Set against the world of grassroots government, this epic novel follows a young official from a humble background as he rises through the system, offering a panoramic view of contemporary Chinese officialdom. The story revolves around real-world issues such as developing a new district, transferring land-use rights, and improving people’s livelihoods. It portrays both the twists and turns of power struggles and the warmth of humanity’s brighter side. Amid the tide of reform, Lu Chenzhou stays true to his ideals. He keeps a clear head amid tangled relationships and uses his wisdom and courage to overcome one development challenge after another. Seeking a balance between the official path and the will of the people, he ultimately forges a career in government that meets the needs of the times without betraying his personal convictions.
