Pa Ying

Writer ∙ she/her ∙ co-host of No Longer Subtext

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Book Review: Legend of Exorcism Vol. 3

Volume Three of Legend of Exorcism by Fei Tian Ye Xiang is an emotional installment that deepens the narrative and its characters. The story's complexity grows as the author uncovers the mystery of Hongjun and Lu Xu’s origins. Woven through themes of nature versus nurture and personal growth, this volume becomes a meditation on finding one’s path in life.

[book spoilers ahead]

As anticipated, the revelation surrounding Hongjun’s biological father drives much of the narrative. His past actions directly shape Hongjun’s present circumstances, and the consequences of these choices will define Hongjun’s development. Over a short period, Hongjun has evolved from a naive teenager into someone more aware of his emotions. Despite his growth, he remains heavily affected by the looming, predatory presence of Li Jinglong.

The intensity of Li Jinglong’s behavior escalates noticeably in this volume. As Hongjun continues to grow into himself, Li Jinglong perceives this growth as a threat to the dynamic they once shared, which he had become comfortable with and now clings to desperately. He repeatedly crosses boundaries with Hongjun, even after Hongjun draws hard lines with him. His interactions with his teammates would violate numerous HR codes, and his persistent complaints about leadership responsibilities remain an unresolved flaw in his character.

Fei Tian Ye Xiang deliberately contrasts Hongjun and Li Jinglong’s dynamic with the healthier relationship of Mergen and Lu Xu. Mergen’s pursuit of Lu Xu is awkward yet sincere; he is gentle, respectful of boundaries, and accepting of Lu Xu as he evolves and grows.

This volume also sheds light on the mystery of the white deer. After his soul is repaired, Lu Xu obtains true sentience and becomes more comfortable expressing his thoughts. He unconsciously assumes the role of Hongjun’s emotional anchor and emerges as the most rational character of the story. His observations of those around him subtly foreshadow narratives yet to unfold, adding depth and anticipation to the story’s future.

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Book Review: Peerless Vol. 2

Following the first volume, Peerless by Meng Xi Shi seemed to be a fun, playful story about politics, but it takes a turn in this second installment. Interwoven with the playful banter of our leads is a story deeply rooted in capturing the ways politics, religion, and patriarchy shape the lives of women and, more broadly, the marginalized. Through Feng Xiao’s gender-fluid presentation and the experiences of the supporting characters, the novel places gender politics firmly at its center. Side quests—ranging from navigating alliances through the Khatun to uncovering a disturbing plot about a city-running organization built on the trafficking of women—underscore how women often endure the fallout of men’s decisions, negligence, or ambition.

[book spoilers ahead]

Meng Xi Shi excels at constructing plotlines in which victories are achieved, only to veer unexpectedly into new and more complex conflicts. Just as we settle into the satisfaction of a hard-won victory, another challenge rises to meet our leads. This pattern of almost-triumph followed by setback resonates with real-world cycles of resistance and the exhausting, ongoing fight for justice and progress.

This volume opens with Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu going undercover as a married couple, a narrative setup that once again exposes the contrasts between their personalities. These differences reveal the depth of their unspoken reliance on one another. Their bond, delicate but unmistakably strong, surpasses any trust they have built with others throughout their lives, as we see them shift and intuitively plot schemes without ever conversing beforehand. They bicker, flirt, and provoke one another with a mutual understanding that each is fully capable of meeting the other blow for blow.

Through Cui Buqu’s more traditionally masculine presentation and strategic mindset, we witness the intricate nature of the societal problems they face. He recognizes that an immediate or superficial solution cannot uproot systemic issues; quick fixes often give rise to new complications. His sharp intuition and ability to “scheme” his way through tangled political and social landscapes become essential tools not only for survival but also for enacting change within a corrupt world.

