The shadow of the East

"The Shadow of the East" by E. M. Hull is a tale set in early 20th century Japan, centering on American millionaire Jermyn Atherton and his friendship with Barry Craven, an Englishman entwined with a Japanese woman, O Hara San. The story examines love, culture differences, and how chasing happiness leads to consequences, all beginning on a yacht near Yokohama where Atherton meets Craven and his brother Leslie. Conversations hint at Craven's love for Japan and Atherton's marital problems and desire to fix his marriage. Love and identity issues arise, particularly between Craven and O Hara San, showing the appeal and challenges of their bond, which reveals Craven’s inner battle as he struggles with his feelings for O Hara and their vastly different backgrounds.