An epic masterpiece

this is one of the best series I have listened 2 on Audible. Emily's performance is incredible, she makes the listener feel all of the emotion of the novel. She makes the listener feel the pain, the suspense, and she acted every single sentence with all of her soul. This is one of the most beautiful and incredible series I've ever read. And the best part, is it is very true to the actual history of Empress Wu. the love story is palpable, but Tastefully done. I couldn't stop listening to this book. The only problem, is it was so powerful and moving, I cannot move on. usually, I end one audible book and start another. However it is been two days since I finished this book and I cannot move forward. I may have to listen to the series again. This may be one of the best series I've ever read in my entire life.

2 people found this helpful

better than the first book!

i like the storyline and the epilogue. I felt the performer did a better job of emotional range than she did in the first book. It's also refreshing that it isn't constant drama. I prefer books to have both peaceful and dramatic elements in them; this book does well in that respect.

2 people found this helpful

Much better than the first book

If like me you didn't like the first book because of "all that happens to me happens for a reason and there is nothing I can do about it" attitude of May and weak story, the second book will not disappoint you.

1 person found this helpful

Ancient China has nothing on GOT!

This book is filled with romance, deception, excitement, and just a taste of life in the AD 600s

1 person found this helpful

very interesting about the Chinese dynasties

I learned a lot about the Chinese dynasties that existed BC and then AD very interesting definitely recommend this series.

The Empress herself would’ve liked to edit

Albeit a moderate engaging story, it is likely going to make unbiased historians or Wu Tse-Tien herself cringe. As the only woman who ruled as “di” (royal supreme ruler of the dynasty) in all of China’s history, she had an iron will and unprecedented political skills to navigate her success in a male dominated society. The author and narrator painted her as this strategy-less, love-sick, tantrum throwing, tearful weakling with occasional hapless or mildly successful endeavors just made the story unbelievable.

Great Find

Sooo good. I was immersed in this series. I'm not a history buff so I can't attest to the accuracy of the story, but this seems to be pretty legit historical fiction.

Glad I gave it a second chance.

I almost didn’t listen to this book because of the narrator and my experience with the first book in this series. I’m glad I gave it a shot. The story was good and the narrator did a better job.

Way too much angst

I would have really liked this book if it wasn’t for Mai’s constant angst and whinning

Excellent!

No struggle listening to this wonderful story! It just compelled me to binge..a great tale of life, a quest to be in the palace, the struggles, defeats, ultimate victory in both royal success and love. It's a beautiful story, and enjoyable from start to finish!