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Tales of the Swordsman #3
Fall of the King Saber
After the devastating events of Fangs of the Black Tiger, Li Ming and Shu Yan are trapped in a race against time. Shazha Kui's power is rising, and Li Ming must defeat him before the entire kingdom falls.
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First published August 21, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 19, 2024
Author JF Lee continues his adventures of Swordsman Li Ming with "Fall of the Dragon Saber," which is my favorite of his books up to this point. Full of entertaining characters, spirited dialog and lots of martial arts mayhem, Lee does justice to predecessors like Gu Long.
The story is set immediately after the events of "Fangs of the Black Tiger." Li Ming has taken Shu Yan as his formal student and starts teaching her the Blue Mountain swordsmanship. Of course, they still bicker back and forth like they always have, although Li Ming does see some special potential within her. After some encounters with bounty hunters, the two undertake a dangerous journey back Tu'men, where Shu had worked in a brothel a year or so before. Once in the belly the beast, Shu and Li try to get the bounty removed from her head.
Meanwhile, rebel general Shazha Kui is pushing his rebellion forward and recruiting some of the most powerful names in the Martial World to his cause. And Li Ming will have to find some new techniques to complement his limited knowledge of the deepest secrets of the Blue Mountain in order to stand a chance against the General when their next duel comes around.
Like the other two books, the story is largely episodic, as our heroes move from one locale to anothre and get into all sorts of mischief while Li Ming has to balance out his training Shu Yan with his own preparations for his upcoming duel. There are lots of colorful characters along the way and we do learn a lot more about both Shu's and Li Ming's backstories, which gives them a lot more depth. I especially enjoyed the last third of the book once our characters return to Blue Mountain. Despite the story's episodic nature, the fact that we know it is building to a predetermined climax helps give the different subplots and side quests a unifying theme by casting an ominous shadow over all of their exploits.
The final showdown between Shazha Kui and Li Ming is one for the books. It is very well written and at the end, takes a page from films like Zu: Warriors from Magic Mountain and Strife for Mastery. The book ends on a hopeful note and I'm excited for "Echo of the Blue Mountain."
The story is set immediately after the events of "Fangs of the Black Tiger." Li Ming has taken Shu Yan as his formal student and starts teaching her the Blue Mountain swordsmanship. Of course, they still bicker back and forth like they always have, although Li Ming does see some special potential within her. After some encounters with bounty hunters, the two undertake a dangerous journey back Tu'men, where Shu had worked in a brothel a year or so before. Once in the belly the beast, Shu and Li try to get the bounty removed from her head.
Meanwhile, rebel general Shazha Kui is pushing his rebellion forward and recruiting some of the most powerful names in the Martial World to his cause. And Li Ming will have to find some new techniques to complement his limited knowledge of the deepest secrets of the Blue Mountain in order to stand a chance against the General when their next duel comes around.
Like the other two books, the story is largely episodic, as our heroes move from one locale to anothre and get into all sorts of mischief while Li Ming has to balance out his training Shu Yan with his own preparations for his upcoming duel. There are lots of colorful characters along the way and we do learn a lot more about both Shu's and Li Ming's backstories, which gives them a lot more depth. I especially enjoyed the last third of the book once our characters return to Blue Mountain. Despite the story's episodic nature, the fact that we know it is building to a predetermined climax helps give the different subplots and side quests a unifying theme by casting an ominous shadow over all of their exploits.
The final showdown between Shazha Kui and Li Ming is one for the books. It is very well written and at the end, takes a page from films like Zu: Warriors from Magic Mountain and Strife for Mastery. The book ends on a hopeful note and I'm excited for "Echo of the Blue Mountain."
September 8, 2022
This is worth all 5 🌟
I have tended to find a lot of series I read, I grow a little less enthusiastic as the series goes, but mainly this happens if I don't see any changes in pacing or storytelling and effectively it ends up feeling like it runs out of steam
However this book, is comfortably better than book 1 and 2. The pacing is different, the prose is better, the storyline is more punchy and the characters arcs have started to round out to be better than I hoped.
It kinda makes me sad I don't see much about this series in the reading communities because I am really enjoyong the series and this book surpassed my expectations
If you want an action packed book, with mentor trope and some sassy and lovable characters. Plus some Asian inspired fighting and history. I recommend this series wholeheartedly
I have tended to find a lot of series I read, I grow a little less enthusiastic as the series goes, but mainly this happens if I don't see any changes in pacing or storytelling and effectively it ends up feeling like it runs out of steam
However this book, is comfortably better than book 1 and 2. The pacing is different, the prose is better, the storyline is more punchy and the characters arcs have started to round out to be better than I hoped.
It kinda makes me sad I don't see much about this series in the reading communities because I am really enjoyong the series and this book surpassed my expectations
If you want an action packed book, with mentor trope and some sassy and lovable characters. Plus some Asian inspired fighting and history. I recommend this series wholeheartedly
August 25, 2022
First and foremost! You must read Volumes One and Two before you dive into this book. The books follow a continuous arc and plotline. Meaning this review will contain spoilers if you haven't read, "Sword of Sorrow, Blade of Joy" and "Fangs of the Black Tiger" first. The first two volumes are excellent and you will not be disappointed!
