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Empress of Bright Moon #2
La emperatriz de la luna
En esta continuación de El palacio de la luna Mei deberá luchar por el poder desde dentro de palacio y se verá obligada incluso a arriesgar su vida por convertirse en la única mujer que ha gobernado China.
Cuando el amante de Mei es coronado emperador, la lucha por el poder estalla entre ella y la emperatriz Wang. Ambas están desesperadas por conservar su nombre y su posición.
Cuando la emperatriz decide asesinar a los seguidores de Mei, la lucha entre ambas alcanza nuevas cotas: Mei se da cuenta de que debe vencer a la delirante emperatriz no solo para salvarse a sí misma, sino para proteger su país.
Cuando el amante de Mei es coronado emperador, la lucha por el poder estalla entre ella y la emperatriz Wang. Ambas están desesperadas por conservar su nombre y su posición.
Cuando la emperatriz decide asesinar a los seguidores de Mei, la lucha entre ambas alcanza nuevas cotas: Mei se da cuenta de que debe vencer a la delirante emperatriz no solo para salvarse a sí misma, sino para proteger su país.
422 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2016
373 people are currently reading
3025 people want to read
About the author
Weina Dai Randel
6 books1,013 followersWeina Dai Randel is the critically acclaimed, award-winning author of five novels, including The Master Jeweler (June, 2025); The Last Rose of Shanghai, a Wall Street Journal bestseller; and Night Angels, longlisted for the Massachusettes Book Awards.
Weina is the winner of the RWA RITA® Award, a National Jewish Book Awards finalist, and a two-time Goodreads Choice Award Best Historical Fiction nominee. Her books have been translated into seventeen languages, including French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and Hebrew. Her novels have received starred reviews from Booklist, Library Journal, and Shelf Awareness and rave reviews from other publications such as RT Book Reviews, Bookbub, and Book Reporter. Her debut was also recommended by Texas Library Association’s 2017 Lariat Reading List and was a San Francisco Book Festival Honorable Mention.
Born in China, Weina came to the United States at twenty-four. She holds an MA in English from Texas Woman’s University; she has worked as the subject-matter expert for Southern New Hampshire University’s MFA program and as an adjunct professor. Interviews with Weina have appeared on WFAA’s Good Morning Texas and in such publications as World Literature Today, Texas Jewish Post, The Wall Street Journal, Huffington Post, Los Angeles Review of Books, and RT Book Reviews. Weina resides in Massachusetts with her family.
Find more about Weina and her writing career on her website: www.weinarandel.com.
From Weina: "I love to see how words form an image that transcends the banal reality or how words join together to create a morsel of wisdom that tickles your mind."
Connect with Weina on Facebook:
www.facebook.com/weinadairandel
Weina is the winner of the RWA RITA® Award, a National Jewish Book Awards finalist, and a two-time Goodreads Choice Award Best Historical Fiction nominee. Her books have been translated into seventeen languages, including French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and Hebrew. Her novels have received starred reviews from Booklist, Library Journal, and Shelf Awareness and rave reviews from other publications such as RT Book Reviews, Bookbub, and Book Reporter. Her debut was also recommended by Texas Library Association’s 2017 Lariat Reading List and was a San Francisco Book Festival Honorable Mention.
Born in China, Weina came to the United States at twenty-four. She holds an MA in English from Texas Woman’s University; she has worked as the subject-matter expert for Southern New Hampshire University’s MFA program and as an adjunct professor. Interviews with Weina have appeared on WFAA’s Good Morning Texas and in such publications as World Literature Today, Texas Jewish Post, The Wall Street Journal, Huffington Post, Los Angeles Review of Books, and RT Book Reviews. Weina resides in Massachusetts with her family.
Find more about Weina and her writing career on her website: www.weinarandel.com.
From Weina: "I love to see how words form an image that transcends the banal reality or how words join together to create a morsel of wisdom that tickles your mind."
Connect with Weina on Facebook:
www.facebook.com/weinadairandel
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 354 reviews
April 25, 2016
It is important that I review these two books together as the full story of Empress Wu cannot be told without them being read one after the other.
There is no other way to describe these two books, but to say they are sensational. Truly, I cannot stop raving about them.
In Book 1, The Moon in the Palace, we are introduced to a young, intelligent young woman named Mei from humble beginnings who is swept into the emperor's court as a concubine. There she must weave her way through a a maze of treachery by other concubines who are equally struggling to claw their way to the top.
There is danger, betrayal, enduring love, and plenty of intrigue and unusual circumstances around every corner, on every page. Book 1 hooked me with a powerful grip at the start and kept me engrossed until the fabulous ending. The best part is that I was thrilled that the story continued in Book 2, The Empress of Bright Moon. Beautifully described surroundings, fashions, and every day items add to the enchantment, bringing to vibrant life the Chinese court of the Tang Dynasty.
