Heroes of Chaos by Baptiste Pinson Wu

Heroes of Chaos by Baptiste Pinson Wu

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A fascinating look through the misty veils of ancient Chinese history and legend.

I’m really enjoying this series. Pinson Wu brings us a great story from a time and place rarely covered in English by historical novelists. This series tells the story of the War of Three Kingdoms through Liao Chun (Liao Hua), an actual historical figure. Although his life is shrouded in mystery and legend, Pinson Wu masterfully colors him in to create a compelling voice from China’s ancient past.

Liao Chun was just a boy in the Yellow Turban Revolt. We find him on the precipice of manhood in the Heroes of Chaos. Although he blossoms as a warrior, he still wrestles with impetuousness and immaturity as he learns the lessons of loyalty and leadership.

This novel tracks the rise of the real historical figure Cao Cao, whom Liao Chun serves, as Cao Cao consolidates power in the north. There are plenty of great fight scenes from historical battles. I like Pinson Wu’s attention to weapons and tactics. I was particularly drawn to the gou-rang, or hook shield, that Liao Chun carries, so much so that I had to look it up and read more about it. Pinson Wu uses its silhouette to denote new sections in his narrative, which I thought was clever.

It’s a great book. I’m enjoying the series. I suggest you read The Yellow Turban Revolt first, but you won’t be lost if you start with this book.



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