18th century Kashgar. Hidligh has only ever wanted safety and a full belly. On the street and living hand-to-mouth, the beautiful young woman is rapidly running out of any option but prostitution. So when she's abducted by a Muslim noblewoman, she has little choice but to agree to the deal she's offered: pose as a concubine to the Emperor of China and act as a spy.
Reaching the Forbidden City and working hard to win over her eunuchs and the other concubines, she succeeds in gaining the monarch's affections. But as her shadowy "benefactor" loses patience, Hidligh finds herself entangled in a deadly web of vengeance and assassination.
With the fate of the Qing Dynasty hanging in the balance, is the Emperor right to fall in love with Hidligh? Or is his life in danger? And with secrets piling up around her and growing feelings for the Emperor, is Hidligh in too deep?
The Fragrant Concubine is the enthralling second book in the Forbidden City historical fiction series. Inspired by the mythology that grew up around a real woman, if you enjoy romance, suspense and a chance to see inside an extraordinary imperial court, you'll be gripped by Melissa Addey's absorbing novel.
Meet one of China's most famous concubines. Buy The Fragrant Concubine today.