Danmei Recommendations
Danmei Recommendations
In roughly order of awesomeness!
For reference...5/5 means excellent, 4/5 means great, and 3/5 means still enjoyable and thus recommendable but nothing special. This list won't include anything I dropped or rated 1-2/5.
I anticipate 1) adding more novels to this list and 2) writing more complete reviews instead of blurbs (actually almost done with this second point for the novels already on this list!). Writing reviews takes more time than expected, and there are so many good novels to read, lol.
Currently reading: "Surprise! The Supposed Talent Show Was Actually--?!"
(Also reading new updates on "Don't Pick Up Boyfriends from the tr*sh Bin," “Husky and his White Cat Shizun,” and “Thousand Autumns.”)
For reference...5/5 means excellent, 4/5 means great, and 3/5 means still enjoyable and thus recommendable but nothing special. This list won't include anything I dropped or rated 1-2/5.
I anticipate 1) adding more novels to this list and 2) writing more complete reviews instead of blurbs (actually almost done with this second point for the novels already on this list!). Writing reviews takes more time than expected, and there are so many good novels to read, lol.
Currently reading: "Surprise! The Supposed Talent Show Was Actually--?!"
(Also reading new updates on "Don't Pick Up Boyfriends from the tr*sh Bin," “Husky and his White Cat Shizun,” and “Thousand Autumns.”)
20 Followers
Created: Jun 11th, 2020, Updated: Mar 4th, 2021
Created Jun 11th, 2020
Updated Mar 4th, 2021
CN (4.7)
23 Chapters Every 107.3 Day(s) 20624 Readers 479 Reviews 11-29-2020
Overall: 5/5. ... more>>
Fully worth being a published novel and far from being just a danmei guilty pleasure. I wish I could erase my memory of this so that I can discover its greatness again. Whelp, guess I'm a MXTX fangirl. Eagerly awaiting the anime!!!
Story: Come for the BL and stay for the plot (well, and also the BL). The story is well-written that it could stand on its own legs even if the BL elements were taken out. This is the best novel I've read where the relationship between the MC and ML develops organically with the story, and in turn that relationship drives certain events in the story.
The setting is heaven/earth and ghosts/spirits. MC was the crown prince of a great nation that fell into ruin and now ascends to the Heavens for the third time ~800 years after his initial ascension (and subsequent two demotions). MC is first assigned a few smaller tasks but then, of course, gets roped into schemes that shake the very foundations of the Heavens.
Good combo of action, drama/scheming, and fluff/humor. There is a good deal of tragedy as well--which I think accounts for a lot of the lower starred reviews the novel has. Regardless, characters are motivated/driven and scheme and respond to events realistically. The multiple arcs culminate satisfyingly in the ending climax. The defeat of the end game baddie is a personal victory for the MC as well as the group saving the world. This is a happy ending!
Similar to Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation, there are time skips/flashbacks in this novel; however, time transitions are much more fluid and don't break up the flow of the story. Although there might be some disappointment at first during a flashback arc on realizing that the relationship between MC and ML in the present time will be delayed, the compelling plot will quickly bury that disappointment because 1) the story is great and 2) it actually gives great backstory to the relationship between MC and ML.
MC: The shou. Far from a damsel in distress and his personality actually reflects someone that has traveled between the earth and the heavens for 800s years : witty, kind but not oblivious to danger, calm through danger, resilient, self-reliant. He certainly has his downs (arc 4 will pull at your heartstrings!) but stays true to his self.
ML: The gong. One of the Four Great Calamities, he hits the perfect amount of OP-ness and arrogance without being unrealistic/annoying. The novel does a great job at showing why ML is so devoted to MC (800 years!). Amazing backstory.
Relationship development: So good! ML starts off as the OP mystery man who is indulgent towards MC for whatever reason. Interactions between the two will have you smiling/smirking and wanting more. ML's interest is obvious from the get go, and MC comes around in a way that feels natural.
Critiques: Will sometimes feel slow in beginning of flashback arcs BUT it is so worth it to read on through!
I don't think I can emphasize this enough: this novel is amazing. I got sad when I finished reading it. Like, there was an ache in my chest. Not because it was a bad ending but because the novel was finished and everything was wrapped up beautifully and there better not be any more sh*t that bothers MC and ML from their happy ending.
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CN (4.7)
258 Chapters Every 10.1 Day(s) 15274 Readers 191 Reviews 04-29-2024
Overall: 5/5... more>>
I struggled on where in my top 3 to rank this and finally settled #2, between Heaven Official's Blessing and Sha Po Lang. All three are masterpieces!
This review was especially hard to write because I wanted to write just enough to entice people to want to read it but not enough to spoil its plot twists and thus diminish the surprise/joy felt on experiencing its sheer cleverness. If you're willing to heed my advice, stop reading this review right now and just start reading the novel!
Story: Be prepared to have all expectations blown away. The premise sounds mundane enough: MC pairs with system number 061, transmigrates to a world (one world is one story arc) where a pitiful shou offered up his body as host at time of death, travels back in time to before the shou's death, and takes revenge on the scum gong; once the gong's regret level reaches 100, the mission counts as complete, and MC can leave the world and take on another mission. Rinse and repeat for a total of 10 times, and then the MC can return to his original world (or stay permanently in a world of his choosing).
There is the expected--and satisfying--ass kicking. However, this novel is far more than just a gratuitous revenge story on repeat. Each arc is a story in its own right spanning 20-some chapters--with satisfying world-building, characters, conflict, climax, and resolution. The setting of each world varies: most so far have been modern (as the system explains it, the first few missions are similar to MC's original world in order to allow him to adapt quicker as a host) but started to diversify starting from the ABO setting in arc 4, which showcased the author's unique spin of this well-known genre.
And woven into each arc is the slow revelation of the transmigration/host/system process's true purposes, consequences of a host's actions on the original shou, and the MC's dedication to return to his own world. At chapter 113 (the most recent translated chapter as of 6/23/20), I'm constantly surprised by plot twists and just good, clever writing.
