Set in 1920s Shanghai during a time of political upheaval, the novel explores the existential themes of life, death, and the human condition through the experiences of a group of revolutionaries. The narrative follows their struggles and sacrifices for their cause, the Communist revolution, and their inevitable confrontation with their own mortality and the harsh realities of life. The book delves into the complexities of political ideologies, human relationships and the constant struggle between hope and despair.

The novel follows the journey of a wealthy Englishman who makes a high-stakes wager that he can travel around the world in eighty days. Accompanied by his loyal French valet, they encounter numerous obstacles and adventures across different cultures and landscapes, including rescuing a beautiful Indian woman from a ritual sacrifice. The book is a celebration of the technological advancements of the 19th century, with the main characters utilizing various modes of transportation such as steamships, railways, and even an elephant.

"The Conquerors" is a novel set against the backdrop of the 1925-1926 Chinese revolution, exploring the complexities of political upheaval and the human spirit. The narrative follows a European protagonist who becomes entangled in the revolutionary fervor sweeping through colonial Asia. As he aligns himself with communist insurgents, he grapples with the moral ambiguities of violent struggle and the personal costs of ideological commitment. The story delves into themes of power, betrayal, and the existential search for meaning amidst chaos, capturing the tumultuous atmosphere of a society on the brink of transformation.