30+ girlmama / #XantaReads #AskXanta 💖 A collection of the danmei novels I’ve read and the audio dramas I’ve listened to. Please note that the reviews or reactions I’ve written are solely my opinion. My cup of tea may not necessarily be yours. I read what I like with no restrictions in terms of genre. Please refrain from browsing if you’re going to judge.
This danmei novel got me hooked from the start. It follows Ye Zhou, a straightforward restaurant owner, and Guan Heng, a seemingly perfect professor whose polished exterior hides a deeply controlling streak. Their relationship flips the usual dynamic. Ye Zhou, who used to be the “top,” finds himself drawn into Guan Heng’s world of quiet dominance and chooses to stay.
The writing grabbed me right away, fast-paced, drama-ish, and addictive. I loved Ye Zhou’s character, and I was impressed at how the author handled their first time together. It honestly read like a respectful, detailed guide to a-sex, which showed real care and research.
Then came the plot twist. At first it felt sudden and even a little forced, but looking back, it did make sense with the buildup. Still, it cut the main story off abruptly. I didn’t mind it personally, but I can see why others might find it off-putting. Thankfully, the last chapter of the main story was chef’s kiss, though the extras were more mixed. The parallel-world AU wasn’t to my taste, and I skipped it at first, but the ABO AU turned out surprisingly fun.
What makes this story compelling is how it balances psychological tension with warmth. The romance isn’t just about power play, it’s also about trust, healing, and the messy, realistic side of love. Both leads are in their thirties, flawed but mature, which makes their growth together feel grounded and believable.
That said, some readers may find Guan Heng’s need for control overwhelming, since the balance leans heavily in his favor. But if you’re open to a dynamic where one partner learns to submit and finds comfort in it, this becomes a fascinating and emotionally satisfying read.
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1v1, main romance, age-difference, sweet story without angst. The perspective is from the submissive gong character, with occasional scenes
When Ye Zhou, a restaurant owner, witnesses his handsome new neighbor—a charming university professor named Guan Heng—breaking up with his b
At first, I had no concrete expectations going into 四面佛. The summary felt vague and all I knew was that it hinted at a classic 188 dynamic. But wow, I was not prepared.
The gong, Fan Xiao, is peak scum. Not just your typical cold or distant type. I’m talking delusional, manipulative, selfish, and borderline obsessive. Early on, he acted like an unhinged mistress and I was genuinely furious with every move he made. He clearly has unresolved trauma or possibly PTSD, but even then, I found myself screaming internally, “Shu Liang, run!”
To add flavor, the author included Thai dialogue throughout the story, which I loved. Every time Fan Xiao spoke in Thai, I secretly hoped Shu Liang would suddenly understand. That little hope kept me going through the angst.
Now, this story is technically two gongs, but for love, one was willing to bottom. A self‑sacrifice, honestly. And while that trope can be hot or touching depending on the context, here I felt it was so undeserved. Fan Xiao was grating and insufferable. I nearly dropped the novel more than once because of how much he annoyed me.
But I didn’t.
Because somewhere along the way, I started to see Shu Liang’s eyes go dull. I felt his heartbreak. His exhaustion. And slowly, it sucked me back in.
The wife chasing crematorium arc is where the novel truly shines. Watching Fan Xiao spiral, regret, and beg for a second chance was deliciously satisfying. The groveling? Chef’s kiss. By the end, even I, a stubborn and unforgiving reader, found myself letting go of the past. I forgave him. Shu Liang did too.
I love how Shu Liang accepted him, all the goodness and the bad. It goes hand in hand and that’s how love is in reality and not some fairytale with a perfect partner. That acceptance felt raw and honest, flaws and forgiveness intertwined.
If you’re into toxic beginnings, heavy angst, emotional redemption, and that sweet payoff when the scum finally suffers just enough to earn back the heart he broke, 四面佛 will be your kind of poison.
Sadly, there is no English translation yet for this one; but I hope a fan translator or a publisher would pick it up soon.
