He Who Drowned the World: the epic sequel to the Sunday Times bestselling historical fantasy She Who Became the Sun

In Shelley Parker-Chan's He Who Drowned the World, a queer historical fantasy of war and destiny set in an epic alternate China, Zhu Yuanzhang, the Radiant King, desires to seize the throne and crown herself emperor. Courtesan Madam Zhang plots to steal the throne for her husband, while scholar Wang Baoxiang is even closer. Zhu must gamble everything on a bold move to stay in the game, but when desire has no end and ambition no limits, the price may be too high for even the most ruthless heart to bear.

Format: Hardback
Length: 496 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2023
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

In the captivating world of "He Who Drowned the World," author Shelley Parker-Chan weaves a mesmerizing tale of war, destiny, and LGBTQ+ representation. This dazzling queer historical fantasy takes place in an epic alternate China, serving as a sequel to the Sunday Times bestselling novel "She Who Became the Sun."

Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous era, the story revolves around Zhu Yuanzhang, the Radiant King, who has achieved a monumental victory by seizing control of southern China from its Mongol masters. Driven by a burning desire to seize the throne and crown herself emperor, Zhu embarks on a quest that threatens to shake the very foundations of the empire.

However, Zhu is not the only one with imperial aspirations. Courtesan Madam Zhang, with the support of her husband, plots to steal the throne for herself. Meanwhile, scholar Wang Baoxiang, a scorned individual who has maneuvered his way to the capital, poses a significant threat to Zhu's claim. Wang harbors a deep-seated desire for revenge and aims to become the most degenerate Great Khan in history, tarnishing the warrior values his Mongol family held dear.

As the stakes rise, Zhu must gamble everything on a bold move. She forms a risky alliance with Ouyang, the brilliant but unstable eunuch general, in an attempt to outmaneuver her rivals. All contenders are willing to do whatever it takes to secure victory, but as desire and ambition intertwine, the consequences become increasingly dire.

In this intricate tapestry of power, treachery, and redemption, Parker-Chan explores the themes of war, desire, vengeance, and politics with finesse. She skillfully measures each ingredient, creating a narrative that is both captivating and thought-provoking. The characters are well-developed, with their motivations and flaws driving the story forward.

"He Who Drowned the World" is a magnificent triumph that showcases Shelley Parker-Chan's exceptional talent as a writer. Her prose is elegant and evocative, drawing the reader into the world of the empire and immersing them in its intricate web of politics and power struggles. The book is filled with memorable moments, heart-wrenching betrayals, and moments of triumph that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in this captivating series.

Praise for Parker-Chan's work has been pouring in, with authors such as Joanne Harris, author of "Chocolat," describing it as "transcendent" and "heart-wrenching." Tasha Suri, author of "The Jasmine Throne," praised the book as "a deft and dazzling triumph," while Samantha Shannon, author of "The Priory of the Orange Tree," hailed Parker-Chan as a "genius."

With "He Who Drowned the World," Shelley Parker-Chan has solidified her place as a rising star in the world of fantasy literature. Her ability to blend historical fiction with LGBTQ+ representation creates a unique and compelling narrative that resonates with readers of all backgrounds. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves epic fantasy, intricate plotlines, and characters that will stay with you long after the last page.

In conclusion, "He Who Drowned the World" by Shelley Parker-Chan is a captivating queer historical fantasy that transports readers to an epic alternate China. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a triumph that showcases Parker-Chan's exceptional talent as a writer. Prepare to be immersed in a world of war, desire, vengeance, and politics, where the price of ambition may be too high for even the most ruthless heart to bear.

Weight: 736g
Dimension: 165 x 243 x 47 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529043433