MC: Presumably the shou (not sure yet as of chapter 113). He is a beautifully compelling character: clever, resourceful, charismatic, seemingly shameless yet compassionate. His schemes to raise the gong's regret level are clever yet realistic. His antics (e.g. grinding regret points to buy special ability cards from the system's shop instead of just trying to hit 100 asap to complete the mission) are sure to give the system grief and cause you to laugh.
ML: Presumably the gong. A huge surprise when introduced as the likely ML, but the eyebrow raising quickly turns into cheering for the couple as their backstory is revealed. He is undoubtedly OP but kind rather than the cold/arrogant archetype. He is also very indulgent towards the MC but without stifling MC--a very hard balance to achieve.
Relationship development: The heart-warming and mature slow-burn between MC and ML acts as a foil against the relationships held between each gong and their original shou in the various worlds. Possessive behavior, dependent/borderline personality, and emotional/physical abuse are often romanticized in online--and especially BL--novels but would be red flags for a toxic relationship in real life. It was refreshing to see the MC reject these tropes. MC and ML are equals/partners in their relationship. It is also interesting (ongoing as of chapter 113) to witness the MC's hesitance to overstep boundaries with the ML while in a shou's body as MC respects the original shou as an individual person.
One final shout out to villain characterization. Without a doubt, each gong is a scum. However, the villains are as well fleshed out as the MC and ML (scratch that, even many of the side characters have backstories--kudos to the author), with their own motivations, and not all villains are the same level of scum. Although the MC must reach the regret level of 100, there are different flavors of regret, and not all of the gong push themselves into a "bad ending."
Critiques: Honestly, none. So, so good. I will be eagerly awaiting each new chapter. I wish I could read Chinese so I didn't have to wait for translators.
Actually, one final shout out...to the translators. Translation to English is superb but two things are the icing on the cake: embedded explanations on Chinese idioms (so don't have to scroll to the bottom and thus breaking flow of story) and embedded pictures of Chinese food described in the story! This extra effort is greatly appreciated!
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CN (4.6)
72 Chapters Every 63.4 Day(s) 12269 Readers 110 Reviews 06-30-2022
Completed Action Adventure Comedy Drama Historical Martial Arts Mature Mecha Mystery Romance Shounen Ai Xuanhuan
Overall: 4.9/5 (just because I want to note that Heaven Official's Blessing is so good! And now Don't Pick Up Boyfriends from the tr*sh Bin)... more>>
This also could stand as a published novel as is and if the BL elements were taken out. Guess I'll jump on the Priest train as well. Note: there are mild spoilers below for the early story?
Story: Great politics. The setting is imperial China but with mecha (cyperpunk?) and disputes over the resource that powers the mecha and is even more valuable than oil in real life. There's conflict both between China and its international enemies and within the imperial court (MC is a lost prince and ML is a Marquis/OP general). This novel was so well-written that it hooked someone like me who isn't typically interested in this genre (see the rest of my recommendations lol: mostly cultivation) 100% for the entire time. Great world building. Lots of action and politics/scheming.
MC: The gong. He is the half-blood 4th imperial prince who has to maneuver through the Imperial Court, save the country, and overcome a curse placed on him by his aunt. Very witty. Not afraid to get his hands dirty.
ML: The shou. Marquis and leader of the strongest military group in the country (honestly feels like the only group that's actually useful). Also witty. How he deals with his physical limits is a reflection of his strong character and also drives the story. I just wish he didn't get hurt all the time.
Relationship development: MC refreshingly realizes his feelings fairly early on, comes to accept them, makes ML aware, but doesn't push ML too much (at least early on). The first few attempts of ML rejecting MC are great to read, and the scene where ML becomes the shou instead of the gong during their first time together is even better (nothing explicit)!
Critiques: It's slightly unrealistic how easily/fast MC and ML are able to travel across China in certain events (plot armor? deus ex machina?) but whatever, the story goes on!
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CN (4.4)
115 Chapters Every 10.5 Day(s) 12115 Readers 100 Reviews 02-18-2024
Overall: 4.75/5... more>>
Another great novel from Priest. Highly recommend! Review as of chapter 61 on 9/10/20.
Story: Cultivation setting, with lots of great fighting scenes and comedic bickering. MC dedicated 10 years of his life to help the former Crown Prince become the now Emperor of Heaven. The story starts off with MC retiring as the leader of “Tian Chuang,” the organization of intelligence gatherers and assassins loyal only to the Emperor. However, leaving such an organization comes at great cost, and MC is no exception to the established precedent of undergoing the “Nails of Seven Apertures for Three Autumns.” As the name suggests, once the nails are inserted, MC has three (painful) autumns to live. MC initially spends these three years traveling the pugilist world disguised as a beggar, drinking good wine and seeing sights that he missed out on during his youth. However, MC saves a young master (not ML) one night and learns that one of the five great sects has just been wiped out. This is the first of a string of massacres, and MC and ML travel together to find out the cause.
The story focuses on three major mysteries. One, the identity and motivation of the mastermind(s) behind the killings. Two, the events that occurred 30 years ago that set up the situation in the present time. And three, ML’s identity and motivations.
MC: Presumably the shou. A wonderfully multifaceted character. He was the cold-hearted leader of “Tian Chuang” yet takes childish joy in cursing like a sailor after meeting a cantankerous fisherman. He is weakened by the Nails to 50% of his original strength yet can fend off all but the truly OP (*cough* ML *cough*). He accepts a dying’s man wish to protect the above young master but hides his soft-heartedness under the cover of being bought by a measly two silver crumblings. ML basically calls him a tsundere.
ML: Presumably the gong. With the persona of a playboy, ML first identifies MC as a skilled cultivator and then as a true beauty--both despite MC hiding behind a sickly beggar mask. ML is refreshingly sincere in his distraught upon learning of MC’s limited lifespan. As mentioned above, his background is a driving force in the story.
