A Tale of the Tang Dynasty, Part One

Xu Xiaotian (1886–1946), a modern-era writer, was born Xu Jia'en. His courtesy name was Zezhai, and his pen name was Xiaotian. He was from Shangyu, Zhejiang. Xu Xiaotian devoted his career as a novelist mainly to historical fiction, writing works such as The Thirteen Reigns of the Qing Court, The Sixteen Reigns of the Ming Court, The Twenty Reigns of the Tang Court, and A History of the Republic of China. This book is one of the Historical Romances of Chinese Dynasties series. It consists of 100 chapters. The first 21 recount the decadence of Emperor Yang of Sui and the rise of the Tang dynasty, tracing the fall of one dynasty and the rise of another in a clear sequence. Chapters 22 through 95 describe little-known stories of the emperors' romantic affairs and the corrupt life of the Tang court, as well as the consorts' and eunuchs' interference in state affairs, their power struggles, and major historical events such as palace coups. The narrative is vivid and engaging. Drawing on official histories, unofficial accounts, and folk legends, the book helps readers understand the lives of emperors in the secluded palace while also offering valuable insight into the broader history of the Tang dynasty.