"They may have kept you alive, but what I am teaching you will make you truly great." - Li Ming
"You can't be afraid to learn something unorthodox." - Tao Jun
Li Ming's agreed to being Shu Yan's master and to train her. FINALLY! Only he's soon regretting his decision as ghosts from his past begin to haunt him. Worse than the on going nightmares ever have. Not to mention the impending duel with General Shazha Kui. . . Li Ming really doesn't have time to train an apprentice and he knows he isn't a great teacher. Yet he promised!
Shu Yan never wants to get caught and thrown into a cage again. But how can she accomplish this with bounty hunters breathing down her neck? The bounty's grown higher and in this land where rebels, war, and bandits have ravaged it, who wouldn't want a big payday? And why is there this awkwardness between her and the swordsmen since he agreed to be her shifu?
Fair warning this book is rather lengthy! But it helps to set the stage for the rather rude cliffhanger and the volume yet to come. . . Though I honestly knew this volume wasn't the ending because there were certain things that weren't completed. Things some of the stubborn, cast members needed to figure out. . . . I want to grumble about something but I don't want to give anything away. I do want to grab Li Ming by the shoulders and shake him though.
I've spent the last half week reading the books back to back. Have to say I really loved Volume Two, maybe a little more than this volume. Not to say this one wasn't good. Just it was a bit lengthy but JF Lee was making sure his characters were in the right places. Even having the gang all together in several scenes. Maybe being a lonely, swordsmen isn't really Li Ming's destiny.
I enjoyed JF Lee's "Last time on Tales of the Swordsmen. . ." Were if you haven't been reading the volumes back to back or reread them before Volume Three you're able to know and remember what happened. The author still does little short paragraphs of characters when they're reintroduced. I enjoyed that along with a larger list of characters and brief descriptions about them at the beginning of the book.
I like how we get to see a little more of General Shazha Kui's character than we did in Volume Two. Seeing a human side of the man and realizing he isn't a big evil just to be big evil. Also got to see glimpses of his past and other's past.
The fight scenes were fantastic! Especially the ones where Li Ming realizes that maybe he needs to admit to things and adapt. Whether he likes it or not he has to embrace the unorthodox ways. Though he may never admit someone was right about something. . .
"You're so cute when you try to lie." - Jin Lang
I was so happy to see my favorite character back. And again! I would not be mad if the author wrote a book featuring Jin Lang. Maybe his past before we get to see him in Li Ming's series or even a time period after Tales of the Swordsmen. Either way I absolutely love Jin Lang! Definitely the Manga/Anime character who never opens their eyes until they do, then run. He brings a nice comic relief to the series and I love the banter he contributes.
There's a very small hint of romance in the book. Epic swordsmanship, humbling lessons, facing one's past, and so much more. The book does still contain some violence and there's language both in Chinese and English. I cannot wait for the next volume to see what happens next! Because that cliffhanger still got me, even though I knew it was coming!
Enjoy the epic adventure with martial art legends and live to fight another day! Don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.blogspot.com
"They may have kept you alive, but what I am teaching you will make you truly great." - Li Ming
"You can't be afraid to learn something unorthodox." - Tao Jun
Li Ming's agreed to being Shu Yan's master and to train her. FINALLY! Only he's soon regretting his decision as ghosts from his past begin to haunt him. Worse than the on going nightmares ever have. Not to mention the impending duel with General Shazha Kui. . . Li Ming really doesn't have time to train an apprentice and he knows he isn't a great teacher. Yet he promised!
Shu Yan never wants to get caught and thrown into a cage again. But how can she accomplish this with bounty hunters breathing down her neck? The bounty's grown higher and in this land where rebels, war, and bandits have ravaged it, who wouldn't want a big payday? And why is there this awkwardness between her and the swordsmen since he agreed to be her shifu?
Fair warning this book is rather lengthy! But it helps to set the stage for the rather rude cliffhanger and the volume yet to come. . . Though I honestly knew this volume wasn't the ending because there were certain things that weren't completed. Things some of the stubborn, cast members needed to figure out. . . . I want to grumble about something but I don't want to give anything away. I do want to grab Li Ming by the shoulders and shake him though.
I've spent the last half week reading the books back to back. Have to say I really loved Volume Two, maybe a little more than this volume. Not to say this one wasn't good. Just it was a bit lengthy but JF Lee was making sure his characters were in the right places. Even having the gang all together in several scenes. Maybe being a lonely, swordsmen isn't really Li Ming's destiny.
I enjoyed JF Lee's "Last time on Tales of the Swordsmen. . ." Were if you haven't been reading the volumes back to back or reread them before Volume Three you're able to know and remember what happened. The author still does little short paragraphs of characters when they're reintroduced. I enjoyed that along with a larger list of characters and brief descriptions about them at the beginning of the book.