Meng Xi Shi’s characters fall broadly under the queer umbrella—from the main leads to the most minor, fleeting side characters. Each is written with such intentional clarity and respect that we never need to strain for subtext; the queerness of the world is embedded and artfully integrated. This seamlessness is a rare accomplishment and a testament to Meng Xi Shi’s mastery of character, world-building, and emotional nuance.

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Book Review: Peerless Vol. 1

The world of Thousand Autumns by Meng Xi Shi continues in Peerless as we follow Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu as they navigate a politically charged murder mystery. Compared to its “parent story,” Peerless is more approachable, yet it preserves the magnetic push-and-pull dynamic of its leads—embodying a dragon-and-phoenix balance that is sharp, witty, and emotionally charged.

[book spoilers ahead]

Feng Xiao is introduced as beautiful, skilled, and startlingly intelligent; aware of all three and unbearably arrogant because of it. He is decisive to a fault, cutting through politics with clean, ruthless efficiency. His impulsiveness entangles him with Cui Buqu, a sickly Daoist priest whose frailty conceals razor-sharp insight and an unapologetic shamelessness. Their first meeting sparks immediate tension: neither is what the other expects, and both refuse to yield.

Their relationship thrives on verbal sparring and strategic one-upmanship. They insult, provoke, undermine, and challenge one another—and they enjoy every second of it. Their exchanges are so sharp that even onlookers start questioning the choices that led them to be caught in the crossfire. The humor here shines: their disciples are earnest, confused, and easily flustered in contrast to the leads’ gleefully chaotic energy.

The attraction between Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu is ever-present, but it enhances rather than overshadows the story. Their connection is not framed as “pure vs. impure,” but as something organic and undeniable. They scheme together, against each other, and for each other, forming a partnership built on matching wit and mirroring ambition.

Where Thousand Autumns is complex and introspective, Peerless allows itself to be more playful—without losing narrative depth or emotional texture. Everyone, including the leads, is comfortable in their desires and motivations, and the story treats that comfort as simply part of who they are.

Hilarious, sharp-edged, and unexpectedly tender, Peerless offers a character-driven mystery that is as entertaining as it is intelligent.

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Book Review: Thousand Autumns Vol. 5

The final volume of Meng Xi Shi’s Thousand Autumns expertly concluded the journey of Shen Qiao and Yan Wushi. We get a conclusive enemies-to-lovers story that demonstrates how two opposites can genuinely love one another without sacrificing their principles. Neither Shen Qiao nor Yan Wushi abandons their morals for the sake of romance. Instead, their individual growth makes way for their relationship to bloom amidst their independence and distinct cultivation paths. 

[book spoilers ahead]

We discover how deeply intertwined Yan Wushi has been in Shen Qiao’s story from the beginning. As a young teen, he fought Sect Leader Qi Fengge shortly after his discovery of Shen Qiao. After losing the battle, he promised to help Sect Leader Qi one time, which shapes the course of his and Shen Qiao’s bond. What once seemed like a chance discovery was actually a promise fulfilled, and that fulfillment is the catalyst for Yan Wushi’s own transformation— something that could only be achieved through his interactions with Shen Qiao.

The two leads complement each other remarkably well. While they never compromise their core beliefs, they give and take on an equal level, meeting each other on equal footing. Thus stimulating each other intellectually and emotionally. Their relationship is the epitome of maturity: each respects the other’s independence and neither stifles the other’s growth. They bicker, flirt, and tease within healthy boundaries—playful, never destructive. (Though yes, Yan Wushi’s betrayal will always sting.)

The ending is not our classic “happily ever after” fairytale. Instead, Meng Xi Shi shows us the lives Shen Qiao and Yan Wushi continue to lead for many years beyond the climax of the main story. Their influence on the jianghu is undeniable, yet they remain true to themselves as cultivators and sect leaders. Major and minor characters alike are given endings that feel earned—shaped not by blind fate, but by the choices they made in response to it. 

The romance is sincere. Acts of devotion speak louder than words, and the depth of Shen Qiao and Yan Wushi’s love resonates far more than any direct confession ever could.

