me thankful I can read my Bible and go to church with out fear.
I received this book from the author as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I received this book from the author as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
August 15, 2023
Compelling and interesting!
I've never read a book like this before. The author touches on many difficult topics. These topics include promiscuity, abortion, rape, and torture. Real issues that affect many people.
The setting of China during a tremulous period was eye opening. The ramifications of being a Christian were harsh.
I was encouraged by the theme of faith interspersed throughout the book. Many times in the book someone's situation appeared hopeless and then someone would bring up God or scriptures from the Bible.
All in all, this book caused me to look deeper into my own faith and propelled me to sharing my faith with others. It also reminded me to pray for those who are persecuted for their faith.
I've never read a book like this before. The author touches on many difficult topics. These topics include promiscuity, abortion, rape, and torture. Real issues that affect many people.
The setting of China during a tremulous period was eye opening. The ramifications of being a Christian were harsh.
I was encouraged by the theme of faith interspersed throughout the book. Many times in the book someone's situation appeared hopeless and then someone would bring up God or scriptures from the Bible.
All in all, this book caused me to look deeper into my own faith and propelled me to sharing my faith with others. It also reminded me to pray for those who are persecuted for their faith.
August 12, 2023
Blazing China gives an insight into China and the rise of Communism and the threat of persecution and death that Christians face in this country. While I understood the emphasis the author was trying to make about discouraging sex outside of marriage, the scenes were much too graphic for me. Despite this, the book is thought provoking when it comes to the importance of living out a Christian faith.
While this book was provided for free, I was under no obligation to provide a favorable review. (2023)
While this book was provided for free, I was under no obligation to provide a favorable review. (2023)
August 13, 2023
The author shares about God’s faithfulness through advertises during the Christian path in 60’s China. I found the novel, a real eye-opener into life in a country where people are not free to worship as they please. I enjoyed the characters and the real-life telling of their stories. It is important to note that oftentimes people, no matter where they live, who have committed to the Christian walk, may digress and act outside of God’s principles. However, He is there to forgive, if we ask. An inspirational Christian fiction worth reading.
August 19, 2023
25 years of Chinese history and one family’s Christian story
Wow! The author wrote with such human honesty and detailed so often how human frailty and sinfulness was able to reach out for Jesus Christ redemption and get lifted from a life of sin. There was no excusing lukewarmness and thinking that was any part of Christianity. The author also documented what life was like in china during the cultural revolution. This was a gritty no holds barred story, probably not for the faint of heart but an excellent read. I recommend it gladly.
Wow! The author wrote with such human honesty and detailed so often how human frailty and sinfulness was able to reach out for Jesus Christ redemption and get lifted from a life of sin. There was no excusing lukewarmness and thinking that was any part of Christianity. The author also documented what life was like in china during the cultural revolution. This was a gritty no holds barred story, probably not for the faint of heart but an excellent read. I recommend it gladly.
October 9, 2023
A Beautiful and Honest Redemptive Story
I am so grateful to have read this novel. What an eye-opener to the persecution of Christians in Chinese history. The angst of all that happened to these families became so real in my mind. The author wasn’t afraid to show the temptations and sin issues faced by her characters or a glimpse of both dysfunctional and healthy marital relations. That may be considered edgy, but it was tastefully done and brought more realism to the story. I became so attached to these characters that I didn’t want the story to end. Great novel!
I am so grateful to have read this novel. What an eye-opener to the persecution of Christians in Chinese history. The angst of all that happened to these families became so real in my mind. The author wasn’t afraid to show the temptations and sin issues faced by her characters or a glimpse of both dysfunctional and healthy marital relations. That may be considered edgy, but it was tastefully done and brought more realism to the story. I became so attached to these characters that I didn’t want the story to end. Great novel!
May 16, 2024
Several stories woven together
The author treated three concepts/stories in this book.
#1. The downfall of China Into communism.
#2. Biblical theological concepts.
#3. The value and joy of sex within marriage.
Obviously English is the author's second language, so sentences are short and disjointed at times. She weaves her concepts together in the story of a family - half of whom stay in China and half of whom are able to escape.
I guess I would recommend the book. It is not an easy read.
The author treated three concepts/stories in this book.
#1. The downfall of China Into communism.
#2. Biblical theological concepts.
#3. The value and joy of sex within marriage.
Obviously English is the author's second language, so sentences are short and disjointed at times. She weaves her concepts together in the story of a family - half of whom stay in China and half of whom are able to escape.
I guess I would recommend the book. It is not an easy read.
August 2, 2023
R.F. Whong spins a dynamic and interesting story with Blazing China. She uses amazing imagery details to engage the senses and bring the world of the Chinese Cultural Revolution to life. The characters — including Ann-Ann Lee, a familiar face from Detour to Agape — are dynamic and sympathetic. Overall, she tells a tale of faith, love, and loyalty that stays with the reader long after they have finished the book.
August 10, 2023
R.F. Whong presents an epic tale of God’s faithfulness through persecution. It’s both eye-opening about the experience of Christians in China, and relatable to me as a person who grew up in the faith but had to work out what it means to follow Jesus personally. It’s setting captures the essence of varied locales within the Chinese-speaking world, and it’s story highlights the difference faith can make in one’s life.
September 12, 2023
This book really opened my eyes to the plight of the Chinese
Really — this book mainly took place in the 1960’s — a time when I was a teen in a free country. Totally unlike China at the time. A family with twin girls - and the mother leaves with one only because two would call attention to them. God’s grace shows up in so many ways . . . . I enjoyed this book and learning about China, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.
