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Tang Dynasty #0.5
The Taming of Mei Lin
Faced with a proposal from a man she despises, impetuous Mei Lin makes a daring she will only marry the man who can defeat her in a sword fight. She has bested everyone who has so far tried to teach her a lesson...until a handsome stranger comes to her village. In captivating swordsman Shen Leung , Mei Lin finally sees a man she wants to marry. A man she's willing to surrender to in every way....
49 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
13 people are currently reading
772 people want to read
About the author
Jeannie Lin
47 books1,024 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author Jeannie Lin grew up fascinated with stories of Western epic fantasy and Eastern martial arts adventures. When her best friend introduced her to romance novels in middle school, the stage was set. Jeannie started writing her first romance while working as a high school science teacher in South Central Los Angeles. After four years of trying to break into publishing with an Asian-set historical, her 2009 Golden Heart Award–winning manuscript, Butterfly Swords, sold to Harlequin Mills & Boon. Her books have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly and Library Journal with The Dragon and the Pearl listed among Library Journal's Best Romances of 2011.
Titles by Jeannie Lin:
Gunpowder Alchemy (Gunpowder Chronicles #1)
The Jade Temptress (The Lotus Palace #2)
The Lotus Palace
Butterfly Swords
The Dragon and the Pearl
My Fair Concubine
The Sword Dancer
For updates, sign up for her newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/42oZL
Find out more about Jeannie Lin online at http://www.jeannielin.com
Titles by Jeannie Lin:
Gunpowder Alchemy (Gunpowder Chronicles #1)
The Jade Temptress (The Lotus Palace #2)
The Lotus Palace
Butterfly Swords
The Dragon and the Pearl
My Fair Concubine
The Sword Dancer
For updates, sign up for her newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/42oZL
Find out more about Jeannie Lin online at http://www.jeannielin.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
September 21, 2010
A local corrupt magistrate has proposed marriage to Wu Mei Lin and it's not an honorable proposal, but an offer to make her his second concubine. Though it will buy her family a certain amount of freedom, Mei Lin can't do it. She promises she will marry the man who can best her in a sword fight, never foreseeing the number of brutes her estranged suitor will send against her and her family. Then one day a handsome stranger comes to town....
I really enjoyed this story, but not just because of the quality of writing or plotting or anything "writerly," and not because the author is a friend. My enjoyment was for personal reasons.
Like Mei Lin, I have the same problem with my hair never staying out of my face. Neither Mei Lin nor I have ever felt particularly pretty, either. And then there was the following scene. It comes at the end of the hero and heroine's sword fight:
"You're good" he said.
She parried and twisted his blade aside. "I don't need you to tell me."
He grinned and pushed her further until she had to fight for balance. She wasn't done yet. Boldly she ventured closer to where his longer blade would be less effective. Most practitioners weren't comfortable there, but Shen Leung found her rhythm and flowed with her. The edge of his weapon broke through her guard.She stepped back, knowing it was too late.
But he missed.
The blade whistled past her ear. She stared at him in shock while he regained his stance and prepared for another advance.
She had him. It had nothing to do with skill. They were closely matched in training, but there was so much more that went into a fight. The honorable Shen Leung was unwilling to hurt her. He didn't realize it yet, but the battle was hers if she wanted it.
With her new confidence, she could see all the openings. A warrior had to be ruthless and strategic. That was what she had been taught. He became a series of targets in her eyes. All she needed to do was catch another moment of hesitation and she would break through.
And once she won... what then?
Someone else would come. Another one of Zhou's henchmen now that he was bent on revenge. Or maybe no one would ever defeat her or care to approach her with a serious marriage proposal. She'd have nothing but this speck of a town and the noodle stand. Shen Leung's arrival had broken through the clouds. She might never feel this way again about anyone.
They said he was a good man, a just and courageous one.
She decided then. She met his attack edge on edge, loosening her grip slightly with the impact of their blades and the strength of his next attempt wrenched the hilt from her grasp. A collective murmur went through the crowd when her sword fell to the dirt. For a second, it almost seemed they had been cheering for her. Supporting the local madwoman.
Shen Leung's sword darted forward to stop just shy of her throat. She grew still beneath his gaze. He regarded her with admiration and something else, a fire she'd never seen before.
He rested the tip of the blade gently against her collarbone, almost like a caress. "Do I need to draw blood, my lady?" he asked softly.
He had already pierced her, deeper than he knew.
It was Wang who broke the standoff. "Claim your prize, Master Shen!"
