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The Founder of Diabolism
Type
Web Novel (CN)
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Rating(4.7 / 5.0, 3622 votes)
5    86% (3123 votes)
4    8% (277 votes)
3    2% (79 votes)
2    1% (41 votes)
1    3% (102 votes)
Language
Support Book (#ad)
Author(s)
One entry per line
Artist(s)
One entry per line
N/A
Year
Example: 2012
2015
Status in COO
Status in Country of Origin. One entry per line
113 Chapters + 13 Extras (Completed)
Licensed
Yes
Completely Translated
Original Publisher
One entry per line
English Publisher
One entry per line
Release Frequency
Every 176.9 Day(s)
Activity Stats
[Graph]
Weekly Rank: #365
Monthly Rank: #320
All Time Rank: #221
Reading List
[Graph]
On 25045 Reading Lists
Monthly Rank: #5609
All Time Rank: #12

Description

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As the grandmaster of demonic cultivation, Wei Wuxian roamed the world, hated by millions for committing acts of necromancy. Overthrown by the powerful clans he had attempted to subjugate, Wei Wuxian is supposedly killed by his shidi in order to save the cultivation world.

Restored to life in the body of Mo Xuanyu, the local cut-sleeve lunatic, in order to exact revenge on his abusive relatives, Wei Wuxian quickly finds himself spiralling back into his old life when he’s taken away by the cold-hearted, stern, and ultimately quite boring Lan Wangji – who might be harbouring warmer feelings than contempt. Perhaps of the…romantic kind?

But despite his new beginning, Wei Wuxian begins to unravel a decade and a half long mystery that is set to undo the very fabric of the cultivation world as they know it.

A mysterious, action-packed thriller of a ride, this is a journey you won’t want to miss!

Associated Names
One entry per line
Demonic Path Ancestral Master
EL GRAN MAESTRO DE LA CULTIVACIÓN DEMONÍACA
GDC
Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation
Ma Đạo Tổ Sư
MDZS
Mo Dao Zu Shi
Засновник темного шляху
Основатель Тёмного Пути
ปรมาจารย์ลัทธิมาร
魔道祖师
魔道祖師
마도조사
Related Series
N/A
Recommendations
Heaven Official’s Blessing (27)
The Scum Villain’s Self-Saving System (25)
The Reader and Protagonist Definitely Have to Be in True Love (13)
Every Day the Protagonist Wants to Capture Me (10)
The Legendary Master’s Wife (9)
Pulling Together a Villain Reformation Strategy (9)
Recommendation Lists
  1. rev's bl favs
  2. Worth a read
  3. Xianxia Danmei
  4. Wuxia - Xianxia - Xuanhuan*
  5. Cute...
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Write a Review
546 Reviews sorted by


soft
soft rated it
April 15, 2021
Status: Completed
Normally I don't write reviews, but this novel deserves one.

While I wouldn't say that I'm a Chinese web novel expert, I've read a couple of them ever since I finished this one a couple months ago and I honestly have not found anything that can compare.

The plot is very interesting. It's not contrived. All the subplots are not only connected in some way to the larger, over-arching storyline but also highly effective in fleshing out multiple supporting characters. Everything is done for a reason. I've also found this novel to... more>> be very clear on how cultivation works within its universe (and just general world-building in general I supposed). I've read some other cultivation stories that were either confusing/inconsistent in how cultivation worked (e.g. in The Legendary Master's Wife, there were several inconsistencies in cultivation levels, how to level up, differences between alchemical, non-human, etc. cultivators) or inelegant in world-building (please stop information-dumping at the beginning of the novel to "create setting" @authors xoxo). The one confusing thing I would like to mention is the names. For those who don't know, it was common for people in ancient China to have a courtesy name and a birth name. Some of the characters in this novel can have up to 3 names, which I found quite confusing at first but got used to later on.

