In "The Dragon and the Pearl," Ling Suyin, a retired concubine, finds her quiet life disrupted when Warlord Li Tao comes to her rescue from assassins. As they navigate a web of manipulation and intrigue, both characters must learn to trust each other to prevent civil war. The plot unfolds with twists and revelations, while the tension between Suyin and Tao is portrayed through engaging dialogue, culminating in a neatly wrapped ending that leaves readers satisfied.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, each with their own complexities and emotional battles, enhancing the depth of their relationship.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is evocative and engaging, though opinions differ on the depth of setting descriptions, with a focus on character development and emotional resonance.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot is rich with political intrigue and emotional complexity, centered on two characters whose fates are intertwined due to their pasts and the dangerous power plays around them.

Setting:

Set in the Tang Dynasty, the backdrop is rich in cultural detail, although some readers wished for more vivid descriptions.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally well-received for its ability to maintain interest, though some felt it lacked coherence in places.

Notes:

The book is set in 759 AD during the Tang Dynasty in China.

The main characters are Li Tao, a feared general, and Ling Suyin, a former imperial concubine.

Li Tao was betrothed to Emperor Shen's daughter, who ran away from him.

Ling Suyin was removed from her home after the death of her lover, the previous Emperor.

The story includes themes of court intrigue and political tension.

The author, Jeannie Lin, is praised for her research and immersive writing style.

Li Tao and Suyin both harbor deep secrets and their relationship is complex.

The book explores the characters' emotional struggles and their histories.

The romance is described as intense and filled with sexual tension.

Some readers felt the ending was abrupt and left them wanting more.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of potential assassination, betrayal, and political manipulation, which may be sensitive for some readers.

Has Romance?

The romance between Li Tao and Ling Suyin is intense and central to the narrative, showcasing a deep emotional connection despite the external pressures they face.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

"Former Emperor's consort Ling Suyin was renowned for her beauty: the ultimate seductress. Now she lives quietly alone - until the most ruthless warlord in the region comes and steals her away.

Li Tao lives life by the sword, and is trapped in the treacherous world of politics. The alluring Ling Suyin is at the centre of the web. He must uncover her mystery without falling under her spell - yet her innocence calls out to him.

How cruel if she, of all women, can entrance the man behind the legend."--Back cover.

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The Dragon and the Pearl

Jeannie Lin

Book 2 in the series:Tang Dynasty