I like how we get to see a little more of General Shazha Kui's character than we did in Volume Two. Seeing a human side of the man and realizing he isn't a big evil just to be big evil. Also got to see glimpses of his past and other's past.
The fight scenes were fantastic! Especially the ones where Li Ming realizes that maybe he needs to admit to things and adapt. Whether he likes it or not he has to embrace the unorthodox ways. Though he may never admit someone was right about something. . .
"You're so cute when you try to lie." - Jin Lang
I was so happy to see my favorite character back. And again! I would not be mad if the author wrote a book featuring Jin Lang. Maybe his past before we get to see him in Li Ming's series or even a time period after Tales of the Swordsmen. Either way I absolutely love Jin Lang! Definitely the Manga/Anime character who never opens their eyes until they do, then run. He brings a nice comic relief to the series and I love the banter he contributes.
There's a very small hint of romance in the book. Epic swordsmanship, humbling lessons, facing one's past, and so much more. The book does still contain some violence and there's language both in Chinese and English. I cannot wait for the next volume to see what happens next! Because that cliffhanger still got me, even though I knew it was coming!
Enjoy the epic adventure with martial art legends and live to fight another day! Don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.blogspot.com
August 20, 2022
Li Ming and Shu Yan continue to fight against Shazha Kui, but his power is growing. Li Ming must defeat him before the entire kingdom falls.
Fall of the King Saber is the third in the series, which relies heavily on wuxia tradition. Li Ming is a famed swordsman working as a mercenary; the first book is where he met Shu Yan and the adventures they had looking for her family. In the second, Li Ming called in former comrades to help when Shu Yan was kidnapped by bounty hunters. Here, his old enemy Shazha Kui, who had killed his master, is once again his main foe. Li Ming is the last swordsman from Blue Mountain, carrying a cursed sword he's generally reluctant to use and is one of the last able to decode the sect's manuals. Shu Yan would rather accompany him on his travels than stay working for the pleasure houses or in random villages that gangs seek to take over. We get to see them navigate through a world of martial arts, revenge, and sworn oaths.
It's definitely better to have read the prior books first, though we do get a "previously on..." introduction before diving into this particular story. Li Ming and Shazha Kui are set to duel in six months, and Shu Yan formally accepted training in the Blue Mountain style. That doesn't stop the Black Tigers from doing their thing, or other gangs from warring over territory and supremacy. Six months is a long time, after all, so we have adventures along the way. We see the Black Tigers at work, Shu Yan and Li Meng trying to get rid of the bounty on her head, and then other bitter rivalries that they're caught up in. Li Meng is a known swordfighter and mercenary, but even he has his limits.
As our heroes move through the kingdom, there is talk of bandits, bounties, and sworn brotherhood. Fans of wuxia are very familiar with these terms and the kind of fights involving weapons and qi. There are plenty of battles, further history for all of our characters if you read earlier books and are curious, as well as a ticking clock to the final battle. The fights are also tempered with humor, from Shu Yan constantly saying that Li Meng is a terrible teacher to a cabbage seller crying out that they're ruined. (Fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender will adore that running gag.) Each part of the novel feels like a wuxia TV episode, which is lots of fun to read.
This novel didn't end the way I thought it would. At first, I was disappointed, because I thought that was the end of everything and it would have been disappointing. But no, other characters back up the Blue Mountain fighters. The final battle is a complete melee, and it soon becomes obvious that more volumes in the swordsman's story will be coming. I'm glad about that because it means more episodes to read about.
Fall of the King Saber is the third in the series, which relies heavily on wuxia tradition. Li Ming is a famed swordsman working as a mercenary; the first book is where he met Shu Yan and the adventures they had looking for her family. In the second, Li Ming called in former comrades to help when Shu Yan was kidnapped by bounty hunters. Here, his old enemy Shazha Kui, who had killed his master, is once again his main foe. Li Ming is the last swordsman from Blue Mountain, carrying a cursed sword he's generally reluctant to use and is one of the last able to decode the sect's manuals. Shu Yan would rather accompany him on his travels than stay working for the pleasure houses or in random villages that gangs seek to take over. We get to see them navigate through a world of martial arts, revenge, and sworn oaths.
It's definitely better to have read the prior books first, though we do get a "previously on..." introduction before diving into this particular story. Li Ming and Shazha Kui are set to duel in six months, and Shu Yan formally accepted training in the Blue Mountain style. That doesn't stop the Black Tigers from doing their thing, or other gangs from warring over territory and supremacy. Six months is a long time, after all, so we have adventures along the way. We see the Black Tigers at work, Shu Yan and Li Meng trying to get rid of the bounty on her head, and then other bitter rivalries that they're caught up in. Li Meng is a known swordfighter and mercenary, but even he has his limits.