Relationship development: ML shamelessly flirts with MC from the get-go and continues to do so throughout the story (not crossing into dubious or non-consent). His less flirtatious actions ultimately move ML, and ML comes around in a manner that comes off neither sudden nor frustratingly tsundere/oblivious. MC’s “Nails of Seven Apertures” looms like a death sentence and adds a bittersweet quality to any of his relationships. I just wish sickness weren’t so common a trope to use in danmei novels to progress the relationship: MC is sickly and has to accept ML’s closeness during a time of vulnerability, etc.
Commentary: Again, a great read. This could be read for the plot alone (I believe a live action drama is in the works?). The relationship between MC and ML is fun to read. I'm a fan of MC's and ML's characterizations: MC is NOT a supposedly skilled individual that in reality ends up being a damsel in distress for the stoic ML to save constantly.
Actually, I really like how well the secondary characters are fleshed out as well. MC ends up taking the young master mentioned above as a disciple, and their interactions are hilarious to read. Likewise, ML already has his own disciple, and she is her own force to be reckoned with. Some sect members and villains act as tertiary characters and have their individual personalities conveyed despite only getting a few paragraphs of screen time.
The Emperor, Lord Seventh, the Great Shaman, and MC's shidi are apparently characters in Priest's "Lord Seventh" novel. I plan on reading this next, but knowing that they are the main characters in their own story just adds a sense of "moreness" to the story.
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CN (4.4)
65 Chapters Every 48.3 Day(s) 15809 Readers 384 Reviews 04-27-2023
Overall: 4.75/5 (rated 5/5 on review system) As others have stated, rated R. There is r*pe, unhealthy relationships/obsession, and gore in flashbacks (and some gore in... more>> present time). Relationship during present times is fairly respectful and without non-con.Story: Cultivation setting with rebirth. MC was the errant disciple of ML and spiraled down a path of violence after a beloved fellow disciple dies--an event for which MC blames ML. With heinous deeds such as imprisoning/torturing ML and destroying multiple sects under his belt, MC decides to take his own life at the beginning of the story and is reborn into his teenage self. There are a few old enemies and false friends in the beginning that the matured MC defeats like in any rebirth story; however, refreshingly, the storyline incorporates new events in the cultivation world as consequence of MC's actions/maturity rather than just repeating everything from MC's past.MC embarks on missions as a sect disciple, interacts with disciples of other sects, obtains his divine weapon, ventures into the Underworld, etc. The overarching plot probably deals with some demonic entity trying to encroach on the mortal world. Still not sure as of chapter 150 on 1/26/21. The story thus far feels more as a medium to develop the relationship between MC and ML. So more character-driven than plot-driven. Still entertaining to read! MC: The gong. An absolute ass during his previous life (version 0.5), he was the tyrant who conquered the world in a rage of grief and vengeance. MC ultimately had a slight change of heart because of ML at the very end and soon rebirthed into the present story. MC still starts off as antagonistic towards ML (version 1.0) but then starts to understand ML better. By chapter ~120, MC is respected as a grandmaster of the cultivation world in his own right (version 2.0)...and begins to reconcile his more romantic feelings towards ML. The progression of this is great to read. ML: The shou. Slightly one dimensional: ML is the cold but misunderstood and actually kindhearted shizun, often letting others take credit for his good actions or letting himself get injured so that MC doesn't. Honestly, a lot of the conflict between MC and ML could have been avoided if this self-sacrificing tsundere actually communicated.Relationship development: Slow burn. This is an enemies to lovers done well! It truly feels like MC and ML hate each other in the beginning. Yet with each scene, MC lets go bits and pieces of his prejudice against ML and the two each become more truthful to their feelings. So much pining...!Commentary: Misleading title and summary. The story is a lot more adult than the fluffy impression that the title and summary give. Also, ML is definitely a cat but MC doesn't feel like a dumb, happy-go-lucky dog. Don't take that the wrong way. I actually really like MC's character/development and conversely hope that ML gets more character development in the future chapters. My only critique would be re plot at where I am now (chapter 140s): to minimize spoilers... sh*t was going down, baddies were wrecking havoc, the group managed to squeak a victory, but BAD STUFF was still happening...Then there's a 5 year time skip and nothing bad happens during this time?? Yes, the MC gets stronger (and older! No pe*ophilia!) during this time but the plot conveniently decides to wait 5 years for MC and ML? I'm going to assume stuff did actually happen and this will be revealed in the coming chapters.
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CN (4.4)
#6Undead
61 Chapters Every 104.5 Day(s) 6279 Readers 43 Reviews 06-11-2021
Overall: 4.6/5 (rated 5/5 on review system), as of chapter 42.... more>>
This novel just does so many things right. Power couple, strong uke, banter, action scenes, plot! The religious allusions are a little cringy/edgy but infrequent enough that they don't detract too much from the story.
Story: Action-packed ABO in zombie apocalypse. MC wakes up with amnesia in a cell, set to be transported by some nameless alpha soldiers to a nearby government base, where presumably he and other poor/defenseless omegas would be offered protection during the zombie apocalypse. Uncertain of this group's trustworthiness, MC takes advantage of an incoming zombie horde to escape. He then assists and becomes an integral part of ML's special forces squad 118 unit 6. Together, they fight their way through zombie-infested ruins to ultimately retrieve the zombie virus vaccine. The team picks up various other survivors on the way. Strangers and friends alike die, and their deaths have emotional significance. As MC's memories return--unfortunately not with necessarily pleasant triggers--both MC's backstory and the events causing the zombie virus outbreak are revealed.MC: The omega shou. He is so mouthwateringly badass from the get go! MC initially gives off the cold, OP aura that is typically reserved for semes in danmei; however, his thoughtful actions--some small and mundane, others life-changing--make him more than just the "special omega who defies his submissive breeding." He has moments of stubbornness, jealousness, vulnerability, hope, anger that make him a well-written character.ML: The alpha seme. Captain of unit 6. It's always a pleasure to read a seme ML that actually has a personality and isn't either 1) a cold but actually caring tsundere or 2) a 100% completely shameless flirt. ML is hilarious, bickering with MC and his comrades in a way that breathes life into this apocalyptic story. At the same time, he takes his duties as soldier and captain very seriously, looking after his comrades and refusing to abandon honestly rather useless civilian baggage.Relationship development: MC, logical bastard that he is, inaccurately deduces that ML and another alpha are in a relationship (granted, the alphas of unit 6 all received inhibitors and appear as betas) and maintains this misconception for many chapters. His occasional commentary on this believed relationship showcases MC's wry humor. Refreshingly, it is still MC that makes the first blatantly non-platonic move towards ML. The ABO aspect is present but not forced down the reader's throat: MC has some plot-driven issues against alphas, but there are no contrived scenarios where ML magnanimously helps MC through a heat because 'oh look, the inhibitor suddenly went faulty.' Commentary: Three standout points: strong uke (as mentioned above), great action scenes, and humor amidst the end of the world. The story is action-packed and fast-paced, with the zombie death count in the hundreds within the first few chapters, courtesy of MC and company. The actions scenes are both adrenaline-pumping and dread-inducing in turn. Characters do die. Ones that were mentioned only for the paragraph may have just as much an emotional impact as those that started out with ML in chapter 2. Yet, the story is not all fire and brimstone: humanity--with all of its love, hope, and courage--persists in the close-knit bond in unit 6 as well as the one developing between MC and ML.
