One of China's most controversial figures, Empress Wu was its first and only female emperor, emerging in the seventh century during the great Tang Dynasty to usher in a golden age. Throughout history, her name has been defamed and her story distorted. But now, after thirteen centuries, Empress Wu flings open the gates of the Forbidden City and tells her own astonishing tale--revealing a fascinating, complex figure who in many ways remains modern to this day. Writing with epic assurance, poetry, and vivid historic detail, Shan Sa plumbs the psychological and philosophical depths of what it means to be a striving mortal in a tumultuous, power-hungry world. Empress is a great literary feat and a revelation for the ages.

Sent as RABCK to grovalskii who so very kindly sent me two of my wishlist books. Haves happy New Year!

book arrived, thank you so much!

5 years after receiving this book, I finally got around to reading it. Pretty interesting book about the only (?) empress of China.

Personal hand-over during a mini meetup.

Thank you! This book is on the wishlist of a UK Uncon attendee, so it will come with me to Newcastle in a few weeks.

Wishlist surprise from grovalskii for you!

One of my wishlist books (so doesnt count!)