Legend of Exorcism: Tianbao Fuyao Lu (Novel) Vol. 1

Legend of Exorcism: Tianbao Fuyao Lu (Novel) #1

by Fei Tian Ye Xiang, Lily (Translator), Louise (Translator)

In the mystical Taihang Mountains, where magic flows and powerful yao roam, Hongjun has grown up sheltered from the human world. A half-yao himself, he’s never had reason to leave—until the mountain’s ruler sends him on a dangerous mission: hide his true nature and join the Great Tang Department of Demonic Exorcism in Chang’an.

Upon arriving in the bustling capital, Hongjun meets Li Jinglong, a luckless soldier with no spiritual power tasked with leading a team of extraordinary exorcists. Together, they and their enigmatic companions must face the dark forces threatening the city. But as a bond begins to bloom between Hongjun and Li Jinglong, Hongjun wonders: Can he trust Li Jinglong with the truth of who—and what—he is?

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, LGBT, Historical, Historical Fiction, Queer, Fiction

390 pages, Paperback

First published March 18, 2025

About the author

Associated Names:
* 非天夜翔
* Arise Zhang
* Fei Tian Ye Xiang
* เฟยเทียนเย่เสียง (Thai Profile)

Reviews

[Alexia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I approached this book with high hopes, having first fallen in love with the Donghua adaptation. It captivated me so much that upon discovering it was based on a novel, my excitement grew exponentially.

This book exceeded my expectations; it encompassed everything I adore in a story.

- Characters who may frustrate you to the point of wanting to shake them, yet still manage to hold a special place in your heart? Absolutely.
- A slow-burn romance that is both healthy and realistic? Yes, please.
- An intriguing plot that flows seamlessly, quickening pace while allowing space for full understanding? Check, check, check.

Everything I hoped to cherish, I genuinely did.

The narrative kicks off with a compelling introduction and sustains that momentum throughout the entire volume. While it weaves multiple mysteries into its fabric, the author's skillful pacing ensures the story never feels overwhelmed or convoluted.

At the core of this tale are the characters, whose interplay drives the plot forward. The prominent found family trope is beautifully depicted; I appreciated how the author crafted a group of individuals who start off as abrasive and distrustful of one another. Their initial friction frustrated me, yet I found their evolving dynamics incredibly engaging.

Kong Hongjun, our protagonist, is an endearing and oblivious cinnamon roll. Being the youngest in the group, he garners protective affection from his companions. His charm is infectious, and I found myself smiling at his whimsical antics. As a half-Yao and half-human, his comically unfortunate experiences foreshadow emotional turmoil likely to unfold in future volumes.

Li Jinglong serves as the love interest. Initially, I found him somewhat bland—just a regular human amidst a cast of extraordinary beings—but he slowly grew on me. By the end of the story, I had developed a strong attachment to him and felt indignant on his behalf for the relentless teasing he endured from the others.
He may possess qualities and depths that remain hidden from our view, perhaps even from his own understanding.

Mergen, on the other hand, is the character I am most excited to learn more about. His relationship with his extraordinary partner promises depth, given their complex history. Mergen, gentle and nurturing with a big-brother demeanor, comes from a large family. He arrives in Great Tang with the mission of finding the White Deer, his partner, and possesses the impressive ability to transform into a massive wolf—a feature I find particularly engaging.

Tigra Yazdegerd, known as A-Tai, is a flamboyant foreign prince seeking assistance from Great Tang to reclaim his homeland. His gossipy nature adds a vibrant layer to the story, keeping things lively and entertaining.

Qiu Yongsi is a scholar reluctantly thrust into the exorcist's headquarters by his grandfather's wishes, aimed at encouraging him to overcome his cowardice. He possesses unique powers, yet his fear of confronting Yao often leads him to hide behind his more courageous companions. His character remains an enigma to me, especially since the Donghua has yet to delve into his storyline.

Lastly, there's Zhao Zilong, a carp yao who often assumes the role of a caretaker for Hongjun. His antics provide much-needed comic relief, lightening the overall tone of the novel.

While romantic relationships are still in their infancy, the groundwork laid by the author is exquisite. Li Jinglong’s sweet crush on Hongjun is portrayed with tenderness, and Hongjun's naive trust and reliance on Li Jinglong, all while remaining blissfully ignorant of his feelings, adds a delightful layer of humor. Their connection is gentle and characterized by care and mutual respect.

