Under Heaven

by Guy Gavriel Kay
Under Heaven cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Historical Fiction
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Paperback • £12.99
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  • ID: 4588
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780007342020
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2010-04-29
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Under Heaven is an epic historical adventure that transports readers to a meticulously crafted pseudo 8th century China. The novel weaves a rich tapestry of heroes, assassins, concubines, and emperors, all navigating a landscape that is as majestic as it is unforgiving. The author, known for their World Fantasy Award-winning work, Ysabel, brings to life a world steeped in intrigue and grandeur. This sweeping tale is not just a story of political maneuvering and personal vendettas but also a deep dive into the cultural and historical nuances of the era. The characters are complex and compelling, each with their own motivations and secrets, making the narrative as engaging as it is immersive. The novel's setting serves as a character in its own right, with its vast landscapes and intricate societal structures adding layers of depth to the story.

Reviews
She Reads Novels · She Reads Novels · 2019-04-20
good 4.00

The book is enjoyed for its beautiful writing and moving narrative, but the reviewer notes some issues with the ending and the portrayal of female characters.

She Reads Novels appreciates the beautiful writing and moving narrative of the book, finding it to be a very enjoyable read. However, they note some issues with the ending, which they find to be less satisfying compared to the rest of the story. Additionally, the reviewer mentions a recurring issue with the portrayal of female characters, which they find to be somewhat problematic. Despite these quibbles, She Reads Novels finds the book to be a compelling and emotionally resonant read, with a richly detailed world and engaging characters.

Quick quotes

    Beautifully written and very moving.

    If I have any quibbles at all it is with the ending.

    Most of the female characters are in love with him.

thecaptivereader.com · Unknown · 2013-08-20
fascinating 3.50

The book is a well-researched and intelligent analysis of the evolution of punishment and discipline, but it can be dense and challenging to understand. The reviewer appreciates the insights but questions the practical application of the philosophical inquiry.

The book is a comprehensive examination of the history and philosophy of punishment and discipline, from medieval times to the modern era. The reviewer finds the analysis fascinating and well-researched, particularly the discussion on Bentham's Panopticon and the transition from public to private punishment. However, the book can be quite dense and challenging to understand, especially in the later sections. The reviewer appreciates the intelligence and determination behind the analysis but questions the practical utility of such philosophical inquiry. They also note that Foucault's subtle approach to taking a stance can make it difficult to grasp his main points. Overall, the book provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of power and control in society, but it may not offer clear solutions or suggestions for addressing these issues.

Quick quotes

    The famous chapter on Bentham’s _Panopticon_, the ideal surveillance architecture that involves an authority in a central tower looking through darkened windows at a ring of cells — the prisoners know they _can_ be seen at all times, but they never know the precise moment in which they are.

    The public execution was the logical culmination of a procedure governed by the Inquisition. The practice of placing individuals under ‘observation’ is a natural extension of a justice imbued with disciplinary methods and examination procedures.

    It is important to set up the framework for a discussion before having the discussion itself.

The Idle Woman · The Idle Woman · 2012-06-22
great 4.00

The book is praised for its rich world-building and the seamless integration of fantastical elements into a historical setting. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the intricate plot.

The Idle Woman highlights the rich world-building in the book, noting how the fantastical elements are seamlessly integrated into the historical setting. They appreciate the depth of the characters and the intricate plot, which keeps the reader engaged. The review also mentions the author's skill in creating a vivid and immersive world, which adds to the overall enjoyment of the story. The Idle Woman finds the book to be a beautiful and compelling read, with a well-crafted narrative that blends history and fantasy seamlessly.

Quick quotes

    In the Sarantine books I felt that the zubir and the ghostly flames in the streets of Sarantium worked perfectly in the context of the world.

    The book is praised for its rich world-building and the seamless integration of fantastical elements into a historical setting.

    The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the intricate plot.

elitistbookreviews.com · Unknown · 2010-08-04
excellent 4.50

The book Under Heaven is a captivating blend of historical fiction and political intrigue, set in the Tang Dynasty. The reviewer praises Guy Gavriel Kay's ability to weave a rich tapestry of culture, politics, and personal drama, making the story both engaging and thought-provoking.

Under Heaven by Guy Gavriel Kay is a masterful work of historical fiction that transports readers to the Tang Dynasty. The reviewer highlights Kay's meticulous attention to detail in depicting the cultural and political landscape of the era. The story follows the protagonist, Ren Daiyan, as he navigates the complex web of court intrigue and personal relationships. The reviewer appreciates the depth of character development and the intricate plot, which keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The book's exploration of themes such as power, loyalty, and identity adds layers of complexity to the narrative. Overall, the reviewer finds Under Heaven to be a compelling and immersive read that showcases Kay's talent for blending history with fiction.

Quick quotes

    Guy Gavriel Kay has a unique ability to bring historical periods to life.

    The characters in Under Heaven are beautifully crafted, each with their own motivations and flaws.

    The political intrigue in the book is both complex and engaging, making it a standout in the genre.

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