Lust, Caution: The Story

Wang Chia-chih is a beautiful young student who is sent undercover to seduce Mr Yee, a powerful government official in WWII-era Shanghai. I can see how a good movie could be spun out of a novella like this, but I have to imagine that much of its power is lost in translation.

this very short book, almost a long chapter, holds a world of tension.When the story took me to the the point where everything would turn one way or the other for these 2 people, I went out and rented the DVD. I was on a fence between choosing which medium to experience the ending. I Chose the book, and it was all good. (The movie was also excellent. )
This is a literate spellbinding story of deception and second guessing. Can't wait to read Love in a Fallen City this year.

The story of a young woman who is recruited by her student group to aid in the assassination of a political figure. Her job is to seduce him and lure him to his death. At the last minutes she changes her mind and warns him to flee for his life. It is a complex emotional story told through stark language. A chilling, atmospheric read.

This book is really a long short story. The writing is skilful and the author tension builds as the story unfolds. I was shocked by the ending. (I hope that isn't a spoiler.)I suggest skipping Ang Lee's introduction if you don't want to know the ending. The introduction was quite helpful after after reading the the book. A good read about a country and a time period I knew little about but the plot is relevant and the story universal.