These two books have become some of my very favourite books, along with the author. I will be eagerly awaiting future releases. These are definitely 5 star reads!
Thank you to the author and publisher. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for visiting my blog, http://greathistoricals.blogspot.ca, where the greatest historical fiction is reviewed! For fascinating women of history bios and women's fiction please visit http://www.historyandwomen.com.
There is no other way to describe these two books, but to say they are sensational. Truly, I cannot stop raving about them.
In Book 1, The Moon in the Palace, we are introduced to a young, intelligent young woman named Mei from humble beginnings who is swept into the emperor's court as a concubine. There she must weave her way through a a maze of treachery by other concubines who are equally struggling to claw their way to the top.
There is danger, betrayal, enduring love, and plenty of intrigue and unusual circumstances around every corner, on every page. Book 1 hooked me with a powerful grip at the start and kept me engrossed until the fabulous ending. The best part is that I was thrilled that the story continued in Book 2, The Empress of Bright Moon. Beautifully described surroundings, fashions, and every day items add to the enchantment, bringing to vibrant life the Chinese court of the Tang Dynasty.
These two books have become some of my very favourite books, along with the author. I will be eagerly awaiting future releases. These are definitely 5 star reads!
Thank you to the author and publisher. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for visiting my blog, http://greathistoricals.blogspot.ca, where the greatest historical fiction is reviewed! For fascinating women of history bios and women's fiction please visit http://www.historyandwomen.com.
October 5, 2016
Unlike the first in the series, my interest simply kept fading until I simply had to put the book down. Same characters but darker palace intrigue and hopeless outcomes, or constant manipulation and outmaneuvering evil forces. Maybe if I'd had both to read one right the other, an enthusiastic momentum would have helped. Writing ok but not as strong as first in series.
August 17, 2023
Romanul istoric este continuarea povestei “Luna din palat”, care se bazează pe descrierea destinului personajului istoric singura femeie conducător din China Împărăteasa Wu.
Lectura devine captivantă cu fiecare nouă dezvăluire. Trădări, intrigi de la Curte, primejdii la fiecare pas, răsturnări de situații, conflicte în familie și lupta pentru putere te atrag într-un vârtej de evenimente în perioada domniei Împăratului Gaozong.
Lectura devine captivantă cu fiecare nouă dezvăluire. Trădări, intrigi de la Curte, primejdii la fiecare pas, răsturnări de situații, conflicte în familie și lupta pentru putere te atrag într-un vârtej de evenimente în perioada domniei Împăratului Gaozong.
January 26, 2020
The Empress of the Bright Moon, is the sequel to Moon in the Palace It is the continuing story of Mei, who eventually becomes the only female ruler in China.
This book is beautifully written just as the first book was,but I felt it dragged in parts.
It is an engaging story that tells the cultural history of China.
There is plenty of intrigue and drama as Mei struggles to become Empress Wu.
I liked very much Weina Dai Randel explains in the end of the book what is true and where she became creative. Some of the facts have not been proven.
This story makes me want to know about Empress Wu.
If you love historical fiction you will enjoy this epic saga.
This book is beautifully written just as the first book was,but I felt it dragged in parts.
It is an engaging story that tells the cultural history of China.
There is plenty of intrigue and drama as Mei struggles to become Empress Wu.
I liked very much Weina Dai Randel explains in the end of the book what is true and where she became creative. Some of the facts have not been proven.
This story makes me want to know about Empress Wu.
If you love historical fiction you will enjoy this epic saga.
Read
June 14, 2016Booklist, Starred Review: "The author’s talent for dramatic, well-timed dialogue, and portrayal of women’s friendships and emotions—especially dislike, jealousy, and fear—intensifies the reader’s understanding of palace intrigue."
Library Journal, Starred Review: "A must-read for fans of historical fiction set in ancient China, this novel offers a compelling look at a woman’s unprecedented rise to power and a fresh take on the often vilified Empress Wu."
June 5, 2016
Horrible. Can't understand any reviews that give this more than 2 stars. By page 99, I wanted to give up because I was so tired of the endless stereotypes of the good (childbearing fertile beautiful poor desirable) concubine Mei and the bad (barren fat ugly bipolar rich mean) empress wife. I had thought that Fifty Shades of Gray was the worst book ever written until I read this. Predictable boring plot.
January 7, 2018
Wowser, this book is truly exceptional and a fine, fine finale to the story of Mei (Empress Wu) that was begun in beautifully crafted The Moon In The Palace set during the Tang Dynasty.
Mei's story began in the first book as she fought to gain herself a place with the Emperor, while being in love with his son Pheasant. She saw the rise and fall of many, both rich and poor, royal and not while rising and falling herself, over and over again. Now Mei has reached a point in her life, with the death of the Emperor and the rise of his son, and Mei's true love, Pheasant into his father's former position, where she could finally be happy but there are those who no not wish it to happen and both Mai and Pheasant find themselves in a desperate fight to keep their positions of power while those around them, particularly Pheasant wife's the Empress Wang, try to pull them asunder, to bring them to ruin.
