The Tao of Poison is a rousing historical novel filled with adventure and sex.

Set in late 18th century China, the story follows Qiezi, a young woman from the mountains forced to flee after killing an official during a dispute with a neighbor. She finds lovers and comrades before getting involved with a branch of the White Lotus sect, a cult the government tries to violently quash. She becomes a leader, assisting the White Lotus against the military.

Qiezi is a fascinatingly unique character with extensive knowledge of the medicinal properties of plants and herbs. Through life-long consumption of a poisonous flower, she has made her entire body poisonous. Sex with anyone kills them; even kissing her makes them seriously ill. She’s physically tough and resourceful, fiercely defending herself against attackers when she can and using her hidden ability when she cannot. The name of her poisonous flower, Mantuoluo becomes her alias.

The novel is full of action, from Qiezi battling attempted rapists to setting up apothecary shops and inns as hiding places for White Lotus members. Some branches actively work to usher in the “end of all things,” which they believe is coming, while others devote time to sex and healing rituals; this leads to occasional conflicts among them.

Sex is a major element. Much of the heterosexual sex is coercive, men demanding it in exchange for help or fondling women while assisting them. Lesbianism is prevalent, with two women intensely desiring Qiezi and using various methods to safely have sex with her, while she encourages them to sleep with each other. One chapter describes Qiezi climbing mountains naked, while in another, a promiscuous woman is diagnosed with “lust disease.” Some readers may find these sexual details off-putting. Additionally, keeping track of the various White Lotus branches is confusing at times.

Still, readers looking for an erotic, action-packed historical novel set in an unexplored period and centered on a powerful heroine, will enjoy this book.

Also available as an ebook.