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CN (4.6)
1 Chapters Every 1015 Day(s) 5457 Readers 34 Reviews 07-24-2021
Overall: 4.67/5 (rated 5 on review system)... more>>
On chapter 45 as of 7/14/20.
Story: The summary on the main page actually says it all so I won’t add any redundant information. Imperial China setting, with major focus on politics and power struggles.
The author impresses with the sheer variety and depth of struggles that MC would realistically have to face. Just using MC’s first major hurdle as an example…Transform his mother’s old barren estate into an enterprise that provides the livelihood for hundreds of families? It’d be easy to wave a hand, write a timeskip, and have MC magically grow crops after “working hard.” But the author does an excellent job at showing rather than telling how MC has to start from scratch but then finds tenants old and new to farm the land, employs laborers to renovate his home and build farming supplies, ensures a steady water supply, determines which crops to plant, occasionally gets swindled, etc while staying true to the idea that MC is a charismatic individual who establishes interpersonal connections and exploits them the best he can. These details enrich the story without overburdening it with mind-numbing minutiae. (So, kinda the opposite of this review where I dump a lot of examples...lol)
This continues through the rest of the story, and you’ll find yourself thinking “oh wow, yeah, that would be an issue that would pop up.” These conflicts aren’t all as mundane as farming but range from familial (estranged father, well-meaning but frankly not as skilled half-brother), bureaucratic (placing well in the imperial exams, currying favor with the young masters in the capital, throwing support to one imperial prince vs the other, fending against the scheming of other governmental officials) to militaristic (strategic fighting against the northern tribes, civil unrest, mutiny) to natural (flooding, droughts, food shortage). The cast is large and varied, reflective of the different people needed to keep a simple household or an entire nation running, and people naturally act in ways according to their own agenda—which doesn’t necessarily mean the best for MC/ML.
MC: The shou. A fairly unique character in that he is the son of a (granted, exorbitantly rich) merchant rather than the typical prince or official’s son or cultivist that usually play protagonist in this type of setting. Excellent character development. MC starts off as a self-aware but spoiled and flirtatious young master who was sent by his mercantile father to study and, more importantly, establish connections with the powerful families in the capital. His initial very sticky/flirtatious personality is hard to read but MC matures organically through arc two and later turns down the affections/offers of some very powerful people, in loyalty to ML.
ML: The gong. Fits the bill of being OP, stoic, physically gifted, and indulgent/dedicated to the MC. He is half Han Chinese and half Quanrong (northern tribe). I’m hopeful his background is explored further in the second half of the novel still to be translated.
Relationship development: Smut in chapter 3 and more afterwards. That is all.
Just kidding. Relationship starts out superficial, with a huge power disparity between MC and ML as master and s*ave, respectively, but quickly becomes deeper. I actually wish there was more interaction time between MC and ML as it kind of feels like MC is stuck suppressing bureaucratic crises and ML is stuck beating down militaristic crises, with very little time for MC and ML to interact except to sleep together.
Critiques: Nothing glaring. MC/ML aren’t safe from remaining completely unscathed with the fall of the nation but they irrefutably have protagonist halos in some very insane scenarios.
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CN (4.5)
145 Chapters Every 65.5 Day(s) 14829 Readers 183 Reviews 04-09-2023
Overall: 4.5/5... more>>
Solid danmei. The writing is very beautiful, just like MC.
Actively reading translations: on chapter 61 as of 9/3/20.
Story: Cultivation setting, with a small dose of Imperial China politics. MC is the esteemed leader of one of China’s righteous sects. His unexpected defeat in a highly publicized martial duel leaves him crippled (to the point where he loses his memory, sight, and much of his cultivation), and ML finds MC’s body after it falls off a cliff. ML is the notorious leader of one of China’s demonic sects. He first punts MC off to one of his disciples to corrupt and then—when that fails—personally forces MC into situations that risk MC’s reputation, cultivation, and happiness.
However, ML is not an evil entity looking to wreak havoc upon the world: he acts as the valued consultant to the Emperor of Zhou and has ambitions of unifying the warring states into a unified kingdom under said emperor. It is revealed that MC’s duel was sabotaged as part of different factions’ political scheming.
MC: Presumably the shou (MC and ML shouldn’t even be counted as friends, never mind lovers, as of chapter 55). Resilient and kind. But with a good BS radar. MC is crippled after his duel yet adheres to his moral compass in the ensuing struggles. Although it’s presumed that MC will eventually recover and become even stronger than his previous self, his journey is far from a series of fortunate power ups.
ML: Presumably the gong. ML is a villain and acts accordingly! There is no babying/indulging the MC (yet?). There are hints that ML is ultimately also on a righteous path, but don't kid yourself into thinking he's a good person.