The characterization is amazing. The two leads are equally lovable while having their own shortcomings (e.g. WWX's impulsivity, LWJ's strict adherence to propriety), and the way that they interact with the plot and develop with it is both touching and logical. Personally speaking, for me to see the events in the novel incite change within these characters made me heavily emotionally invested in them. The supporting characters also have a certain degree of depth (varies from character to character based on their role), sometimes even more depth than some of the leads in other novels tbh.

Lastly, the story-telling is A+. MXTX alternates between the current timeline and the past to develop the story and to introduce subplots. Returning to the present after each "past" arc made me slowly understand the characters more and more and allowed me to compare their past and their present selves... it really builds the intrigue.

Spoiler

To be honest I didn't read this knowing that LWJ and WWX would get together in the end (I was completely blindsided lol!). The story is much more plot-focused than romance-focused IMO but I honestly think this worked highly in favour of the final outcome. We get to see how these two polar opposite characters somehow get together, to understand LWJ's devotion to WWX. Though it's never explicitly stated (e.g. MXTX doesn't get into LWJ's head and give us the internal monologue of him thinking "Wei Ying is so cute :D"), we clearly understand that their emotional bond is forged through childhood, time, and adversity, all shared with each other. Okay. I'm done the mini-rant but like. WWX and LWJ are the best ancient Chinese husbands ever.

[collapse]

Highly highly recommend! <<less
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LaoYu
LaoYu rated it
April 14, 2021
Status: c113
This novel seems like it should really be overrated, with all the hype and attention it gets, but the truth is MXTX just never misses. There's a reason it's popular, and that reason is the thrilling plotline and the complimentary relationship between the ML and the MC, which can be felt intensely even after translation. I don't think I can say that the romance factors very little into the storyline, but it only serves to enhance it rather than be relied on and weakening it as a whole.

The mystery and... more>> thriller sections of the novel invite you to truly think, highlighted by one of the most genuinely intelligent and experienced MC's I've ever had the pleasure of reading. The overarching plot is delightfully heartbreaking and natural, leaving me in awe that MXTX has this amount of foresight even in only her second novel (and I say this having not read Heaven's Official Blessing as of yet, which makes me excited to read what people call her best work). The character's personalities are wonderfully vivid and reactionary, capturing slight nuances in the status differences that they aren't even consciously aware of with subtle jabs and opinions. From the well-loved and appreciated Junior Quartet to the circle of MianMian, even the most (relatively) inconsequential character leaves an impact upon living memory as well as the world they're a part of. The flashback segments, while disorienting at first, upon reread come to be some of my favorite parts, granting insight into the way the characters have matured throughout their lives without feeling overly-descriptive or stuffy.

Speaking of the description, the teams of translators that have handled this novel are delightful in their attempts to capture the atmosphere that is so crucial from the raws themselves. Given the amount of media types this work has been adapted to, it stands to note that this is still my favorite one, having painstakingly parsed through each. The visual versions available do not, for me, surpass the writing, though for many it is probably not the same.

The true, greatest detail in this novel, in my opinion, are the 'villains'. While there is a special place in my heart for WangXian that will most likely never disappear, as most fans of this novel will tell you the designated 'bad' characters are some of the best I have ever seen in novels. MXTX has a true talent for breathing and spelling life into her 'bad guys', so much so that there are active battles over the characters getting redemption from some fans and a declaration of the opposite from others. There is an acknowledgement of the classically greedy and vapid characters as still being dangerous, as their actions still affect the MC significantly, it is the battle behind the scenes, of which all the pieces come together in the end, that truly brings them up to a higher level.

Spoiler

The tacit understanding that everyone, including Wei Wuxian, was complicit in what happened to him is a realization that some find stunning or difficult to swallow, as the concept of taking responsibility for mistakes and main characters making wrong choices while still not being technically in the wrong is an unfamiliar and fresh theme for the novel to tackle, even if you read lacking an understanding of the cultural nuance that makes his actions so morally reprehensible. Jin Guangyao not even factoring into the main character's radars for the longest time truly cements that appearances aren't all they seem, and the lack of resolution between Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng leaves the sort of bittersweet feeling that has the aftertaste of hope.

