About Author

Long Fei is a celebrated Chinese novelist renowned for his rich depictions of historical settings and deep knowledge of Chinese martial arts. A practitioner of Wushu himself, Liang's narratives often explore themes of honor, power, and the human spirit. His books frequently feature intricate plots woven with action and adventure, captivating readers with their authenticity and vivid imagery.

Book Description

Set in a vividly portrayed martial arts world, the book unfolds around the enigmatic and powerful Scholar’s Golden Seal, an emblem of supreme martial prowess held by Min Zi Yuan, the master of the imposing Scholar's Fort. As the story begins, Min Zi Yuan is recognized as an unmatched martial artist, whose authority and skills are both revered and envied across the jianghu (the community of martial artists).

However, the fort soon becomes the epicenter of a sinister plot when Min Zi Yuan, alongside his wife and son, mysteriously vanishes on the eve of their son’s birthday, sparking rumors and leaving behind only the Scholar’s Golden Seal. The fort, once a symbol of martial arts excellence, falls into desolation and becomes a place feared and avoided, even by the most courageous warriors.

The disappearance invites the curiosity and ambition of numerous martial arts factions, leading to alliances and rivalries as various groups converge on the fort. The story intricately weaves through intense martial arts battles, strategic alliances, and betrayals, culminating in the revelation of a deeper, more personal vengeance driving the heart of the conflict.

As truths unfold, the characters must navigate their personal codes of honor and the overarching ethics of the martial arts world. The novel explores themes of legacy, the burden of power, and the relentless pursuit of justice, set against a backdrop of intricate martial arts philosophy and the haunting beauty of the Emei Mountain landscapes.

"In the Shadow of Steel Gates" is rich in its exploration of martial arts culture, offering a tale that is both action-packed and thought-provoking, with a deep dive into the motivations that drive individuals to mastery and madness in the martial world.