A review by karali
The Jade Temptress by Jeannie Lin
emotional
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
Set in Tang Dynasty China between a high-profile courtesan and a constable, this book balanced the murder mystery and romance plots very well, giving a satisfying conclusion to each.
Mingyu and Kaifeng's history from the first book in the series creates real tension between them, and it was a delight to see their love build in small moments. Lin's prose feels elegant and complimentary to the careful, careful way these two come to care for each other.
I was really struck by the way Lin details the 'work' aspect of courtesanship. Mingyu's job involves sex but the primary element is hosting and entertaining, and Lin is very clear about the emotional and behavioral skills Mingyu needs to shape a conversation, host a gathering, keep her guests interested, and keep herself safe.
The MCs are both practical and aware of the societal constraints around their relationship, and the stakes for breaking those constraints. Seeing them work within their abilities and influence to carve out their future was very satisfying, and even though I knew the happy ending was coming the tension was strong enough that I stayed engaged until the end.
Romance readers will enjoy the longing of forbidden love, and mystery readers should expect a major romance element but will find an interesting mystery woven in with the relationship.
Mingyu and Kaifeng's history from the first book in the series creates real tension between them, and it was a delight to see their love build in small moments. Lin's prose feels elegant and complimentary to the careful, careful way these two come to care for each other.
I was really struck by the way Lin details the 'work' aspect of courtesanship. Mingyu's job involves sex but the primary element is hosting and entertaining, and Lin is very clear about the emotional and behavioral skills Mingyu needs to shape a conversation, host a gathering, keep her guests interested, and keep herself safe.
The MCs are both practical and aware of the societal constraints around their relationship, and the stakes for breaking those constraints. Seeing them work within their abilities and influence to carve out their future was very satisfying, and even though I knew the happy ending was coming the tension was strong enough that I stayed engaged until the end.
Romance readers will enjoy the longing of forbidden love, and mystery readers should expect a major romance element but will find an interesting mystery woven in with the relationship.