In her first book about Empress Wu of Tang Dynasty China, THE MOON IN THE PALACE, Weina Dai Randel made her mark as a bright new voice of the historical fiction scene. In the follow-up volume, THE EMPRESS OF BRIGHT MOON, Randel paints an even more vivid picture of Mei, as she was then known, and her struggles to rise to power.

"Along with its predecessor, THE EMPRESS OF BRIGHT MOON is one of the most beautifully written, impeccably researched and well-constructed historical fiction novels released this year."

We open on the incipient death of Emperor Taizong, father of Mei’s beloved, Prince Pheasant, and the man whom she serves as a concubine. Just as fate seems to favor Mei --- Pheasant is heir to the throne and promises to keep her by his side when he becomes emperor --- everything she’s worked so hard for is viciously ripped from her.

Randel brings to life court intrigue in intricate detail that shows the years of meticulous research she put into this duet. As Mei claws her way back to the man she loves and the life that was stolen from her, twists and turns wait around the corner of every palace corridor. Just when she thinks she’s safe, the floor drops out from underneath her, and readers will be delighted, titillated and shocked at Mei’s every move.

Along with its predecessor, THE EMPRESS OF BRIGHT MOON is one of the most beautifully written, impeccably researched and well-constructed historical fiction novels released this year. This reviewer will be waiting for Randel’s next novel --- hopefully bringing to life another fascinating woman of ancient China --- with bated breath.