Review of The Wheel

Shanesha Sammerson · Post by **Shanesha Sammerson** » 08 Sep 2024, 11:06

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Wheel" by Raymond K Li.]

5 out of 5 stars

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"The Wheel" by Raymond K. Li is an engaging historical novel set during one of China's most pivotal periods, from the reign of Emperor Yíng Zhèng, founder of the Qín Dynasty, to the early years of the Hàn Dynasty. Emperor Yíng Zhèng, known for ruling with an iron fist, introduced laws and customs that shaped the nation's trajectory, including the construction of the Great Wall of China. His rule was marked by absolute power, where those who disobeyed were brutally punished, often alongside their families.

The novel takes an intriguing turn with the sudden death of Yíng Zhèng. Only three individuals—his prime minister, his loyal eunuch Zhào Gào, and his second son—witnessed his death. This trio, however, chooses to conceal the emperor’s demise, creating a riveting power struggle. Zhào Gào, in a bid to seize control, hides the rotting body of the Emperor and forges documents to legitimize his claim. The prime minister, reluctant to see a battle for the throne, aids in keeping the decaying body a secret. This well-crafted storyline is both shocking and fascinating, pulling readers into a world of deceit, ambition, and treachery.

Li’s storytelling shines as he navigates complex historical events with vivid descriptions and dramatic character development. The interwoven vignettes reveal not just the political intrigue but the human emotions behind these iconic figures, blending historical facts with creative dialogue that makes the events feel both real and immediate.

What I found particularly impressive was how easy it was to follow the many events and characters, despite the novel’s complex structure. Each section begins with a clear introduction of the characters and their roles, which helps the reader stay engaged with the story. The novel is professionally edited, with only a few minor errors that don’t detract from the overall experience.

The historical context is meticulously detailed, and even for those unfamiliar with this period of Chinese history, the book is accessible and fascinating. Overall, "The Wheel" is a captivating blend of history and drama, and I wouldn’t change anything about it. It’s a must-read for fans of historical fiction. I award it 5 out of 5 stars.

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The Wheel
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Ajisafe Adeyinka Ahmad · Post by **Ajisafe Adeyinka Ahmad** » 28 Sep 2024, 13:42

Will love to read this book after going through the review

Leen282 · Post by **Leen282** » 07 May 2025, 05:35

A captivating blend of history and drama - with the author being kind enough to make this book free for Book of the Day, I will surely add it to my reading list. I have no knowledge whatsoever on Chinese history, so will surely enjoy the informative setting of this novel. I look forward to finding out how long the death can be kept a secret.

Post by **Sushan Ekanayake** » 07 May 2025, 05:59

"The Wheel" by Raymond K. Li is a gripping historical novel set in ancient China, where the sudden death of Emperor Yíng Zhèng sparks a secretive cover-up, political scheming, and a ruthless battle for power. Intrigue, deception, and ambition drive this unforgettable plot. Congratulations on being BOTD!

Post by **Rebecca De Figueiredo** » 07 May 2025, 06:16

The reviewer condenses the book into an easy to read summary. On opening the book, I was struck by how nicely laid out it is, making it a much easier read for those who love Chinese history, or simply history in general. An education in small vignettes.

rehina nusaiba muhammad usman · 07 May 2025, 06:34

**The Wheel** by Raymond K. Li is a thought-provoking historical novel that intricately weaves over a hundred vignettes spanning from the Qín Dynasty (210 BCE) to the early Han dynasty (81BCE).Through its rich storytelling, the book explores profound themes such as morality, fate, ambition, and governance, offering readers a deep reflection on human nature and societal structures. Li masterfully blends historical accuracy with creative dramatization, making historical figures feel alive rather than distant relics of the past. The title itself encapsulates the cyclical nature of history and life, leaving readers with a lasting impression of its relevance to modern times. Very interesting.

Devesh Patel · Post by **Devesh Patel** » 07 May 2025, 06:49

This review praises The Wheel as a gripping and accessible historical novel, rich in political intrigue and vivid storytelling. The reviewer highlights its strong character development, seamless navigation of complex events, and meticulous historical detail, concluding that it's a must-read for historical fiction fans and fully deserving of five stars.

Post by **Victory Ositaorah** » 07 May 2025, 07:38

I would love to read of the challenges the prime minister, Zhào Gào, and Yíng Zhèng second son after they decide to hide the death of the prime minister in order to cease power.

Pamela Cristina Galhardi · Post by **Pamela Cristina Galhardi** » 07 May 2025, 07:40

"A Roda" é uma obra brilhante que entrelaça ficção e história com rara sensibilidade. Através de vinhetas densas e poeticamente costuradas, Raymond K. Li nos transporta pela China das dinastias Qin e Hàn, revelando não apenas eventos marcantes, mas as complexas camadas da alma humana. Amor, honra, traição, poder e destino se encontram em cada página, provocando uma reflexão profunda sobre os dilemas morais e existenciais de qualquer época.

Mais do que um romance histórico, este é um espelho da humanidade – ricamente baseado em fontes clássicas como Shǐ Jì e Hàn Shū, mas livre da rigidez cronológica, o que dá à narrativa uma fluidez quase poética. Recomendo fortemente a quem busca mais do que uma boa história: uma experiência transformadora.

T PV · Post by **T PV** » 07 May 2025, 07:42

I love reading books about China. Their history and customs are so fascinating; their way of thinking so different. And this book seems really interesting, I would love to read a good story about the time the Great Wall was built.

Post by **Sanju Lali** » 07 May 2025, 07:55

One can find a wonderful story surrounding the reign of Emperor Yíng Zhèng, founder of the Qín Dynasty in the engaging historical novel "The Wheel" by Raymond Li. The story is set during one of China's most pivotal periods.

Post by **Seetha E** » 07 May 2025, 08:07

"The Wheel" is a captivating historical novel set during Emperor Yíng Zhèng's reign in China. The novel follows the emperor's sudden death, which is concealed by his prime minister, loyal eunuch Zhào Gào, and his second son. It is good to know that this intriguing book can be equally enjoyed by those unfamiliar with Chinese history. Thank you for your amazing review.

Rana Elsadany · Post by **Rana Elsadany** » 07 May 2025, 08:39

wow it seems to be an amazing novel! I would really like to read it, I think it will be so interesting because the novel era is epic!

Joao Oliveira 5 · Post by **Joao Oliveira 5** » 07 May 2025, 08:45

I found the commentary to be very well-structured and balanced. It clearly highlights the main strengths of the review, such as the historical contextualization, the intriguing plot, and the accessible writing, without needing to resort to criticism to emphasize its value. The language is mature and reflects a thoughtful reading, appreciating both the content and the way it was presented.

María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda · 07 May 2025, 08:51

I don't know much about China's history, but I love history, and even more when it's approached from the human psyche and depth angle. Thank you for your review!