"Prize?"
The blade fell back. The exertion of the battle began to sink into her along with the oppressive heat of the afternoon. She wanted to wipe the perspiration from her face, but she didn't dare move. She didn't dare breathe as she watched Shen Leung's reaction.
"Take your bride," Wang said. "From your battle, we can see your wedding night will be quite an adventure."
His cronies hooted with laughter. She considered blackening both of Wang's eyes and perhaps breaking his nose as well.
"Don't be ridiculous, brother Wang," Shen Leung looked embarrassed when he glanced back at her. "There will be no wedding."
Her chest squeezed tight. Heat rushed up her neck and flooded her face while he bowed once more. The noble swordsman didn't want her.
"Thank you for the match. Lady Wu is a formidable opponent." He turned to leave. The cronies chanted their congratulations and ushered him toward the taverns to celebrate.
Mei Lin was left alone, her sword fallen in the dust. The curious eyes of the townspeople bore into her while the cruel sun beat down upon her back.
It's one thing to be sought after without wanting the attention. It's quite another to make your choice as to where you will go and with whom, only to find out you're unwanted. I've been in that situation and wouldn't wish it on anyone. At the end of this scene which is also the end of Chapter One, I had wet cheeks. In short, I had a strong character identification within a few paragraphs. And isn't that one definition of quality writing?
The fight scenes are filled with realistic action and the love scenes are tastefully done, but after the opening scene, what grabbed me most unexpectedly about this story was the humor. I noticed I smiled a lot while reading, which is always something I cherish. Making me smile or laugh aloud is a far more difficult trick than making me cry and Jeannie Lin accomplished both. I’ll share one of the fun situations tomorrow, so make sure you tune in. (I typed it up today and ended up re-reading the entire scene because it still makes me laugh.)
In closing, I wish more time had been given over toward character development and showing us the world these characters live in. Not because the story lacked those things, but because I could have happily lived there far longer. Fortunately, this was the first of at least two Jeannie Lin adventures set in the Tang Dynasty. "The Taming of Mei Lin" is the romance of a character who also appears in Jeannie Lin's "Butterfly Swords," but you don't have to read Mei Lin's story first; just make sure you do read them both. "The Taming of Mei Lin" is available from Amazon.com (via kindle), E-Harlequin, and on the Nook. "Butterfly Swords" will be in bookstores on October 1st, but you can order it from Amazon.com now.
Finally, make sure you head over to Jeannie Lin's blog for other book and story coverage and to her contest page (http://www.butterfly-swords.com) for upcoming opportunities to win all sorts of prizes including twin butterfly swords!
Coming later this week, a guest blog from Jeannie Lin, author of "The Taming of Mei Lin" and "Butterfly Swords."
I really enjoyed this story, but not just because of the quality of writing or plotting or anything "writerly," and not because the author is a friend. My enjoyment was for personal reasons.
Like Mei Lin, I have the same problem with my hair never staying out of my face. Neither Mei Lin nor I have ever felt particularly pretty, either. And then there was the following scene. It comes at the end of the hero and heroine's sword fight:
"You're good" he said.
She parried and twisted his blade aside. "I don't need you to tell me."
He grinned and pushed her further until she had to fight for balance. She wasn't done yet. Boldly she ventured closer to where his longer blade would be less effective. Most practitioners weren't comfortable there, but Shen Leung found her rhythm and flowed with her. The edge of his weapon broke through her guard.She stepped back, knowing it was too late.
But he missed.
The blade whistled past her ear. She stared at him in shock while he regained his stance and prepared for another advance.
She had him. It had nothing to do with skill. They were closely matched in training, but there was so much more that went into a fight. The honorable Shen Leung was unwilling to hurt her. He didn't realize it yet, but the battle was hers if she wanted it.
With her new confidence, she could see all the openings. A warrior had to be ruthless and strategic. That was what she had been taught. He became a series of targets in her eyes. All she needed to do was catch another moment of hesitation and she would break through.
And once she won... what then?
Someone else would come. Another one of Zhou's henchmen now that he was bent on revenge. Or maybe no one would ever defeat her or care to approach her with a serious marriage proposal. She'd have nothing but this speck of a town and the noodle stand. Shen Leung's arrival had broken through the clouds. She might never feel this way again about anyone.
They said he was a good man, a just and courageous one.
She decided then. She met his attack edge on edge, loosening her grip slightly with the impact of their blades and the strength of his next attempt wrenched the hilt from her grasp. A collective murmur went through the crowd when her sword fell to the dirt. For a second, it almost seemed they had been cheering for her. Supporting the local madwoman.
