三國志   By: Shou Chen (233-297)

Shou Chen's "三國志" is a captivating novel that delves into the turbulent period of the Three Kingdoms in ancient China. The author's vivid storytelling brings to life the political intrigue, military strategies, and personal rivalries that defined this era. Through the perspectives of various historical figures, the reader is immersed in a world filled with ambition, betrayal, and loyalty.

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is the complex characters that populate its pages. From the ambitious warlords Cao Cao, Liu Bei, and Sun Quan to the legendary warriors Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Zhao Yun, each character is vividly portrayed with their own motivations and flaws. The relationships between these characters drive the narrative forward, creating a rich tapestry of alliances and betrayals that keep the reader engaged until the very end.

Furthermore, Shou Chen's impeccable research is evident throughout the novel, as he seamlessly weaves historical facts with fictional elements to create a believable and immersive world. The battle scenes are particularly well-crafted, bringing to life the chaos and violence of ancient warfare in vivid detail.

Overall, "三國志" is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and epic sagas. Shou Chen's masterful storytelling and rich character development make this novel a true gem that will leave a lasting impression on any reader.

First Page:

　　太祖武皇帝，沛國譙人也，姓曹，諱操，字孟德，漢相國參之後。〔曹瞞傳曰〕：太祖一名吉利，小字阿瞞。王沈魏書曰：其先出於黃帝。當高陽世，陸終之子曰安，是為曹姓。周武王克殷，存先世之後，封曹俠於邾。春秋之世，與於盟會，逮至戰國，為楚所滅。子孫分流，或家於沛。漢高祖之起，曹參以功封平陽侯，世襲爵土，絕而複紹，至今適嗣國於容城。桓帝世，曹騰為中常侍大長秋，封費亭侯。司馬彪續漢書曰：騰父節，字元偉，素以仁厚稱。鄰人有亡豕者，與節豕相類，詣門認之，節不與爭；後所亡豕自還其家，豕主人大慚，送所認豕，並辭謝節，節笑而受之。由是鄉黨貴歎焉。長子伯興，次子仲興，次子叔興。騰字季興，少除黃門從官。永甯元年，鄧太后詔黃門令選中黃門從官年少溫謹者配皇太子書，騰應其選。太子特親愛騰，飲食賞賜與眾有異。順帝即位，為小黃門，遷至中常侍大長秋。在省闥三十餘年，曆事四帝，未嘗有過。好進達賢能，終無所毀傷。其所稱薦，若陳留虞放、邊韶、南陽延固、張溫、弘農張奐、潁川堂谿典等，皆致位公卿，而不... Continue reading book >>