As with the first book in this duology this book is just as stunning, just as heart-stopping and just as terrifically crafted. Everything good that I have said about the first book holds true in this case too. Again the characterisations are astonishingly good, the evolution of the characters from the first book through into this one are truly incredible especially Mei and Pheasant who both go on an extraordinary emotional and spiritual journeys, both together and apart, over the course of Bright Moon. Again the world-building is impeccable and just as realistic and evocative as before, drawing the reader into the finer details of the world and the lives people had in those days gone by. The pacing again is on the ball and perfectly structured to keep the flow of the story ebbing and flowing in the best way to keep the reader engrossed and enslaved by the story.
The duology is a no-brainer for fans of books about ancient Asian culture and fans of historical novelizations in general. The story of the great Empress Wu told here over the course of the two books is an extraordinary tale of an extraordinary woman who fought against everything and everyone to get what she believed she deserved for herself and her family. You should really give this par of books a chance to wow you in the way they have wowed me, they caught my imagination and went fleeing away on the wind with it, incredible.
Mei's story began in the first book as she fought to gain herself a place with the Emperor, while being in love with his son Pheasant. She saw the rise and fall of many, both rich and poor, royal and not while rising and falling herself, over and over again. Now Mei has reached a point in her life, with the death of the Emperor and the rise of his son, and Mei's true love, Pheasant into his father's former position, where she could finally be happy but there are those who no not wish it to happen and both Mai and Pheasant find themselves in a desperate fight to keep their positions of power while those around them, particularly Pheasant wife's the Empress Wang, try to pull them asunder, to bring them to ruin.
As with the first book in this duology this book is just as stunning, just as heart-stopping and just as terrifically crafted. Everything good that I have said about the first book holds true in this case too. Again the characterisations are astonishingly good, the evolution of the characters from the first book through into this one are truly incredible especially Mei and Pheasant who both go on an extraordinary emotional and spiritual journeys, both together and apart, over the course of Bright Moon. Again the world-building is impeccable and just as realistic and evocative as before, drawing the reader into the finer details of the world and the lives people had in those days gone by. The pacing again is on the ball and perfectly structured to keep the flow of the story ebbing and flowing in the best way to keep the reader engrossed and enslaved by the story.
The duology is a no-brainer for fans of books about ancient Asian culture and fans of historical novelizations in general. The story of the great Empress Wu told here over the course of the two books is an extraordinary tale of an extraordinary woman who fought against everything and everyone to get what she believed she deserved for herself and her family. You should really give this par of books a chance to wow you in the way they have wowed me, they caught my imagination and went fleeing away on the wind with it, incredible.
April 1, 2016
The is the second book to Empress of Bright Moon duology and I must say it had exceeded my expectations. i have read many series which book 1 was terrific and the subsequent ones are just moderate. Am glad to say that this is not one of them.
what i love about this second book is the way the author look at things that happened to Mei(Empress Wu) after the death of Emperor Taizhong. It's unlike what many fiction /non fiction authors wrote about her and yet the story woven here is believable. Things could have happened as what the author had imagine it to be.
It was a time where male hold all important posts. Women were to stay home and take care of the family .Many parts of in this world still holds this believe. Mei had to battle all these prejudices .
in this book, Mei had to depend on her wits to survive the battle in the Inner Courts. The story was vivid and many times i find myself screaming at the injustices that had happen especially on Mei and Princess Gaoyang.
i also like that there is not much politics involved here. Yes, there are some but mostly about strategies. It's not boring as like some with endless plotting who going to ousted who and stuffs like that.
what i can say without revealing too much is that this book feeds my imagination.
Downloaded the book yesterday and can't stop reading till i finished it this morning. it was that captivating. Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC at netgalley .
now am going to crawl back to my caves and have good books withdrawal syndrome. How i wish authors can write as fast as i read. Too bad authors had to do a lot of research to come out with book as good as this. looking forward to more goodreads from this author.
what i love about this second book is the way the author look at things that happened to Mei(Empress Wu) after the death of Emperor Taizhong. It's unlike what many fiction /non fiction authors wrote about her and yet the story woven here is believable. Things could have happened as what the author had imagine it to be.
It was a time where male hold all important posts. Women were to stay home and take care of the family .Many parts of in this world still holds this believe. Mei had to battle all these prejudices .
in this book, Mei had to depend on her wits to survive the battle in the Inner Courts. The story was vivid and many times i find myself screaming at the injustices that had happen especially on Mei and Princess Gaoyang.
i also like that there is not much politics involved here. Yes, there are some but mostly about strategies. It's not boring as like some with endless plotting who going to ousted who and stuffs like that.
what i can say without revealing too much is that this book feeds my imagination.
