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!