Set in the same universe as Drink, Drank, Drunk, 24 Frames Per Second immediately hooked me with its premise. I began with the English translation, but with updates still ongoing and my curiosity burning, I dove into the raw on Changpei. The Chinese were surprisingly accessible. I’d say the reading level is about average, and I found the experience smooth and immersive.
Entertainment industry novels, especially ones centered on acting, are a personal favorite of mine, and this one did not disappoint. The writing is simply stunning. It felt less like reading a novel and more like watching an intricately crafted film. The visuals came alive in my head so vividly, and the emotional beats hit hard.
There were countless moments where I wanted to take screenshots just to hold on to a line or scene, but Changpei doesn’t allow that. So I ended up silently screaming, laughing, and crying to myself. The humor, often tucked within the characters’ inner monologues, is subtle but golden. The author’s touch with those quiet emotions, unspoken, yet deeply felt, was masterful.
It took me nearly a month to finish, partly because of how busy life has been. I read a little each day, just a chapter or two during breaks and despite the slow pace, I was never bored. Not once did my interest wane. Every time I picked it up again, I was right back in it, heart fully engaged. That emotional consistency is rare and speaks volumes about the strength of the writing.
The romance unfolds gradually, almost delicately. Minimal interactions build up to something deeply tender. Their chemistry feels both real and dreamlike, a relationship that is tangible yet distant, beautiful yet tinged with the fragile uncertainty of the future. That touch of realism, the acknowledgment that love, no matter how genuine, comes with no guarantees, is perhaps what left the deepest impression on me.
In all, 24 Frames Per Second is a quiet, evocative, and beautifully crafted story that lingers long after the final scene. Highly recommended for those who love slow-burn romance, layered characters, and emotionally intelligent storytelling.
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(Note: This summary is not a direct translation of the original summary on Chang Pei by any means. This summary was written by the translato
4/5: Set in the same universe as Drink, Drank, Drunk, 24 Frames Per Second immediately hooked me with its premise. I began with the English
This is the story of Liang Bei’s cousin from the prequel after he left for the demon world.
Fox Demon Cultivation is part of a trilogy, and Fox Demon is the second book. The prequel, Your Ninth Royal Highness, Please Change Your Clothes, was the one I read before this, and I have yet to read the sequel, The Demon Lord Is Fleeing for His Life Again Today. Definitely read the prequel first! From the description, it may seem like a standalone and it can actually be read as one, but I liked how I could connect the story because I had read the first book. The first book was so-so in my opinion (rated it only 3 stars), but this second book was so much better. Now I can’t wait to dive into the final book.
The start reminded me of TGCF with the bridal sedan and missing maidens, but instead of divine elegance, we get pure fox demon chaos. And I loved it.
Liang Shuhong’s personality did a complete 180 after becoming a demon. Song Ci feels like a new version of him, except this time, with actual character development. At first, the change felt abrupt since he was so docile in the first book, but considering everything he’s been through… yeah, it makes sense. Even though it was mostly summarized, it still justified his transformation.
The story got a little weird midway, but it still delivered. Most of my questions were answered by the end, and that extra? Hot. Okay, not gonna say more. This book had me so hooked I barely left any reactions on my reading thread.
The humor is sharp, the world-building is solid, and the romance? Chef’s kiss. And that last extra was sizzling hot. Definitely didn’t expect a smut!
Alright, I officially like this more than the first book. Haha. Time to jump into the last of the trilogy! 🤭
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By some freak coincidence, Song Ci mistakenly consumed the blood of the Demon King, causing himself to become a demon too. A weak scholar……
By some freak coincidence, Song Ci mistakenly consumed the blood of the Demon King, causing himself to become a demon too. A weak scholar……
Your Ninth Royal Highness, Please Change Your Clothes
≪九殿下請更衣≫ by 風歌且行
✤ 120 chapters (including extras)
✤ Danmei, Historical, Xuanhuan, Comedy, Rebirth
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Short Review:
This novel is the first book in a trilogy, and I originally picked it up intending to check out the writing style, but I got completely drawn in instead! The raw text is surprisingly easy to read for a historical setting, making it an accessible and engaging experience even for those who may not be deeply familiar with classical Chinese prose.