Shen Leung's sword darted forward to stop just shy of her throat. She grew still beneath his gaze. He regarded her with admiration and something else, a fire she'd never seen before.
He rested the tip of the blade gently against her collarbone, almost like a caress. "Do I need to draw blood, my lady?" he asked softly.
He had already pierced her, deeper than he knew.
It was Wang who broke the standoff. "Claim your prize, Master Shen!"
"Prize?"
The blade fell back. The exertion of the battle began to sink into her along with the oppressive heat of the afternoon. She wanted to wipe the perspiration from her face, but she didn't dare move. She didn't dare breathe as she watched Shen Leung's reaction.
"Take your bride," Wang said. "From your battle, we can see your wedding night will be quite an adventure."
His cronies hooted with laughter. She considered blackening both of Wang's eyes and perhaps breaking his nose as well.
"Don't be ridiculous, brother Wang," Shen Leung looked embarrassed when he glanced back at her. "There will be no wedding."
Her chest squeezed tight. Heat rushed up her neck and flooded her face while he bowed once more. The noble swordsman didn't want her.
"Thank you for the match. Lady Wu is a formidable opponent." He turned to leave. The cronies chanted their congratulations and ushered him toward the taverns to celebrate.
Mei Lin was left alone, her sword fallen in the dust. The curious eyes of the townspeople bore into her while the cruel sun beat down upon her back.
It's one thing to be sought after without wanting the attention. It's quite another to make your choice as to where you will go and with whom, only to find out you're unwanted. I've been in that situation and wouldn't wish it on anyone. At the end of this scene which is also the end of Chapter One, I had wet cheeks. In short, I had a strong character identification within a few paragraphs. And isn't that one definition of quality writing?
The fight scenes are filled with realistic action and the love scenes are tastefully done, but after the opening scene, what grabbed me most unexpectedly about this story was the humor. I noticed I smiled a lot while reading, which is always something I cherish. Making me smile or laugh aloud is a far more difficult trick than making me cry and Jeannie Lin accomplished both. I’ll share one of the fun situations tomorrow, so make sure you tune in. (I typed it up today and ended up re-reading the entire scene because it still makes me laugh.)
In closing, I wish more time had been given over toward character development and showing us the world these characters live in. Not because the story lacked those things, but because I could have happily lived there far longer. Fortunately, this was the first of at least two Jeannie Lin adventures set in the Tang Dynasty. "The Taming of Mei Lin" is the romance of a character who also appears in Jeannie Lin's "Butterfly Swords," but you don't have to read Mei Lin's story first; just make sure you do read them both. "The Taming of Mei Lin" is available from Amazon.com (via kindle), E-Harlequin, and on the Nook. "Butterfly Swords" will be in bookstores on October 1st, but you can order it from Amazon.com now.
Finally, make sure you head over to Jeannie Lin's blog for other book and story coverage and to her contest page (http://www.butterfly-swords.com) for upcoming opportunities to win all sorts of prizes including twin butterfly swords!
Coming later this week, a guest blog from Jeannie Lin, author of "The Taming of Mei Lin" and "Butterfly Swords."
March 13, 2011
5+ Stars Historical Goody!
I don't think this review is going to come off sounding any other way but gushy because I just loved everything about this very short, hot and well done novella.
The Taming of Mei Lin is a story set in the Tang Dynasty in 710 A.D. China. Wu Mei Lin is an impetuous and a very skilled swords woman who has been backed into a corner by Zhou, a lesser magistrate in the district who had proposed marriage to her after catching a glimpse of her at her uncle's noodle stand where she works day in and day out. Mei Lin is more than disgusted to say the least when a marriage proposal comes from a weasel like Zhou who already has 2 wives to his name. And thus Mei Lin puts forth the challenge that she would marry no man unless he defeats her in a sword fight.
Mei Lin is more than tired of the goons that Zhou has sent her way with the continuous ridicule from the townsfolk that label her a mad woman. When a handsome stranger comes across and offers to fight her, it is then that for the first time Mei Lin is seduced into surrendering everything she is capable of giving to the man who stands before her.
Shen Leung is captivated by the woman he spies across the noodle stand and though he is more than tempted to take what Mei Lin offers, his honor and his way of life which means he has nothing substantial to offer to a lady like Mei Lin makes him refuse to embrace what Mei Lin offers with both arms wide open. But the attraction that flares between them from the first moment they lay eyes on each other is a fierce one, which battles and wins against all odds going for them, which triumphs in a love that is as fierce that just left me begging for more.
