New Classic Press

    London, September 23, 2025—New Classic Press is excited to announce the upcoming release of The First Emperor Qin and Lady Meng, the latest novel by renowned author Zhang Min, on December 1, 2025.
    This captivating book dwells on the arduous years of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang (Ying Zheng), from his birth and youth through his rise to the throne as the commanding ruler of a unified empire. This sweeping historical novel is epic in scope and intimate in detail, rendering a vivid portrait of how an empire is born, thrives, and perishes. It tells a story of power and struggle, of bloodshed and ambition, but also of love and resilience.
About the book:

The First Emperor Qin and Lady Meng
“This book is particularly special to me because the Qin Dynasty is the most defining era in Chinese history. At its centre was Qin Shi Huang, a glorious figure that has also invited immense excoriation. He’s like the hidden chamber in Qin’s labyrinth, which, once unlocked, will bring to light many secrets and mysteries of that iconic epoch.” says Zhang Min.

About the author:

Zhang Min, born in 1964 in northern China, is a distinguished writer and historian whose work has garnered attention both locally and internationally. With a passion for weaving history into compelling narratives, he has published notable titles including the historical fiction The First Emperor Qin and Lady Meng, the engaging radio drama script Song City in Julu: A Legend, and the thought-provoking short story collection Choice. His acclaimed historical novel, Zhang Jue of the Yellow Turbans, showcases his ability to bring the past to life through vivid storytelling.
Beyond his writing, Zhang Min is dedicated to the exploration of literature and historical culture, contributing significantly to the field with a rich body of work. His commitment to uncovering the intricacies of history and culture through his writing continues to inspire readers and scholars alike.

About the translator:

Wang Xiaonan is a seasoned journalist and writer with over a decade of experience in English-language newspapers, television, and digital media. Her exceptional work has earned her prestigious accolades, including awards from the New York Festivals and the China Journalism Award. Fueled by a deep passion for language and translation, Xiaonan's journalistic journey is as compelling as her writing.
Holding a graduate degree in translation and interpreting, Xiaonan is also a proud member of the Translators Association of China. Throughout her career, she has translated over 10 Chinese novels into English. Originally from Beijing, she now calls New York home, where she continues to enrich the literary landscape with her insightful perspectives.
Xiaonan says about the book: “When I first got the book, I was afraid that it might just be another mediocre retelling of Qin Shi Huang's life – a story that has been told again and again. But the prologue was more than enough to keep me going: The details of each scene unfolding, each character emerging, and each plot twisting are fascinating. After finishing reading the second chapter, I decided to take it. Over the sixth months since then, I experienced all the emotions of the characters, like riding a roller coaster. I was excited to see an old general agree to help the first emperor in a quagmire, I cried as the novel progresses toward the first emperor's death, I felt a relief when seeing the empress, Meng Chong, survive the chase of villains.
The author, Zhang Min, made a brilliant combination of history and legend, and delicately wove them into this fictional drama. He conducted thorough ethnographic research across the cities, towns, and villages in Hebei province, where Qin Shi Huang was born and died, based his observation and interviews on historical facts as well as folk legends, and added a storyline of the first emperor's love and romance. Not only the protagonists but all minor characters are full, real, not flawless. the character development is very interesting, tightly knit with the plot.
This is an ambitious novel of how an empire is born, flourishes, and declines; it’s about power struggle, bloodshed and ambition. It tells a story of love and hate, collapse and resilience. I feel like it’s quite a Chinese version of "Game of Thrones," where you will find everything is ablaze. It's long, heavy, but highly readable. I’m lucky to have the opportunity to translate it. Hope you’ll like it too.”

Events and Appearances: To celebrate the launch, Zhang Min will be participating in a series of events, including a book signing at London on December 01 2025 and a virtual Q&A session on December 02, 2025. For more details about upcoming events, visit New Classic Press's website to events page.
Media Contact: For interviews, review copies, or further information, please contact:
Mark Qi
New Classic Press
Email: zhangqi1998@hotmail.com
Phone: 00447783564546