What do you think?
Rate this book
Silent Reading: Mo Du (Novel) #2
Безмолвное чтение. Том 2: Гумберт Гумберт
Двенадцатилетняя Го Фэй пропала по дороге из школы домой. Несколько дней спустя её родителям поступил звонок — из трубки раздался истошный детский крик... Полиция перевернула город вверх дном, но не нашла никаких зацепок. Тогда безутешный отец сам взялся за расследование, вышел на похитителя и зарезал его в приступе ярости. Вот только тело малышки так и не обнаружили...
Двадцать лет спустя в управление общественной безопасности Яньчэна попадает дело об исчезновении маленькой девочки, и вскоре становится ясно, что оно слишком уж похоже на тот старый случай. Несмотря на личные разногласия, Ло Вэньчжоу и Фэй Ду снова приходится работать сообща.
Двадцать лет спустя в управление общественной безопасности Яньчэна попадает дело об исчезновении маленькой девочки, и вскоре становится ясно, что оно слишком уж похоже на тот старый случай. Несмотря на личные разногласия, Ло Вэньчжоу и Фэй Ду снова приходится работать сообща.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published November 1, 2024
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Read
July 30, 2026rating danmei volumes individually is hard enough but, i genuinely don’t know what i will think of this danmei as a whole (if i don’t drop) at the end… so, staying unrated. but, there are thoughts!
now, for the thing that bothered me most with this… the way the kids were talked about… despicable. this is a fucking case about a fucking child predator? maybe we shouldn’t have the investigators and the writing style of the author itself literally describe the kids in a sexualized and adult-like manner. here are some examples: "little girls around ten years old were like flower buds: beautiful and delicate, naive and fragile”, “she was an undeniably pretty girl. the long, elegant corners of her almond eyes angled upward toward her temples. when the photo was taken, she had a little makeup on, and her white teeth stood out against her red lips. something about her was strangely precocious.” and “her cheeks were full, and she had sly yet beautiful eyes. her lips were cherry red and shiny, as though she’d stolen lip gloss from an adult.” mind you, these are smallass fucking children. super young. is this really needed? we could just have “she got kidnapped.” not, “the innocent, lovely flower-like girl got kidnapped with her oh-so beautiful red, luscious adult-like lips that gleamed in the sunlight” type shit. it’s a fucking child predator case? have some decorum.
next off would be the romance is just bad. i wish to say i thought it was bad because it was non-existent. but, no. it sadly exists and it’s corny as fuck. for the more critical shit before i explain why i got icked out, i don’t like that one character had a change-of-heart about another character immediately after he found out that the other actually treated him well (through buying him shit, okay…) when he was young. and those two were hungup about another man, like in-love hungup and that just got brushed by so casually? anyways, this is a cornball shit. here are some quotes! “maybe i’m trying to get into your pants.” fei du shrugged, his expression unchanging. “maybe my tastes have changed, and i’m into niche hotties like you now.” don’t say niche? what? what the fuck does this shit even mean? oh my godddd, the police officer who looks like every other basic bitch is sooo niche, oh my godddd, so hottttt. girl. anyways, the rebuttal to that might’ve been worse - “babe, it’s been years since i saw a man act as shamelessly cocky as you are right now. you? looking like that? hooking up with me? you might want to hook up with some calcium supplements first, fei-zong!” oh, wow, grade five diss battle-type response. and then we have: “he hadn’t gone for cologne today, but the man’s decadent flesh had probably been drenched in so many famous perfumes from all over the world that it gave him his own scent. a subtle, indistinct male fragrance seemed to emanate from his collar, so vague that it vanished without a trace before you could get a good whiff.” there’s so many things wrong with that, just from a realistic perspective but, you’re telling me this bum doesn’t bathe then? since so many perfumes are lingering to his skin… what a mustyass hoe. anyways, those are just a few examples. you know those contemporary romance books riddled with gen-z humour… sorry, this is what it feels like.