This has been a phenomenal story; poignant, layered, and unforgettable. For me, it will remain my Roman Empire.

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Book Review: Thousand Autumns Vol. 4

The fourth volume of Thousand Autumns by Meng Xi Shi is a gentler continuation of the journey of Shen Qiao and Yan Wushi’s story. While the earlier installments built a world of political upheaval and charted significant growth for both characters, this volume shifts gears, delivering a more subtle narrative where romance takes center stage.

[book spoilers ahead]

Shen Qiao and Yan Wushi are reunited after a short separation, and the political scheming takes a back seat as the romance takes the driver's seat. Yan Wushi, ever relentless, intensifies his pursuit of Shen Qiao, revealing that he has been a constant hidden presence throughout Shen Qiao’s trials since their time apart. Always watching, he intervenes only when danger grows too great—never letting Shen Qiao stray too far from his orbit.

We get domestic Yan Wushi and Shen Qiao as they are reunited with their adoptive children and spend time cultivating and healing their qi. Yan Wushi refuses to let these peaceful days pass without seizing every chance to shamelessly flirt. His boldness, though often attracting unwanted public attention for Shen Qiao, underscores his newfound determination—time is precious, and he will not waste another moment holding back.

In a heartfelt moment, Yan Wushi finally confesses his feelings. It is undeniably romantic, though shadowed by the betrayal that still lingers between them—a wound that cannot be easily healed. Shen Qiao, still wary from the heartbreak, struggles to reconcile Yan Wushi’s sincerity with his history, choosing to refrain from overt reciprocation.

Even so, Yan Wushi continues his relentless teasing, as stubborn and incorrigible as ever, hoping Shen Qiao will eventually lower his guard and initiate the first step. The tension between them is equal parts exasperating and endearing, keeping their relationship balanced between playful banter and deeper emotional reckoning. 

As this quieter volume draws to a close, the stage is set for the return of political intrigue. The shifting power struggles in the background promise challenges yet unresolved, and I am looking forward to seeing how Shen Qiao and Yan Wushi navigate them together. With both love and politics hanging in the balance, the next volume promises to bring long-awaited answers.

[nolongersubtext]

This month we read Legend of Exorcism Vol. 2.

Read Pa Ying's book review >>

In this month's newsletter, we announced that the next book we will be reading is Thousand Autumns Vol. 4. It feels like it's been a long time since we last read about Shen Qiao and Yan Wushi, so we included links to the content we made around our last discussion about them. You can sign up for our newsletter and read past updates here!

Thanks for listening! - @wrtnbypaying & @artbyarlo

[yutaan]

Ghost lotuses.

[yutaan]

It's a print now! \o/

[wrtnbypaying]

Book Review: Legend of Exorcism Vol. 2

The second volume of Legend of Exorcism by Fei Tian Ye Xiang is a smooth and immersive read. Once again, Fei Tian Ye Xiang excels at crafting vivid scenes that transport the reader effortlessly into the world of the story. The writing style is lush without being burdensome, allowing the reader to stay grounded in both the plot and the characters.

[book spoilers ahead]

Volume two opens with Li Jinglong taking the Exorcist team to a brothel to celebrate a successful mission. In this scene, we witness the growing intimacy between Hongjun and Li Jinglong, which also introduces a troubling dynamic. Hongjun shows no reservations with his commander, while Li Jinglong exerts his authority as both an elder and a superior to maintain control over their interactions. He goes so far as to manipulate Hongjun with food to encourage certain behaviors, diverting his attention away from the women and festivities happening around them.

Hongjun’s narrative echoes that of his biological father—a divine being who falls in love with a mortal, leading to the loss of both spiritual power and immortality. When Hongjun begins to follow this same path, his adoptive father, Chong Ming, recognizes the parallel and, in a moment of cold logic and disappointment, abandons him. Chong Ming’s abandonment stems from Hongjun’s hesitation to leave Li Jinglong—not for any reason of principle, but simply because he doesn’t want Li Jinglong to be lonely. That moment underscores the emotional entanglement Hongjun is trapped in, and how little protection he’s received from the adults around him.