Sigh! What a wonderful, wonderful story this turned out to be. For one thing, the historical time period and the location of the novel is a unique one lending this story a charm that is unbeatable when it comes to historical romances. Even though this is a very short novel; only just 5 chapters to it, Jeannie Lin still managed to captivate me with her beautiful style of bringing to life an attraction between two people who so rightfully deserve each other. I just loved Shen Leung to bits. His character reminds me of Shang from Mulan, but his character is so much more; honor & loyalty hardwired into his DNA which makes him an unbeatable contender in the unforgettable heroes department.
Is it just me or does reading about the fight that takes place between Mei Lin and Sheun just skyrocket the surrounding temperature by a couple of degrees? *fans self in the process of remembering* I just loved the sensuality that the author created in the novel and I just fell that much harder in love with both Mei Lin and just a tad more with Sheun because of the fact.
All in all, a very highly recommended novella for those who love to read historical romances.
I leave you with my favorite quote from the story, something Sheun says to Mei Lin when she has a hard time coming to terms with the strong and silent Sheun who doesn't want to subject the sort of life he leads on the woman he loves.
I don't think this review is going to come off sounding any other way but gushy because I just loved everything about this very short, hot and well done novella.
The Taming of Mei Lin is a story set in the Tang Dynasty in 710 A.D. China. Wu Mei Lin is an impetuous and a very skilled swords woman who has been backed into a corner by Zhou, a lesser magistrate in the district who had proposed marriage to her after catching a glimpse of her at her uncle's noodle stand where she works day in and day out. Mei Lin is more than disgusted to say the least when a marriage proposal comes from a weasel like Zhou who already has 2 wives to his name. And thus Mei Lin puts forth the challenge that she would marry no man unless he defeats her in a sword fight.
Mei Lin is more than tired of the goons that Zhou has sent her way with the continuous ridicule from the townsfolk that label her a mad woman. When a handsome stranger comes across and offers to fight her, it is then that for the first time Mei Lin is seduced into surrendering everything she is capable of giving to the man who stands before her.
Shen Leung is captivated by the woman he spies across the noodle stand and though he is more than tempted to take what Mei Lin offers, his honor and his way of life which means he has nothing substantial to offer to a lady like Mei Lin makes him refuse to embrace what Mei Lin offers with both arms wide open. But the attraction that flares between them from the first moment they lay eyes on each other is a fierce one, which battles and wins against all odds going for them, which triumphs in a love that is as fierce that just left me begging for more.
Sigh! What a wonderful, wonderful story this turned out to be. For one thing, the historical time period and the location of the novel is a unique one lending this story a charm that is unbeatable when it comes to historical romances. Even though this is a very short novel; only just 5 chapters to it, Jeannie Lin still managed to captivate me with her beautiful style of bringing to life an attraction between two people who so rightfully deserve each other. I just loved Shen Leung to bits. His character reminds me of Shang from Mulan, but his character is so much more; honor & loyalty hardwired into his DNA which makes him an unbeatable contender in the unforgettable heroes department.
Is it just me or does reading about the fight that takes place between Mei Lin and Sheun just skyrocket the surrounding temperature by a couple of degrees? *fans self in the process of remembering* I just loved the sensuality that the author created in the novel and I just fell that much harder in love with both Mei Lin and just a tad more with Sheun because of the fact.
All in all, a very highly recommended novella for those who love to read historical romances.
I leave you with my favorite quote from the story, something Sheun says to Mei Lin when she has a hard time coming to terms with the strong and silent Sheun who doesn't want to subject the sort of life he leads on the woman he loves.
June 28, 2015
A young Chinese woman refused the insulting marriage proposal of an older, nasty tempered official. She makes the bold statement that she will not accept any man's hand in marriage unless he can best her in a sword fight. Naturally this results in all the young bucks in the area challenging her - and losing - including men sent by the decrepit old official. Until one day, a young and handsome man comes to town, and upon hearing of the sword fighting beauty while in a tavern, decides to seek her out. He wasn't informed however, that if he won, he won her hand in marriage.
"You're good" he said.
She parried and twisted his blade aside. "I don't need you to tell me."
I absolutely loved the imagery and the story of Mei Lin. The time period was unusual, and the cultural nuances that the author included in the story made for fascinating reading. I'm looking forward to reading more by Jeannie Lin!
