The Fourteenth Year of Chenghua

Description

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In the fourteenth year of Chenghua, the imperial harem had one Consort Wan, just as the Western Depot had one Chief Eunuch named Wang Zhi. Crown Prince Zhu Youcheng was barely eight years old, and it was uncertain whether he could grow to adulthood without a hitch.

The Emperor was mediocre, and feckless. Eunuchs deceived those above them and kept those below them in the dark. Court officials patched up leaks left and right. Those doing evil were arrogantly savaging, and those doing good were helplessly sighing.

With the ways of the world like this, how could the ways of the Heavens possibly be just?

That year, Tang Fan transferred into Shuntian Prefecture from Hanlin Academy, taking up a post as a sixth-rank Judge.

Associated Names
One entry per line
Chenghua Shisi Nian
Năm Thành Hóa Thứ
Sleuth of the Ming Dynasty
รัชศกเฉิงฮว่าปีที่สิบสี่
成化十四年
성화 14년
Related Series
N/A
Recommendations
Peerless (11)
Thousand Autumns (5)
Golden Stage (5)
Those Years In Quest Of Honour Mine (4)
Sha Po Lang (4)
The Founder of Diabolism (3)
Recommendation Lists
  1. BLs Adapted into Dramas ( live action )
  2. Liz's Collection : BL { Historical [ mystery, poli...
  3. Best of the Best BL/Danmei!! (long review+ratings)
  4. Political Danmei
  5. Comp -- Gay -- Asian

Latest Release

Date Group Release
11/01/21 Chichi c127
10/31/21 Chichi c126
10/26/21 Chichi c125
10/22/21 Chichi c124
10/19/21 Chichi c123
10/17/21 Chichi c122
10/01/21 Chichi c121
09/27/21 Chichi c120
09/21/21 Chichi c119
09/19/21 Chichi c118
09/18/21 Chichi c117
09/15/21 Chichi c116
09/12/21 Chichi c115
09/11/21 Chichi c114
09/09/21 Chichi c113
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40 Reviews sorted by


Fantasy0Reality
Fantasy0Reality rated it
April 12, 2021
Status: c83
This is a great novel. The relationship between the MC and ML is well written. The author really spent a lot of time showing the slow progression of their relationship from strangers, to friends, and finally lovers. Although I have not reached the point in the novel when they get together yet. The cases and court intrigue are also excellent. They manage to be surprising without being too confusing.
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Sleepy_sheepy
Sleepy_sheepy rated it
December 1, 2023
Status: extra 16-18
This is one of my all time favourites.

It has a bit of everything: historical mu*der mystery, detective elements, political intrigue, action, slow burn romance. Most importantly, it felt heartfelt and realistic, and I grew to care for the characters and the world...

after completing it, I feel a bit of sadness and it feels like a departure between friends - and that is exactly what makes a story so great.

I love the MC and the ML, their distinct personalities, their bickering and tacit understanding, and their relationship with others around... more>> them - the story is immersive and the world is so well-developed that I also grew to care for the other characters as well - MC’s bratty little sister, Wang Zhi the arrogant and abrasive eunuch, among others.

Admittedly, I read this novel in doses across the span of a few months as there is so much stuff happening that I found that I needed to concentrate to remember who was who - so this is not for those who like more straightforward stories.

I also appreciate slow-burn where it’s realistic, but readers who like more obvious affection and romance between MC and ML may not find this their cup of tea.