One of the novel’s biggest strengths is its storytelling style, which feels like watching a Chinese comedic theater play come to life. The narration is lively, and the author masterfully conveys expressions, body language, and even the rhythm of speech. It’s incredibly easy to visualize each scene, from exaggerated comedic moments to more serious or dramatic sequences. This theatrical quality makes the humor hit just right, creating a dynamic and immersive reading experience.
The pacing is quick. I found myself at chapter 44 in the blink of an eye. The opening is particularly strong, immediately drawing me in with an engaging premise and well-written humor. However, at some point, the novel suddenly shifts genres, almost like jumping from one world to another. It wasn’t necessarily a bad transition, but it was unexpected. The mix of elements, comedy, action, politics, and drama, keeps things fresh, though it might feel a bit chaotic for some readers.
By the time I reached the ending, I felt satisfied—all the major questions are answered. The final five chapters serve as extras, providing additional closure. Among them, Zhong Wenjin’s story stood out the most. His arc is deeply emotional, contrasting with the novel’s otherwise lighthearted tone, and left a lingering sadness that stayed with me even after finishing the book.
Overall, this was a highly enjoyable read! The engaging writing, vivid humor, and unpredictable plot shifts made for a unique experience. If you’re looking for a danmei novel that blends historical fantasy with comedic storytelling, this is definitely worth checking out. I’m off to reading the second book of the trilogy now ~
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After his rebirth, Wen Chan said, “Please don’t disturb me. I am concentrating on my revenge. “
Therefore there was an uproar among the peo
Back to reading novels, starting with my book club’s February pick! Funny enough, I was the one who nominated this mushroom-themed read, but I never expected it to actually win the vote. Even more surprising, it turned out to be such a cute and sweet story!
The pacing was steady and smooth, making it an enjoyable read even without dramatic ups and downs. It’s the kind of novel that flows effortlessly, pulling you along without feeling rushed or dragging.
Shi Changyuan, the gong, was every bit the composed and powerful alpha. On the surface, he seemed calm and in control, but deep down, he had that classic black-bellied streak, in the best way possible. The little mushroom became his escape, and he clung to it like a lifeline.
Meanwhile, Lin Ling, the shou, was like a newborn—naïve, innocent, and absolutely adorable. Watching his character grow was one of the best parts of the novel. It felt like witnessing a toddler eagerly discovering the world, soaking up knowledge as fast as a real mushroom would. The catch? He rarely processed all that information properly, which made for some of the most hilarious and endearing moments.
Honestly, there were times when I forgot I was reading a novel. It felt like a manga adaptation in prose form! Lin Ling’s character, especially, was so exaggeratedly cute that I could almost see the chibi expressions in my head.
This was such a healing read, perfect for cleansing the palate after an angsty novel. It even pulled me out of my reading slump! If you’re looking for something lighthearted, fun, and full of heart, this is definitely worth picking up.
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Lin Ling is a little mushroom spirit growing on the beam of the Imperial study, and every day, he watches the tyrant’s daily routine—confisc
Lin Ling is a little mushroom spirit that grew on the beam of the imperial study room. Every day, he watches the tyrant’s daily life, which
In Lowly Creature, we’re introduced to an intriguing pairing, a human gong and his robot shou. Set in a futuristic world where technology has advanced beyond imagination, the relationship between a human who detests physical touch, and his robot partner forms the heart of this story. Their bond is unconventional, yet perfect for their respective needs.
I really enjoyed the smooth transition between past and present in this novel, it was executed so well that it heightened the emotional impact of the story. The irony in Lowly Creature is striking: as technology advances, humanity ironically regresses, losing its freedom of choice. Instead of social class or wealth determining one’s fate, here, it’s all about genetics.
One of the biggest mysteries for me was Ji Mao’s identity. Who is he, really? And more importantly, what is he? The novel keeps you guessing, and I was relieved when it finally unraveled.
For someone like He Zhi, who despises physical touch, having a robot partner was honestly the perfect match. Their dynamic was hilarious. Ji Mao’s antics constantly had me laughing, while He Zhi’s frequent state of defeat only made me root for Ji Mao more. That said, He Zhi’s tsundere tendencies were undeniably cute.