As our heroes move through the kingdom, there is talk of bandits, bounties, and sworn brotherhood. Fans of wuxia are very familiar with these terms and the kind of fights involving weapons and qi. There are plenty of battles, further history for all of our characters if you read earlier books and are curious, as well as a ticking clock to the final battle. The fights are also tempered with humor, from Shu Yan constantly saying that Li Meng is a terrible teacher to a cabbage seller crying out that they're ruined. (Fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender will adore that running gag.) Each part of the novel feels like a wuxia TV episode, which is lots of fun to read.
This novel didn't end the way I thought it would. At first, I was disappointed, because I thought that was the end of everything and it would have been disappointing. But no, other characters back up the Blue Mountain fighters. The final battle is a complete melee, and it soon becomes obvious that more volumes in the swordsman's story will be coming. I'm glad about that because it means more episodes to read about.
Read
August 14, 2022“Fall of the King Saber” is the third instalment into the “Tales of the Swordman” series by JF Lee, who masterfully mixes traditional wuxia elements with a western writing style that offers the reader the best of both worlds. A real treat for any already fan of these martial arts/fantasy adventures and a wonderful lecture for those still not acquainted to the genre, who are looking to expand their lecture horizon. Every instalment offers a series of tales (of the Swordman, of course 😉), in this case nine of them which while building on the previous one, can also been read separately (you will want to pick them all anyway 😊). This is wuxia storytelling at its best: larger than life heroes, non-stop martial arts action, sprinkles of Korean/Chinese drama and anime storytelling, with a generous serving of great humor that guarantee healthy laughs every other step of the way, because action heroes cannot survive on brooding their path along, at least good wuxia heroes don’t. JF Lee knows his sources by heart and possess the uncanny geniality to mold the stories to his own (and much to our!) liking. A clear recommendation to anyone looking for good-written adventure fantasy with interesting plots, witty characters, and intelligent twists.
This new instalment offers nine brand-new tales to enjoy as Shu Yan and Li Min follow their journey to fulfil their own destiny, racing against time to defeat Shazha Kui, before the whole kingdom succumbs to his power. Shu Yan, while a worthy apprentice, is also a distraction Li Min cannot hardly afford, but he has given his word to train her, and he wouldn’t betray his word at any cost, even if the costs might be more than he could afford. Shu Yan might be a liability, and will be forced to face her own past before becoming the pivotal force to defeat Shazha Kui. This relationship between master and sidekick, central element in any wuxia tale, is one of the most enjoyable elements of an already outstanding series.
This new instalment offers nine brand-new tales to enjoy as Shu Yan and Li Min follow their journey to fulfil their own destiny, racing against time to defeat Shazha Kui, before the whole kingdom succumbs to his power. Shu Yan, while a worthy apprentice, is also a distraction Li Min cannot hardly afford, but he has given his word to train her, and he wouldn’t betray his word at any cost, even if the costs might be more than he could afford. Shu Yan might be a liability, and will be forced to face her own past before becoming the pivotal force to defeat Shazha Kui. This relationship between master and sidekick, central element in any wuxia tale, is one of the most enjoyable elements of an already outstanding series.
January 19, 2023
Book three in the Tales of the Swordsman series, and we pick up right where we left off. Book three is a little different from the first two, although perhaps with a bit of a "how we got here" backstory that was hinted at and alluded to in the previous entries, but here we find out about the how and why of Shu Yan fleeing to run into the swordsman, and a bit of Li Ming's return to Blue Mountain and taking on Shu Yan as his student. Ultimately, though of course, we are at a critical juncture: Shu Yan is being trained in a race against time before Shazha Kui threatens to take over the whole kingdom.
Overall, I thought the series had started off really well in book one but I was disappointed to find that this is not a trilogy (Amazon told me this was book 3 of 3) and that the story was not complete. In itself it's fine that this is an ongoing series, but I do feel a bit misled with the expectation that it would end here plus that this is probably where I'll put it down (I would love to read more wuxia, though!).
It felt like that this might make for a really good adaptation for a streaming service, but as a work of literature it became increasingly dull. With the first book I was thoroughly confused by the episodic nature of the book and then that did not improve once we moved the focus pretty much to our two main protagonists. It just did not work for me.
I'm sure there are people who would genuinely love this and I would recommend it if you're looking for something different and have a Kindle Unlimited subscription or it's at your local library. Worth a purchase? Maybe if you're a fan of the genre or really want to read it. Admittedly this is probably my first introduction to wuxia in book form (I've seen a few movies here and there), so that may be part of my bias at work.
Overall, I thought the series had started off really well in book one but I was disappointed to find that this is not a trilogy (Amazon told me this was book 3 of 3) and that the story was not complete. In itself it's fine that this is an ongoing series, but I do feel a bit misled with the expectation that it would end here plus that this is probably where I'll put it down (I would love to read more wuxia, though!).
It felt like that this might make for a really good adaptation for a streaming service, but as a work of literature it became increasingly dull. With the first book I was thoroughly confused by the episodic nature of the book and then that did not improve once we moved the focus pretty much to our two main protagonists. It just did not work for me.