Really — this book mainly took place in the 1960’s — a time when I was a teen in a free country. Totally unlike China at the time. A family with twin girls - and the mother leaves with one only because two would call attention to them. God’s grace shows up in so many ways . . . . I enjoyed this book and learning about China, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.
October 9, 2023
Thought provoking
This dramatic and emotional story follows Leesan and her family's struggle to preserve their Christian faith in the face of persecution during the Cultural Revolution in China. The author skillfully explores themes of faith, love, and resilience amidst adversity. With compelling characters and a gripping narrative, "Blazing China" is a powerful and inspiring read.
This dramatic and emotional story follows Leesan and her family's struggle to preserve their Christian faith in the face of persecution during the Cultural Revolution in China. The author skillfully explores themes of faith, love, and resilience amidst adversity. With compelling characters and a gripping narrative, "Blazing China" is a powerful and inspiring read.
January 23, 2024
Explore Dynamic and Evolving China!
The story is interesting. It a little bit of everything. It intertwines historical events, cultural quirks, and personal stories which provides both educational and enjoyable read. Whong’s prose not only educates about the country’s political landscape but also exploring into human experience. It’s captivating and stimulating viewpoint on a country situated between tradition and advancement.
The story is interesting. It a little bit of everything. It intertwines historical events, cultural quirks, and personal stories which provides both educational and enjoyable read. Whong’s prose not only educates about the country’s political landscape but also exploring into human experience. It’s captivating and stimulating viewpoint on a country situated between tradition and advancement.
November 6, 2024
five stars
This book takes place in the years spanning from the very start of the communist revolution in China up to the early 70s. It follows Leesan, a Chinese woman from a Christian family along with her daughters and others in her circle. Through their eyes we experience life in communist China as well as the experiences of Chinese Christians in Hong Kong. It is a hard read at times, those were not easy times to live through. However, it is worth the effort.
This book takes place in the years spanning from the very start of the communist revolution in China up to the early 70s. It follows Leesan, a Chinese woman from a Christian family along with her daughters and others in her circle. Through their eyes we experience life in communist China as well as the experiences of Chinese Christians in Hong Kong. It is a hard read at times, those were not easy times to live through. However, it is worth the effort.
August 3, 2023
This is different from other books I have reviewed. It is very informative on how Communism began in China through the eyes of some families and how they relied on Jesus and/or turned from him. Each detail was needed to explain the way they lived their lives but the sexual scenes were a little too graphic for me. Otherwise, I would still recommend this book.
August 30, 2023
An intriguing, gripping read!
I enjoyed reading this book and enjoyed the flow of it and the history. However, I wasn't a big fan of all of the Bible verses used because, for me, it took a little away from the story and I found myself skipping through some parts. Overall, an interesting story. Well done.
I enjoyed reading this book and enjoyed the flow of it and the history. However, I wasn't a big fan of all of the Bible verses used because, for me, it took a little away from the story and I found myself skipping through some parts. Overall, an interesting story. Well done.
September 15, 2023
Intense but interesting
I learned about China's history and persecution of believers. The author has captured that well. There are many different experiences in this book and characters but each has a solid character and past. I enjoyed reading and wanted to know what happens after the last chapter. I am glad that there is a happy ending to the story.
I learned about China's history and persecution of believers. The author has captured that well. There are many different experiences in this book and characters but each has a solid character and past. I enjoyed reading and wanted to know what happens after the last chapter. I am glad that there is a happy ending to the story.
November 8, 2023
Very interesting story. Different than most books I've read. The historical aspect of it was very intriguing. Learned many new things about the cultural revolution in China. I also liked the interweaving of the Christian and non Christian characters. As it got closer to the ending, I had a difficult time putting the book down.
November 29, 2023
A unique read
This was an interesting and unique story from start to finish. I enjoyed the rich dynamics between family members. The persecution of people throughout history based upon their religious beliefs is a fascinating topic and this author does an excellent job telling the story of Christian persecution in China. Overall, an excellent read!
This was an interesting and unique story from start to finish. I enjoyed the rich dynamics between family members. The persecution of people throughout history based upon their religious beliefs is a fascinating topic and this author does an excellent job telling the story of Christian persecution in China. Overall, an excellent read!
May 8, 2024
I enjoy multigenerational family sags and the persecution of the Chinese church during the communist revolution is interesting. There were some slower and repetitive parts and a surprising amount of bedroom scenes for Christian fiction.
I started the sequel first on accident but will continue to see what becomes of characters.
I started the sequel first on accident but will continue to see what becomes of characters.
June 16, 2024
Blazing China by R. F. Whong. This book takes place during the cultural revolution in China. I did enjoy this book, but some parts made me uncomfortable. I would suggest this for an adult audience.
Disclaimer by author: Note: Although the author follows the “less is more” principle, readers sensitive to sexual situations may find this book unsuitable, as it contains scenes intended to portray characters' attitudes towards sexual morality.
All thoughts are my own
Disclaimer by author: Note: Although the author follows the “less is more” principle, readers sensitive to sexual situations may find this book unsuitable, as it contains scenes intended to portray characters' attitudes towards sexual morality.
All thoughts are my own
August 12, 2023
a Christian novel for the backdrop of 60’s china
a Christian novel for the backdrop of 60’s china.
A little background Info would probably help for greater context but there’s a great novel within these pages and I beg you to look, consider and feel the times and the message !
a Christian novel for the backdrop of 60’s china.
A little background Info would probably help for greater context but there’s a great novel within these pages and I beg you to look, consider and feel the times and the message !
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews