The Dying Song of the Great Liao, Part One: Aguda's Rise

Based on the History of Liao and written in a literary style, this book traces the rise and fall of the Liao dynasty. It focuses on the dynasty’s last emperor, Yelu Yanxi, whose incompetence and poor judgment led him to trust treacherous ministers and face repeated internal rebellions. Taking advantage of the turmoil, Jurchen leader Wanyan Aguda launched an uprising and steadily expanded his strength. He allied with the Great Song to destroy the Liao dynasty. Written in fluent prose and grounded in rigorous historical research, this is an engaging introduction to history.