Relationship development: There is a huge power disparity as MC is crippled in the beginning of the story and ML remains a powerful sect leader (and arguably the strongest cultivist in Imperial China). ML initially keeps MC around to see if 1) this righteous sect leader can be corrupted or 2) MC is useful in furthering ML’s agenda in cultivation or political plans. MC delivers. I'm excited to see how story and relationship progresses.
Critiques: A solid danmei. It follows a common script, with no truly unique aspects in terms of plot or characters (well, except for how ML realistically treats MC as two people who should be enemies). Still, what it does, it does well, and I’m actually surprised at how enjoyable I find reading it.
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CN (4.5)
612 Chapters Every 48.5 Day(s) 9361 Readers 139 Reviews 05-12-2022
Overall: 4.5/5 (rated 5/5 on review system). On chapter 209 as of 7/30/20.... more>>
So, this is the correct way to do psychological and mystery (take notes, “Earth is Online”). Entertaining high-stakes scenarios? Of course. Logical methods to solve the scenarios? YES. Showing rather than telling MC and company’s deductive reasoning? Please accept this standing ovation!
Story: The recently deceased enter a card game-themed alternate universe, where they challenge progressively more difficult scenarios from level two to King. There are four types of scenarios. In Heart scenarios, challengers must solve mu*der cases. Diamonds feature math and language puzzles. Spades are brutal survival games. And Clubs showcase card/gambling games with the chance of winning big or losing it all. Beat the Kings of Hearts, Diamonds, Spades, and Clubs to (presumably) return to reality. Thus far, not a single of the 800 million challengers have succeeded.
The challenges in the early stages feature logic games that some puzzle-loving readers may already be familiar with. MC acknowledges that he actually encountered variations of these while living and thus solves them easily. Still, the author does an excellent job at presenting a puzzle, showing how MC solves it in a way that highlights his cleverness, and then wrapping up the scenario in a clear and tidy way. The difficulty of the scenarios rises as MC progresses, and MC applies his established abilities to these new challenges. MC signs a contract with ML and other like-minded/skilled challengers to form a team.
MC: The shou. A doctor and associate professor of forensics at Jiangzhou Medical University. MC’s mathematical and language skills complement ML’s physical prowess and fearlessness. He is the think-tank of their motley group.
ML: The gong. The captain of the Jiangzhou’s Major Crimes Unit. He fits the bill of the stoic and powerful ML that is protective towards MC but also ensures the safety of their other team members (of course, in a less gentle way). ML is the attack power of the group.
Relationship development: Slow burn and fluffy. MC and ML develop an affinity towards one another early on as skilled challengers, with non-platonic feelings soon to follow, but it’s a totally different story to get them to actually voice their feelings to each other. I’m getting a huge kick out of a secondary character (who is hopefully in his own budding relationship with another supporting character *fingers crossed*) trying to get MC/ML to realize their feelings or otherwise help them along at confessing. Hell, even the Ace of Hearts seems to be trying to push MC and ML together.
Commentary: Psychological/thriller/mind games is a difficult genre to do well. Common pitfalls include retroactive explanations in order to achieve the desired outcome rather than clever scheming occurring and thus resulting in the outcome, a dump of exposition after the scene’s climax for the purpose of enlightening you as the reader the logic behind MC’s actions, and just plain poor logic/reasoning. This novel does the opposite. The story (maaaaybe just slightly formulaic) is overall very clean and well-planned.
MC and ML are unnaturally skilled individuals, but the author also does an excellent job at showing how one complements the other. Likewise, even as a power couple, they acknowledge that they still lack in certain areas and secondary characters demonstrate their worth in ways that are meaningful rather than acting as token side characters only present to show how awesome MC and ML are. MC and ML do most of the heavy lifting, but the secondary characters still contribute during planning/conversation and action/fighting.
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CN (4.8)
0 Chapters Every 1558 Day(s) 12187 Readers 300 Reviews N/A
Overall: 4.5/5 (would be 5 on review system)... more>>
Probably the second fluffiest novel on this list, after Lazy Merchant (which is undeniably 99% fluff), despite Little Mushroom being the most depressing setting and plot.
Story: Post-apocalyptic world after everything turns to sh*t starting in 2020 (...wait a moment...!!). Nearly a century later, monsters roam free and humanity shelters in three major military bases. Think Annihilation (any exposure to a monster's blood causes a human to mutate and become a monster in turn) meets Attack on Titan (living in bases, going out on missions to obtain resources and cull the monsters, monsters infiltrate the base). People die--even people that you think would be safe. The MC manages to absorb human DNA, meets up with a group of humans to return to their base in order to find his mushroom spore that was taken from him, takes a front row seat in witnessing the end of civilization, and ends up being humanity's salvation.
MC: The shou. Literally a mushroom (that absorbed human DNA and thus is able to maintain a humanoid body). The author does a great job a depicting him as a naive monster that learns to adapt to humanity but still just always maintain a slight inhumane aspect. He is adorable and earnest.
ML: The gong. ML is a stereotypical cold and OP soldier on paper; however, his characterization hits the right tones to make him a fully three dimensional person. He has the skill of being able to recognize any monster (and thus human contaminated by monster DNA and about to turn into a monster) and is hated as a Judge with an inhumane "shoot first and...don't ask questions because I am always right" mentality.
Relationship development: Rather slow burn. ML takes notice of MC from their first interaction at the base's gates and is indulgent without necessarily having romantic undertones until nearly the very end. Then ML starts--as MC would put it--"bullying" MC very thoroughly. Their relationship is very fluffy, which is a stark contrast with how bleak their world is.
Critiques: A dump of exposition on physics and science-y stuff at the end that I honestly just skimmed over. The science aspect was fine, but it could of been worked in more fluidly.