[collapse]

Tl;dr: This novel cannot be called flawless, but its undeniable quality in storyline, character development and establishment, pacing, and the level of detail it possesses make it a truly worthwhile read. <<less
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fio_el
fio_el rated it
April 8, 2021
Status: Completed
I started by watching the drama 'The Untamed' like many others, I got a bit confused earlier on by so many things happening so I decided to start reading the novel to fill in the gaps. There are so many things I love about this novel, the intense drama, the complex storyline, the beautifully described sceneries, and the strong bonds. I also like that the growth of the relationship between the leads felt organic, and I appreciate that the author didn't turn everyone gay like many other BL stories I've... more>> read.

However, my gripe is with the treatment of the female characters, they were treated like disposables.

Spoiler

Most of them were killed off and a lot of the times the author was basically fridging these women (see Women in Refrigerators trope).

[collapse]

I also feel like a lot of the strong ones were presented as the bad guy. This being a BL story shouldn't be an excuse to write female characters (or any characters) in such ways.

Spoiler

Also be warned of the lack of lube in their s*x scenes (yikes), and borderline non-consent in some of their s*x scenes. I said borderline because it really depends on how you look at it, but the incense dream sequence/s can be a bit of a grey area.

[collapse]

Nevertheless, I still enjoyed the story and would recommend it if you like the genre. I also would like to note that the translation by Exiled Rebels Scanlations was really well written. <<less
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xuevie
xuevie rated it
April 6, 2021
Status: Completed
Tho I'm wondering why it doesn't have a 5/5 cuz it's toooooo good, but anyways, this is the first danmei I've ever read and I really wanna give it a 10/5!!!!! Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian are just fated to be together, no one can get in their way; they are perfect together. There's no need to describe it (plus there's not enough words to describe how great it is) cuz you all know that this is a cultivation and mystery novel that is super cute, fluffy and bittersweet and... more>> have characters, MC, ML and others, that are great developments due to their very deep and complex background stories and connections. All in all, it's just very satisfying, beautiful and perfect!!! DEFINITELY A MUST READ (as both a romance, BL novel and a mystery novel) !!!! <<less
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Melobski4
Melobski4 rated it
April 4, 2021
Status: --
The first Chinese danmei novel I read and the best so far, I entered into this world thanks to a friend and now I can’t get out.

I have read more novels but this and SVSS keep me going.

strong MC, whipped ML.

One of the best character evolutions I have ever read, although you have to keep focus on what you’re reading in order to understand everything, once you have the hang of it, it gets easier from there, unexpected plot twist at the end, good villains, good MC, ML and all... more>> the other characters.

ah~ I wish I could read it as if it was my first time <<less
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IcyBaby
IcyBaby rated it
April 3, 2021
Status: c126
Among the 1st/early chinese novels I read, I was redirected from its manhua.

So far still the best among those i've read. I even re-read this a few times in straight succession and then a few times more occasionally. Good for cry n laughs. 5/5. Will read again.

The plot is good. The characters complex and so very human.

The story-telling structure is captivating. It makes me curious about what had happened. It started in the middle, then switches between flashback and present story. With each flashback we discover more about the characters... more>> and past event that lead to present ones.

I've read all 3 mxtx's novels, mdzs is still my favorite.

If you enjoyed mdzs, you might also like Legendary Master's Wife, a lighter novel (but with way more chapters) with less angst n more badassery n fluff. <<less
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pimni
pimni rated it
March 29, 2021
Status: c126
I started watching The Untamed and then read the book because I wanted the BL part which was of course omitted in the series (but kudos to the main actors who conveyed everything through their eyes; you don't need any dialogue of love when LZ looks at his soulmate).