"You're good" he said.
She parried and twisted his blade aside. "I don't need you to tell me."
I absolutely loved the imagery and the story of Mei Lin. The time period was unusual, and the cultural nuances that the author included in the story made for fascinating reading. I'm looking forward to reading more by Jeannie Lin!
September 4, 2010
I've been looking forward to Jeannie Lin's stories for months now because she's breaking new ground with romances set in Tang Dynasty China. I crawled into bed last night and opened this one, thinking I'd just start reading a few pages--and instead found myself devouring the entire story. It's simply WONDERFUL. Mei Lin is an indomitable heroine both kind and fierce, and Shen Leung is a sexy, skilled, and honorable hero every bit her match. Their clash of wills is a thing of beauty, as is their love story. The writing is gorgeous and sensual.
It isn't easy for an author to develop a believable romance and "Happily Ever After" within ten or twelve thousand words, but based on this, I might auto-buy Jeannie Lin's grocery list.
This short story is set before the time of her much-anticipated BUTTERFLY SWORDS, coming in October 2010. My thanks to the author for the courage to write stories in a fresh and fascinating setting and to Harlequin for the foresight to publish them. I'm an eager new fan. HURRY UP, OCTOBER!
It isn't easy for an author to develop a believable romance and "Happily Ever After" within ten or twelve thousand words, but based on this, I might auto-buy Jeannie Lin's grocery list.
This short story is set before the time of her much-anticipated BUTTERFLY SWORDS, coming in October 2010. My thanks to the author for the courage to write stories in a fresh and fascinating setting and to Harlequin for the foresight to publish them. I'm an eager new fan. HURRY UP, OCTOBER!
December 22, 2020
An excellent short story about Wu Mei Lin, an accomplished swordswoman who in response to a foul official’s unwelcome advances, issues the challenge that no one can marry her without first being able to defeat her in a match. She’s tired of so many fools and being both discounted and disrespected. When the quietly expert Shen Leung passes through town, perhaps she has met her match.
Jeannie Lin’s story is exciting and romantic, both swashbuckling and seductive.
Jeannie Lin’s story is exciting and romantic, both swashbuckling and seductive.
August 21, 2011
Summary:
It's usually really hard for me to give short stories high ratings. Most of the time, I find myself wanting more, not really understanding the characters and their motivations. I'm glad to say that this is not the case with this story.
Mei Lin is an awesome heroine - a woman in that time and place willing to fight for her rights - it's unbelievable. Her skill set her apart, but she's met her match in Shen Leung.
He wasn't aware of the "bet" - he just heard that there was a woman who knew how to fight and was curious enough to try to best her.
Shen Leung is a great hero - honorable, strong and enchanted by our heroine. And of course, willing to fight for her. Although she is a woman that can stand up for herself.
I'm really looking forward to Jeannie Lin next release
- BTW I love that cover.
Rating:
4.5 stars
Faced with a proposal from a man she despises, impetuous Mei Lin makes a daring declaration: she will only marry the man who can defeat her in a sword fight. She has bested everyone who has so far tried to teach her a lesson...until a handsome stranger comes to her village. In captivating swordsman Shen Leung , Mei Lin finally sees a man she wants to marry. A man she's willing to surrender to in every way....
It's usually really hard for me to give short stories high ratings. Most of the time, I find myself wanting more, not really understanding the characters and their motivations. I'm glad to say that this is not the case with this story.
Mei Lin is an awesome heroine - a woman in that time and place willing to fight for her rights - it's unbelievable. Her skill set her apart, but she's met her match in Shen Leung.
He wasn't aware of the "bet" - he just heard that there was a woman who knew how to fight and was curious enough to try to best her.
Shen Leung is a great hero - honorable, strong and enchanted by our heroine. And of course, willing to fight for her. Although she is a woman that can stand up for herself.
I'm really looking forward to Jeannie Lin next release
- BTW I love that cover.Rating:
4.5 stars
February 21, 2012
I read this because I read Butterfly Swords, once upon a time, on someone's recommendation. The story of Mei Lin sounded interesting, then, so I picked it up -- and I hear that the idea of setting romances in Tang dynasty China is a new one.
Unfortunately, romances aren't really my thing, and the lack of depth to the characters/relationships in this short story doesn't help. A pretty significant portion of the story is just sex, and it also involves the trope of a strong, capable woman needing to be saved by a man.
There's a lot that could've been done with this set-up, but the result wasn't satisfying at all for me. If you're a romance novel reader, it'd probably be more of interest to you.
