Born in the UK, Matthew Harrison is a researcher based in Hong Kong. After studying English at Oxford University Matthew had a brief spell as an English teacher in Germany, and returned to London intending to stay there. But then he met his wife-to-be and they decided to go to Hong Kong. Intending to stay in Hong Kong for two years, Matthew has now stayed twenty. He and his wife have two children.

Matthew’s writing focuses on Hong Kong life. Urban life, office politics, and cross-cultural romance are the staple themes of his stories, in which tragedy and comedy are never too far apart.

The eight stories in this collection explore romantic relationships against the background of Hong Kong’s crowded streets. A hillside walk, a tram ride, a court case, a demonstration - or warming noodles in the office pantry - bring the characters together and provide the setting for their encounters. The unique spirit of the city pervades the stories and plays a part in their resolution.

Oppressed by an old love affair, Sharon finds new inspiration one bright morning during a walk on Bowen Road.

Fi Fi Yeung is in control of her job at the Kiangsu Bank, of her family and of herself. Then into this organized world steps the forceful Mr Moore. As Fi Fi gets to know her new colleague, she begins to think of a different future. But change is sweeping through the bank’s headquarters in Queen’s Road Central, and Fi Fi is in control no longer.

Sandra has come to terms with her life but then on a tram ride to Admiralty she glimpses her former lover.

In Queen’s Road East, Dudley believes in the purity of his admiration for a young waitress, but must struggle with a friend's skepticism, a depressed property market, and family burdens.

Baffled by a bizarre sexual assault case in Justice Drive, Polly must learn from her male fellow jurors.

Demonstrations, high finance, and local politics swirl around Chater Garden, prompting a young bond trader to question the meaning of her life. Others offer their guidance - and romantic attention - but Pony is inspired by a Mainland activist who does not even know of her existence.

In her office overlooking Pedder Street, Georgina finds her new management accountant a disturbing presence.

Struggling to raise her son in Hennessy Road, Ling Ling faces a dilemma, and finds help from an unlikely source.