Summary

At the end of the nineteenth century China is rocked by foreign attacks and local rebellions.

At the end of the nineteenth century China is rocked by foreign attacks and local rebellions. The only constant is the power wielded by one woman, Tzu Hsi, also known as Empress Orchid. The author brings the important figures in Chinese history, a very human leader who sacrifices all she has to protect both those she loves and her doomed empire.