So, the book is more better and thrilling than the show which has the flashback part in a straight manner while in the book it is in parts when the MC thinks about the past. Hence it is a better read as... more>> it keeps the reader engaged thinking how did things end up this bad. The translators did a marvelous job and the artwork is fantastic. I read the one by Exiled Rebel. It is the completed one. Coming to the romance part, it is actually pretty late in the main novel (the smut is good though) and is not related to the main story in anyways. But the cute interaction and the slow acknowledgment of the love of LZ for WY are so adorable. The MC can be clueless at times, and of course, many things happened when he was not there, and hence needed a good talk with LZ s brother to understand how much he loved him in his previous life. And since LZ could recognize WY in his first interaction, he pretty much became a wife s*ave in the present timeline. The pampering was of another level!

All the side characters are memorable, and you will want to write fanfictions of them. So, don't delay, even if you have seen the series, read the book. <<less
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Anon_No.16
Anon_No.16
March 24, 2021
Status: extra
I have been rereading it a LOT.

Because why not?

I like the characters like Wei Wuxian who are UTTERLY SHAMELESS and his love interest is just as equally even though its subtle. Love that Lan Wangji is a petty man, and Jiang Wanyin is like really, right in front of my nephew?

I may have a problem....
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PeerlessFluff
PeerlessFluff
March 23, 2021
Status: all
Omg. Omgomgomg.

I'm so glad this was my first Chinese novel. You guys.... this is really well written (world building, fighting w music?!, character development) and beautifully translated. *chef's kiss*

I'm about to re-read this epic story ♡ If you're a first time reader, I'd suggest that you get a character map or something bc I got confused by characters w similar names and also some people are called diff names by diff people.

The author starts in the middle of a time-line and weaves the past and present into a very rich... more>> story full of pathos, friendship, fluff and comedic relief. There may be misunderstandings but they not trite ~ they can stand on their own.

Thank you translator♡ <<less
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alice_animelover
alice_animelover rated it
March 18, 2021
Status: c1
Like many people, I also read the novel because of the live action adaptation. I’m sure everyone said enough about how good the story was so I have nothing new to add.

My only complaint is that Mo XuanYu literally showed up for a tiny scene and was only mentioned here and there, and he was immediately already my most favorite character in the novel, live action, and animation. I wish the main couple had at least bother to look into Mo XuanYu’s true story and thank him. But, the fact... more>> that the two immediately eloped without a care for everyone else should be pretty self explanatory. <<less
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AlexLovesLanZhan
AlexLovesLanZhan rated it
March 12, 2021
Status: Completed
I Loved it! I loved it! I loved it! This book is legit my fav of all time. Ya'll give it a try, you won't regret it!!!!!

P.s I really really really love Lan Zhan.
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jackyross
jackyross rated it
March 10, 2021
Status: Completed
I just love this!

I started with the anime and then found out there's a novel. I kept going back to reading this because of the characters, the story - everything.. It took me almost a year before I even decided to finally watch the live action.

There are differences between the 3 and each have their own positive points. Whether you first find out about this through the anime or the live action, I find it awesome that we can read the continuation of WWX and LWJ's story in this novel.
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SDig23
SDig23 rated it
March 7, 2021
Status: Completed
This novel is really very good. There are many good reviews so I'm not going to drag mine.

I hesitated for a very long time before picking this up to read. But as I started to read I loved this so much...I finished it in two days.

You'll love all the characters. None of them are shallow. They've their own difficulties and uniqueness.

... more>> As fr Wei WuXian and Lan Zhan...... they are just the best protagonist, couple, friends...... you can found.

I'm actually at a loss because I finished reading this wonderful novel and don't know what to do.

Still there is the drama, anime and manga that I haven't not started but I am going too. I'm just too obsessed with this novel.

Try reading.. you won't be disappointed. <<less
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QualiteaRose
QualiteaRose rated it
March 4, 2021
Status: Completed
Favorite author, and one of my favorite novels! I read Heavenly Official's Blessing (TGCF) first (my first danmei), and that is honestly one of my top 3 novels I've ever read. She's such an amazing author!