I'm sure there are people who would genuinely love this and I would recommend it if you're looking for something different and have a Kindle Unlimited subscription or it's at your local library. Worth a purchase? Maybe if you're a fan of the genre or really want to read it. Admittedly this is probably my first introduction to wuxia in book form (I've seen a few movies here and there), so that may be part of my bias at work.
August 21, 2022
I've been speed-reading this series for the past week. They are GREAT. The first book was a wonder and really inspired me to read all of JF Lee's books. Fall of the King Saber, the third in the series, improves on the earlier books due to the deeper characterization of the characters as well as a more thoroughly realized humor in the relevant scenes. Lee's ability to humanize his characters is impressive and improving with every novel he writes. As you'd expect, there's plenty of swordfights, noble acts of revenge to right egregious wrongs (usually well compensated to keep Shu Yan happy), and plenty of descriptions of food herein. I can't wait for his next book!
September 26, 2022
This series gets stronger as it goes on, the characters more real and situations more exciting. It feels like the author knew when he started with the first book where he was going to go in this one, so everything flows beautifully—the pacing is excellent. If I had a complaint, there is a bit of repetitive language that is distracting, and I missed some of the light-heartedness from earlier books. It felt like it didn’t have as much levity to lighten it. But those are personal preferences and it is still a superb book.
August 18, 2022
This book was a amazing read. The story pulled me in from the first book and I couldn’t put each book down and was so engulfed in the story by time I finished this 3rd book. I loved the story line and the characters and how they developed through out the story and all the action and adventures. This series is a must read!!!!!
January 15, 2023
Entertaining & Intriguing!!!
Volume 3 of the Tales of the Swordsman saga, “Fall of the King Saber”, was a book I have been highly anticipating. And it did not disappoint.
This third installment takes off almost directly from the conclusion of the second. The backbone of the story here is the relationship between the swordsman Li Ming and the girl Shu Yan, who has now officially become his protegé. The story arcs delve into the pasts of these characters, and I love me some good backstory.
The first half deals with former life of Shu Yan, which she was fleeing from when she met the swordsman in the first book of the series. Her troubles have been alluded to in the previous two books, but are now fully revealed, and I was completely immersed. The second half finds Li Ming finally returning to Blue Mountain, the geographic site of his martial training. It is there that he really begins Shu Yan’s instruction while also throwing himself into his own training in preparation to face Shazha Kui and his King Saber in a duel of honor. However, wrestling with the ghosts of his past prove to be a constant source of doubt. Is Li Ming right to take on Shu Yan as his student? Doing so innately involves continuing the lineage of the Blue Mountain, which he is reluctant to do. Will he be ready to face the general of the rebellious Black Tiger faction? He lacks the necessary confidence, and the time is quickly drawing near.
This book is larger than its predecessors, and rightly so because of the ground (or rather, background) that Lee traverses. There are things that need to be addressed and resolved before our hero and heroine can move forward, especially Shu Yan. Li Ming’s past is too interwoven with his present predicament, and any resolution is far messier to untangle. But a supporting cast of characters can help greatly with that, at least to some extent.
Threads of romance, very subtle undertones, permeate the story, and I see the stage being set for a love story that will probably be both endearing and tragic. (Hopefully more of the former and less of the latter, but it is a wuxia story after all.) There’s lots of action, and as always I’d prefer a little more detail to it, but it’s exciting in its own right. The finale will give many fans of wuxia films a thrill as the combatants take to the rooftops or assault one another in midair with awesome expressions and attacks of qi. And I thoroughly enjoyed the flow of the writing here, as I did with Lee’s previous books. But gone are the sentence fragments, and I could tell the difference.
So, things continue to ramp up in the Tales of the Swordsman saga, and I am eager to learn what destinies await this forlorn hero and his feisty apprentice. Bring on the fourth installment “Sword of the Nine Dragons” already!
Volume 3 of the Tales of the Swordsman saga, “Fall of the King Saber”, was a book I have been highly anticipating. And it did not disappoint.
This third installment takes off almost directly from the conclusion of the second. The backbone of the story here is the relationship between the swordsman Li Ming and the girl Shu Yan, who has now officially become his protegé. The story arcs delve into the pasts of these characters, and I love me some good backstory.
The first half deals with former life of Shu Yan, which she was fleeing from when she met the swordsman in the first book of the series. Her troubles have been alluded to in the previous two books, but are now fully revealed, and I was completely immersed. The second half finds Li Ming finally returning to Blue Mountain, the geographic site of his martial training. It is there that he really begins Shu Yan’s instruction while also throwing himself into his own training in preparation to face Shazha Kui and his King Saber in a duel of honor. However, wrestling with the ghosts of his past prove to be a constant source of doubt. Is Li Ming right to take on Shu Yan as his student? Doing so innately involves continuing the lineage of the Blue Mountain, which he is reluctant to do. Will he be ready to face the general of the rebellious Black Tiger faction? He lacks the necessary confidence, and the time is quickly drawing near.