What originally drew me (and @artbyarlo) to this story was the story of the celestial deer and the gentle wolf—Lu Xi and Mergen. We’ve eagerly waited to read about them, and this volume finally delivers. While their appearances are brief, given that they aren’t the main protagonists, their presence is powerful and memorable.

As with many relationships in the series, Mergen and Lu Xu’s dynamic mirrors that of Li Jinglong and Hongjun—but in a much healthier, more mature, and emotionally balanced way. Mergen embodies the traits Li Jinglong lacks: gentle masculinity, emotional security, and, most importantly, a respect for boundaries. He is the kind of love interest that feels truly earned—supportive, self-assured, and free of manipulation.

Lu Xu and Hongjun are both empathetic and morally grounded characters. Despite his tragic past, Lu Xu is not reduced to a passive victim. He and Mergen support each other as equals, and their relationship feels deeply deserved and mutually affirming. I’m genuinely excited to see where their story leads.

As for Li Jinglong and Hongjun… it’s difficult to watch their relationship unfold without concern. Every adult in Hongjun’s life, despite many showing discomfort with this relationship, have done nothing substantial to intervene. Li Jinglong presents himself as a well-meaning leader, yet he repeatedly uses Hongjun’s loyalty and innocence to advance his own aims. It’s very unsettling, and it becomes even more apparent when contrasted with Mergen’s unwavering integrity.

Legend of Exorcism Vol. 2 deepens the emotional and thematic layers of the story while continuing to develop its characters in compelling ways. Despite the discomforting elements of certain relationships, the book invites important discussions around power dynamics, emotional maturity, and the complexity of love. A beautifully written and thought-provoking continuation of the series.

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Book Review: Legend of Exorcism Vol. 1

Legend of Exorcism by Fei Tian Ye Xiang is one of my most anticipated Danmei reads. Having been introduced to the world through its donghua adaptation, there were certain expectations for where the story would lead, and the novel did not disappoint. Unlike many adaptations that heavily alter the source material to suit visual storytelling, the donghua of Legend of Exorcism remains impressively faithful to the original. Fei Tian Ye Xiang’s richly imaginative worldbuilding and distinct visual narrative style laid a clear blueprint for the animation. Rather than the donghua shaping the story, the story shaped the donghua—a rare and satisfying reversal.

[book spoilers ahead]

Hongjun, our protagonist, is a typical teen who’s had to raise himself among the wild nature of his adoptive father’s mountain-top kingdom. He’s naive, free-spirited, well-meaning, and devoid of understanding human social cues. Having had no interaction with the mortal realm, he is forced to journey down the mountain and complete missions that would not only solve his questions about who/what he is but also help eradicate the world of the ongoing Fish Yao (supernatural entities) problem. His compassion, innocence, and unwavering belief in others set the stage for his entanglement with Li Jinglong—a man both captivated by and confounded by Hongjun’s purity.

Li Jinglong is a complex character; orphaned and socially marginalized, he is burdened with an intense desire to prove his worth to a society that has long dismissed him. His marginalization isn’t helped by his stoicism, which he uses to mask his deep insecurity. His outward bravado, as well, is a performance of toxic masculinity. What makes his relationship with Hongjun so compelling—and unsettling—is the way Hongjun becomes the only person with whom Li Jinglong can let down his guard. Because Hongjun lacks the social knowledge to perceive manipulation or boundary-crossing behavior, Li Jinglong feels safe expressing vulnerability around him. 

There is a power dynamic at play in their relationship. There is a clear age gap and a troubling imbalance in emotional maturity and experience. Hongjun, in his innocence, cannot yet recognize the grooming behaviors that begin to surface. To some readers, Li Jinglong may not initially register as a predator, but his subtle emotional conditioning—masked as protection or care—raises red flags. 