Mergen's love story has not yet come to fruition either, as his partner has yet to make an appearance. However, I am thrilled to discover how their relationship will develop, given that it was my favorite part of the Donghua.

In conclusion, this book was a wonderfully comforting read, rich in character development and emotional depth. I eagerly anticipate diving into the second volume!

[kelly]

i hate you 7 seas. here have my wallet

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very pleased with this translation with just one tough adjustment for me with Mo Rigen's name change to Mergen (which apparently is more accurate so that's okay). Poor sweet Li Jinglong has the worst luck but will do anything for his exorcism family. I love him so much.

Here's what you have to look forward to with this series:
💜Fantasy/cultivation/mythology
💜Found family
💜Multiple couples
💜Really fun/well done spice (male danmei author)
💜Lots of historical references
💜Imperial politics but not overwhelming or confusing
💜Humor is so cute and endearing
💜Beautiful art

Thoughts after a reread:
💙Initially, I didn't think it mattered which series was read first between Tianbao Fuyao and Dinghai Fusheng Records. Now I definitely recommend starting with this series. Although Dinghai is chronologically first, Tianbao was published first and that is always my preference.
💙I tried to read this less critically and not compare it the the FT I read (unless it was something very obviously different). This was a much smoother read.
💙Don't skip the footnotes.
💙If you have the ebook version, long press any historical name and you will be learning history without even realizing it.
💙Loved seeing all the foreshadowing with certain characters.

[ana ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

i was desperately searching for something that would actually hold my attention. i’d been pretty unlucky with new danmei recently. supernatural exorcism stuff mixed with chinese folklore seemed like a solid way to waste a few hours. and boy was it good!

the story follows our protagonist as he gets absolutely thrown into the world of exorcism with zero preparation and somehow has to figure it out on the fly. along the way we get themes of friendship, identity, and the classic good versus evil showdown. the pacing works really well, there’s humor, there’s great character banter, and there are moments of genuine tension. more importantly the sheer concentration of gorgeous specimen in this book is ridiculous. like every time someone new showed up i had to ANOTHER ONE THANK YOU😻

and li jinglong. oh my god. this man. he’s so pathetic. he tries so hard, bless his soul, and he’s just so incredibly earnest about everything. out of all the danmei i’ve read, he might genuinely be the most insecure gong i’ve encountered, which he usually manages to hide pretty well, but every so often that carefully maintained facade just cracks and it’s both heartbreaking and endearing. also how many times is this guy gonna be humiliated. seriously. how many times. he’s literally just some mortal dude trying his best. someone please have mercy on him because the author certainly won’t

[NiaKantorka · Rating 4 out of 5]

Edited to 4.25 stars

This took some time to grab me wholeheartedly but once it did I was hooked. As soon as these guys revived the Department of Demonic Exorcism the book became truly chaotic and absolutely lovable. I’m not totally sold on our MC, Kong Hogjun, for now. Don’t get me wrong, he’s a darling, but he’s so innocent that I had a hard time to take him seriously. Not when it came to fighting Yao, but with him becoming Li Jinglong’s equal and partner. But I know FTYX’s characters can take some time to mature so for now let’s wait and see. I highly appreciate where this volume ended. No terrible cliffhanger and no devastation going on: I think I’ll wait for the next volume of the official translation to be published to continue this story.

I also highly appreciate the much better glossary here. You know with an actual starter kit to get into Mandarin and links to further resources. Here, you’ll actually know how the protagonists’ names are pronounced after finishing this book. 太好了。 👍

Especially fascinating to me was the ‘about the author’-page where it said that FTYX has been published in Asia (no surprise) and Germany. Colour me shocked. When? Where? How can I find his book(s) in German? I have started to look for them but haven’t found any yet. 🤔

Legend of Exorcism seems to be more lighthearted than anticipated (I’ve only read Joyful Reunion yet and that’s a lot heavier from the start) and I’m sure I’m going to enjoy more of it.

[Riki (˶˃⤙˂˶) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5💫
Ridiculous, Beautiful, and Absolutely Epic

Legend of Exorcism is a chaotic, dazzling, utterly ridiculous ride—and I adored every page of it. This book was somehow both slapstick and sincere, flirtatious and heartfelt, full of haunted coffins and heartfelt pastries. I read it slowly, but with immense joy—each chapter felt like unwrapping a treat.

