TAIWANESE romance novelist Chiung Yao, aged 86, was found deceased at her residence in the Tamsui District of New Taipei City yesterday. Chiung Yao, born Chen Zhe on April 20, 1938, was a prolific author whose works have made a significant impact on the literary landscape of the Chinese-speaking world.

Chiung Yao’s literary journey began in the 1950s, marked by her debut novel, “Outside the Window,” inspired by her own youthful experiences. This novel not only launched her career but also set the tone for her future works, which often explored themes of love, heartache, and emotional complexity. Over the decades, she penned numerous bestsellers, with many of her stories being adapted into over 100 films and television dramas, solidifying her status as a cultural icon.

Her novels, praised for their lyrical prose and intricate character development, have resonated with readers, particularly women, who found solace and relatability in her narratives. Despite facing criticism for melodramatic plots and unconventional romantic relationships, Chiung Yao’s ability to capture the nuances of love and longing has endeared her to generations of fans.

Chiung Yao’s personal life was as compelling as her fiction. After a brief marriage to writer Ma Senqing, she married her publisher, Ping Hsin-tao, in 1979, after a decade-long relationship with the then-married Ping.

Their relationship faced challenges, especially during Ping’s declining health after a stroke, which led to tensions with his family regarding his care. Ping passed away in 2019, leaving Chiung Yao to navigate her grief while continuing to engage with her loyal readership.

Reports indicate that Chiung Yao left a note instructing her secretary to check on her at noon yesterday. Upon entering her home, the secretary found her unresponsive, prompting an immediate call to emergency services. However, it was confirmed that she had already died by the time help arrived.

Just days before, Chiung Yao expressed deep emotional turmoil in an essay and a short poem, titled “Memories of My Late Husband.”

At the age of 79, Chiung Yao started a hot debate in the media after she asked her son and daughter-in-law not to try to save her life if she develops a terminal disease. Instead she expressed her support for voluntary euthanasia to die quickly and gracefully.

(SD-Agencies)