That said, Legend of Exorcism is not merely a romance story. Its strength lies in its ensemble cast and richly layered plot. The Exorcist Department—made up of A-Tai, Qiu Yongsi, Mo Rigen (translated as Mergen in the novel), and Zhao Zilong—forms the heart of a broader narrative that blends myth, political intrigue, and supernatural horror. Each member brings their own backstory,

[nolongersubtext]

This month we finished our first book series with The Disabled Tyrant's Beloved Pet Fish Vol. 4.

Read Pa Ying's Book Review >>

This volume rounded out all of the plotlines we'd been following since the beginning pretty quickly and gave us so much domestic fluff. And (FINALLY) a pregnant man!

We got to see Prince Jing and Li Yu grow into themselves and bring their empire prosperity and progress.

Overall, this book was a great conclusion to this very fluffy series that we've loved reading.

In this month's newsletter, we included some observations about Li Yu's personality and priorities. We also announced the next book we will be reading. Be sure to sign up to get our next newsletter!

Thanks for listening! - @wrtnbypaying & @artbyarlo

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Book Review: The Disabled Tyrant's Beloved Pet Fish Vol. 4

The last installment of "The Disabled Tyrant and His Beloved Pet Fish" by Xue Shan Fei Hu felt like a speed run to the finish line. Compared to the earlier, slower-paced volumes, this final volume felt like a mad dash to the finish line. The side plots featured in the previous three books were resolved in the first third of this book. Still, even this speed run could not stop me from putting this series on my go-to reading list.

We have made it to the end with no third-act breakup. They stood tall against all odds, and our "Disabled Tyrant" was finally rewarded with the title of Crown Prince. These two have shown us that communication is key to any thriving relationship, and regardless of ability, if one truly cares enough, there will be a way to make one another understand each other; truly an example of "if he wanted to, he would."

[book spoilers ahead]

We get heat-like symptoms, moody pregnancy brain, and strong feminist movements from our beloved Li Yu. The best part of it all? We finally got our promised mpreg! Li Yu spends a significant portion of the book pregnant, and their pregnancy journey is well-detailed in this story. While heavily pregnant, we see Li Yu take on and succeed in his role as Consort. He helps resolve the mystery behind the previous Empress’s death, which, in turn, results in the healing of Prince Jing’s muteness. 

Even after having his voice returned to him, Prince Jing remains quiet and continues to converse with his body language, bold actions, and his interpreter Wang Gonggong. Prince Jing’s original character arc is redeemed through his involvement with Li Yu, who teaches everyone around him compassion and love. This growth makes him a worthy leader for his nation. With his new title and power, he helps Li Yu make waves in guiding the kingdom to give widows access to support and financial stability.

Our favorite couple shows us that they match each other’s freak when they get into their usual kinky merman/manmer dynamics and begin exploring new roleplay games. We love them and all their healthy obsession with each other. We end this journey with one fish pregnancy, one human pregnancy, and five babies. All of whom are adorable, well-respected, and loved by everyone. In the end, their brief but inspiring trip to the modern world, amongst their love, faith, and respect for each other, results in 800 years of peace. 

Long live Tyrant Emperor Jing and his Beloved Pet Fish Li Yu!

[nolongersubtext]

We are now just over halfway through reading Thousand Autumns. And while we haven’t gotten to any substantial physical intimacy between Yan Wushi and Shen Qiao just yet, we have thoughts on it. While Yan Wushi is canonically the top and Shen Qiao the bottom, everything we’ve seen so far really indicates that this arrangement isn’t the one we’d imagine. 

What is:

Shen Qiao has a commanding personality. 

Yan Wushi has a praise kink.

Yan Wushi has a preference to take pleasure in receiving affection from others and is not the giving kind.

What could have been: 

Shen Qiao is a service top.

Yan Wushi is a pillow princess.