Certain parts of the novel, especially the other-world game segment, reminded me of C Language Cultivation. And at one point, the alternating scenes between the main couple and the “villain” had me convinced this was heading for a bad ending. Thankfully, that wasn’t the case.
Now, I have to admit, I was looking forward to the smut the most. But… it was fade to black. Disappointing. I couldn’t help but wonder… How did He Zhi even feel in that moment? Was there a built-in heater or what?
Lastly, a note on the translation. While the English fan translation is completed, it seems to be either MTL or edited MTL. It was unreadable for me, so I opted for the raws instead.
Overall, Lowly Creature was a fun and engaging read, blending humor, irony, and sci-fi elements into a unique danmei experience. Rated this four-stars because I could see myself rereading it for the laughs. Would definitely recommend!
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The person who broke into his house looked exactly like his customized inflatable doll. It mainly tells the story of a human who doesn’t kno
4/5: In Lowly Creature, we’re introduced to an intriguing pairing, a human gong and his robot shou. Set in a futuristic world where technolo
Note: The author wrote an AU based on the novel. The NU oneshot is called Depth Charge. I read a bit but not really a fan of alternate universe stories. But if ever anyone is interested, here’s the link to the English fan translation of the oneshot.
Been wanting to try translating one of 卡比丘’s stories for a while, so decided to try it with this oneshot. Warning: it’s sad. Summary: The my
✤ danmei, modern, slice of life, comedy, entertainment, short
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Short Review:
Red Bean Ice is one of the January read nominee for the bookclub I’m active in. I decided to give a read spontaneously to be honest. Although Red Bean Ice is on my tbr list, I have long forgotten about it, buried deep in my list. I’m glad I did though.
The story delivers a heartwarming, no-drama romance that flows effortlessly, much like gentle waves in a calm river. While the content is endearing, the reading experience is unfortunately hindered by the tedious format of accessing each chapter through separate links, which tested my patience more than I’d have liked.
The story centers on the sweet, flirty relationship between a tsundere gong and the protagonist. Their marriage begins as a contractual agreement, but over time, their love evolves into something genuine and pure. Unexpectedly, the back story takes a sudden leap from unrequited love to marriage. Before that was revealed, the surprise left me curious about how the characters met and why their relationship began this way. These questions linger for much of the novel and are only partially addressed, leaving me wishing for a richer backstory.
The novel’s pacing is unique. The earlier chapters are exceptionally short, and while they do grow longer over time, even the later chapters remain brief compared to typical danmei novels. This brevity makes the story easy to read and keeps the flow light, but it may leave some readers craving more depth in certain moments. That said, the simplicity works in the story’s favor, as it maintains a smooth and enjoyable rhythm throughout.
One of the highlights of the novel is its use of internet slang, such as “搶了沙發” (抢沙发, or “grabbing the sofa”), which adds charm and humor to the story. I found myself learning a few new terms along the way, which was an unexpected bonus. The flirtatious banter between the main couple is another standout feature. It’s undeniably adorable and keeps the tone playful.
By Chapter 18, the story feels complete, almost like a perfect ending. However, the final two epilogues, or rather short stories (more akin to Weibo-style extras) give readers a glimpse of the couple’s life beyond the main plot. While these additions are brief, they help round out the story with more warm, slice-of-life moments.
Overall, Red Bean Ice is a wholesome and charming novel perfect for readers seeking a light, drama-free romance. Its short chapters and easygoing narrative make it ideal for a quick and enjoyable read. However, the lack of deeper backstory and the inconvenient chapter format of the English fan translation may be a minor hurdle for some. If you can look past these drawbacks, this novel is sure to leave you with a smile.
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One ‘I’m-very-mad-but-I-won’t-say-anything-also-if-you-don’t-coax-me-I-won’t-be-happy’ gong!
On the other hand, the shou is empathetic, con
The Embarrassing Days of Accidentally Wearing the Same Clothes as the Campus Prince
≪ 和校草撞衫的日子 ≫ by 遲小爺
✤ danmei, slice of life, oneshot
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️
My Short Review:
I decided to check out one of our book club’s January nominees that didn’t win the vote because the quirky title caught my attention. Unfortunately, my curiosity wasn’t entirely rewarded.