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CN (4.7)
17 Chapters Every 177.2 Day(s) 25073 Readers 546 Reviews 04-01-2024
Overall: 4/5... more>>
Preface: I watched the anime first and was up to date on the manhua before starting to read the novel (although I did wait ~1 year so that things weren’t super fresh in my mind). Drawing comparisons between the novel and especially the anime is inevitable. I did find my enjoyment of the novel increase significantly once I reached parts that the anime had not covered yet--in part because the later novel chapters were more action packed/the plot lines were converging, but I can't deny that knowing what was going to happen decreased my overall enjoyment of the first half of the novel. Unfortunate.
Story: Cultivation setting. The overarching conflict is cleverly thought out. The story starts off with MC being forcibly reincarnated into the present time after dying 13 years prior but also covers his adolescence, his development in his adoptive sect and interactions with ML/ML's sect, the rise and fall of various sects, and the scheming that culminates in him being labeled as "evil" and then backstabbed (unfortunately in many, many flashbacks; see critiques below). The MC and ML progress through seemingly unconnected events, reveal the decade-long conspiracy that led to MC’s death, and achieve redemption for MC.
I do have to give kudos for how the villain was portrayed: he is irredeemably a twisted/selfish SOB, but I felt sympathetic towards him in the end.
MC: The shou. The shining star of this novel. A talented cultivator of the righteous path as an adolescent, he then conquers what should have been his bad ending by entering the path of demonic cultivation, with a legacy where present day so-called righteous cultivators still use and covet his demonic path inventions all while slandering him as the Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation. Under a façade of mischievous arrogance and shameless flirting/trolling, MC never strays from his strong moral compass despite falling off the conventional righteous path.
ML: The gong. A rather stereotypical cold, calm, and collected ML that is OP. His affection for the MC is revealed in rather contrived scenarios (and am I the only one who feels that Wen Ning gets mistreated/taken for granted/is cannon fodder??) but this is forgiven in 1) how quickly ML recognizes MC after the reincarnation and why and 2) his absolute reliability and devotion towards the MC.
Relationship development: The MC flirts with and trolls the ML in both the past and present but doesn’t realize ML has feelings for him (and vice versa) until ~80% through the novel. Then things quickly escalate. There are explicit smut scenes in the extras.
Critique: Overall, I would give Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation a 4.5 for intent but 3.5 for execution. Would I still recommend it? Yes.
There are expositions of “telling rather than showing” that drag. And conversely, there are other scenes where the author attempts to show something but the writing falls slightly short and need more in order to make a full impact/convey what the author was trying to show.
And of course, the flashbacks. Oh god. The transitions are difficult to follow. Even after watching the anime and reading the manga (ie having a good grasp of characters and plot), I would still get confused at the beginning of a chapter before realizing a flashback had occurred. And sometimes the author would write a mini-flashback for 3-5 paragraphs within a chapter.
This review may sound negative. I still highly recommend it as the MC and plot outshine any disappointment in storytelling execution. If you’re confused during a scene cut, ask yourself if you just started a flashback. Oh, and watch the anime!
It is gorgeous.
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CN (4.4)
0 Chapters Every 1894 Day(s) 23713 Readers 462 Reviews 05-01-2017
Overall: 4.25/5... more>>
Shamelessly fun read. Probably counts as a crack fic, but so good!
Story: Straight MC transmigrates into a harem cultivation novel as the ML's villainous shizun. He has to change his relationship with ML (without getting dinged for OOC) to avoid the original bad ending but ends up having a very powerful and very sticky ML attached to him! Story is solid but not meant to be as well-thought out as the ones above on this list.
MC: The shou. Hilarious, sassy, and delightful to read. His inner monologues/thought processes are on point.
ML: The gong. Very sticky.
Relationship development: Honestly, not a very healthy relationship: ML is possessive, and MC is kinda flaky--with a whole smattering of misunderstandings that could have been avoided if they had communicated more. So a very common trope in BL. Relationship development was on a good pace until the end when MC suddenly gives into ML in order to save ML--that was rather whiplash-inducing.
Critiques: My recommendation would be to treat this as a crackfic/parody, which it does an excellent job at. Truly, the only thing I have a major complaint about is MC/ML's first time together.
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CN (4.4)
429 Chapters Every 0.4 Day(s) 5343 Readers 58 Reviews 05-03-2024
Overall: 4/5. Review as of chapter 173.... more>>
Story: MC, of the Luo Senior Chancellor’s family, falls for the Second Prince during his first life. He enthusiastically sets his own family up for slaughter in order the gain the prince’s favor only to be abused in truly horrific means. Upon his death, MC returns to his 13yo self. He uses his past knowledge and hard-gained cunning to counterattack various political factions’ scheming and prioritize his family’s wellbeing. Mostly by neutralizing the Second Prince to ensure the successful coronation of the Crown Prince (who is also of the Luo family). The first 170 chapters read like a love-story of semi-gratuitous revenge, but it seems like there will be a lot more angst from here on out.
MC: The shou. The Third Son in the preeminent Luo Family, MC intentionally draws Second Prince’s strongest allies from the original life to his side and unintentionally gains the Emperor’s favor. Very self-sacrificing in his rebirth.
ML: The gong. A skilled martial artist, which seems at odds with his original role as an abused pleasure s*ave, who is freed by MC and takes the role as MC’s treasured bodyguard. He maintains a subservient personality despite being the gong. It is later revealed that ML and MC met each other in the original life—a heartbreaking segment to read.
Relationship development: Actually fairly little screen time for MC and ML other than MC saving ML early on and then ML occasionally appearing to run chores for MC or nurse MC to health (at least as of chapter 173). Part of this is because of the sheer amount of political scheming going on and fast paced action. However, arguably, the non-platonic relationship that receives the most focus is the love-hate one between MC and the Second Prince tyrant. ML rather acts as the new boyfriend that MC can rely on and cause Second Prince to eat vinegar/experience regret.
Commentary: Truly divisive.
The author writes grey characters well. MC is a not a saint. While protecting his family from political schemes, he causes the deaths of multiple families—sparing not even children, servants, etc. However, his efforts to repair his relationship with his own family are heartwarming to read.