[book spoilers ahead]

Shen Qiao is a Dom. He’s powerful, takes up space, and can command a room like no one else. While he is the physically smaller of the two men, he is by no means the image of a petite or small man. Beyond his stature, he’s aura exceeds his physical size. Not with how he is described as someone “Few people could resist this ‘be good’ from Shen Qiao.” (Vol. 3, page 112). If this depiction of him isn’t your typical top energy then what is? 

Within the third book, Yan Wushi’s softer side is revealed in a personality referred to as Xie Ling. This personality maintains the same core traits of Yan Wushi, being paranoid and unable to trust others. The only exception to this general mistrust in others is Shen Qiao. Xie Ling trusts Shen Qiao and shows great admiration for him. Trying to travel with Yan Wushi so injured, Shen Qiao devised a plan to disguise him that involved Yan Wushi having to present as a woman. When asking Yan Wushi to do so, he asked him politely. When Yan Wushi, currently Xie Ling, is hesitant to comply and asks Shen Qiao how he’d respond to him refusing to wear women’s clothes. When Shen Qiao explains that he doesn’t really have a choice and that he’d seal his acupoints, dress him, and transport him by carriage, Yan Wushi complies. “Yan Wushi lowered his lashes. ’Yes, I’ll wear it.’” To which Shen Qiao called Yan Wushi a “good boy” (Vol. 3, page 200) and Xie Ling folded immediately. He quickly submitted to Shen Qiao’s request to cross-dress even though “normal” Yan Wushi would’ve made a big deal about it. In this scene alone, Shen Qiao really gives off Daddy energy. Making someone as powerful as Yan Wushi cave to a small compliment is no small feat. And Xie Ling is very responsive to this kind of praise. 

Continued interactions between Shen Qiao and the alternate versions of Yan Wushi further support the idea that Shen Qiao is the dominant, commanding kind of partner and Yan Wushi is more submissive. The A-Yan personality longs for Shen Qiao to call him “A-Yan.” Initially, Shen Qiao refuses because it feels strange to do so. Given the context of their past interactions, including Yan Wushi’s betrayal, that makes sense. However, Yan Wushi’s request to be called “A-Yan” are persistent and Shen Qiao’s refusal to comply seems to become an intentional effort to be withholding. Shen Qiao knows exactly what he is doing to Yan Wushi by withholding this from him, and he utilizes it to direct him and maintain control in their interactions. 

While the personalities may be split, they are all still part of Yan Wushi. Therefore, any deviation from Yan Wushi’s “normal” personality is still him. Thus Xie Ling’s desire for praise and affection and A-Yan’s desperation for Shen Qiao’s attention is a byproduct of Yan Wushi’s innermost desires.

Shen Qiao is compassionate and prioritizes others over himself. Paired with his commanding demeanor, he’d be a perfect service top. The way he tended to Yan Wushi throughout his recovery on their journey? How could we not imagine him as the one in control, finding pleasure in fulfilling Yan Wushi’s desires and providing him satisfaction? 

Yan Wushi is a Pillow Princess ™. He’s confident, demanding, needy, clear about his desires, and annoying in a bratty sense. His priority is his satisfaction and he’s not concerned with contributing to everyone’s mutual enjoyment. He constantly teases Shen Qiao hoping to get a raise out of him. Yan Wushi is obsessed with Shen Qiao, and desperate for his attention. Is that not bratty bottom behavior?

There is a lot of stigma around being a bottom thanks to internalized and systemic homophobia. So, in that regard, bottoming is often seen as the “weaker” role to those who value their very masculine self-image. And Yan Wushi is one of those guys. For someone who says he doesn’t care about how others perceive him, he puts a lot of work into being the most intimidating person he can be. In short, Yan Wushi being topped would fix him. It would satiate his craving for attention and “being spoiled” as much as it would “humble” him. 

Thanks for reading our rant! - @wrtnbypaying and @artbyarlo

[nolongersubtext]

We've moved our drop dates! Starting with this one, new episodes drop on the last Thursday of each month! You can find our new release schedule and see what's on our reading list here.