Despite being labeled as “modern,” the story mentions a Walkman, so it feels more nostalgic than contemporary. I’ve adjusted my tags accordingly.
This oneshot had potential, to be honest. It was sweet, but the brevity worked against it. The story lacked the necessary build-up to make the characters and their relationship feel compelling. The flashbacks didn’t help much in establishing chemistry, and the ending felt abrupt and unsatisfying.
While I knew it would be short, I was hoping for a “power essay,” a concise yet impactful story that lingers in your mind. Sadly, this didn’t deliver. It felt more like a fleeting moment than a fully realized narrative.
Overall, it’s not a bad read, but it left me wanting more substance.
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“I came up with ten thousand clumsy ways to try and get your attention. This was just one of them.”
Tong Yao thinks he cannot be more ord
Author Young Master Chi (迟小爷) Translator Cheryl Editor & TLC Sakhyu NovelUpdates Raws (和校草撞衫的日子) Summary “I came up with ten thousand clumsy
Set in the same universe as Your Husband’s Leg is Broken, this lighthearted and quirky novel by 許半仙 is another gem of humorous storytelling. While the author’s works may not be groundbreaking, they never fail to entertain, and Python Starter Guide is no exception.
One of the unique aspects of this author’s style is their creative approach to character anonymity. In this novel, the protagonists’ names remain a mystery all the way to the end. Surprisingly, this doesn’t detract from the charm; it actually adds to the fun and encourages focus on the story’s delightful interactions.
The shou and the gong are utterly adorable, and their dynamic is a pleasure to read. The chapters are bite-sized, making it easy to breeze through in one sitting. It can be read in less than an hour. Despite its brevity, the story feels complete, and the humor is spot on.
The connection to Your Husband’s Leg is Broken is subtle. The gong’s friend with a broken leg is the same character from the previous story and that’s about it. This thin thread of continuity is enough to tag it as part of the same universe but doesn’t overshadow the standalone nature of this novel.
As for the title, the way Python Starter Guide ties into the story is hilarious and clever. Let’s just say the word “python” now has an entirely new connotation for me.
Perfect read for when you’re in the mood for a short, funny, and sweet danmei with lovable characters, this is a perfect pick. It’s a cute, feel-good story that’ll leave you smiling.
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Elite gong (seme) x Foolishly cute shou(uke)
P-Friends turning into true love, a no-brainer sweet treat.
A ‘brain hole’ written on Weibo. Moved it over when chapter one was done
Elite gong (seme) x Foolishly cute shou(uke)
P-Friends turning in
4/5: Set in the same universe as Your Husband’s Leg is Broken, this lighthearted and quirky novel by 許半仙 is another gem of humorous storytel
If you’re in the mood for a short and fluffy read, this one is perfect! The story is lighthearted, sweet, and surprisingly fast-paced, so much so that I finished the entire novel, including the extras, in just about an hour.
One thing I noticed is that the author, 許半仙, seems to avoid using character names, which is an interesting stylistic choice. At first, I thought the “gong” character was a typical scum type, but I judged him too early. He’s actually quite endearing! By the end, he turns into a hilariously childish “gong-husband,” making the ending feel like a fairytale happily-ever-after.
The main story itself is incredibly sweet, almost addictive. The chapters are very short, which makes it feel like you’re flying through the book. As for the side story… well, that was a bit strange for me. It explores a relationship dynamic that I personally couldn’t quite wrap my head around, but it might appeal to others.
Overall, this is a great little pick-me-up read, a great read for when you’re in the mood for something cute and uncomplicated.
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A short story of misunderstanding, angst and unrequited love.
The story may contain dogblood, a substitute lover, and a white Moonlight. -Your husband’s leg was broken when meeting with his first love.
3/5: If you’re in the mood for a short and fluffy read, this one is perfect! The story is lighthearted, sweet, and surprisingly fast-paced,
My first BE danmei novel of 2025, and also my first 5 stars rating for the year. Before diving into my thoughts, I want to emphasize that this novel is not suitable for readers with suicidal tendencies or those who have experienced similar situations. Please prioritize your mental health and avoid this book if it might trigger painful memories or thoughts.
