The Decrees of Change: A Woman's Journey

By Camilla Hillberg

In the eighth century, during the illustrious Tang Dynasty of China, Niu, the fourth child of a superstitious peasant, finds joy in simple pleasures while nurturing secret dreams of mastering calligraphy.

At just seven years old, her father's desperate wish to elevate their social standing leads him to break her feet three times, conforming to a foot-binding legend-an unheard-of practice in their era. Unbeknownst to him, this ignites a story of defiance against societal norms.

Sold at nineteen to a wealthy man obsessed with the fable of bound feet, Niu is thrust into a web of manipulation, destined to serve as both a concubine and a wife to his mentally disabled son. Yet her mind remains unshackled. Inspired by Emperor Xuanzong's progressive decrees, she begins to plot a way to turn her predator into prey.

This epic tale unfolds against the vibrant backdrop of Tang Dynasty China, where Niu's refusal to accept her prescribed role sends ripples through society. Her journey stands as a testament to the power of individual resistance, illuminating how such acts can ignite broader social change in the face of adversity.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9893674700
• ISBN13: 9789893674703
• Release Date: May 2026
• Publisher: Camilla Hillberg
• Length: 460 Pages
• Weight: 1.16 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 5.5" x 8.5"