This month, we read the third volume of Thousand Autumns.

Read Pa Ying's Book Review >>

In this installment, we saw Shen Qiao take great strides in his cultivation and personal growth. We also gained unique insight into the complexity of Yan Wushi's character through the way he separated his personality traits into three distinct personalities.

As always, we sent out an e-newsletter to accompany this episode release. Amongst the things contained in that newsletter, we shared a chart we made breaking down the personalities of Yan Wushi. If you missed it, don't worry! You can still read the update via our newsletter archive.

Thanks for listening! - @wrtnbypaying & @artbyarlo

[wrtnbypaying]

Book Review: Thousand Autumns Vol. 3

We begin this volume with Shen Qiao encountering Bai Rong while on his way to rescue Yan Wushi from an ambush. She tells him that Yan Wushi isn’t worth the sacrifices Shen Qiao is making, especially after his betrayal in volume two. Shen Qiao justifies his actions by saying his need to save Yan Wushi is for the greater good, insisting that his political influence has world-saving implications. He maintains this insistence with Bai Rong and everyone else who tries to argue with him over his efforts to save and protect Yan Wushi. 😑

In this volume, we continue to see a lot of character growth for both Shen Qiao and Yan Wushi. As we see more of Shen Qiao’s inner thoughts, we also see how much more comfortable he is with taking up space and voicing his thoughts. His comments can cut deep when he’s angry and I love that for him! On the other hand, for Yan Wushi we see a more vulnerable side to him. We don’t have his full background yet but, through his split personalities, we see that there is a gentle and rational side to him. We also see that most of his problems stem from paranoia and chronic cynicism.

At this point in the story, these two individuals are in love with each other. However, neither are willing to act upon these feelings nor are they willing to put a name to this relationship. Yan Wushi annoys Shen Qiao, hoping for him to make the first move, but Shen Qiao is holding back because Yan Wushi will not entertain his need for personal space. Their interaction is very reminiscent of boys having a crush and not knowing how to go about it so they tease/hurt the other person.

The second “betrayal” from Yan Wushi is less of a betrayal and more of a sacrifice as the chapter title it’s contained within suggests. Reading through this hurts in the same way that reading a breakup scene hurts. Yan Wushi is unilaterally breaking up with Shen Qiao to save him. This act does not absolve Yan Wushi of his previous actions, but it does show that Yan Wushi’s affection has grown and he is capable of doing things for the benefit of others and not just for his own benefit. 

Reading the third installment to Thousand Autumns feels like listening to a friend rant about their toxic relationship and how terrible it is, even though they won’t heed my advice to break up with their awful partner. We shall see how this toxic relationship commences in the next installment.

[nolongersubtext]

Well, we got through a rough read and another rough month. This month we read Thousand Autumns Vol. 2.

This book was emotionally captivating, but be advised, it comes with a lot of heavy content.

As always, we sent out an e-newsletter to accompany this episode release. If you missed it, don't worry! You can still read the update via our newsletter archive. In this update, we include Pa Ying's Book Review.

Oh! Here's a bonus Valentine's Day Card while it's still February:

Thank you for listening! - @wrtnbypaying & @artbyarlo

[wrtnbypaying]

Book Review: Thousand Autumns Vol. 2

Potential readers of Thousand Autumns by Meng Xi Shi should be aware of and consider the triggers that come with this novel. My review for volume one did not acknowledge any trigger warnings, as it is expected of Danmei to contain no small abundance of violence and gore. I did not account for the many other trigger warnings because I genuinely did not know what I was getting into with this story. Volume 1 did a wonderful job of setting the background for the story; it did not prepare us for the onslaught of violence and pain that is in Volume 2.