This book is larger than its predecessors, and rightly so because of the ground (or rather, background) that Lee traverses. There are things that need to be addressed and resolved before our hero and heroine can move forward, especially Shu Yan. Li Ming’s past is too interwoven with his present predicament, and any resolution is far messier to untangle. But a supporting cast of characters can help greatly with that, at least to some extent.
Threads of romance, very subtle undertones, permeate the story, and I see the stage being set for a love story that will probably be both endearing and tragic. (Hopefully more of the former and less of the latter, but it is a wuxia story after all.) There’s lots of action, and as always I’d prefer a little more detail to it, but it’s exciting in its own right. The finale will give many fans of wuxia films a thrill as the combatants take to the rooftops or assault one another in midair with awesome expressions and attacks of qi. And I thoroughly enjoyed the flow of the writing here, as I did with Lee’s previous books. But gone are the sentence fragments, and I could tell the difference.
So, things continue to ramp up in the Tales of the Swordsman saga, and I am eager to learn what destinies await this forlorn hero and his feisty apprentice. Bring on the fourth installment “Sword of the Nine Dragons” already!
July 24, 2025
Book 3 of The Tales of the Swordsman series definitely has that building to something bigger sense to it. This was more similar to the first book for the first half or so, with Li Ming and Shu Yan encountering helpful people and putting pieces together. I'll admit, after the fast pace of book 2 and where it ended, I had a hard time getting into this one at first. By the time we reach Blue Mountain I feel like it was back in line with the main story. And while I was personally sad not to have a much Tao Jung in this story, I found Jin Lang an excellent substitute. I really hope to get his full backstory before this is over. I love an enigmatic morally gray character. One of my favorite moments (no spoilers) was when Li Ming asked Jin Lang for help; it felt like the first time Li Ming was taking things seriously.
Speaking of which...I guess I'm having a hard time with Li Mings attitude in this book. We've been filled in what exactly went down between him and Shazha Kui and I understand why Li Ming made the bet he did at the end of book 2, but this whole book he seemed... distant from it? Or maybe just not taking it seriously. We get to see Shu Yans attitude changing through her training, but for all the training Li Ming has mostly off page he just seems..indifferent.
Who is most definitely not indifferent is Shu Yan. I've really enjoyed seeing her growth and maturing through this book. Without losing her stubborn teasing way with the swordsman, she begins to understand some things deeper and to see the bigger picture. I worry for her with the rock and hard place decision I'm sure she's going to be forced into. (Ah Zemin)
The footnotes continue to be hilarious and a great addition to the reading experience. I found myself snorting several times to the funny ones, and making notes on Google to look up more info on the food and history related notes. Personally finding a place near me where i can try Youtiao (Chinese donut) is on the top of my to do list. Which brings up another little side note. The descriptions of food in this series are becoming increasingly tempting. Li Mings dumpling obsession(who can blame him) was clear from the beginning. But as it goes on, the descriptions of food I've mostly never of heard of have me making wish lists and searching for authentic Chinese restaurants. (Fat chance in the midwest lol)
Overall while this book felt a little uneven to me in pacing it definitely gave some much waited backstory. (Blue Mountain related especially) And it continues to surprise me with its humor. The running cabbage joke in the midst of life of death situations is fantastic.
Speaking of which...I guess I'm having a hard time with Li Mings attitude in this book. We've been filled in what exactly went down between him and Shazha Kui and I understand why Li Ming made the bet he did at the end of book 2, but this whole book he seemed... distant from it? Or maybe just not taking it seriously. We get to see Shu Yans attitude changing through her training, but for all the training Li Ming has mostly off page he just seems..indifferent.
Who is most definitely not indifferent is Shu Yan. I've really enjoyed seeing her growth and maturing through this book. Without losing her stubborn teasing way with the swordsman, she begins to understand some things deeper and to see the bigger picture. I worry for her with the rock and hard place decision I'm sure she's going to be forced into. (Ah Zemin)
The footnotes continue to be hilarious and a great addition to the reading experience. I found myself snorting several times to the funny ones, and making notes on Google to look up more info on the food and history related notes. Personally finding a place near me where i can try Youtiao (Chinese donut) is on the top of my to do list. Which brings up another little side note. The descriptions of food in this series are becoming increasingly tempting. Li Mings dumpling obsession(who can blame him) was clear from the beginning. But as it goes on, the descriptions of food I've mostly never of heard of have me making wish lists and searching for authentic Chinese restaurants. (Fat chance in the midwest lol)
Overall while this book felt a little uneven to me in pacing it definitely gave some much waited backstory. (Blue Mountain related especially) And it continues to surprise me with its humor. The running cabbage joke in the midst of life of death situations is fantastic.
August 22, 2025
J.F. Lee’s Fall of the King Saber of Joy raises the tension of the saga to its breaking point, delivering a tale of vengeance, mentorship, and rebellion that cuts as deep emotionally as it does with the sword. Following the fallout of Fangs of the Black Tiger, Li Ming and Shu Yan must face not only the growing might of Shazha Kui’s rebellion but also the struggles within themselves that threaten to fracture their bond.