First I wanna say a few words about the cover art — it is show-stopping. The gold detailing, the swirling waves and energy, and the radiant orb that ties everything together—it’s a visual promise of everything this book delivers. And the boys? Stunning. Flowing, wind-swept drama, little foxes—yes, foxes!—all gathered in a luminous tangle of light and motion. I swooned before I even opened the book.

There’s a consistent, delightful balance of serious historical fantasy and something like sitcom nonsense. The Department of Exorcism might be dealing with demons and threats to the Tang Dynasty, but they’re also giving major “three (or five) stooges with swords” energy and I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Hongjun, our precious clingy babe, stole my heart. Whether he’s feeding pastries to Jinglong or accidentally flirting with the earnestness of a baby fox with a crush, he’s a bundle of mischief and softness. And Chief Li Jinglong—gruff, noble, definitely not jealous (except he very much is)—is the perfect grounding force. Their dynamic's top-tier. From sleeve-clinging to bashful jealousy, I was melting. Their growing affection is all spark and tension, carried with a kind of innocent sincerity that makes it even sweeter.

Legend of Exorcism Vol. 1 has action, mystery, and ridiculous comedy. There’s a charm in how un-seriously it takes itself in some moments, and how earnestly it leans into heart in others. The exorcisms are cool, the world-building is lush, and the emotional stakes sneak up on you just when you think it’s all goofs.

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,5 'Department of Exorcism' stars

There isn't much difference between humans and yāo; the only real difference is between good and evil.

Rated S for SPOILERS!

I knew I'm gonna love this because I already watched S1 donghua and read parts of manhua, so reading this volume was like coming back to old friends. Also, since I was already familiar with the setting and lore, I was able to skip the 'being confused for a few early chapters' as I usually am when starting new xianxia/xuanhuan, and it never hurts to already have gorgeous visuals in mind, especially because this world is just briming with astonishing imagination.



I usually start reviews with my favourite character but I have to admit I haven't decided yet who my favourite is *gasp* what I shock, I know! But they are all so adorable adoptable, that the decision really is difficult. (I'm lying a little because I kind of already have a favourite one but he hasn't actually appeared yet, so I'll wait to see if my prediction is going to come true.)



Let's start with Kong Hongjun, the baby of the group. He's half-yāo, half human but he was raised by his yāo uncles, so he doesn't know much about human world. He sometimes seems even younger than his 16 years because he's so clueless about every mundane thing but at the same time he's much more mature in other aspects since he's been raised by yāo and already tasked with difficult mission to kill the evil yāo king. So, he has no problems with hunting bad guys, but he doesn't know what a brothel is, lol.


Gif by eaion

I very much prefer Hongjun's donghua design because in my opinion he looks more like half-yāo there and it seems weird to me that in manhua he looks like he's ten. Also, if there's a character, who deserves to have pink hair, it's Hongjun 😊



The other main charachter is Li Jinglong. The first thing you need to know about him is that he's absolutely doing his best like all the time but his misfortune is infinite. He's not simply having a bad day but more like a bad century. He's your typical Fei Tian's brooding ML. He would definitley be a national champion if brooding was a sport. But, of course, he has a soft heart. He's actually a sweet person, very caring and loyal. However, he needs a little time to melt and open himself to others.


Gif by eaion

I wouldn't call their relationship enemies to lovers but their first meet was certainly more on the 'enemies' side. After all, Li Jinglong's goal is to get rid of yāo, while Hongjun is half-yāo himself, so you can imagine how disastrous their first meet went. They kind of tried to kill each other - well more like Li Jinglong tried to kill Hongjun, not the other way around, but anyway... Very romantic!

Hongjun had never imagined there was a weapon in the world with the power to pierce his shield of sacred light. He twisted in midair, folding his left arm behind him as he bent backward and raised his right hand to fend off the blade.
The falling rain seemed to freeze in place, each droplet a reflection of the fantastic scene unfolding in the narrow alley. In a thousand drops of liquid radiance, Hongjun met the guard's fierce eyes as the man thrust his sword toward his throat. Hongjun flinched back to evade the strike, and the pendant around his neck swung up on its chain to meet the blade. [...]
A blinding flash erupted in the alley. Beneath the roiling tempest up above, Chang'an was engulfed in a cyclone of light that rendered the magnificent capital of Great Tang bright as day.

my gifs

This encounter is only the first in a many more catastrophic happenings these two are getting through together. Like accidentally ending up in a brothel (remember me saying Hongjun doesn't know what a brothel is), also accidentally finding a corpse under the bed, maybe not so accidentally "cuddling", ok well hiding under the said bed, and again accidentally getting Li Jinglong fired from his job because of the brothel thing. (It's good that Hongjun is hot, otherwise he would definitely go on Li Jinglong's to kill list. Just kidding, they are very cute togther!)