The story begins deceptively lighthearted, resembling a typical slice-of-life narrative that promises warmth and sweetness. The characters initially feel like they’re heading toward a happy ending, but this false sense of security only makes the eventual heartbreak more devastating.
Qin He is one of the most compelling characters I’ve encountered. His personality is an intriguing mix of contradictions: intelligent, nonchalant, and strong-willed, but often silent, not out of meekness but sheer choice. His quiet strength makes his struggles all the more poignant.
On the other hand, Qin He’s family dynamic is infuriating. His father is utterly useless, dragging him into a mess of his own making, while his mother, though seemingly different at first, disappoints in an equally gut-wrenching way. The family drama serves as a backdrop to Qin He’s internal battles, making his journey even more tragic.
The pacing of the story is unique. It starts slow, lulling you into a sense of comfort, but when the angst hits, it’s abrupt and relentless. Subtle foreshadowing midway through the novel hints at the darkness to come, but even those hints can’t fully prepare you for the emotional wreckage that follows.
The tragedy unfolds with an almost cruel inevitability. Qin He and Yu Cheng, the two protagonists, become collateral damage in someone else’s rage, unrelated victims of a society that doesn’t accept them. Their pain, suffering, and eventual fate feel heartbreakingly real, especially given the historical context of LGBTQ+ oppression. The author masterfully captures the despair of being trapped in a world unwilling to understand or accept their love.
The ending left me torn. It’s undeniably sad but carries a bittersweet sense of relief. Qin He and Yu Cheng find a semblance of salvation, though it comes at a devastating cost. The extras provided some additional closure, but they only deepened my sense of loss.
This novel’s realism is perhaps its most haunting feature. The idea that such stories were (and still might be) a reality for LGBTQ+ individuals adds another layer of grief. The mention of “therapy” for homosexuality is a painful reminder of how far society still has to go in accepting and protecting love in all its forms.
Reading Funeral was an emotionally draining experience. It’s a short novel but powerful enough to leave scars. The abruptness of the tragedy reflects life’s cruel unpredictability, and the lingering grief is almost unbearable. I didn’t cry while reading, but the weight of the story stayed with me, as though I’d cried rivers internally.
This is not a story you move on from easily. It’s raw, intense, and utterly heartbreaking. If you choose to read it, brace yourself for an emotional rollercoaster that might leave you questioning everything.
A beautifully written tragedy that’s as devastating as it is poignant. I’m rating this 5 stars not only because of how well it was written but because of the strong emotions it evoked while reading. Funeral is a reminder of the resilience of love and the crushing weight of societal rejection. Proceed with caution, and if you’re in a vulnerable place, please skip this one.
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Yu Cheng and Qin He met by chance. Yu Cheng was a famous little tyrant in middle school but was trained by Qin He to become an obedient dog.
Recently, I’ve been exploring Japanese light novels, and this one from 2002 caught my attention. Sleeping Bunny is a short and straightforward story, and it turned out to be better than I expected.
The pacing is one of its strengths, fast, no unnecessary distractions, and straight to the point. The main story had a touching simplicity, tackling emotions in a way that feels both raw and relatable. However, I found the epilogue to be a bit drawn out compared to the rest of the story. That said, it also gave the novel a satisfying conclusion with a happy ending that made up for the slower pace.
As for the characters, Takahashi was endearing, though I couldn’t help but wish he’d grow out of being such a crybaby, just a little! But the real standout for me was Kakimoto, the ultimate “friend of the year.” Even as a side character, his loyalty and quiet support left a lasting impression. I’d love to have a friend like him.
If you’re looking for a quick yet heartfelt read, Sleeping Bunny delivers on both fronts. A great pick for fans of school life stories with a dash of romance.