Downloaded the book yesterday and can't stop reading till i finished it this morning. it was that captivating. Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC at netgalley .
now am going to crawl back to my caves and have good books withdrawal syndrome. How i wish authors can write as fast as i read. Too bad authors had to do a lot of research to come out with book as good as this. looking forward to more goodreads from this author.
December 9, 2016
"The Empress of Bright Moon" is the second book in a duology. This is the continuing story of Mei, a concubine who rises up to be the new potential empress in ancient China. In this book, Mei is now more confident in her skills and power. When her lover becomes the new Emperor, Mei knows that she must force her way to the top any way that she can. She knows that she will be better for Pheasant than any other women, including his current wife.
Like I said, this is the second book in a duology. Definitely go back and read the first book! It will give you a lot of insight into the various characters, including Mei. Mei has definitely changed since the first book. She is now more confident and able to get what she wants. I loved watching her transformation between this book and the previous book. She is such a fascinating character!
Again in this book, the historical detail will make this a true treat for any historical fiction lover. I loved the detail about court life in the first book but even more so in the second book. The stakes are higher for Mei in this book and she must even more carefully navigate the in's and out's of court life in order to stay on top. It is incredibly intriguing!
I was not ready for this book to end and will definitely be looking for more from this author in the future!
Like I said, this is the second book in a duology. Definitely go back and read the first book! It will give you a lot of insight into the various characters, including Mei. Mei has definitely changed since the first book. She is now more confident and able to get what she wants. I loved watching her transformation between this book and the previous book. She is such a fascinating character!
Again in this book, the historical detail will make this a true treat for any historical fiction lover. I loved the detail about court life in the first book but even more so in the second book. The stakes are higher for Mei in this book and she must even more carefully navigate the in's and out's of court life in order to stay on top. It is incredibly intriguing!
I was not ready for this book to end and will definitely be looking for more from this author in the future!
July 30, 2021
This book is better than the first half, but still suffers from the passive narration. The woman doesn't actually do much, everything happens to her, or around her. But a lot more happens here than in the first book. The scenes are more exciting and the emotional impact is well developed.
Unfortunately, everyone keeps making the same mistakes over and over.
The ending is a bit abrupt, and the author's note says that the Empress lives a long time after the book ends, so perhaps a bit more of the story would provide a better resolution. It is pretty cool that the author researched quite thoroughly and that significant portions of the story are factual according to written histories.
Unfortunately, everyone keeps making the same mistakes over and over.
The ending is a bit abrupt, and the author's note says that the Empress lives a long time after the book ends, so perhaps a bit more of the story would provide a better resolution. It is pretty cool that the author researched quite thoroughly and that significant portions of the story are factual according to written histories.
March 28, 2020
This novel is about loss, choices, forgiveness, and redemption. It is about a woman who is trying to cope with loss. This novel is very heart-wrenching and is an emotional, poignant, and raw read. Full review you can find on my blog: https://poetryofreading.blogspot.com/...
September 24, 2025
Me ha encantado!!
February 19, 2018
Book 2 in the series continues the amazing story of Mei, a concubine in the Emperor's Palace in 7th century China.
Upon the death of the Emperor, Mei thinks her dreams of great power may come true. After all, she is now free, and her lover has been proclaimed the new Emperor. Everything is falling into place, or so she thinks.
However, her lover's chief wife has it in for Mei and makes her life a living hell. Mei, however, is not easily frightened and will not cower to her in her quest to have the highest power.
Once again, I found the writing and descriptions amazing, and always felt I was with Mei as she walked the Palace corridors, and feared for her within the walls where no one could really be trusted to be your friend.
Upon the death of the Emperor, Mei thinks her dreams of great power may come true. After all, she is now free, and her lover has been proclaimed the new Emperor. Everything is falling into place, or so she thinks.
However, her lover's chief wife has it in for Mei and makes her life a living hell. Mei, however, is not easily frightened and will not cower to her in her quest to have the highest power.
Once again, I found the writing and descriptions amazing, and always felt I was with Mei as she walked the Palace corridors, and feared for her within the walls where no one could really be trusted to be your friend.
March 9, 2019
Really good historical fiction about the only female ruler of China. This was the second book in the series and it was just as good as the first. If you love historical fiction you need to read these two books about ancient China's one and only female ruler!
April 30, 2023
One of those sequels that exceeds the first novel, which was also excellent. A great duology! Audiobook narration is brilliant too.
August 28, 2021
Esta segunda parte ha sido toda una guerra entre mujeres. Para mi gusto, lo hubiera disfrutado más si hubiera tenido un poco más de peso la parte histórica. Además, pensaba que se describiria parte del reinado de la Emperatriz Wu pero no es así, solamente narra su ascenso al trono y las guerras internas entre Faisán y el regente.
Si buscas novela histórica pura no es el mejor libro, pero si te gustan los salseos, las maquinaciones y las puñaladas traperas, ve a por él.
Si buscas novela histórica pura no es el mejor libro, pero si te gustan los salseos, las maquinaciones y las puñaladas traperas, ve a por él.