plot. so, serial killer cases are fun to read about. but, this one wasn’t anything special in particular. i’ve watched lots, lots, and lots of action-slop so, this just felt like another one of that. i’m happy clues just didn’t randomly get gifted like the last volume and it felt like there was some investigative work done. still don’t like that one main character is some sherlock holmes-variant. makes things so easy which is stupid to read about. but, things got messy in the way of - oh, he is related to that and he, did that, and she is related to him, and he did that, and he’s her friend, blah, blah. like i’m not saying i didn’t understand, i mean it became messy in the way of trying to connect everything within the case and just felt so disorganized. and a lot of plot holes, of course. it’s impossible to talk about them all but, to begin with, are we really supposed to believe a fucking sex trafficking thing happened in a normalass fucking apartment for years and years and no one noticed? i mean, just reality speaking, if my neighbour has a different man over every day, the child shows clear signs of abuse (or just mental instability, to be honest), and i’m assuming the walls are thin as shit? bitch, i’m noticing and filing a report. anyways, i hope the novel doesn’t end up with the two main characters adopting that kid…
a small sentence for the thing that disturbed me as much as the kids is this - “but being mentally old and physically young set his emotional and physiological desires at odds. if this continues, luo wenzhou thought wildly, god knows when i’ll start getting hard at the sight of luo yiguo’s fluffy tail.” nasty fucking perverted cooked fuck. that’s his fucking cat. don’t fucking piss me off. that’s beyond weird. what pet owner says that about his cat? actually, what normal human being says that about an animal? this shit isn’t even a “joke.”
for a brief positive - i liked reading about this case way more than its predecessor. for fictional, entertainment purposes, i like things that focus on serial killers rather than one instance of isolated crime so, it was way more towards my tastes. also, it being on kids made it disturbing but, disturbing in a way that also makes it something i care more about? if that makes sense… there’s some issues with the case but, i liked it more! i liked this volume more than the first one! i am planning on continuing this danmei because i want to see how every case connects and find out more about a main character’s past.
now, for the thing that bothered me most with this… the way the kids were talked about… despicable. this is a fucking case about a fucking child predator? maybe we shouldn’t have the investigators and the writing style of the author itself literally describe the kids in a sexualized and adult-like manner. here are some examples: "little girls around ten years old were like flower buds: beautiful and delicate, naive and fragile”, “she was an undeniably pretty girl. the long, elegant corners of her almond eyes angled upward toward her temples. when the photo was taken, she had a little makeup on, and her white teeth stood out against her red lips. something about her was strangely precocious.” and “her cheeks were full, and she had sly yet beautiful eyes. her lips were cherry red and shiny, as though she’d stolen lip gloss from an adult.” mind you, these are smallass fucking children. super young. is this really needed? we could just have “she got kidnapped.” not, “the innocent, lovely flower-like girl got kidnapped with her oh-so beautiful red, luscious adult-like lips that gleamed in the sunlight” type shit. it’s a fucking child predator case? have some decorum.
next off would be the romance is just bad. i wish to say i thought it was bad because it was non-existent. but, no. it sadly exists and it’s corny as fuck. for the more critical shit before i explain why i got icked out, i don’t like that one character had a change-of-heart about another character immediately after he found out that the other actually treated him well (through buying him shit, okay…) when he was young. and those two were hungup about another man, like in-love hungup and that just got brushed by so casually? anyways, this is a cornball shit. here are some quotes! “maybe i’m trying to get into your pants.” fei du shrugged, his expression unchanging. “maybe my tastes have changed, and i’m into niche hotties like you now.” don’t say niche? what? what the fuck does this shit even mean? oh my godddd, the police officer who looks like every other basic bitch is sooo niche, oh my godddd, so hottttt. girl. anyways, the rebuttal to that might’ve been worse - “babe, it’s been years since i saw a man act as shamelessly cocky as you are right now. you? looking like that? hooking up with me? you might want to hook up with some calcium supplements first, fei-zong!” oh, wow, grade five diss battle-type response. and then we have: “he hadn’t gone for cologne today, but the man’s decadent flesh had probably been drenched in so many famous perfumes from all over the world that it gave him his own scent. a subtle, indistinct male fragrance seemed to emanate from his collar, so vague that it vanished without a trace before you could get a good whiff.” there’s so many things wrong with that, just from a realistic perspective but, you’re telling me this bum doesn’t bathe then? since so many perfumes are lingering to his skin… what a mustyass hoe. anyways, those are just a few examples. you know those contemporary romance books riddled with gen-z humour… sorry, this is what it feels like.