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To impress the girl he has a crush on, Kouichi (a high schooler) lets her use his address in a gay ad. Soon, a reply comes, and Kouichi find
4/5: Recently, I’ve been exploring Japanese light novels, and this one from 2002 caught my attention. Sleeping Bunny is a short and straight
✤ Danmei | Slice of Life | Dancing | Boxing | Sports
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Review:
Salad Days is a heartwarming and grounded story that captures the beauty of youth, friendship, and personal growth over two volumes. The first installment is a nostalgic journey through the characters’ early years, while the second delves deeper into their adulthood and relationships, offering a satisfying continuation.
I had put this series off for so long, but I finally decided to pick it up for a read. Owning both the physical and ebook versions, I found myself preferring the ebook, as it allowed me to keep the physical copy unwrapped and in pristine condition.
The first volume immediately drew me in. I finished it in just one day. Despite the lengthy chapters, the story flows effortlessly, beginning with the characters’ youth and unfolding at a perfectly balanced pace. While romance is absent in this volume, the focus on ambiguous friendships feels authentic and deeply moving. Watching these kids take their first steps toward their dreams and passions is inspiring, and the realism of their experiences makes it easy to connect with them.
The portrayal of small-town life is particularly endearing. The characters, despite their humble beginnings, are a testament to good upbringing. They exude kindness, compassion, and respect, embodying the values of a wholesome, close-knit community. It’s the kind of idyllic environment that many of us would love to be part of.
The second volume shifts gears, exploring themes of hard work, recognition, and love. Jiang Shen’s perseverance is finally acknowledged, dispelling the dismissive notion that success is just “talent.” This commentary on envy and effort adds depth to the narrative. Bai Jinyi, with his mix of childishness and intelligence, keeps the story lively, even as his cheeky personality adds humor to surprising moments of intimacy.
The evolution of the romance is both unexpected and refreshing. What begins as a pure, platonic bond grows into something deeper, with moments of passion that are tastefully written. Smut involving a ballerina? Unexpected but shockingly vivid! Bai Jinyi’s playful nature makes these scenes unforgettable.
However, there are notable flaws in the second volume. The overuse of phrases like “speechless” grows tiring, losing its charm after repeated appearances. Additionally, the narrative follows a predictable, straightforward pattern without much drama or angst, which might leave some readers wanting more complexity.
Qin Wanjun, a standout character, shines as an exemplary mother. Her unwavering support and heartfelt words are inspiring, reminding readers of the kind of parent many aspire to be. The extras in this volume provide much-needed closure to a somewhat abrupt main story ending, though the final extra featuring characters from the author’s other works may confuse readers unfamiliar with those stories.
Despite its flaws, repetitive writing, typos in the extras, and a lack of narrative twists, the series as a whole has a calming, feel-good quality. The first volume is a nostalgic exploration of youth and dreams, while the second offers a mix of heartwarming moments and surprising passion. Together, Salad Days is a gentle, relaxing read, perfect for an afternoon with tea.
While it might not be a story to rave about, it leaves a lasting impression with its simplicity, positivity, and the quiet joys of life. Fans of slow-burn narratives and wholesome character development will find much to enjoy in this series.
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This is the story between a young innocent ballet boy and a passionate, determined boxing boy. The two met at the children’s palace, and sin
5/5: I finished reading the first volume of Salad Days in just one day, which was a pleasant surprise given how lengthy the chapters felt. T
4/5: Salad Days Vol. 2 is a continuation of the heartwarming and emotionally nuanced story that began in the first volume. While it retains
Read "Salad Days: 经久 Vol.1（English Edition）" by Jing Shui Bian available from Rakuten Kobo. This is a story about a poor but gentle, honest
My first read of 2025, and what a way to kick off the year! I picked this up as a quick read with my book club, and it turned out to be an interesting ride.
At first, I was thrown off by the lack of character names, the leads are simply referred to as “the psychiatrist” and “the film emperor” for a good portion of the story. This reminded me of another cursed novel I’ve read where names were revealed bit by bit, and honestly, it added a layer of intrigue to this one as well.
The pacing is fast, a blink, and you might miss something. The writing style leans more toward a summarized narrative rather than a detailed unfolding, which took some getting used to. However, it worked surprisingly well given the novel’s short length.
