The Official Site of Robert Barclay, Author

Novelist Robert Barclay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Discover the
Premium Collection
of Digital Vignettes

The Butterfly Dynasty is a meticulously crafted collection that brings to light the untold stories of Chinese Australian women who have made significant contributions to society. Through a blend of historical narratives, personal accounts, and artistic expressions, that weaves a tapestry of resilience, creativity, and leadership.

Meet the Storytellers

Natasha Cheng 1

Natasha

We’re thrilled to introduce Natasha Cheng, a rising star in the realm of cinema, to the esteemed ranks of the Butterfly Dynasty Series. Hailing from the vibrant landscape of Australia, Natasha has graced both global blockbusters like “Thor: Love and Thunder” and the beloved Australian series “Home and Away”, as well as upcoming short films like “Unforgettable You.”

In her latest endeavour, Natasha Cheng will bring the characters to life and delve into the Australian-Asian diasporic experience, bringing to light stories that resonate with audiences across the globe. Through engaging content on Instagram and Facebook, she will offer insights into her craft and the characters she breathes life into.

Kathleen Xu with the Diary of Katy Yehonala book

Kathleen

Based in Melbourne, Xu is a dynamic actor known for her unwavering passion for the craft and her penchant for embracing new challenges. A versatile artist, Kathleen’s interests span from indoor pursuits like puzzles and games to outdoor adventures such as sports, hiking, and scenic drives at sunset. 

We’re delighted that Kathleen Xu will bring characters like Clara to life with her unparalleled talent and dedication. With each portrayal, Kathleen infuses her characters with depth, authenticity, and a touch of magic, captivating audiences with her ability to breathe life into every scene. 

Through her portrayal of Clara, Kathleen adds unique vignettes. She brings music within the story to life, enriching the storytelling experience and offering audiences a deeper insight into the characters’ complexities and her unique journey of being a Chinese Australian woman leading an artistic legacy. 

Chapter Readings

The Gang of Four, led by Mao’s wife, Jiang Qing, had taken over and were arrested within a month and imprisoned, to the unbounded joy and relief of everyone. Following the arrest of the Gang of Four, the Cultural Revolution was officially over. However, the machinations typical of Chinese politics continued unabated.

She beckoned us over and told us she’d heard the news. I asked her why bad things happen to good people like me, tears in my eyes, still feeling the selfish desolation of freshly anchored roots ripped out and a good friendship stolen.

Her weathered old face softened, well, as much as a boot-leather texture would permit. She sat us both down on her sheltered porchway out of the rain, by now heavy, and offered a threadbare old towel to dry ourselves. I realised we were both soaked tothe skin.

Today turned out to be the one conferred upon Katy Yehonala.

The lights dim, an unspoken signal to the audience. Seated again after the interval, a palpable sense of expectancy permeates the vast concert hall. Even the musicians of the famed Beijing Symphony Orchestra look between themselves, waiting.

Tonight, a new concerto by the celebrated Chinese composer, Jiang Kui, is to have its première; the final performance on the program after an evening celebrating the composer’s genius. Seats for the concert sold out weeks before.

In their line of work, they know how dangerous it can be to trust anyone. Halfway down this alley is a locked cellar and inside are seven children, trafficking victims, on their way to Ho Chi Minh City. Children who wealthy paedophiles will rape of their innocence before their captors sell them into seedy brothels for the gratification of a poorer class of predator.

Their operation begins.

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