Unfortunately, romances aren't really my thing, and the lack of depth to the characters/relationships in this short story doesn't help. A pretty significant portion of the story is just sex, and it also involves the trope of a strong, capable woman needing to be saved by a man.
There's a lot that could've been done with this set-up, but the result wasn't satisfying at all for me. If you're a romance novel reader, it'd probably be more of interest to you.
September 4, 2010
This was short, sweet, and fun. The hero was sexy, and the heroine was fierce, which was pretty darn awesome. Loved this and wish it was twice as long.
Oh, and the swordfighting? Rocked. Can't wait for BUTTERFLY SWORDS next month.
Oh, and the swordfighting? Rocked. Can't wait for BUTTERFLY SWORDS next month.
May 15, 2020
I am not a romance reader, but I'm very interested in Imperial China and I've heard so much about Jeannie Lin that I had to try one of her books.
This short story covers about a couple of days, if even that, and felt like it was over in the blink of an eye. Mei Lin will only marry the man who bests her in a sword fight. Shen Leung is a noble agent of the Emperor (I think) and she lets him win because she is uncontrollably attracted to him and wants to marry him. And, of course, he is madly in love with her from first sight, but he didn't fight her to marry her. He just did it for...reasons I guess.
I'm not opposed to insta-love, but, come on! They're committed to each other after maybe 24 hours. Regardless, I liked the character of Mei Lin and I think that the author did a great job in a short amount of space showing her struggles as an orphan and the trouble-maker the whole village thinks is weird. I liked her misfit-ness. I also liked Shen Leung and the setting. It's enough to make me try more of Jeannie Lin's books. :-)
This short story covers about a couple of days, if even that, and felt like it was over in the blink of an eye. Mei Lin will only marry the man who bests her in a sword fight. Shen Leung is a noble agent of the Emperor (I think) and she lets him win because she is uncontrollably attracted to him and wants to marry him. And, of course, he is madly in love with her from first sight, but he didn't fight her to marry her. He just did it for...reasons I guess.
I'm not opposed to insta-love, but, come on! They're committed to each other after maybe 24 hours. Regardless, I liked the character of Mei Lin and I think that the author did a great job in a short amount of space showing her struggles as an orphan and the trouble-maker the whole village thinks is weird. I liked her misfit-ness. I also liked Shen Leung and the setting. It's enough to make me try more of Jeannie Lin's books. :-)
February 20, 2012
The Taming of Mei Lin is a much shorter story than it should be. It happens over the course of a day, via four chapters, which is much, much too fast for any actual character development. There are sparks, and it starts out well, but the emotions quickly become impossible to sympathise with because they are far too abrupt, deep without depth, and superficially perfect.
There were some good flaws given these characters--Mei Lin's volatile temper and sharp mouth, Shen Leung's poor heritage and sense of honor--but they weren't actually used by the author. At the end of the story I have no idea what brought Shen Leung to Mei Lin's corner of the world, nor why he is famous, nor what his mission is. And while you can argue that it's not important to their romance, I feel like he's merely an outline of a character, and not one with full realism, because we're never shown his background. Nor Mei Lin's. We know her parents are gone, we know her aunt and uncle aren't thrilled to be raising her, we know she can use butterfly swords, but that's it. There is so much here on the surface that can be dug into--why were we never shown anything but the inflamed passions of the two?
And, sadly, The Taming of Mei Lin practiced a trope that I find an immediate turn off. Mei Lin is a competent, strong woman, who can FIGHT. So why does the story put her in a situation where she must be rescued from rape by her knight in shining armor? I really dislike it when plot takes a women's strengths are taken away so that a man can save her.
There were some good flaws given these characters--Mei Lin's volatile temper and sharp mouth, Shen Leung's poor heritage and sense of honor--but they weren't actually used by the author. At the end of the story I have no idea what brought Shen Leung to Mei Lin's corner of the world, nor why he is famous, nor what his mission is. And while you can argue that it's not important to their romance, I feel like he's merely an outline of a character, and not one with full realism, because we're never shown his background. Nor Mei Lin's. We know her parents are gone, we know her aunt and uncle aren't thrilled to be raising her, we know she can use butterfly swords, but that's it. There is so much here on the surface that can be dug into--why were we never shown anything but the inflamed passions of the two?
And, sadly, The Taming of Mei Lin practiced a trope that I find an immediate turn off. Mei Lin is a competent, strong woman, who can FIGHT. So why does the story put her in a situation where she must be rescued from rape by her knight in shining armor? I really dislike it when plot takes a women's strengths are taken away so that a man can save her.
