So I picked this book up at a resale event at my local library. I am a huge fan of all British history and based on the title ... I assumed it was about Richard the Lionheart. Well imagine my surprise when I cracked it open a few months later. I do enjoy all things history and my son is interested in China's history so I read it anyways. I could *not* put this book down. Despite it being a 900+ page monstrosity... I plowed through this book in no time at all because it was that engaging. The names were a bit awkward at first but there is a character list that helped and within a few chapters, I had it all sorted out. The vocabulary was not archaic at all and made all the people very accessible and "modern". If nothing else, it shows we are all human with the same struggles in life no matter whether it is now or over a thousand years ago.

My only complaint.. this is the 3rd book in a series LOL! Now I have to go find the others!!! And as any great historical novel will do.. I have delved into T'ang Dynasty history for real and the discussions my son and I are having are amazing. I highly recommend this book. ( )

If I had more time in the world, I would finish this one - but it is over 900 pages long and in parts slow going. 8th century China in a detailed description of the Emperor and his court, his politicians, the intrigues, the outsiders and everything else. If you are interested in Chinese history, this is a good book to read. ( )

I *loved* this book. At first I was a little worried, particularly because of the character and place names. However, once I became familiar with the words the book flowed very smoothly. The story is beautiful and painful at the same time. How can an emperor become so obsessed with two people that he loses his entire kingdom, only to realize what has happened when it is much too late? After finishing this book, I began doing my own research into the characters portrayed. That, to me, is the sign of a truly great work of historical fiction: something that leaves me wanting to learn more! ( )

I keep this as a curiosity. It is a lush modern historical novel (wth some really wierd sex) loosely based on the story of Emperor Ming Huang and Yang Kuei-fei. Personally I prefer White Jade. ( )