I couldn’t help but imagine how much angstier this novel could have been if it had started pre-accident, from the psychiatrist’s POV. Midway, though, we do get a flashback from Song Ning’s perspective, and let me tell you, it delivers on the emotional turmoil I was hoping for!
Interestingly, there’s no comedy tag on Novel Updates, but this had me laughing out loud more than once. Despite the psychological undertones, the humor shines through in the interactions and situations, making it unexpectedly delightful. So I added the comedy tag myself. Heh.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel. It’s sweet, heartwarming, and full of charm, though the abrupt ending left me wanting more. If you’re looking for a quick, unconventional read with a mix of humor and feels, this one’s worth a shot!
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“You once loved the 16-year-old me, can you come to love the 30-year-old me again?”
The film emperor was involved in two car accidents at
4/5: My first read of 2025, and what a way to kick off the year! I picked this up as a quick read with my book club, and it turned out to be
✤ Japanese BL, yaoi, fantasy, historical, disability
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Short Review:
Ending my 2024 reads with a Japanese light novel, or so I thought! Turns out, there’s still one more day left before the new year.
This story surprised me in ways I didn’t anticipate. I should have added a disability tag to my reading thread, it plays a significant role in half the novel. The emotional weight it carries is impactful and adds depth to the characters and their struggles.
Ryoichiro, though… What a frustrating character! How could you marry someone else and still want Tokuma by your side? Especially after that kiss! It’s selfish and unfair, he clearly needs to choose. You can’t have everything, Ryoichiro!
At the same time, it’s hard not to feel sympathy for him. If only he’d embraced the idea of having a lover, if only he’d confronted his feelings for Tokuma and confessed. Perhaps things might have turned out differently. But life isn’t predictable. Even gods, if they exist, might not know what’s to come.
The ending, however, felt too abrupt. I was hoping for more closure, but just as the story was unfolding, it suddenly declared, “The End.” It was frustrating how short it was!
That said, Cow Thief is a sweet, enchanting tale filled with oni, spirits, and yokai. The supernatural elements made it feel like watching a beautifully animated anime. I loved how the story transcended societal norms and explored love in its purest form, even introducing a potential second couple who were also immersed in the supernatural world.
While it left me wanting more, the journey was heartfelt, magical, and memorable. A bittersweet read to close out the year!
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Ryoichiro Satake, a university professor studying botany, lives a comfortable life with his loyal servant, Tokuma. Despite their different s
I initially planned to read Nightmare Before Kissmas but decided to pick up Red, White & Royal Blue first. After that, I ended up diving into this unconventional omegaverse for Christmas instead!
This Alpha x Alpha omegaverse novel turned out to be truly unique and completely my type. In the beginning, I wasn’t sure where the story was going. Ye Yang and his childhood friend were roommates, and the romantic buildup was slow to start. Their interactions felt more indifferent than romantic, though there were hints of one-sided feelings. Can’t really say it was unrequited love, because it doesn’t seem so for me. Oblivious maybe, but definitely not unrequited.
Honestly, if one of them had been an omega, they probably would have gotten together much earlier. The tension seemed to revolve around dominance, a battle of who would top and bottom. At some point, I even thought the pair would change.
The story was surprisingly wholesome, not necessarily because of the plot but due to the censorship, which made it feel oddly “pure” despite the ABO setting.
By the end of the main story, I found it really sweet. It was a satisfying journey from childhood friendship to romance, and from unrequited love to mutual affection. However, an ABO story without smut did feel like a bit of a letdown. Those moments that should have been both romantic and sensual ended up feeling a little bland.
The extras were a fun touch, especially the gaming-themed one, but even they didn’t include smut. I can’t help but wish for an uncensored version of this novel!
A heartwarming read with a unique Alpha x Alpha pairing, but if you’re looking for steamy ABO tropes, this one might leave you wanting more.
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Yan Qi and Ye Yang were the two de facto ‘idols’ of the First City High, one calm and collected, one wild and rebellious. They grew up toget
Information Name: 忤逆本能Author: 花灯里Raws: JJWXCChapters: 63 (57 + 6 extras) By reading this translation, you agree to not copy, re-upload or ma