Gif by mutantfactor

Hongjun's eyes were huge as he tilted his head back to glance at Li Jinglong. Slowly, releasing his mouth, Li Jinglong motioned for him to keep silent before reaching over to muzzle the cat, still tucked between Hongjun's arms.
Squished in the narrow space beneath the bed, Hongjun was distinctly aware of Li Jinglong's arms around him as they held the cat secure. His skin was hot against Hongjun's own, and he could feel the man's heart pounding in his broad, firm chest.

Hongjun's heart galloped in his chest. In all his sixteen years, he had never encountered anything of this nature. He'd certainly never imagined that he would end up here, listening to an amorous couple panting above him while Li Jinglong held him from behind in such a suggestive position. And if that wasn't mortifying enough, he could hear Li Jinglong's breathing growing heavier and feel something stiff pressing against him.

Anyway, before we get to deep into their relationship, let's get back to the plot. So, Li Jinglong gets fired but he's offered a job as a head of the Great Tang Department of Demonic Exorcism, which is basically to get rid of him because no one really believes that demons truly exist. However, Li Jinglong is determined to prove everyone's wrong, and for the first time in his life, something finally seems to be doing in his favour because exorcists misteriously start to gather in Chang'an. First of them is, of course, Kong Hongjun. I forgot to mention he's got a yāo companion with him. Zhao Zilong is a yāo fish, who failed to cultivate to his human form, so he's now half-fish half-human. I know his manhua design is more accurate - yes, including hairy legs, lol - but again I prefer donghua design because he's just cuter there.


Gif by mutantfactor

Ok, let's continue. The first to arrive is Mergen. He's from Shiwei tribe and he can transform into a giant wolf, which is so amazing. In additon to joining The Department of Exorcism, he's also on a mission to find 'the deer'. A legend of his tribe says that 'the wolf' and 'the deer' must join together to bring peace, so as a side quest, he's also searching for his significant other. I'm so excited for this!! I really like his character, he's always prepared to help, and like Li Jinglong he's very loyal and caring as well.


Gif by eaion

The second one to come is A-Tai. He's also on a secret mission, and he's even using a secret identity - he's a Persian Prince searching for help from the emperor. His mission is very dire and serious, so maybe to counter that, his character is very unserious. He's usually joking around but when there's time to work, he's very skilled. And he carries a fan! Yes, that's a very important information because I love characters, who use fan as a weapon. Georgous visuals!!


Gif by eaion

I have a feeling that I lastly connected with Qiu Yongsi. I don't think he's on any secret mission. His grandfather basically send him on this quest to stop being a coward. Harsh, yes - but needed. Maybe the reason why it took me a while to get to really like him is that he kind of started as a little annoying know-it-all, while not doing anything when there was time for action. But when he finaly overcomes his fear of yāo, he has awesome cultivation powers! Yes, he indeed fights with painting.



I really love this little found family! There was a bit of a shaky start at first. While Mergen, A-Tai and Qiu Yongsi quickly become friends, and also practically adopt Hongjun, they are very dismissive toward Li Jinglong. Afterall, these guys are cultivators and they get a mere human for a boss. So, at the beginning they see him as more like a liability but we can say that Li Jinglong is actually the most passionate about hunting yāo among them, so he eventually earns their respect despite not having cultivation powers. And I really like how they become this tight group that has each other's backs. Hongjun and Li Jinglong, of course, have the most page time but I love how the other three (sorry, four, lol) are also a huge part of the story, at least for now. I'm looking forward to see them work together in the future cases.



I can't say there's been any romance in this vol so far. Hongjun is still young and as I already mentioned not exactly knowledgeable about romantic relationships (as far as I know his uncles are single?). However, he does have some feelings for Li Jinglong. Not romantic, but it's apparent that he wants to be closer to him, while he's just friendly with others. On the other hand, Li Jinglong certianly has romantic feelings toward Hongjun, and is attracted to him but I think he doesn't want to. Probably because it's inappropriate (maybe age?) or unproffesional ('cause they are coworkers?), so he's trying to kind of keep his distance but Hongjun is very oblivious to this, haha.

