Thorn of the Night Blossoms A Legends of Tivara Story

J. C. Kang — 2019

For an imperial assassin, assignment as a courtesan in the Floating World seems like a waste of her talents... until killers target her clan sisters.In the legendary Floating World, wars are waged with wit, the strongest soldier can be bound with threads of silk, and flesh is the currency by which life, death, and freedom can all be purchased. Half-elf Jie doesn't mind her temporary assignment as a Night Blossom in the most sought-after house. It's perfect cover for her real work as an assassin in the emperor's service, and keeps her close to one who matters most. Her life belongs to her clan, but her heart lies with clan junior, Lilian. Lilian's talents trade stealth for sensuality, poison for poetry. With looks as sharp as any blade, she can coax information from any man, and still leave him paying for the pleasure. She's enthralled many a noble, none more important than the warlord who can calm a brewing insurrection. Only her sweet whispers can secure his obedience to the throne.But now, his increasing abuse has Jie seeking a new assignment for Lilian--even if it means their separation. When killers target clan sisters, and the seeds of rebellion find fertile soil in the Floating World, Jie must choose between loyalty and love.***"Thorn of the Night Blossoms is a prequel, though it is a total standalone... This cover story blends right in with her actual ninja-like assassin job in a fantastic tale filled with intrigue, betrayal, friendship, love and truly incredible action."--Amazon Reviewer"Kang delivers once again. This thrilling tale gives valuable insight to a beloved favorite character's younger years and begins to fill in the gap that was left with questions after his epic Dragon Song Saga. Highly recommended. Fantastic read that was full of suspense, charm, and shocking moments that will leave you wanting more."--Amazon Reviewer The Legends of Tivara Includes: A Dragon's Guide to Hatching a Rebellion Scions of the Black Lotus Thorn of the Night BlossomsWhite Sheep of the FamilyWretches of the Trench The Dragon Songs Saga Prelude to Insurrection Songs of InsurrectionOrchestra of TreacheriesDances of DeceptionSymphony of Fates The Dragonstones Chronicles Masters of Deception Heirs of the Sundered Empire

Reviews

Tiffanie Dang@lovelessdegrees

Nov 18, 2021

Thank you to the author, J.C. Kang, for sending me an e-ARC to review! I really enjoyed this book and agree with other reviewers that it certainly is a fresh take on the spy narrative. There’s Asian characters and also LGBTQ+ representation, which made me feel seen, as a Chinese person who is bicurious. The worldbuilding was fascinating and really immersive, but then there were the plot twists! I only saw them coming right before they happened and it was still shocking. The romance was steamy, but also didn’t detract from the overall narrative and vengeance was served like a hot casserole dish, haha. This short novella was fast-paced and I was able to finish it in one sitting, which was great! I was in a bit of a reading slump, so I’m glad I was able to read a short book and feel accomplished. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy (especially with a half-elf character who likes both men and women). I have a spoiler-free review video for this on my BookTube channel: https://youtu.be/qe1_zkPTBVs