The novel is at its strongest in the relationship between master and apprentice. Li Ming’s sense of duty wars with his promise—he knows his focus must remain on avenging his family and defeating Shazha Kui, yet his vow to train Shu Yan forces him to confront what it means to guide someone who is as reckless as she is determined. Their dynamic is layered with friction, humor, and poignancy, making this the emotional core of the story.
Shu Yan’s arc is equally compelling. Forced to return to the home she once fled, she confronts her past with grit and vulnerability. Her resilience and sharp wit bring balance to the novel’s darker tones, and her growth as both a fighter and an individual makes her a standout.
The wider jianghu feels more dangerous than ever. Lee populates the martial world with treacherous nobles, ruthless bounty hunters, and shifting allegiances that make every encounter unpredictable. The Black Tiger Rebellion looms large, and its shadow stretches across every chapter, raising the stakes not just for Li Ming and Shu Yan but for the kingdom itself.
If the book falters, it is in the repetition of certain story beats—bounty hunters, betrayals, and skirmishes occasionally echo earlier conflicts rather than breaking wholly new ground. While these moments still carry tension and excitement, they risk softening the impact of the larger narrative arc. That said, the novel still delivers on the promise of high drama, thrilling swordplay, and emotional resonance.
The novel is at its strongest in the relationship between master and apprentice. Li Ming’s sense of duty wars with his promise—he knows his focus must remain on avenging his family and defeating Shazha Kui, yet his vow to train Shu Yan forces him to confront what it means to guide someone who is as reckless as she is determined. Their dynamic is layered with friction, humor, and poignancy, making this the emotional core of the story.
Shu Yan’s arc is equally compelling. Forced to return to the home she once fled, she confronts her past with grit and vulnerability. Her resilience and sharp wit bring balance to the novel’s darker tones, and her growth as both a fighter and an individual makes her a standout.
The wider jianghu feels more dangerous than ever. Lee populates the martial world with treacherous nobles, ruthless bounty hunters, and shifting allegiances that make every encounter unpredictable. The Black Tiger Rebellion looms large, and its shadow stretches across every chapter, raising the stakes not just for Li Ming and Shu Yan but for the kingdom itself.
If the book falters, it is in the repetition of certain story beats—bounty hunters, betrayals, and skirmishes occasionally echo earlier conflicts rather than breaking wholly new ground. While these moments still carry tension and excitement, they risk softening the impact of the larger narrative arc. That said, the novel still delivers on the promise of high drama, thrilling swordplay, and emotional resonance.
January 13, 2024
I was entertained. Completely. I thought it would take much longer to get through this hefty book (646 pages), but it held me, turning pages until the wee hours of the deep night shucked their cloak of darkness.
I can’t say enough good things about this story. It does all the things a good book is supposed to do; it spins a yarn, introduces you to characters you can love and hate; who go through trials and conflict. It takes you to a world so well drawn out, you can feel the pervasive dampness.
Shu Yan has faced her biggest fears and walked away with a deeper understanding of life. Tao Jun, always the trickster, has found himself well and truly played. Li Ming has met his adversary, but the story is far from over.
If you enjoy tales of itinerant swordsmen who follow a code, if you’re a lover of Asian fantasy, these books are for you.
As always, there is So. Much. Fun. in the footnotes. Don’t miss them.
I can’t say enough good things about this story. It does all the things a good book is supposed to do; it spins a yarn, introduces you to characters you can love and hate; who go through trials and conflict. It takes you to a world so well drawn out, you can feel the pervasive dampness.
Shu Yan has faced her biggest fears and walked away with a deeper understanding of life. Tao Jun, always the trickster, has found himself well and truly played. Li Ming has met his adversary, but the story is far from over.
If you enjoy tales of itinerant swordsmen who follow a code, if you’re a lover of Asian fantasy, these books are for you.
As always, there is So. Much. Fun. in the footnotes. Don’t miss them.
September 20, 2025
This is a review of the third book in the tales of the swordsman series.
Again it is outstanding! We finally get to the conflict that we have been waiting for. This is the Dual between Li Ming the Swordsman of the Blue Mountain sect and the Black Tiger General.
It is the test of the two men these great martial artists and soldiers and the sword sorrow and the black tiger saber.
From the title of the book you may think you know the answer but it is more complicated than that.
This is an incredible novel and continues the story for the next book. Like all in the series it is an incredible work with action character development and Incredible World building. It is a real treat for all audiences but Kung Fu film enthusiasts and martial artists will love this even more. As a kung fu film fan and a Chinese martial arts practitioner for 33 years it has my highest recommendation.
Again it is outstanding! We finally get to the conflict that we have been waiting for. This is the Dual between Li Ming the Swordsman of the Blue Mountain sect and the Black Tiger General.
It is the test of the two men these great martial artists and soldiers and the sword sorrow and the black tiger saber.
From the title of the book you may think you know the answer but it is more complicated than that.
