The Dragon and the Pearl - Jeannie Lin

A legendary courtesan is taken captive by an infamous warlord in this "beautifully written, deliciously sensual" romance of Medieval China (Library Journal, starred review).

Tang Dynasty China, 759 AD. Former Emperor's consort Ling Suyin is renowned for her beauty; the ultimate seductress. But since the Emperor's death, she has lived in quiet and solitude. Now that seclusion is about to end . . . when the most ruthless warlord in the region comes to steal her away. . . .

Accustomed to the lethal world of politics, Li Tao lives by the sword. But now he finds himself trapped in a web of intrigue-one that has the alluring Ling Suyin is at its center. 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. . . .

A Library Journal Best Romance of 2011