There are hints that Second Prince has his own struggles (which Imperial Prince wouldn’t?), and some readers may be moved to feel pity for him and hope that MC extends an olive branch. No, just no. Kudos to MC for learning his lesson in his first life. The given reasons why Second Prince was so cruel to MC is just complete bullsh*t and even when the prince starts to regret losing MC’s support, the prince still acts as the scum he is.
2Ha gets a notorious rep for having r*pe, underage s*x, gore, and unhealthy relationships but I would argue that this story is even more extreme. MC undergoes horrific emotional (see above re Second Prince), physical (ends up with lower body non-functioning and eye destroyed), and s*xual (pe*ophilia, dog-philia…not sure what the exact term is and don’t want to look it up) abuse during his first life. This is described in graphic details. MC, unfortunately, isn’t completely spared from this trauma either in his rebirth. Each mention of the MC’s age (starts at 13) is a slap in the face. I’m not a fan of characters sustaining life-threatening injuries repeatedly in stories, but they are almost appreciated as mini time skips in this one.
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CN (4.7)
156 Chapters Every 72.1 Day(s) 12445 Readers 276 Reviews 07-18-2021
4/5... more>>
Story: Horror/supernatural and survival in modern AU. People nearing death (e.g. advanced cancer) are unexplainably chosen to enter the world of Doors. The pro side: surviving these door worlds extends the person’s health and lifespan; survive door number 12, and a person will be cured completely and live normally. The con: each door hides a gruesome world where many participants die and each subsequent door becomes increasingly difficult in survivability. Worlds focus on urban legends and myths such as Slenderman, cursed paintings, and Eastern horror stories. MC joins the organization that ML leads to tackle these doors.
The horror aspect is well written, and the suspense actually keeps readers on the edge of their seat. There are some seemingly loop holes in the beginning—such as why ML is so confident in his actions that go against common sense, other than that he is the ML and has been through these scenarios before—are appropriately explained as the story progresses.
MC: Presumably the shou. Aware of ML’s favor but still oblivious to the latter’s affection, he is none the less is a very calm individual that adjusts to the Doors and each challenge well. His shamelessness is mild in comparison to ML’s.
ML: The gong. ML is brazenly shameless and a joy to read. Honestly, his actions towards MC would be considered s*xual harassment If ML weren’t so good looking and caring towards MC. See how fast you can identify who the ML is :)
Relationship development: Fun to read. ML becomes jealous when MC seems to favor (platonically) other men or women and also pouts when MC is frustratingly oblivious to ML’s actual feelings; however, ML doesn’t cross any major boundaries and remains shameless but respectful.
Commentary: Again, well done horror aspect. What seem to be deus ex machina, plot holes, or otherwise jumps in logic during the early chapters are mostly explained as story progresses. And this is mostly a thriller rather than mystery so any remaining holes in coherency don’t detract from the story’s entertainment value.
The story is actually fairly funny as well. Interactions between MC and ML and others balance the horror well. There is actually quite a bit of crude humor that is usually censored in Chinese writing. This, other idioms, memes, motifs that could be lost in translation still get their meaning across to add to enjoyment of reading this story. Kudos to translator!
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CN (4.4)
0 Chapters Every 2175 Day(s) 11721 Readers 101 Reviews 07-15-2018
Solid danmei. Probably rate 3.75/5 as of chapter 55 (would rate 4/5 on the review system)... more>>
Story: Decently complex with military/political schemes in Imperial China. A fix it story, where MC travels back to night of his wedding with ML and 1) uses his experiences from his first 30 years to establish better relationships with those who actually care for him and 2) exploits his knowledge of future events to come out on top. Refreshingly, although major plotlines play out as expected and people's motivations/character remain the same as in MC's first life, there are still unexpected challenges as others react/adapt to MC's actions.
There are subplots including how ML navigates his role among MC's prior wives/concubines, gains respect in his own family, and establishes his own business in order to not just rely on MC--just interesting points that seem mundane but would actually be very important to ML and flesh out the story.
MC: The gong. The fourth prince who was assigned a male wife by the current Empress (not MC's biological mom), effectively cutting him off from being able to become the Emperor of Heaven as MC would have no legitimate heir. As the summary states, he is moved by ML's dedication despite his poor treatment in the first life and becomes the doting husband in present times. Very indulgent and very thirsty towards ML. MC is an OP war leader but has a poor mind for politics--which he readily defers to ML.
ML: The shou. The North Marquis' son via low ranked concubine who had his own aspirations and the skill to become a governmental official before his imperially decreed marriage to the MC. Very thoughtful and resourceful. Not a damsel in distress, he works to find his own independence and be an asset to MC (as he was raised to be a man and not a wife).
Relationship development: Well, MC returns in time to their wedding night, to a point after having done the deed already. But MC then restrains himself while wooing ML properly, and things escalate fairly quickly from there.
Critiques: A feel good story where you know MC and ML will come out on top no matter the challenges--not a bad thing but makes conflicts feel slightly shallow. Pacing is slightly slow, especially in the beginning.
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CN (4.7)
115 Chapters Every 21.4 Day(s) 5958 Readers 36 Reviews 02-19-2024
Overall: 3.75/5 (rated 4/5 on review system), as of chapter 45.... more>>
Story: MC suspects foul play in his younger brother's sudden death. As OP characters are wont to do, MC uses his absurd skills (in this case, recalling a QR code that his younger brother had briefly flashed in front of him 3 years prior) and enters the "Game of Challenging Fate" world. With minimal information, MC is forced to choose between either becoming a) a lucky manipulator that carries out Fate's will or b) an anti-fate executor whose "unluck" is only offset by the independence to make his own decisions. MC naturally choses b.
MC enters as a different character in each scenario: medieval peasant, modern high schooler, etc. The system initially narrates the scenario according to MC's actions and makes prompts--some subtle and others less so--on how MC should next proceed. It is with cold logic that MC subverts Fate's plans. Both his contrary actions and irreverent commentary make for a funny read. Completing main missions, fulfilling side quests, killing other players, and winning scenarios net players points. Losing a scenario makes players forfeit half of their points. Reach 50k points, and players are considered high level enough to enter scenarios that may free them from Fate. Along the way, MC picks up ML and other players.
