This novel explores the upheavals of Yongzhou, beginning from one small corner of the region. Volume One tells of Yongzhou's beginnings: the glorious Han Dynasty; Volume Two depicts its splendor: the prosperous Tang Dynasty; and Volume Three follows its legacy: the culturally rich Song Dynasty.
Volume One features Liu Fa, Prince of Changsha; Liu Yong; Liu Mai; Liu Xian; Liu An, Prince of Huainan; Liu Qian; Liu Ling; Empress Dowager Dou; Dou Ying; Emperor Jing of Han; Emperor Wu of Han; Chen A'jiao; Wei Zifu, and others. It mainly covers the beginnings of Yongzhou's history and its subsequent development, interwoven with tales of love and hate. Volume Two features Liu Zongyuan, Emperor Shunzong of Tang, Emperor Xianzong of Tang, Lu Zhi, Han Yu, Liu Yuxi, Bai Juyi, Yuan Zhen, Li Shen, Pei Du, and others. It mainly portrays an important and glorious period in Yongzhou's history. Volume Three features Zhou Dunyi, Emperor Renzong of Song, Emperor Yingzong of Song, Kou Zhun, Empress Cao, Empress Guo, Fan Zhongyan, Ouyang Xiu, Sima Guang, Wang Anshi, and others. It mainly follows an important period in the development of Yongzhou's culture, as well as the political struggles of the Song Dynasty.
The plot is good, with twists and turns