The Legend of Li Wei

This novel tells the story of Li Wei and Mingzhu, who engage in a battle of wits in the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty, opposing each other and taking part in solving cases.

The story takes place during the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty. Society appears peaceful and prosperous on the surface, but beneath that tranquil facade, deep-seated conflicts are growing ever more acute. The problems of rooting out those plotting treason and balancing tensions between ruler and officials are all laid before the reigning emperor, Kangxi. A defender of the unified, multiethnic empire, Kangxi makes good use of Li Wei, a just and upright official in the Ministry of Revenue who enforces the law impartially, and particularly admires Mingzhu, the chief grand secretary and head of the Grand Council, for his obsequious flattery and unquestioning obedience. Li Wei and Mingzhu, meanwhile, are bitter rivals who have been at odds for years, pursuing completely opposite paths and serving as political enemies. Around these three unfolds a series of tragicomedies that may leave you either chuckling or sighing with regret.