3 Review(s)

Under the Mikado's flag or young soldiers of fortune is a historical novel set during the Russo-Japanese War, focusing on the experiences of two young Americans caught in the turbulence of international conflict. The story centers on their mission to expose a swindler amid the volatile atmosphere of Korea and Manchuria. At the beginning of the novel, one of the young men arrives in a key military port, attempting to uncover the location of a wanted figure involved in a major financial deception. As tensions between rival empires intensify, the protagonists face mounting challenges, including surveillance from suspicious authorities, covert negotiations, and the ever-present threat of war. Their journey quickly becomes more perilous as their private mission is complicated by diplomatic unrest, military build-up, and cultural dislocation. Throughout the unfolding events, the narrative presents a vivid depiction of the region's unrest, highlighting both the courage and uncertainty of navigating foreign lands under the shadow of war. Early chapters establish a complex backdrop of espionage, honor, and youthful resolve, positioning the characters at the crossroads of personal duty and global upheaval.