December 8, 2010
This is a really cool short story. It's a story I have heard before.. People try to force girl to marry.. Girl declares whoever beats her swordfight will be her future husband. Of course, men try and fail. Till one day, she sees a desirable mate and lets him win.
Once I hit the 85% mark, however, it became the first chapter of Butterfly Swords. I was disappointed. I wanted more.
Favorite quote: "But when I saw you, I realized I had no idea how to seduce a man. So I thought it would just be easier to kill you."
Once I hit the 85% mark, however, it became the first chapter of Butterfly Swords. I was disappointed. I wanted more.
Favorite quote: "But when I saw you, I realized I had no idea how to seduce a man. So I thought it would just be easier to kill you."
September 12, 2010
First of all - what an unusual Romance genre! Historical and Asian with a sword fight to boot... And it works - the chemistry between Mei Lin and her gorgeous swordsman sizzles, and my only grumble is how short the book is (a mere five chapters). Whether you're Asian or no, the story is timeless and touching, and the romance succeeds in transcending the boundaries of time and culture. I enjoyed this.
March 14, 2012
This is this fourth work of Jeannie Lin's that I've read and it's just as spell-binding as the others. Mei Lin is feisty and Shen Leung mysterious and protective. Together the two share a magnetic chemistry that works throughout the novella.
September 7, 2010
If this short story is indicative of the quality of Ms Lin's writing, I can't wait for Butterfly Swords!
May 30, 2024
I've only known about Jeannie Lin for a few days but I'm burning through her bibliography.
It's only a short novella but how human Mei Lin was evident within the first chapter. I don't know exactly what it was but she was so brash and yet vulnerable, and impressively managed to do so without being really annoying or pathetic the way romance female leads tend to be written. Instead, it felt more endearingly relatable, particularly impressive that was established so quickly. The Male main character is also sweet.
Honestly, the thing that would make me enjoy the story more is if it were longer so there was some added plot, the premise could definitely be extended easily.
I'm assuming this story was influenced by the Taming of the shrew (more than 10 things I hate about you) as well as the historical figure Kubala Khan. If it was longer it would probably allow for a more climactic finale and a more fleshed-out cast of characters but the story is short and sweet as is.
It's only a short novella but how human Mei Lin was evident within the first chapter. I don't know exactly what it was but she was so brash and yet vulnerable, and impressively managed to do so without being really annoying or pathetic the way romance female leads tend to be written. Instead, it felt more endearingly relatable, particularly impressive that was established so quickly. The Male main character is also sweet.
Honestly, the thing that would make me enjoy the story more is if it were longer so there was some added plot, the premise could definitely be extended easily.
I'm assuming this story was influenced by the Taming of the shrew (more than 10 things I hate about you) as well as the historical figure Kubala Khan. If it was longer it would probably allow for a more climactic finale and a more fleshed-out cast of characters but the story is short and sweet as is.
August 26, 2023
On my quest to finish Jeannie Kin’s backlist and….is this my favorite by her so far?? At only 50-ish pages??
Mei Lin is such a badass FMC! She refuses to marry any man unless he can beat her in a sword fight. Spoiler alert, she’s a super good sword fighter. When she comes across a handsome stranger in her village and he requests a sword fight, she accepts…….and maybe sorta kinda loses on purpose so he’ll whisk her away and make her his wife.
I get it. Go Mei Lin. I love how much characterization is packed into so short a story (although I think Shen Leung is a bit too mysterious? He’s a sorta vague character when it comes to what he actually does for the empire?). The village and its occupants feel so real and vivid. And I love that Mei Lin is like “listen BUDDY you beat me in our duel so I’m yours now, got it”. Koala bear that man, sis.
Mei Lin is such a badass FMC! She refuses to marry any man unless he can beat her in a sword fight. Spoiler alert, she’s a super good sword fighter. When she comes across a handsome stranger in her village and he requests a sword fight, she accepts…….and maybe sorta kinda loses on purpose so he’ll whisk her away and make her his wife.
I get it. Go Mei Lin. I love how much characterization is packed into so short a story (although I think Shen Leung is a bit too mysterious? He’s a sorta vague character when it comes to what he actually does for the empire?). The village and its occupants feel so real and vivid. And I love that Mei Lin is like “listen BUDDY you beat me in our duel so I’m yours now, got it”. Koala bear that man, sis.
