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 rose in revolt and steadily expanded his strength, allying with the Great Song and closing in step by step. Liao nobles also began declaring themselves emperors, and the dynasty eventually fractured and fell. The author writes beautifully and researches history rigorously. As an introduction to history, this book is highly appealing to readers.
