The 1566: The 1566 Series (Book 1) : The Taoist Emperor (Series #1) (Paperback)

Liu Heping's imperial drama is set in the final years of Emperor Jiajing's reign. While the Emperor lives in isolation, the government falls under the grip of the corrupt and profligate Yan clan. The imperial coffers have been decimated. Amid the chaos, a few righteous people step up to rescue Ming China from the brink of destruction.

Something is rotten in the heart of the capital

The Ming dynasty is at its zenith. All under heaven bow towards the Forbidden City, where the Celestial Emperor and his servants grace the earth. Yet rot festers deep in the palace...Emperor Jiajing has sealed himself away, more interested in Taoist magics than the Dragon Throne. In his absence, the corruption of ambitious men grows unchecked.

Among such shameless villains stride the Yan, a ruthless clan whose lustful grasp on the state ever tightens. Few dare stand against them, but heaven's mandate calls for balance, and a humble clerk named Hai Rui rises to answer.

Across land and over water, forces awaken, stirred by the shadows emanating from the halls of power. No one knows if or when the peace of the Great Ming will collapse. Perhaps the cracks can be healed. Perhaps fate can be appeased. Or perhaps the old saying holds true: a realm long united, must divide...