The Sword Dancer

Lin (An Illicit Temptation) sets this romantic adventure in the dark underbelly of China’s elegant and civilized Tang Dynasty. Famed thief-catcher Zheng Hao Han is hunting a performing arts troupe suspected of stealing a shipment of jade and gold. Talented sword dancer Wen Li Feng catches his attention, and soon he’s chasing her down, up, and over rooftops. Thanks to Li Feng’s acrobatic and fighting mastery, every time Han catches her, she escapes again. Eventually they elect to work together to uncover corruption, which will also inform Li Feng’s search for her long-missing family. Lin’s politically and culturally rich story is atypical, sensual, and filled with honor and wit. (June)