plot. so, serial killer cases are fun to read about. but, this one wasn’t anything special in particular. i’ve watched lots, lots, and lots of action-slop so, this just felt like another one of that. i’m happy clues just didn’t randomly get gifted like the last volume and it felt like there was some investigative work done. still don’t like that one main character is some sherlock holmes-variant. makes things so easy which is stupid to read about. but, things got messy in the way of - oh, he is related to that and he, did that, and she is related to him, and he did that, and he’s her friend, blah, blah. like i’m not saying i didn’t understand, i mean it became messy in the way of trying to connect everything within the case and just felt so disorganized. and a lot of plot holes, of course. it’s impossible to talk about them all but, to begin with, are we really supposed to believe a fucking sex trafficking thing happened in a normalass fucking apartment for years and years and no one noticed? i mean, just reality speaking, if my neighbour has a different man over every day, the child shows clear signs of abuse (or just mental instability, to be honest), and i’m assuming the walls are thin as shit? bitch, i’m noticing and filing a report. anyways, i hope the novel doesn’t end up with the two main characters adopting that kid…
a small sentence for the thing that disturbed me as much as the kids is this - “but being mentally old and physically young set his emotional and physiological desires at odds. if this continues, luo wenzhou thought wildly, god knows when i’ll start getting hard at the sight of luo yiguo’s fluffy tail.” nasty fucking perverted cooked fuck. that’s his fucking cat. don’t fucking piss me off. that’s beyond weird. what pet owner says that about his cat? actually, what normal human being says that about an animal? this shit isn’t even a “joke.”
for a brief positive - i liked reading about this case way more than its predecessor. for fictional, entertainment purposes, i like things that focus on serial killers rather than one instance of isolated crime so, it was way more towards my tastes. also, it being on kids made it disturbing but, disturbing in a way that also makes it something i care more about? if that makes sense… there’s some issues with the case but, i liked it more! i liked this volume more than the first one! i am planning on continuing this danmei because i want to see how every case connects and find out more about a main character’s past.
June 7, 2026
Loved it! A great continuation of Volume 1. I honestly don’t know how Priest keeps coming up with these plot ideas, but Silent Reading still hasn’t disappointed me. :)
This case felt very different from the first one, and I like that it had its own distinct storyline instead of repeating the same formula. Without getting into spoilers, this volume felt darker, more layered, and grim, and at certain moments it hit a little too close to reality. I actually had to read it in shorter sessions just to process it in smaller chunks, as some of the descriptions felt almost claustrophobic. Still, I thought it was handled really well.
The interactions between Luo Wenzhou and Fei Du never fail to amuse me, haha. Their dynamic feels more fleshed out here—full of restrained flirtatious teasing, a subtle push and pull, and the way they keep testing and checking each other, with the physical attraction between them becoming more apparent and making their scenes even more engaging to read.
Fei Du’s characterization also gets pushed further into the foreground, and he continues to speak in half-truths and roundabout monologues that make it difficult to tell where performance ends and sincerity begins. I think he keeps people at arm’s length, carefully managing what others are allowed to see, which makes him hard to pin down. I can only make assumptions for now, so I’ll be waiting for the next volumes to come out!