Briefly, the story is about:

  • MC, prefect judge (low rank) who is a keen investigator, smart scholar, laidback, big glutton
  • ML is part of the emperor’s guard (Brocade Guard of the Western depot) - outwardly cold and intimidating, but inwardly warm and generous
  • MC unwittingly gets tied up in a mu*der mystery conspiracy, involving a secret society that is mu*dering others and trying to influence politics, inadvertently ends up cohabiting with ML.
  • The political backdrop: There are multiple factions vying for political power and trying to win the emperor’s favour - including the eunuchs, the ministers, among others. The current crown prince is young and lacks the favour of the emperor.
also, this novel has one of the most deeply satisfying endings.

at times too, the most beautiful prose: SPOILERS
Spoiler

ENDING SPOILERS “The moon on this night was particularly big, and particularly round. It was impartial; no matter whether someone was as rich as a monarch or poor enough to live in thatched cottages, the moon they saw would not be any different. Seeing the moon was like seeing a loved one; two different spots the same exact yearning.

How many people were partitioned by a thousand li, never to meet all their lives? The world had far too many separations and meetings. Even if people met face-to-face they might not be able to become acquainted. Even if they become acquainted, they might not be able to become friends. Even if they become friends, they might not become lifelong companions. Separated in both life and death, different viewpoints-- there were too many variables in the middle to change enough.

What fortune he had, then. He must have done a lot of good in his past life to meet Sui Zhou.”

THEN A FEW CHAPTERS LATER ML ECHOES:

ML: “in my life, even though I’ve missed many people and missed many things, I’m extremely blessed I didn’t end up missing you.”

[collapse]
<<less
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GinoReiji
GinoReiji rated it
July 1, 2023
Status: Completed
I started reading the novel after watching the drama and it is so, so good. While the drama is amazing, it sure pales in comparison of the book. Probably my most favourite novel so far. The cases are exciting and the main characters are amazing. The relationship between Sui Zhou and Tang Fan is very beautiful. The dynamic between the trio Tang Fan - Sui Zhou - Wang Zhi is also so lovely. I'm sure gonna re-read this many times ❤️
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RajaAntara
RajaAntara rated it
March 23, 2023
Status: Completed
If you came here for the fluff or sweetness, then you'll probably find it boring. But if you want solid plot, case solving and court politics, then this is for you☺️

I don't have words. This took a long while and some effort for me to finish but I didn't regret it. Anyway, highly recommended!
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PeonyDancer
PeonyDancer rated it
February 19, 2023
Status: --
So much better than the drama; they're the Golden Trio of the Ming Dynasty - Official Tang Fan (side of Justice and Law), Captain Sui Zhou (side of the Emperor) and Chief Eunuch Wang Zhi (side of the Empress). Love their friendship (esp poor WZ giving romantic advice to the other two about each other)
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rorowingaway
rorowingaway
November 30, 2022
Status: c29
Rating

8/10

Tags

Crime, Mystery, Smart MC, Cute ML, Shonen Ai

Thoughts

Hmm so far it's pretty good. It's a crime based judge novel. Basically you go around facilitating how the MC solves the cases etc. It sounds boring BUT the MC really makes it interesting. The way he solves the cases etc is quite cool indeed. I'll get back to yall after reading the novel wkwkwkw.

Updates
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Pezwitch
Pezwitch rated it
August 13, 2022
Status: Completed
There was zero romance in this story, which is not a negative because I was reading for the mystery solving

The novel has good, not great, mystery solving and it dragged near the end, so 4 out of 5 stars
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yo-le
yo-le rated it
May 5, 2022
Status: Completed
MXS never fails when it comes to detective case solving novels. Probably my favorite novel from MXS and can rival Golden Stage.

Only thing I do not really like is how she writes endings. Yeah, just like WuShuang, The "ending" dissappointed me greatly. It stops right at the end of the climax and all loose ends get tied up in the "extras". It's a bit infuriating but aite.

This novel however, had a much more mellow ending. It was more of a "and history continues ever so slowly regardless of our main... more>> characters" type vibe. This novel has some of the best cases I ever read. It's very clear cut when it comes to arcs (like in Peerless) but every story has you gripping your sitting in excitement.

