A perfect historical romance mystery novel. All of the elements were here, making for a unique and touching story that I will definitely be revisiting in the years to come. Lin has crafted a wonderful story with sensitive yet strong leads. They suit each other, and the narrative suits them.

The leads in this novel are the magistrate Li Chen, who has appeared in semi-prominent roles in all of the Pingkang Li books thus far and Song Yi, a courtesan who has hovered at the edges of the story. Li Chen is a stickler for the rules, and he's meticulous in everything he does, whether it be his work, uncovering the mystery of his father's untimely death, or courting Song Yi by uncovering the secrets of her past. He's so dedicated to his work that it's clear Li Chen is a novice in a lot ways socially, and it's honestly adorable. Lin does a great job balancing his naivety with the side of him that has obviously seen some dark things.

Meanwhile, Song Yi is introduced to readers as an average courtesan in the grand scheme of things: she's not a brilliant beauty like Mingyu nor is she a genius with words like some of her predecessors. But just because she isn't extraordinary, doesn't mean she isn't unique and have her own charms. Song Yi is proud, self-sacrificing, gentle, patient, but also worldly in the exact ways that Li Chen is not. While they have similar demeanors, their opposites also complement one another. They're a well-matched and well-written couple.

This book is a little heavier on the romance than the mystery. That said, the mystery is still very compelling, and the way it comes together is brilliant. When a mysterious stranger comes to Changan looking for Song Yi but turns up dead outside her home, Li Chen wonders if he can evaluate the case with objectivity. As he uncovers more clues, he realizes they are linked in ways he could never imagine. Honestly, the mystery brings them together in such swoon worthy ways. My only criticism is I think the resolution was wrapped up too quickly and off-page, but I didn't mind so much. I still got the information I needed, even if it was delivered after the fact in a more expository manner. Besides, this a romance before it is a mystery, so the affections of our leads take center stage.

I do think the couple reconciled rather quickly, but after hearing the exposition behind how things wrapped up, it made sense. This is one of Lin's steamier novels, but instead of feeling pointless or gratuitous, it's presented as the realities of Song Yi's world. She is a courtesan, after all. Previously, the more sexual side of the job was more implicit rather than explicit, even Mingyu's relationship with her greatest benefactor General Deng happens off-page. Other readers have praised Lin's approach to the realities of the job with respect, and I second those statements. The world of the Pingkang Li and Changan are like secondary characters in this series, constantly being fleshed out and given more shades. When viewed through the lens that Song Yi is doing her job and feeling conflicted between her heart and her duty, the additional sex scenes make sense. It didn't hurt that I thought the couple was just too cute.

If you're looking for a mystery with romantic elements, this is not the book for you. This is a romance first and a mystery second. However, it is still immensely enjoyable due to its great characterization, convincing and sweet romance, vivid scenes, and good pacing. Highly recommend. ( )