Wu Zetian

This biography explores the remarkable life of Wu Zetian, the only woman to rule China as Emperor, shining a light on her rise to power amidst palace intrigue, political purges, and her strategic use of Buddhism to legitimize her reign. Challenging centuries of hostile historiography, the book examines what is fact and what might have been myth, revealing her achievements in expanding civil service exams, strengthening governance, and maintaining stability. With a focus on evidence-based storytelling, it brings to life the complex story of a powerful and pioneering woman who reshaped Chinese history.