And poor Luo Wenzhou works so hard. Somebody give this man a break already. xD His cat Luo Yiguo continues to be the real star of the series. :3
Also wanted to mention that the illustrations fit the gritty atmosphere of the story really well. I loved the usages of perspectives and angles used in some of the drawings.
This case felt very different from the first one, and I like that it had its own distinct storyline instead of repeating the same formula. Without getting into spoilers, this volume felt darker, more layered, and grim, and at certain moments it hit a little too close to reality. I actually had to read it in shorter sessions just to process it in smaller chunks, as some of the descriptions felt almost claustrophobic. Still, I thought it was handled really well.
The interactions between Luo Wenzhou and Fei Du never fail to amuse me, haha. Their dynamic feels more fleshed out here—full of restrained flirtatious teasing, a subtle push and pull, and the way they keep testing and checking each other, with the physical attraction between them becoming more apparent and making their scenes even more engaging to read.
Fei Du’s characterization also gets pushed further into the foreground, and he continues to speak in half-truths and roundabout monologues that make it difficult to tell where performance ends and sincerity begins. I think he keeps people at arm’s length, carefully managing what others are allowed to see, which makes him hard to pin down. I can only make assumptions for now, so I’ll be waiting for the next volumes to come out!
And poor Luo Wenzhou works so hard. Somebody give this man a break already. xD His cat Luo Yiguo continues to be the real star of the series. :3
Also wanted to mention that the illustrations fit the gritty atmosphere of the story really well. I loved the usages of perspectives and angles used in some of the drawings.
February 5, 2026
4.5 🌟
Priest knows how to write such a perfect blend of actual plot, and tension, banter and just overall romantic build up. I feel like just re-reading the fan translation to get the whole story again.
I need this series to be injected into my veins, I’m so tired of saying that words can’t describe how much I love these two, but it’s TRUE.
If this Seven Seas’ translation of volume 3 doesn’t have the iconic line I’ve been waiting so (im)patiently for, I’m gonna riot 😩 Can June come around a bit faster, please and thank you!
Priest knows how to write such a perfect blend of actual plot, and tension, banter and just overall romantic build up. I feel like just re-reading the fan translation to get the whole story again.
I need this series to be injected into my veins, I’m so tired of saying that words can’t describe how much I love these two, but it’s TRUE.
If this Seven Seas’ translation of volume 3 doesn’t have the iconic line I’ve been waiting so (im)patiently for, I’m gonna riot 😩 Can June come around a bit faster, please and thank you!
April 5, 2026
“You can teach a child to be wary of strangers, to be more alert, but you can’t let her be afraid to wear a floral dress. Otherwise, what’s the point of us police?”
I’ll be honest, even though this volume has less action than the first one, I ended up liking it more. It’s heavier and more emotionally draining, and I felt that the entire time I was reading. There were moments I had to put the book down and just breathe because anything involving crimes against children hits me hard. This story leans deeply into child abuse and inappropriate relationships with minors, and it does not soften the reality of it. If that subject is triggering for you, I genuinely recommend skipping this one. It’s intense in a way that lingers. The investigation stretches across two timelines and slowly uncovers something that’s been buried for years. Watching everything connect piece by piece made my stomach drop more than once.
What really stayed with me was Luo Wenzhou and Fei Du. Luo Wenzhou can be sharp and stubborn, and he hides his care behind sarcasm and irritation, but it’s obvious how deeply he feels. The small things he does meant more to me than any dramatic confession could. Fei Du carries himself with this calm, polished confidence, always a little teasing, always watching. Underneath that is someone who has been hurt and who sees far more than he lets on. The way they circle each other, argue, push, and quietly look out for one another had me completely invested. Their connection feels restrained and complicated, and every charged exchange made me want to keep reading just to see how far they would let themselves go.
This book is not easy. It deals with abused children, buried truths, and long-standing failures that are painful to sit with. Some sections are dense because the investigation goes deep into detail, but I appreciated that commitment. It made everything feel real and grounded. By the time the truth started coming together, I felt emotionally wrung out. Still, I’m glad I read it. It’s haunting, thoughtful, and deeply human. Even when I had to step away, I kept thinking about it, and that’s usually how I know a book has truly affected me.
