A Fate Woven of Tears and Laughter presents the first complete English translation of Tixiao Yinyuan, Zhang Henshui's acclaimed 1930 novel. One of the most popular and prolific writers of the Republican era, Zhang captured the rhythm and sentiment of urban China with wit, tenderness, and moral insight. Set in 1920s Beijing during the turbulent warlord period, the novel traces the emotional entanglements of Fan Jiashu, a young student from Hangzhou whose life becomes intertwined with three contrasting women: Shen Fengxi, a poor yet pure-hearted street singer; He Lina, a wealthy and worldly socialite; and Guan Xiugu, a spirited woman of courage and martial skill. Through their intersecting fates, Zhang weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and the shifting values of a society in transition. First serialized in newspapers, the novel became a literary sensation, captivating readers with its vivid characters and its blend of romance and social critique. Over the decades, A Fate Woven of Tears and Laughter has inspired numerous films, television, and opera adaptations, securing its place as a cornerstone of modern Chinese popular culture.