Getting through this volume alone took a lot of time because I needed multiple breaks to contemplate life. For every detail of violence and pain that was described, my heart broke a little more, and I needed several moments to find a good headspace to finish reading. That being said, no one should pick up Thousand Autumn unless they can stomach detailed depictions of sexual violence, violence towards children, bodily mutilation/dismemberment, cannibalism, suicide, and violence amongst other triggers. Even for those who can stomach such triggers, I would still caution you to be in the appropriate headspace as this book is emotionally taxing. 

This volume of Thousand Autumns is one of profound character development for Shen Qiao, with some romance sprinkled in. At the beginning of this volume, Shen Qiao is described as godly and devoid of joy and sorrow. What was meant as a compliment turned out to be foreshadowing the turbulent journey of Shen Qiao free-falling into rapid character growth and experiencing great joys and many sorrows. Thus detailing his journey to becoming "more human" and experiencing the emotional turmoil of what it means to experience life. 

Yan Wushi’s ultimate betrayal of Shen Qiao’s loyalty, genuine feelings, and autonomy is the catalyst for breaking Shen Qiao’s heart. In turn, breaking his spirit and, ultimately, his cultivation core. When many people said they hated Yan Wushi for his betrayal, with the limited context I had, I did not understand. Having read it now, I get it, and I, too, feel the same way. We end this volume with Shen Qiao on his way to saving Yan Wushi from his ultimate downfall, Shen Qiao rationalizing these efforts and forgiveness for Yan Wushi. I do not think there is anything that Yan Wushi can do in future volumes to make up for the pain and heartache that he has caused Shen Qiao. I only just recently completed my reading of this volume. As much as I had previously enjoyed Yan Wushi as a character, those feelings have been greatly challenged, and I will need time to reflect on his character. His story is just starting, and we will see where Meng Xi Shi takes us.

[wrtnbypaying]

Book Review: Thousand Autumns Vol. 2

Potential readers of Thousand Autumns by Meng Xi Shi should be aware of and consider the triggers that come with this novel. My review for volume one did not acknowledge any trigger warnings, as it is expected of Danmei to contain no small abundance of violence and gore. I did not account for the many other trigger warnings because I genuinely did not know what I was getting into with this story. Volume 1 did a wonderful job of setting the background for the story; it did not prepare us for the onslaught of violence and pain that is in Volume 2.

Getting through this volume alone took a lot of time because I needed multiple breaks to contemplate life. For every detail of violence and pain that was described, my heart broke a little more, and I needed several moments to find a good headspace to finish reading. That being said, no one should pick up Thousand Autumns unless they can stomach detailed depictions of sexual violence, violence towards children, bodily mutilation/dismemberment, cannibalism, suicide, and violence amongst other triggers. Even for those who can stomach such triggers, I would still caution you to be in the appropriate headspace as this book is emotionally taxing. 

This volume of Thousand Autumns is one of profound character development for Shen Qiao, with some romance sprinkled in. At the beginning of this volume, Shen Qiao is described as godly and devoid of joy and sorrow. What was meant as a compliment turned out to be foreshadowing the turbulent journey of Shen Qiao free-falling into rapid character growth and experiencing great joys and many sorrows. Thus detailing his journey to becoming "more human" and experiencing the emotional turmoil of what it means to experience life. 

Yan Wushi’s ultimate betrayal of Shen Qiao’s loyalty, genuine feelings, and autonomy is the catalyst for breaking Shen Qiao’s heart. In turn, breaking his spirit and, ultimately, his cultivation core. When many people said they hated Yan Wushi for his betrayal, with the limited context I had, I did not understand. Having read it now, I get it, and I, too, feel the same way. We end this volume with Shen Qiao on his way to saving Yan Wushi from his ultimate downfall, Shen Qiao rationalizing these efforts and forgiveness for Yan Wushi. I do not think there is anything that Yan Wushi can do in future volumes to make up for the pain and heartache that he has caused Shen Qiao. I only just recently completed my reading of this volume. As much as I had previously enjoyed Yan Wushi as a character, those feelings have been greatly challenged, and I will need time to reflect on his character. His story is just starting, and we will see where Meng Xi Shi takes us.