Palace Kill

Palace Kill is a harem-themed novel by Tang Xiaohuai (real name Tan Yanling), published by China Pictorial Publishing House in two volumes between November 2007 and January 2008. This page corresponds to the second volume (published January 2008, ISBN 9787802202290, 279 pages). Set in the Qing dynasty court, the story follows Gan Tang, originally an embroiderer who, thanks to her outstanding needlework, attracts the favor of Consort Xian and is brought to her side, rising step by step from the embroidery workshop into the center of harem power relations. The story does not make romance its main thread; it depicts the restrained, patient maneuvering among consorts, dowager consorts, empresses, and palace maids: the order of positions at greetings, the fabrics awarded as gifts, a casual remark that sounds like praise but is actually a jab—all are forms of contest. The second volume begins with Chapter 21, "Yellow Millet Dream," and goes on to cover the Empress Dowager's birthday, the appearance of Consort De, Ji Xiang's entry into the palace, Gan Tang taking refuge in Qianxi Palace, the loss of favor, discord between sisters, and secret crossings, finally closing with "Ji Xiang Courts Favor" and an epilogue. The author excels at using clothing details and psychological description to create an oppressive atmosphere, presenting the dirty and cruel side beneath the splendor of the palace, and also depicting the feudal system's confinement of individual consciousness and the subtle struggles of some in desperate straits.