Zhang Juzheng, Grand Secretary of the Great Ming

More intricate officialdom intrigue than Mr. Yi Zhongtian, a more fascinating history of the Ming Dynasty than When the Moon Was Bright, and more delicate storytelling than Mr. Chen Zhongshi. This novel faithfully recreates the little-known career in government of the “Ming Dynasty’s First Chancellor.” With sweeping macro-level storytelling and a twisting, unpredictable plot, it brings to life the rise, decline, and brief resurgence of the Great Ming Dynasty.