My favorite arc is definitely the "Case of Suzhou" (arc 9). It was so fun reading through all the surprises and twists. Romance was never the key point here and is pretty secondary (i like that in a book) and felt like a treat when I got to see the 2 MCs interact in flirty lovey dovey ways. <<less
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pyschoconstruct
pyschoconstruct rated it
March 18, 2022
Status: c42
To be honest, if you’re looking for romance, I don’t think this is an inherently romantic novel.

It’s mainly a mystery with a lot of historical and political density. It can be a challenge to digest if your not willing to understand the political dynamic and how it influences the plot but trust it me it worth the read if your a fan of mystery.

Spoilers???

The novel kinda gives me an allusion of Sherlock Holmes type of mystery solving as it strongly focuses on the MC, Tang Fan. In all honesty, there... more>> interactions between Tang Fan and the ML are severely platonic and it would be said they’re interactions aren’t as much as you’d think (at least until wear I have reached)

This would be considered a heavy slow slow burn (there’s a point you’ll even forget you’re reading a danmei novel) due to the fact the MXS has drawn all her emphasis on the novel being filled with mystery, drama and intense plot that the narrative lacks the blatant implication of romance. It’s still very much an enjoyable read, as I am a fun of the politics and mystery narrative ongoing. Additionally the characterizations are pretty good. Tang Fan is a very likeable and endearing character. I can’t wait to see also how the ML, Sui Zhou (who kinda feels like a background character for now) develops and grows and is actually personified. <<less
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raflow
raflow rated it
December 10, 2021
Status: Completed
if you like political, historical or mysteries novel, that's definitely the best for you (and if you don't like, I still think you should give it a try)

its focus isn't completely on the couple, yet it doesn't mean that they don't have a decent development. MC and ML started as partners to solve a case, then as good friends who respect each other, and then they became lovers. It's a slow burn, you know

it's been a while since I finished that, but I don't remember having any compliments about... more>> the author writing or lots of plot holes. Actually, what I remember is thinking that the author's writing where good and with a clear development

well, that's one of my top favourites novels, really really enjoyable <<less
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jaeran26
jaeran26 rated it
May 29, 2021
Status: Completed
This historical crime story gave me a sense of slow satisfaction. The mu*der mysteries were clever and intriguing (Very Sherlock like). The overall court politics and plotting was engaging. The romance sweet and painfully slow burn.

A power couple who supported each other and was completely devoted to each other. There were a few heartfelt moments scattered throughout the novel (especially after Chapter 100 or so) that showed the genuine affection in their relationship. The ending chapters did provide some fluff to the reader, however if you're mainly looking for romance... more>> this may not be it.

This is very much Tang Fan's story and things did always end up well for him. I did wish we got to know Sui Zhou a bit more. Also enjoyed the parts with the a certain eunuch.

I loved that the author gave us so much historical details, all which fascinated me.

To complete my reading I read the translations of three authors (xoai ngon, Chichi and Nastriumden), so thanks to all for their hard work. <<less
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Bleyheart
Bleyheart rated it
July 26, 2022
Status: Completed
Tang Fan is an enigmatic and charming MC. He's smart, has his own moral code, is flexible, and is all in all a super fun to explore character.

The novel itself isn't focused on the romance, but unlike some novels that completely put the romance on the back end or barely incorporate the couple aspects, this novel follows the growth of the couple's relationship and balances it out with the mysteries and cases in it. The extras, especially the last one, is the most heartwarming piece of literature I've read.

Tldr: historical... more>> detective novel combined with couple growth mixed together into this absolutely brilliant novel.

The translator is also super awesome and does super extensive research and leaves detailed footnotes that help capture the nuances of the novel. <<less
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nyfamilyfarm
nyfamilyfarm
June 27, 2022
Status: c150
Finding no and all it's nuances as well as story styles are new to me this past year. I do arrive here late and after watching the series (thank you fan groups for leading to find bl series and damme novels.

At first, I read reviews on another site and put it aside but sorry for that mistake. It is a slow burn with plot, witty exchanges and quirky characters. I truly place this next to Golden Stage and MXTX (first in my heart.