I love all her stories, and it's so cool to see the progression in her writing~ She never fails to have tons of characters and have so much good plot, but I think as time goes on she just gets better and better at wrapping everything up perfectly. It's just incredible.

I think with this one... more>> (probably because I personally liked TGCF more.. But I think the difference is just experience as a writer), the many names of the characters was really confusing (especially at first, it takes a while to get them down ^^;).

The romance was amazing, and I appreciate the extras uwu

but I preferred the romance in TGCF..I think I like the progression more/the way it's told? If you were slightly disappointed by this book or loved where it was going, or REALLY loved this book, give TGCF it'll blow your mind!! XD

These characters are great and have so much life to them. Every second was enjoyable and I had to keep reading. I read it in just a few days~

I HIGHLY recommend this book! And all her other novels. I'm kind of going in reverse order hehe

(I usually read them by using Speechify so it's kinda like an audiobook, while I work on work ;)) <<less
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sibiris
sibiris rated it
February 26, 2021
Status: c12
Seeing how overwhelmigly recommended this was I thought to give it a try. Not going to lie, it was quite intriguing at first, but soon it was overwhelming in a bad way. Stuff happening, a billion names (literally 3 different names per character) places, thing happening, weird descriptions... and then it dawned on me, this is a gay novel. That realization instantly put things in order, the weird interactions between the MC and I think the main interest, the weird descriptions it all made sense. This was not written with... more>> a male comprehension in mind.

As a guy, I feel violated by reading this. They should have put it in the tags, but I guess Bis*xual protagonist and Brootherhood is their way of putting it. <<less
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I-will-happily-accept-this-bowl-of-dog-food rated it
February 15, 2021
Status: Completed
this novel is gold!!! I can't tell you how much I love this. the romance, the past, the plot, the steamy scenes (⁄ ⁄•⁄ω⁄•⁄ ⁄) ⁄ everything about this novel is just... mwah (chefs kiss) the manhua and doghua adaptations are good, too. lan zhan's love was the most adorable thing ever! and wei wuxian is so dense!
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realrinya
realrinya rated it
February 10, 2021
Status: --
I love this seriously it is one Of the best. Yes there were some parts where while reading I felt a bit bored but you realize after finishing why the author included those scenes. I love Wangxian I am seriously obsessed with them. But the biggest thanks goes to of course to translators they’ve done an awesome job they helped us read this masterpiece they are the best!!! But still there was only some small part that I didn’t like unrelated to the main story: the way they always said... more>> to each other I am going to r*pe you/r*pe me etc was a bit disturbing idk I don’t think there was a need for that. Still it is the best story go read it if you haven’t already <<less
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The Cheshire cat
The Cheshire cat rated it
February 9, 2021
Status: Completed
I absolutely adore this novel. This is the one that got me into BL novels and I have read a few since then & yet Mo dao zu shi still remains my absolute favourite.

Romance didn't exist before WangXian. Thier relationship is solid and is equally strong as the story. The plot is a bit messy and drags in some places but it doesn't matter much.
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SilverZinnia
SilverZinnia rated it
January 29, 2021
Status: Completed
Brilliant! Everything that I could ever want in a novel is in Mo Dao Zu Shi. Amazing characters, very well written, and has just about every genre I love. Lan Zhan has to be one of my favorite characters written of all time, if not my most. I love how all of the characters are so 4-Dimensional that they feel like real people.

A 5/5 Stars. You really can't go wrong with an MXTX novel.
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Ray-kun
Ray-kun
December 27, 2020
Status: Completed
I had not written a review for this before so here I am, let me tell you this novel is beautiful and when the ending came I felt bitter yet very much sweet, I did not want this to end but I also would not have wanted it to end any other way. I would like to thank the author, Translator and editor for letting us have a chance to read such a wonderful work.
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