Li Du Novels

Elsa Hart

In 1708, on China’s remote border with Tibet, exiled imperial librarian Li Du arrives in Dayan just as the town prepares for a spectacular eclipse ordered by the Emperor. When a Jesuit astronomer is murdered in the magistrate’s home, officials blame Tibetan bandits—but Li Du sees a more intricate conspiracy taking shape among soldiers, merchants, missionaries, servants, and storytellers. As political ambition, cultural tension, and competing versions of history collide, Li Du must decide whether to escape through the mountain pass or risk everything to uncover the truth. Richly atmospheric and meticulously historical, this compelling mystery explores the power of knowledge, empire, and the stories people tell to control the past.