June 19, 2024
3.5/5
A decent if somewhat shortchanged ending to Weina Dai Randel's version of Empress Wu/Wu Zetian.
This covers the years of Emperor Gaozong’s early reign, his path to power over the regent and his wife Empress Wang. The Empress of Bright Moon is kinder to Mei/Wu than most historians/writers have been in the centuries after her reign. Weina Dai Randel affords Mei the benefit of doubt and attributes some of worst alleged deeds to others, chiefly Wujin and Wang.
However, as promising as the series has been I am admittedly disappointed it cut out so early in Mei’s life. Some of her most infamous deeds spoiler tag for history even though history can't really be spoiled anyway aren't even featured. It would have been a fitting end to see how WDR's Mei coped with these historical events.
Maybe one day we will get a third book?
A decent if somewhat shortchanged ending to Weina Dai Randel's version of Empress Wu/Wu Zetian.
This covers the years of Emperor Gaozong’s early reign, his path to power over the regent and his wife Empress Wang. The Empress of Bright Moon is kinder to Mei/Wu than most historians/writers have been in the centuries after her reign. Weina Dai Randel affords Mei the benefit of doubt and attributes some of worst alleged deeds to others, chiefly Wujin and Wang.
However, as promising as the series has been I am admittedly disappointed it cut out so early in Mei’s life. Some of her most infamous deeds spoiler tag for history even though history can't really be spoiled anyway aren't even featured. It would have been a fitting end to see how WDR's Mei coped with these historical events.
Maybe one day we will get a third book?
April 22, 2023
(Reviewing these books as a pair)
Ok, so I was briefly held back from reading these books because of their covers… (I know. I do in fact, judge books by their covers… learned my lesson with these books though!) but after seeing that the first book to this sequel was free on the Kindle app I decided to give it a shot!
The story follows Wu Mei, a lowly concubine who makes her way to be be to Chinas first and only female Ruler. The story follows her as she faces heartbreak, loss and betrayal to become the Empress of China.
I’m really surprised by just how much I loved the series! I binge read these books in the span of 6 days and could not stop. I really loved how dramatic the story was and how the fiction was laced with factual historical events and people. The author put her own twist on actual events/people without making the story seem outlandish.
There was so many elements to this book that kept me hooked. So many twists and turns, betrayal, love, heartbreak… you name it this book has it! The first book is a free read so it’s worth a shot if you have nothing to read.
Ok, so I was briefly held back from reading these books because of their covers… (I know. I do in fact, judge books by their covers… learned my lesson with these books though!) but after seeing that the first book to this sequel was free on the Kindle app I decided to give it a shot!
The story follows Wu Mei, a lowly concubine who makes her way to be be to Chinas first and only female Ruler. The story follows her as she faces heartbreak, loss and betrayal to become the Empress of China.
I’m really surprised by just how much I loved the series! I binge read these books in the span of 6 days and could not stop. I really loved how dramatic the story was and how the fiction was laced with factual historical events and people. The author put her own twist on actual events/people without making the story seem outlandish.
There was so many elements to this book that kept me hooked. So many twists and turns, betrayal, love, heartbreak… you name it this book has it! The first book is a free read so it’s worth a shot if you have nothing to read.
December 3, 2015
This novel, the sequel to "Moon in the Palace" is riveting, well written and very enjoyable! Weina's in depth research makes this novel realistic, with the reader able to visualize each scene, person and place described.
I recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical novels!
I recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical novels!
April 20, 2016
Riveting & stirring read. The royal court of Imperial China is just as bloody, ruthless, & calculating as its European counterparts if not more. Mei, or Empress Wu's life and ascent to the throne is full of intrigue, death, yet inspiring nonetheless.
January 9, 2018
A very good conclusion to the story of the only female emperor of China. The first book is The Moon in the Palace, which I highly recommend.
November 23, 2018
I want to read more about Empress Wu.
June 18, 2020
This book was a lot better than the first. More romance and a little less crazy (If you don't count the Empress).
This book is the embodiment of the saying 'Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.'
I actually felt the tiniest bad for the Empress at the end, when it was revealed that she was most likely NOT barren. But that her husband hadn't sleep with her except for the wedding night!!
I'm proud of Pheasant that he was very loyal to Mei. Especially since it was unheard of in that day for a noble man, much less an Emperor to sleep with only one woman.
I was disgusted by the lengths the Empress was willing to go to soothe her pride. Smothering an infant! Chaining a woman and her sun up like dogs surrounded by wolves and feces.
I was also pleasently surprised at how well all the ladies go along after Mei was kind to them. I guess after the Empress any kindness would have been enough to sway them.