This is an incredible novel and continues the story for the next book. Like all in the series it is an incredible work with action character development and Incredible World building. It is a real treat for all audiences but Kung Fu film enthusiasts and martial artists will love this even more. As a kung fu film fan and a Chinese martial arts practitioner for 33 years it has my highest recommendation.
September 25, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
Thanks to the author for the ARC copy of this book!
Fall of the King Saber is yet another fantastic entry to an amazing series. A strong third book that is as captivating, entertaining and engaging as the previous two.
In this book we get to see a crucial point in the character development of our beloved main characters, Li Ming and Shu Yan. For better or worse they’ll have to confront the ghosts of their pasts if they want to keep going. All of this happens while we also get an interesting plot, a cast of secondary characters that enrich the reading experience, fast paced and intense sequence actions, banter that makes us smile, and plot twists that will have us at the edge of our seats.
JF Lee provides us yet another awesome book that is worthy of our time and dedication. 100% recommended.
Thanks to the author for the ARC copy of this book!
Fall of the King Saber is yet another fantastic entry to an amazing series. A strong third book that is as captivating, entertaining and engaging as the previous two.
In this book we get to see a crucial point in the character development of our beloved main characters, Li Ming and Shu Yan. For better or worse they’ll have to confront the ghosts of their pasts if they want to keep going. All of this happens while we also get an interesting plot, a cast of secondary characters that enrich the reading experience, fast paced and intense sequence actions, banter that makes us smile, and plot twists that will have us at the edge of our seats.
JF Lee provides us yet another awesome book that is worthy of our time and dedication. 100% recommended.
January 27, 2024
This is book three in the Wuxia Fantasy by J.F. Lee. Never-ending action as in the previous two.
⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️ spoilers⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️
I was happy to have Shu Yan and Li Ming reunited. Their constant banter is so fun to read. There are a lot more parts that reminisce scenes from the previous two books so the reader doesn't have to flip back to remember what happened.
I really enjoyed this book as well but I did find myself skipping (I know that's bad) through some of the fight scenes to get back on track with the story.
⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️ spoilers⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️
I was happy to have Shu Yan and Li Ming reunited. Their constant banter is so fun to read. There are a lot more parts that reminisce scenes from the previous two books so the reader doesn't have to flip back to remember what happened.
I really enjoyed this book as well but I did find myself skipping (I know that's bad) through some of the fight scenes to get back on track with the story.
May 21, 2024
In Fall of the King Saber, the swordsman must prepare to fight his nemesis, and becomes a mentor to the girl, who is seeking to remove a bounty from her head. This installment is back into constant action. Plot points are cleverly managed, and the reader gains greater insight into beloved characters. This includes learning more about the gruff swordsman, who must face his past demons before engaging in the story's ultimate battle. The fight scenes are tense with great fantasy imagery.
August 21, 2025
this definitely builds on the last two books, so be sure to read those before you dive into this!!
if you're looking for something with never-ending action, pick this!
thank you to J.F. Lee, for this free copy. my thoughts are my own.
if you're looking for something with never-ending action, pick this!
thank you to J.F. Lee, for this free copy. my thoughts are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2025
worth the read! I enjoyed it.
October 22, 2025
this a good series i enjoyed the characters and story, this book seem a slower pace to me but still enjoyed it might be a set up for next book.
September 14, 2025
worth all 5 of the stars ✨️
this book was fantastic, can't wait to see what happens in the next one.
this book was fantastic, can't wait to see what happens in the next one.
November 6, 2025
"You can't be afraid to learn something unorthodox. "
I thought book 2 was good, but my goodness book 3 knocked it out of the part! I absolutely adore Shu Yan. I love her sassy character growth! She keeps Li Ming in check so many times, and I find their dynamic adorable and funny.
This book had so many more action-packed scenes that show the true strength of Li Ming and even Shu Yan. Everything about the book was perfect! The storyline and the plot! It was perfect. I'm so happy that I kept on reading.
The only thing that made me want to scream is that cliffhanger. All I have to say is WHY?!?! But also so excited for more of this series!
I thought book 2 was good, but my goodness book 3 knocked it out of the part! I absolutely adore Shu Yan. I love her sassy character growth! She keeps Li Ming in check so many times, and I find their dynamic adorable and funny.
This book had so many more action-packed scenes that show the true strength of Li Ming and even Shu Yan. Everything about the book was perfect! The storyline and the plot! It was perfect. I'm so happy that I kept on reading.
The only thing that made me want to scream is that cliffhanger. All I have to say is WHY?!?! But also so excited for more of this series!
December 30, 2023
The third book of tales of the swordsman. Building on before.
The bounty hunters after Shu Yan need to be dealt with, and in that process, much of her past -- and the present of the city where she lived -- is relevant.
There is also the threatened duel, and the matter of the Blue Mountain itself.
The bounty hunters after Shu Yan need to be dealt with, and in that process, much of her past -- and the present of the city where she lived -- is relevant.
There is also the threatened duel, and the matter of the Blue Mountain itself.
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