In his room in the waking world, Hongjun tumbled off his bed. Having heard Hongjun call for him in his dream, Li Jinglong charged inside and caught him in the moment before he hit the floor.
Hongjun jerked awake in his arms. Before he could scream again, Li Jinglong hushed him, gazing down at him in shock. Hongjun was covered in sweat, his eyes wide and face pale, panting for breath.
"A nightmare?" Li Jinglong quietly asked as he knealt on the ground, holding Hongjun by the shoulders. Hongjun grabbed the hem of Li Jinglong's outer robe and burried his face in Li Jinglong's arm as he let out a long, shaky sigh.

As Hongjun studied Li Jinglong, the smile dropped off Li Jinglong's face.
"Keep smiling," Hongjun said. "You look good like that. Come, give us a smile!"
A vein popped on Li Jinglong's forehead. "Who taught you to say that?!"
But Hongjun sincerly felt that Li Jinglong looked good when he smiled. He was always so stiff and severe, like a stoic general, but he seemed much more approachable with a smile one his face.

"Chief?" Hongjun said.
"Hm?" Li Jinglong walked ahead of him, leading the horse.
Hongjun suddenly threw himself at him, jumping onto his back. "I like you so much!"
"Get off - this is improper!"
"There's no one here."

I think that in all my rambling I haven't yet mentioned I really like the descriptions of fights. They are always exciting to read and maybe it is easier with donghua visuals but even without, I think they would still be interesting enough to imagine. Anyway, I'm excited to start the next vol and finally watch S2 for the first time.




4,5 'Department of Exorcism' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
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[sofia ᝰ.ᐟ✮⋆˙ · Rating 5 out of 5]

pure cinema

[V~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What an ending to this volume! The fact that we get these hilarious scenes as if straight out of a Manga or anime is everything! 🤣 Plus, the relationship between the Department of Exorcism is so wholesome. Our main couple is so cute together and so chaotic! 🤣
Our sweet innocent Hongjun just running rampant causing messes. And poor Li Jinglong having to clean up the mess left behind. Yet, the little spark of chemistry they have is adorable! I can't wait for more interactions between the two! The bookmark of the special edition perfectly pictures each of our characters! 🥰
That last case tho! Immaculate! I know it took me ages to finish this, for I have been in a slump, but that by no means means that I didnt enjoy this volume. 5/5 ⭐☺️

[Kate♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5stars

you don't understand this is going to become a new OBSESSION. Like this jumped all the way to my top5 danmei of all time and I've read like 25 of them alskdjaklsjd

This is just such a well written (and well translated) story that is a PERFECT combination of fun, silly and wholesome with a found family/gang of misfit characters coming together, a cute, adorable romance alongside an interesting world, intense plot, and some VERY SPICY smut scenes (not in this volume, but I read some from the fan translation lolll)

I LOVEEEE hongjun SO much he is absolutely a new favorite danmei character, jumped right up to the top alongside ranwan, bingqiu, and lu feng/an zhe.

[Andrea (Marauders version) · Rating 5 out of 5]

going into secluded meditation till vol 2 releases

[kay! ☾ · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Chief?” Hongjun said. “Hm?” Li Jinglong walked ahead of him, leading the horse. Hongjun suddenly threw himself at him, jumping onto his back. “I like you so much!”

⋆｡ ﾟ☁︎︎ ｡ ✧ ⋆ ★★★★★ 5 stars 🍓｡ ﾟ☾ ﾟ｡ ⋆

talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, completely not ever been done before—

RTC!!!!

[ollie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this book with no idea what it was about and no expectations. I just saw a cute ginger on the cover so I bought it. The story is interesting so far and includes one of my favourite tropes: found family. I’ll definitely stay tuned for the rest of the volumes :)

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great series start, filled with lovable characters, an intriguing premise, and so much humor.

Hongjun is so sweet and earnest, but it doesn't detract from how skilled and intuitive he is. He's just inexperienced, and it leads to so many funny moments, but also endears him to both the reader and the characters around him.

There is a found family building with the group of exorcists, and I like all of them, especially Mergen who takes Hongjun under his wing as a big brother. I'm excited to learn more about all of the members of this little group.

Li Jinglong just needs a break. He tries so hard, and is most times misunderstood. He's been able to ignore the condescending looks of those around him, but he doesn't deserve that vitriol either. I love how committed he is to doing the right thing in spite of it all, and how much he gives to his subordinates as their leader.

