The Chrysanthemum, the Cross, and the Dragon

1632 Universe/Ring of Fire

by Iver P. Cooper

In Iver P. Cooper's latest alternate history novel, a new contribution to Eric Flint's 1632 Universe, the romance between Juan Cardona, an officer in Spain's Manila garrison, and Huang Mingyu, a young, beautiful Chinese woman, is threatened when a Dutch-Japanese force launches a surprise attack on 17th century Manila. Manila falls and Juan is rescued by Huang Mingyu, who proves to have hidden talents and connections. It is then up to Juan to warn the incoming Manila galleon of the Dutch-Japanese threat before it blunders into Manila Bay, and to prove his worth to Mingyu's family. Who have interests of their own in the region....

Will true love prevail when Japan (the chrysanthemum), Spain (the cross) and China (the dragon) come into conflict?

For readers unfamiliar with the 1632 universe, it posits a cosmic catastrophe -- the RIng of Fire -- that throws the West Virginia town of Grantville into 17th century Germany. By 1633, the ripples caused by this event have reached East Asia, and the Japanese are determined to forestall the missionary-instigated Shimabara Rebellion of 1637.

Genres: Alternate History

167 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 17, 2018

Reviews

[Stephen Maguire · Rating 2 out of 5]

Prequel to China Venture

I read the 1632 stories to enjoy the twists and turns that the appearence of Grantville brings to the 17th century. I even enjoy the novels and stories entirely about down timers.
But this novel has a bare nod toward Grantville with a single page discussion of it happening and the use of a pedal cart in the last chapter. In the "about the author" notes there will be a sequel of sorts to this story called the China Venture. That's the story I want. Perhaps after I read it I might appreciate this book.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The 1632 series has gone far afield, but in doing so has found some wonderful writers. I really enjoy Iver Cooper's writing and this attempt does not disappoint. Well researched alternative history of the Dutch/Japanese take over of Manila in the Philippines, with excellent history while growing the fictional characters set therein. Highly recommended for history buffs as well as 1632 fans.

[Allen McDonnell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice vacation read

This short novel explores what is going on in the Philippines and Taiwan in the 1632 alternate history timeline. The main characters are well developed and the writing style is a pleasure to read.

[Kevin K · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not going to lie, I expected more interaction with the Grantville group. It was more of a love / adventure story set in the 1632 universe. I don't think I'd recommend reading this

[Bill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cooper takes us to 1630's East Asia after the arrival of Grantville in central Europe. The Philippines and Taiwan are up for grabs among the Chinese, Japanese, Dutch, Portuguese, and Spanish.

[donald a miller]

it was entertaining . Unfortunate in that it slipped through my mind faster than my mind was able to keep up with .I would be reading about 1 one thing and the next thing I know I would be reading something completely different . Took me awhile to finish , as I would have to go back to find the trail .