I was also surprised at the historical note at the back. I had actually watched a video about Chinese Empresses on Youtube and was surprised that one of the Empresses mentioned in the video was Mei!! I was not really happy with where her life ended up. But that was the real Empress not necessarily Mei. :/
Also can I give an evil hand to the Regent. He managed to completely manipulate his way to his position as Regent. I'm so glad that he was found out because he was a power hungry manipulative bastard and I'm only wish he hadn't hung himself and had been drawn and quartered!!! -.-
Edit:
This book was a lot more romance and I loved that. This is like the perfect conclusion book. Still a lot of bloodshed and horribleness. But I love how much Phoenix and Mei loved each other.
They had their unhappiness's though. First the regent. I can't believe how blind Phoenix was to his horribleness. I am so happy he killed himself in the end. I do wish he had died much earlier though.
The Empress is a double edged sword for me. First she had a very unhappy life and she took it out on those around her. But she did SUCH horrible things that no amount of unhappy can redeem her. Like she SMOTHERED an infant. Cooked Mei's pet and fed it to her. She chained a mother and child up next to wolves and let them wallow in feces and maggots. Like I can't even imagine.
Phoenix needed to stand up for himself and he didn't. I think if Mei hadn't come back to him he would have been offed within a few years of taking the throne.
This book is the embodiment of the saying 'Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.'
I actually felt the tiniest bad for the Empress at the end, when it was revealed that she was most likely NOT barren. But that her husband hadn't sleep with her except for the wedding night!!
I'm proud of Pheasant that he was very loyal to Mei. Especially since it was unheard of in that day for a noble man, much less an Emperor to sleep with only one woman.
I was disgusted by the lengths the Empress was willing to go to soothe her pride. Smothering an infant! Chaining a woman and her sun up like dogs surrounded by wolves and feces.
I was also pleasently surprised at how well all the ladies go along after Mei was kind to them. I guess after the Empress any kindness would have been enough to sway them.
I was also surprised at the historical note at the back. I had actually watched a video about Chinese Empresses on Youtube and was surprised that one of the Empresses mentioned in the video was Mei!! I was not really happy with where her life ended up. But that was the real Empress not necessarily Mei. :/
Also can I give an evil hand to the Regent. He managed to completely manipulate his way to his position as Regent. I'm so glad that he was found out because he was a power hungry manipulative bastard and I'm only wish he hadn't hung himself and had been drawn and quartered!!! -.-
Edit:
This book was a lot more romance and I loved that. This is like the perfect conclusion book. Still a lot of bloodshed and horribleness. But I love how much Phoenix and Mei loved each other.
They had their unhappiness's though. First the regent. I can't believe how blind Phoenix was to his horribleness. I am so happy he killed himself in the end. I do wish he had died much earlier though.
The Empress is a double edged sword for me. First she had a very unhappy life and she took it out on those around her. But she did SUCH horrible things that no amount of unhappy can redeem her. Like she SMOTHERED an infant. Cooked Mei's pet and fed it to her. She chained a mother and child up next to wolves and let them wallow in feces and maggots. Like I can't even imagine.
Phoenix needed to stand up for himself and he didn't. I think if Mei hadn't come back to him he would have been offed within a few years of taking the throne.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2018
THE EMPRESS OF BRIGHT MOON by Weina Dai Randel is the sequel to The Moon in the Palace. The second book had been in my to be read pile for quite a while and for some reason never got to it. I’m one of the people who can’t watch a movie if two minutes have played, and I hate to read a book’s sequel with remembering the first one. So I sat down to binge read both books this weekend. I enjoyed reading The Moon in the Palace as much as the first time and found Randel’s story telling skills wonderful.
THE EMPRESS OF BRIGHT MOON sadly I hate to say was so MUCH better than the first book! I’m going to gush like a 16 year old school girl over here with a crush on the quarterback of the football team. This book is amazing! Randel didn’t hold back when she continued Mei’s story. It was as if I was snatched up by a tornado of emotions and spun around and around. There were scenes that had my holding my breath because they were so intense. Scenes that had me misty eye. Scenes that had me raging along with Mei. Scenes that had my groaning out loud (in a good way) and saying Randel why are you doing this to Mei and her loved ones. Scenes that had my eyes racing and tripping over words trying to find what would happen next. I was sucked into this story and couldn’t stop reading. I was up till 2am one night and had to force myself to put down the book; I need at least 5 hours of sleep to function the next day.
I loved Mei and felt every triumph, loss, grief and setback she faced. Pheasant, her lover, made me want to pull my hair out in frustration. One of my favorite characters, who I wished had more scenes about, was Princess Gaoyang, Pheasant’s sister and Mei’s friend and protector. It’s the first Chinese historical book I read with a princess who could kick ass. And Empress Wang, talk about a character you wanted and loved to hate, so devious and tragic. After finishing reading this story, I became a big fan of Randel. I’m not going into details about the book because I feel it’s one of those stories that have to unfold for the reader.
THE EMPRESS OF BRIGHT MOON is a must read for anyone who loves Chinese historical fiction and a story about a woman sacrificing all and triumphing in the end. It will be one of those books I will remember for it’s characters and what they went through.