The central romance between Hongjun and Li Jinglong is just at the very beginning here. I wouldn't say there's any romantic connection yet, but it's clear these two are drawn to each other, and to each of them the other stands out among the rest. I think it's hilarious how everyone around them "ships" them together though.

This first volume is mostly angst free, though I'm sure that will change at some point. But for now, I'm enjoying this very much and am looking forward to more.

[iayal]

colour me surprised… this was extremely good. i had no expectations for this book at all but it surpassed so many of the standards i have for books. the characters were so fun and interesting! i actually really like the main characters already, they’re really good characters and i’m happy they don’t fall into the typical archetypes of mlm leads. i’m already attached to them… the supporting characters are neat as well - i can see why people said there’s an amazing found family, it’s already starting! the plot is cool and engaging, i enjoy it a lot and am very excited to see what happens next. i don’t think i’ve been bored for a single moment. there were a few really funny moments in this that made me laugh out loud! the romance hasn’t really started but there’s some slight hints of it and i can sense it’s gonna be extremely cute! i really like the illustrations for this as well, i believe they’re some of the best out there. i also like the writing - it doesn’t have the stiltedness that tends to come from translation and it’s overall very well-written. the wait for the next volume is going to be agonizing… but i’m happy i read this now cause, wow, what an amazing first book! this has the potential to become one of my favourites… i’m hyped for the rest of the volumes.

[Queens Love Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Cranes may live a thousand years, and tortoises may live ten thousand, but all beings have their own fates. This is not something that can be changed.”



Legend of Exorcism: Tianbao Fuyao Lu Vol. 1 was such a fun read! Right from the start, the dynamic between the four exorcists felt like a found family, and I loved seeing their brotherly bond form so naturally. Hongjun instantly won me over—he’s such an innocent little baby, and I just want to wrap him in a warm blanket. Mergen also stood out to me as a favorite, especially with how caring he is toward Hongjun. And even though Jinglong is technically in charge, it's hilarious how he struggles to control the exorcists while Hongjun somehow has them wrapped around his finger.

Beyond the characters, the story touches on some heavier themes, especially with the way politicians prioritize power over justice. It’s frustrating but not surprising, and it adds depth to the worldbuilding. I also really enjoyed watching Jinglong’s character development unfold in just one volume. Meanwhile, Hongjun is incredibly smart—he might not understand social norms, but his instincts and wisdom make him such an interesting character to follow.

This book lived up to the hype, and I can see why so many people were excited about it before release. The mix of action, humor, and heartfelt moments kept me hooked, and now I’m already impatient for Volume 2! In the meantime, I might check out the donghua since I’ve heard good things about it.

Date Read: 2025.03.30
Re-read: 2025.09.17

[Yvonne D · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun and promising first book, with just the right amount of action and silliness. Can't wait for the next 😌

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 my reviews aren't the best. I'm sorry

Can I have Vol. 2 now!
Hongjun is such a sweetheart with a big heart and deserves so much! Poor Li Jinglong, his luck is just terrible, but I love him so much! I just want to give him a hug!

All the characters (Hongjun, Li Jinglong, A-Tai, Mergen, Qiu Yongsi, and Zhao Zilong) together are so chaotic; I love it! They truly have a growing family bond! I love how they all have unique qualities and use each other's strengths when fighting yao.

Hongjun and Li Jinglong are just so cute together! You can tell there's something between them that they haven't even discovered yet... or have they? The best part is that the other characters are already shipping them! 🤣

I can't wait to read volume 2! I want to see more of these amazing characters.

[Rose ✧⁎⁺ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5☆

[aria ✧]

I saw a clip of the donghua and wow Hongjun is pretty. I need to get my hands on this book

[lyanuum · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was perfect!!!!! I love them all ❤️❤️

[Melina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've liked this. It's my first time experiencing this story after hearing a lot of good things about this. My highlight until now are probably the characters, especially Hongjun our wholesome MC. Can't wait to see how they and their relationships will develop.

[Cecilia · Rating 3 out of 5]

the art was super pretty so I’ll probs check out book 2 but BOY was this a slog to get through

[James 🦤 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so upset with myself for not reading this sooner -- I genuinely think this might be a new favorite danmei! I love how it's still extremely funny and has its silly moments while still not taking away from the seriousness of the actual plot.

