The Biography of Li Jing, Great General and God of War follows the renowned early Tang commander Li Jing, presenting the sweeping story of his rise from a young man in Longxi to a legendary general. Faithful to the historical record while weaving in elements of legend, the novel unfolds across five volumes and fifty chapters.
Volume One, “Jade Hidden in the Dust,” follows Li Jing’s early travels and keen understanding of the times, leading to his decision to join the Tang amid the chaos at the end of the Sui dynasty. Volume Two, “Pacifying the South,” focuses on his courage and wisdom in defeating Xiao Xian and bringing Lingnan under control. Volume Three, “Striking North at Yinshan,” recounts his celebrated victories, from the night raid on Dingxiang to the decisive battle at Yinshan, which brought about the destruction of the Eastern Turks. Volume Four, “Pursuit West Across the Sands,” depicts the daring of Li Jing, now in his sixties, as he leads an expedition against Tuyuhun and ventures deep into perilous territory. Volume Five, “General and Statesman,” portrays the political wisdom he showed in his later years, writing military treatises and retiring after achieving greatness.
The novel not only depicts Li Jing’s military art of combining unorthodox tactics with conventional ones, but also delves into his emotional world, including his chivalrous romance with Hongfu Nü and his complex relationship with Emperor Taizong, at once ruler and friend. Through Li Jing’s fulfilled life, in which he achieved great merit without alarming his sovereign and rose to the highest office without arousing suspicion, the novel offers a profound portrayal of the loyalty, strategy, and worldly wisdom of a great general in troubled times. This epic work blends history, war, legend, and reflections on life.