MC: Presumably the gong. I'm a sucker for characters that go against the mold, and MC's entire MO is to think past the sweet falsehoods that the game feeds him and defy Fate as per his prerogative. As an anti-fate player, he lacks the luck and other cheats that are handed out like candy to the fate players; instead, he makes full use of his character's gender, social status, etc as well as his personal intelligence.
ML: Presumably the shou. Wow, this is finally the second danmei I've read where MC is the gong and ML is the shou (and this ML is a stereotypically cutesy bottom whereas 2ha's is very much...not). Suspicion of which non-human entity the ML is builds with each chapter and is finally confirmed in the translator's note at the end of a chapter. ML's actual human identity is later revealed.
Edit: actually, I lied. I forgot that the MLs in "Sha Po Lang" and "Wife is First" are also the shou. Granted, neither of them feel as boring as the shou in this story. I suspect I don't like cutesy damsels in distress in general, whether they're MC or ML.
Relationship development: MC initially suspects that ML is a trap set by Fate and treats ML rather indifferently. He, however, prioritizes ML over a lucrative scenario reward and the two of them become close companions as MC progresses through scenarios. MC notes frequently (a bit excessively imo) that ML is cutesy. It is revealed that ML had a huge impact on MC in the human world.
Commentary: An entertaining read that mixes survival with mystery and morality but doesn't have quite the depth compared to other similar novels. 'Kaleidoscope of Death' does horror better and makes you fear for the characters. 'Card Room' does mystery better and shows how its characters solve each nuanced scenario without falling into word vomit (granted, 'QR Code' doesn't tell rather than show either...I'm more just hating on 'Earth is Online'). "Don't Pick Up Boyfriends from the tr*shbin" is just completely in a different league: better unconventional MC and ML relationship, finding hope in misery, standing by your convictions in face of adversity, interesting scenarios, and on and on. Not a bad read but overall disappointing for a novel with 88% 5 stars.
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CN (4.5)
117 Chapters Every 84.5 Day(s) 11270 Readers 88 Reviews 11-10-2023
Solid danmei. Will write more of a review later, probably.
CN (4.4)
90 Chapters Every 116.3 Day(s) 12512 Readers 167 Reviews 08-02-2019
Overall: 3.33/5... more>>
So fluffy! Feel good novel and quick to read. Read when in mood for something superficially sweet and doesn't need brain power.
Story: Nothing complex here. There are some overtures at war and conflict, but there is never a doubt that MC/ML will succeed and the baddies will lose. The major focus is on MC and ML's relationship progress. It is also satisfying to see MC get better at his craft with each chapter and for him to be recognized for it (yet be mistaken as lazy).
MC: The shou. Adorable little white leopard that must be protected. He is technically 19yo but has a juvenile mental state (explained early in novel)...and really stays that way for the entire novel except maybe at the very end. No real character development or depth.
ML: The gong. OP black dragon and protected by plot armor (although, again, not too much plot going on to be worried about).
Relationship development: Interests are established almost from the get go. There's no angst or drama to muddle things. The major barrier to them getting together is something that the MC works on diligently throughout the novel and is resolved at the end. No furry action.
Critiques: Points mentioned above. Also, I ended up just skimming through the extras at the end.
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CN (4.6)
131 Chapters Every 46.3 Day(s) 17483 Readers 409 Reviews 06-22-2023
Completed Action Adventure Comedy Drama Horror Mature Mystery Psychological Sci-fi Supernatural Yaoi
Overall: 3/5... more>>
Story: On 11/15/17, humanity is thrust into a brutal game of survival where people gain abilities/props and must pass life-threatening scenarios to climb the seven levels of “The Tower.” Childhood favorites from video games and fairy tales feature as sadistic villains in these scenarios. There is a lot of out-thinking the system and low-key horror mixed in.
The action scenes are on point, and the variety of scenarios that the Tower throws MC and party into makes for an entertaining read. However, you kind of just have to accept the jumps in logic in order to progress the story (see critiques below).
MC: The shou. Embodiment of the rational protagonist.
ML: The gong. Super OP (?ex-)military. Anticipation for his appearance and beginning interactions with MC was the major reason for me to continue reading.
Relationship development: There is fairly little BL in this story. Tweak some words here and there and delete a handful of scenes, and this would easily turn into just MC finding a platonic group of comrades—which happen to include ML—as he tries the survive the end of the world. ML achieves notoriety as the Tower announces his early achievements worldwide. MC and ML then manage to help each other out during scenarios despite being in different cities before meeting in person. Anticipation for their relationship to develop was my major reason to keep reading, but chapter 210 is honestly a bit of a letdown (and by then, there’s only 30 more chapters until the end of the story so might as well finish it).
Commentary: Psychological/thriller/mind games is a difficult genre to do well. There is often the feeling that the author is coming up with retroactive explanations in order to achieve the desired outcome to show how clever a highlighted character is, as opposed to clever scheming occurring and thus resulting in an outcome. This novel does an excellent job a describing a starting point “A” and an outcome “C,” but the logic of point “B” to get from A to C is often incoherent.
The author follows the pattern of 1) MC/party is thrown into a seemingly impossible scenario, 2) cannon fodder die, 3) a random clue tips MC off, 4) MC acts mysteriously and manages to come out on top, and then 5) there is a dump of exposition for the purpose of enlightening you as the reader the logic behind MC’s actions (and again, this “B” logic is often convoluted). It’s also mildly annoying to see the characters throw out percentage predictions on how likely something is to occur (e.g. MC thinks their chance of winning is 60% but then ML corrects him to 70% when they factor in X). Once in a while is not bad, but the characters do this so frequently or to that extent. Like, can you truly predict that X causes a 10% difference?
Overall, this is an entertaining read with great action scenes and creative scenarios (and fully translated!) but the long, convoluted, and honestly skim-able "telling rather than showing" how clever the MC is makes this a B-tier novel. Please read "Card Room" instead.
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