January 4, 2019
I’m torn. On the one hand, it has this exchange which is everything:
“You’re good,” he said. She parried and twisted his blade aside. “I don’t need you to tell me.”
On the other hand, she promptly starts acting like a doormat and then he has to rescue her from rape threat. Plus, there’s sex in which her clit goes untouched and nobody mentions or thinks of preventing pregnancy. (For example, why does it have to be p in v?) Or even says a word about what they’re doing before, during or after they do it.
So it’s great and then it’s the reasons I don’t like m/f.
“You’re good,” he said. She parried and twisted his blade aside. “I don’t need you to tell me.”
On the other hand, she promptly starts acting like a doormat and then he has to rescue her from rape threat. Plus, there’s sex in which her clit goes untouched and nobody mentions or thinks of preventing pregnancy. (For example, why does it have to be p in v?) Or even says a word about what they’re doing before, during or after they do it.
So it’s great and then it’s the reasons I don’t like m/f.
January 17, 2021
This was the first book I read in 2021 and I couldn't be more delighted. I adore Jeannie Lin's writing and this short story was great. The set up is a "taming" of a woman (Mei) who may or may not be a shrew. (She's not, of course, but she is very much Over It.) She's declared that she won't marry unless the man can beat her in a swordfight. She's beaten many challengers, until he shows up. THEY FIGHT EACH OTHER AND IT WAS AMAZING (AND ALSO KINDA HOT). It's sexy and angsty. Just what I wanted.
December 22, 2024
A steamy quick read. I enjoyed Mei Lin and her skills. She was talented with her "butterfly" swords. Her family circumstances were heartbreaking, having no parents and living with other family, yet feeling like an outcast. Shen Leung was polite, caring, and appreciative of her talents. Their connection was instant and steamy. He rescued her, and she was determined to stay with him. I would love to find out how their journey continued, but I loved this story.
This is my unsolicited review.
This is my unsolicited review.
November 12, 2020
I enjoyed this novella. Pacing in terms of the attraction was a little far for my preferences, but I loved Mei Lin and her personality so much. I do think the romance was sweet, but would have liked more time to see it develop. But still a good novella that makes me excited for more books in the series.
July 20, 2022
I was just languishing about in search of a steamy book that's not a fantasy or set in the western world, AND HERE IT IS.
I mean, yeah it's a novella so it's kinda short for character development and all that, but even with the brevity, the author does a great job of bringing the Tang Dynasty world to life. The characters are believable enough and the steam is great so I'm pretty happy.
I mean, yeah it's a novella so it's kinda short for character development and all that, but even with the brevity, the author does a great job of bringing the Tang Dynasty world to life. The characters are believable enough and the steam is great so I'm pretty happy.
February 18, 2023
Short sweet and to the point. Loved it it’s a pity the sequel is… the way that it is lol
It’s so funny to think this is the grandma in the next book Omg they got busy I wish there was more to their story beyond this novella
It’s so funny to think this is the grandma in the next book Omg they got busy I wish there was more to their story beyond this novella
August 13, 2017
Needed a very light read, a break from all the depressing and heavy stuff I've been reading and this little book ticked all the right boxes.
March 3, 2019
3.5 stars
Loved Mei Lin but wish there had been more time to develop the romance! It was shorter than I expected (4 chapters!).
Loved Mei Lin but wish there had been more time to develop the romance! It was shorter than I expected (4 chapters!).
January 20, 2020
It's perfect
I read Butterfly Swords years ago and never took the time to read more of the series until now. Sorry I waited. I cannot recommend this series enough!
I read Butterfly Swords years ago and never took the time to read more of the series until now. Sorry I waited. I cannot recommend this series enough!
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March 10, 2020REREAD
Love reading different cultures describing themselves. So instructive. The fight scenes were glorious. The love scenes too brief ;-p
Love reading different cultures describing themselves. So instructive. The fight scenes were glorious. The love scenes too brief ;-p
February 23, 2022
Book only 5 chapters
The book was so short and rushed, it would have been good with a back story for each of the characters. Such a disappointment.
The book was so short and rushed, it would have been good with a back story for each of the characters. Such a disappointment.
February 27, 2022
this was fine. the only thing that bothered me was the couple having sex like two minutes after the heroine was struck multiple times and almost raped. literally two minutes
April 17, 2023
Writing style 4/5
Story 3/5
Romance 3/5
Steam 2/5
Very short
Story 3/5
Romance 3/5
Steam 2/5
Very short
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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