[Ky ! · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goddd this was so good. I love this group of absolute idiots so much

[Magpie6493 · Rating 5 out of 5]

First time I attempted to read this for some reason it just didn't click in my head. however, I decided to circle back to it once I was feeling better and am very glad I did as I had an absolutely fantastic time.

this story is goofy yet serious and I absolutely can't wait to see where it goes next.

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This might be a new obsession.

On top of having a STUNNING cover, this is such a beautiful story. I’m so taken with EVERYTHING about it.

Set in the Tang dynasty, this first volume introduces readers to an immersive and magical world, home to supernatural beings called yao. Some of these beings are revered as deities while others seek to cause mischief, in pursuit of summoning demons back to the mortal realm. Through many bloody arts, these yao can blend in seamlessly with the human world. Rooting them out takes special skill.

To combat their schemes, the Great Tang Department of Exorcism is founded and a ragtag group of exiled princes, martial warriors, and demi-yao is assembled—all strangers called to the capital for a shared mission, under the seeming auspices of the gods.

Hongjun, a half-yao young man raised in the remote Taihang Mountains by his “god” parents, is one such member. He is given three quests to complete before he can return to the only home he ever knew. Joining this department is one of said quests. But, being sheltered as he was means that Hongjun has much to acclimate to in the human world. Many of the young, peculiar exorcists are in need of such guidance.

Luckily, they have the handsome yet taciturn Li Jinglong—once a young commandant in the city, now being “exiled” to this most unserious unit over an epic misunderstanding—to lead them.

Though displeased with the circumstances, Jinglong is determined to honor the expectations of this new role and turn this joke of a unit into an upstanding force of justice—whether Hongjun and company like it or not. Jinglong will not be swayed by their antics—much.

As their camaraderie grows though, can Hongjun and friends trust Jinglong with their secrets?

Can Hongjun especially trust Jinglong—Hongjun, who has many great responsibilities to fulfill and who develops quite a special fondness for their brave and honorable commander?

As I said, I love EVERYTHING about this story so far!

Actually, it’s SHOCKING just how much I liked this story.

It’s probably one of the most accessible, dynamic danmei I’ve come across.

Often, I’ve found that the Chinese lore and history can be so immense—yet pertinent—that it overwhelms stories in this genre, especially if you are a western reader unfortunately unfamiliar with it. There’s a lot of information to digest. Further, there are also many problematic tropes or dynamics that tend to pop up in this genre—something it appears that many queer stories from some Asian countries, especially of a certain time, are still grappling with. (Which isn’t to say that western stories don’t also have their many problems—but the flavors are different.)

And, all of that can create a lot of “noise” that can affect the reading experience of stories in this particular genre.

But, this story largely avoids those issues.

The storytelling here speaks to a lot of skill on the author’s part. The historical inspirations for this story are sprinkled throughout—but never bog down the story. Rather, much of this story focuses on our central cast of characters and the shenanigans they get up to while investigating yao activity in the city.

This story has a slight “Scooby Doo” vibe that makes for a lot of entertaining moments.

In addition to being endearing and unexpectedly thoughtful, I found this to be a really funny story.

The gags and the accompanying art throughout are well executed. Both pieces complement each other. The humor is well-balanced with the action and mystery elements as well.

Honestly, this story reads like any other historical fiction and/or fantasy book out there. At points, I almost felt like I was reading a Shadowhunter book.

This is such a readable story for a wide audience.

Also, since I bought this book myself, I got the “extras” that came with the print edition, including: a bookmark, trading cards of the exorcists, and a notebook with Hongjun and Jinglong on the cover. All of which are cute and delightful. Especially the bookmark—which is my new favorite. It has Hongjun and Jinglong looking so adoringly at each other!

Overall, I’m very impressed and OBSESSED with this story!

It’s going to be torture waiting for the next few volumes. But, I can’t recommend this story enough~

[algy · Rating 4 out of 5]

such a charming little adventure. the book was just simply,, nice and fun, in a way i really wasn't expecting. it was funny, fast-paced, hongjun is incredibly cute and likeable, and his relationship with li jinglong is so sweet, i cannot wait to see how it develops. i loved the supporting cast as well — i always appreciate when a danmei doesn't focus only on the main couple, and those guys are just so much fun.
also, this was my first fei tian novel and damn, why did nobody tell me that that man can write some beautiful prose??

[Zoey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hongjun is adorable, and everyone else is fine too I guess.

(I’m mostly kidding.)

The rest of the Demon Exorcism group are all very interesting, and I’m excited for the development of their found family.

[Ele · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5