THE EMPRESS OF BRIGHT MOON sadly I hate to say was so MUCH better than the first book! I’m going to gush like a 16 year old school girl over here with a crush on the quarterback of the football team. This book is amazing! Randel didn’t hold back when she continued Mei’s story. It was as if I was snatched up by a tornado of emotions and spun around and around. There were scenes that had my holding my breath because they were so intense. Scenes that had me misty eye. Scenes that had me raging along with Mei. Scenes that had my groaning out loud (in a good way) and saying Randel why are you doing this to Mei and her loved ones. Scenes that had my eyes racing and tripping over words trying to find what would happen next. I was sucked into this story and couldn’t stop reading. I was up till 2am one night and had to force myself to put down the book; I need at least 5 hours of sleep to function the next day.
I loved Mei and felt every triumph, loss, grief and setback she faced. Pheasant, her lover, made me want to pull my hair out in frustration. One of my favorite characters, who I wished had more scenes about, was Princess Gaoyang, Pheasant’s sister and Mei’s friend and protector. It’s the first Chinese historical book I read with a princess who could kick ass. And Empress Wang, talk about a character you wanted and loved to hate, so devious and tragic. After finishing reading this story, I became a big fan of Randel. I’m not going into details about the book because I feel it’s one of those stories that have to unfold for the reader.
THE EMPRESS OF BRIGHT MOON is a must read for anyone who loves Chinese historical fiction and a story about a woman sacrificing all and triumphing in the end. It will be one of those books I will remember for it’s characters and what they went through.
April 22, 2016
3.5 stars if I could .
This sequel to The Moon in the Palace depicting the royal court in ancient China focuses on the strong women who influenced the times and in particular , Wu Mei , whose story is "based on a true historical figure , the one and only female ruler in China, Wu Zetian , also known as Empress Wu." Royal advisers pitted against each other for their own gain , to retain power and influence , concubines and other women in the court jockeying for position to be close to the Emperor and the Empress of course , pit against them comprises the bulk of this novel.
Mei , Emperor Taizong's concubine in love with his son and heir, Pheasant becomes Luminous Lady "above all the others ." The back and forth power struggles with Empress Wang , Pheasant's wife seemed quite dramatic - kidnappings and the murder of children. I have to admit while the story is intriguing, I was anxious for the battle between these women to end .
At the end the author indicates that many of the characters and events were real but does say that there is some disagreement among scholars over a tragic event that takes places in the book and that she chose to tell it a particular way. Either way , the utmost evil side of ambition and desire for power would have been the motive .
It's not the same country or time or court but this is definitely reminiscent of the intrigue at the Tudor Court in Philippa Gregory's books . It's not the Tudor court but I expect that anyone who enjoyed those books, might like these two books as well.
Thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Landmark and NetGalley.
This sequel to The Moon in the Palace depicting the royal court in ancient China focuses on the strong women who influenced the times and in particular , Wu Mei , whose story is "based on a true historical figure , the one and only female ruler in China, Wu Zetian , also known as Empress Wu." Royal advisers pitted against each other for their own gain , to retain power and influence , concubines and other women in the court jockeying for position to be close to the Emperor and the Empress of course , pit against them comprises the bulk of this novel.
Mei , Emperor Taizong's concubine in love with his son and heir, Pheasant becomes Luminous Lady "above all the others ." The back and forth power struggles with Empress Wang , Pheasant's wife seemed quite dramatic - kidnappings and the murder of children. I have to admit while the story is intriguing, I was anxious for the battle between these women to end .
At the end the author indicates that many of the characters and events were real but does say that there is some disagreement among scholars over a tragic event that takes places in the book and that she chose to tell it a particular way. Either way , the utmost evil side of ambition and desire for power would have been the motive .
It's not the same country or time or court but this is definitely reminiscent of the intrigue at the Tudor Court in Philippa Gregory's books . It's not the Tudor court but I expect that anyone who enjoyed those books, might like these two books as well.
Thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Landmark and NetGalley.
January 4, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel to The Moon in the Palace. As much as I liked the first novel, I liked this one even more. I knew little about the Tang dynasty Chinese history, so I believe I was educated about a fascinating era, as well as provided with a "good read"! I appreciated the details, such as about the characters' clothing, food, music, court customs, and other cultural elements, which add vibrancy to the novel. It is obvious that the author spent a great deal of time delving into historical research. As well, the book's language is lush and beautiful in its descriptions. The plot keeps you on edge and leads your emotions in many different directions--sadness, happiness, and fear, among many others. I highly recommend this novel.
March 13, 2018
Wu Zetian, like many female rulers across history, does not have a good reputation. Weina Dai Randel attempts to "correct" that reputation here in The Empress of Bright Moon, but unfortunately, the book suffered for it. Rather than a scheming, bloodthirsty harlot, Empress Wu becomes a passive Mary Sue. Bad things happen to her, and her Evil Rival ruins her life countless times, but through it all Wu remains Good and Pure and Wise.