It is accurate to say there is more... more>> a mature and sweet relationship and I feel that is part of the charm. Other reviews said it didn't feel like a bl Nobel with little romance but I'm glad I finally found for myself that wasn't true.

I can only add my little thank you in all sincerity to this translators and others as well. It blows my mind to how much work they do for the fan following internationally. I am so grateful for that. My long overnight shifts are truly saved thanks to this translator and others.

I can't add to what others who loved this book have said. Every chapter is just enjoyable.

The series is different in many parts but also one of my favorites. <<less
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djennabunny
djennabunny rated it
June 7, 2022
Status: Completed
This is a well-written slow-burn romance. If you like palace intrigue, solving crime and political mysteries, and slow slow slow and but sweet sweet romance then you will enjoy this. ML and MC have a 100% non-abusive relationship. Side characters are interesting and well-developed so it has an ensemble cast kind of feel. One of my favorite things about it is that ML and MC are independent, mature people with their own careers, interests, and connections outside the relationship. I also like it that neither of them seem to be... more>> a stereotype stand-in for a woman.

The novel is also SFW (depending on how you feel about graphic descriptions of mu*der victims) with private matters being strictly off screen and only winked at. For good or ill.

I wish I could change my rating to 4.5 but I can't figure out how! <<less
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Kuzo
Kuzo rated it
April 23, 2022
Status: Completed
Despite my IQ about to be become negative due to this story, it's good story. For those who love case solving story, this is good novel. I would love to recommend this to Non-BL readers as MC and ML can be overlooked of you dont want to see their fluffy interactions.

I was little disappointed with their transparent romance. I dont even know that they already PaPaPa until ML said smthng about it. Though it's my fault for not noticing it.
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HikariRiku
HikariRiku
February 22, 2022
Status: c20
I started reading bec of series.I'm not satisfied with series bec In series Tang Fan look smart but should I say a little silly anyway I'm not satisfied with Tang Fan character

So I start reading novel and found that Tang fan character in novel and series is difference I Love It...... I really really like SMART Character

But I like other characters Sui Zhou and Wang Zhi too
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CrazyJill
CrazyJill rated it
January 24, 2022
Status: extra 16-18
This novel is absolutely amazing and the translation is very well done.

I love every aspect: charismatic characters, detective and politics, snail speed slow burn, witty humor. Only one thing more to wish for - a bit more details of the relationship.
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EternalMoonlight
EternalMoonlight rated it
July 23, 2021
Status: Completed
Great novel, I love the characters especially the MC and ML pair. they're so lovey and smart and... ahhh. so perfect. just so perfect. I wish it never ends. I wish there were more extra and more romance between the MC and ML, ya'know some explicit action romance scene *wink wink*. 5 stars, kudos to the author and translation.. are there more extras???
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The_yiling_patriach
The_yiling_patriach rated it
June 15, 2021
Status: Completed
Haaahhhh at first few chapters I have decided to drop this book because of too many politics thank god I didn't and this novel is the best among other political novels as expected of the peerless novel's author and another main point is this novel is mainly plot based and romance is only background but it is niceeee there are no plot holess and even side characters are strong my fav savage eunuch wang ❤️❤️❤️ overall worth it

Wooo I watched first few episodes of sleuth of ming dynasty after I... more>> read this and it is completely different only first case is same and I dropped it because tooo confusing <<less
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Ronit
Ronit rated it
May 23, 2021
Status: Completed
I don't like politics so I thought I won't like this too so I just looked it over but god I really s**ked in by this novel it's brilliant each and every case are interesting and more so Tang Fan and Sui Zhou they are so sweet.. There is no explicit scene nor flowery romantic scene but everytime they are together u will wish to end up like them but I don't like the chenghua Emperor nor that consort wan..
It's worth a read.. It's wonderful novel... more>> and I liked it very much.. Thank u for translating this.. <<less
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