And while that might be good work toward helping Wu save face, it doesn't make for good fiction.
This was boring, is what I'm saying.
And while that might be good work toward helping Wu save face, it doesn't make for good fiction.
This was boring, is what I'm saying.
December 10, 2016
Thanks SOURCEBOOKS Landmark and netgalley for this ARC.
Even better than the first in series. Beautiful and emotional
Even better than the first in series. Beautiful and emotional
March 28, 2023
Împărăteasa Lunii este continuarea poveștii Luna din palat. Atunci am făcut cunoștință cu Mei, tânăra ambițioasă care ajunge concubina Împăratului iar acum înaintăm cu povestea din punctul în care Împăratul Taizong moare.
Pheasant este moștenitorul de drept al Împăratului, el fiind cel ce urcă pe tron iar acum că Mei este liberă ei speră ca dragostea lor să înflorească. Dar drumul le este presărat cu multe greutăți fiindcă din cauza tristului eveniment lucrurile urmează să se schimbe iar concubinele Împăratului , printre care și Mei , sunt trimise în mănăstiri. După câteva luni Mei reușește să fugă și să-l întâlnească pe Pheasant care o aduce în secret la palat.
Când Mei ajunge să creadă că visurile i se vor împlini trebuie să înfrunte furia Împărătesei Wang, soția lui Pheasant. Împărăteasa este o femeie puternică, crudă și răzbunătoare dar care suferă din cauza vorbelor care circulă despre ea , acelea cum că ar fi infertila neaducand pe lume niciun moștenitor, în timp ce Mei reușește să aibă copii și să și avanseze în rang. Mei va reuși să-și împlinească destinul glorios , cel prezis cu mulți ani în urmă de călugărul Tripitaka, doar făcând față răutăților și trecând peste toate obstacolele ce-i stau în cale.
"Când țelul tău e prea mare cea mai bună cale de a-ți păcăli dușmanul este să te prefaci rănit."
Povestea lui Mei este bazată pe un personaj istoric , Wu Zetian, singura femeie conducător din China , cunoscută ca și Împărăteasa Wu.
"Ne petrecuseram toată viața căutând fructul fericirii, încercând să hrănim dorințele inimilor, iar când în sfârșit găsisem fructul și îl ținusem în mâini, îi simțisem gustul dulce doar pentru o clipă, după care se acrise."
"Copiii erau păsări, iar mamele erau copaci și, oricât de departe zburau, oricât de sus pluteau, mereu tanjeau după ramurile copacului și după cuib, să se odihnească."
Pheasant este moștenitorul de drept al Împăratului, el fiind cel ce urcă pe tron iar acum că Mei este liberă ei speră ca dragostea lor să înflorească. Dar drumul le este presărat cu multe greutăți fiindcă din cauza tristului eveniment lucrurile urmează să se schimbe iar concubinele Împăratului , printre care și Mei , sunt trimise în mănăstiri. După câteva luni Mei reușește să fugă și să-l întâlnească pe Pheasant care o aduce în secret la palat.
Când Mei ajunge să creadă că visurile i se vor împlini trebuie să înfrunte furia Împărătesei Wang, soția lui Pheasant. Împărăteasa este o femeie puternică, crudă și răzbunătoare dar care suferă din cauza vorbelor care circulă despre ea , acelea cum că ar fi infertila neaducand pe lume niciun moștenitor, în timp ce Mei reușește să aibă copii și să și avanseze în rang. Mei va reuși să-și împlinească destinul glorios , cel prezis cu mulți ani în urmă de călugărul Tripitaka, doar făcând față răutăților și trecând peste toate obstacolele ce-i stau în cale.
"Când țelul tău e prea mare cea mai bună cale de a-ți păcăli dușmanul este să te prefaci rănit."
Povestea lui Mei este bazată pe un personaj istoric , Wu Zetian, singura femeie conducător din China , cunoscută ca și Împărăteasa Wu.
"Ne petrecuseram toată viața căutând fructul fericirii, încercând să hrănim dorințele inimilor, iar când în sfârșit găsisem fructul și îl ținusem în mâini, îi simțisem gustul dulce doar pentru o clipă, după care se acrise."
"Copiii erau păsări, iar mamele erau copaci și, oricât de departe zburau, oricât de sus pluteau, mereu tanjeau după ramurile copacului și după cuib, să se odihnească."
January 25, 2019
Not amazing, but not terrible!
This second of two volumes finishes the story of Wu Mei, a palace lady who eventually became Empress of China. Sparely told, the story takes the reader through the violence and intrigue of the court, to the final triumphs and tragedies. Recommended.
This second of two volumes finishes the story of Wu Mei, a palace lady who eventually became Empress of China. Sparely told, the story takes the reader through the violence and intrigue of the court, to the final triumphs and tragedies. Recommended.
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