Date Read: 2026.02.23
I’ll be honest, even though this volume has less action than the first one, I ended up liking it more. It’s heavier and more emotionally draining, and I felt that the entire time I was reading. There were moments I had to put the book down and just breathe because anything involving crimes against children hits me hard. This story leans deeply into child abuse and inappropriate relationships with minors, and it does not soften the reality of it. If that subject is triggering for you, I genuinely recommend skipping this one. It’s intense in a way that lingers. The investigation stretches across two timelines and slowly uncovers something that’s been buried for years. Watching everything connect piece by piece made my stomach drop more than once.
What really stayed with me was Luo Wenzhou and Fei Du. Luo Wenzhou can be sharp and stubborn, and he hides his care behind sarcasm and irritation, but it’s obvious how deeply he feels. The small things he does meant more to me than any dramatic confession could. Fei Du carries himself with this calm, polished confidence, always a little teasing, always watching. Underneath that is someone who has been hurt and who sees far more than he lets on. The way they circle each other, argue, push, and quietly look out for one another had me completely invested. Their connection feels restrained and complicated, and every charged exchange made me want to keep reading just to see how far they would let themselves go.
This book is not easy. It deals with abused children, buried truths, and long-standing failures that are painful to sit with. Some sections are dense because the investigation goes deep into detail, but I appreciated that commitment. It made everything feel real and grounded. By the time the truth started coming together, I felt emotionally wrung out. Still, I’m glad I read it. It’s haunting, thoughtful, and deeply human. Even when I had to step away, I kept thinking about it, and that’s usually how I know a book has truly affected me.
Date Read: 2026.02.23
April 21, 2026
Reading this volume after rereading "Lolita" is a cherry on top.
March 8, 2026
4.5 stars
This was a great volume filled with both strong plotting and strong characterization. The story in this one is very dark and tragic. It realistically depicts cycles of violence and trauma, and like the previous volume, it wraps up its individual mystery while leaving threads for future volumes.
The romance is still slowly simmering, but after Fei Du and Luo Wenzhou's reconciliation of sorts at the end of volume one, the nature of their bantering has become more flirtatious. It's still so fun to read and is accompanied by some adorable awkwardness.
While the reader gets some glimpses into Fei Du's own tragic past, he's still pretty mysterious to Luo Wenzhou, and I'm eager to see them open up to each other.
This was a great volume filled with both strong plotting and strong characterization. The story in this one is very dark and tragic. It realistically depicts cycles of violence and trauma, and like the previous volume, it wraps up its individual mystery while leaving threads for future volumes.
The romance is still slowly simmering, but after Fei Du and Luo Wenzhou's reconciliation of sorts at the end of volume one, the nature of their bantering has become more flirtatious. It's still so fun to read and is accompanied by some adorable awkwardness.
While the reader gets some glimpses into Fei Du's own tragic past, he's still pretty mysterious to Luo Wenzhou, and I'm eager to see them open up to each other.
June 4, 2026
I'm so hooked. This volume is even better.
I think the crime part was better plotted out compared to the 1st volume. But mostly I'm after Zhoudu, obviously.
The tension is off the charts. Poor LWZ constantly checking himself. Also I felt the part with the cat was somehow about FD allowing himself a relationship, not sure yet. Like he got a panic attack after petting a cat, I feel there's some parallel with him trusting himself with another person. I don't know, time will tell, maybe I'm grasping at straws. Anyway, it was "nice" to know more about him, poor baby.
LQ in the epilogue is just me.
I think the crime part was better plotted out compared to the 1st volume. But mostly I'm after Zhoudu, obviously.
The tension is off the charts. Poor LWZ constantly checking himself. Also I felt the part with the cat was somehow about FD allowing himself a relationship, not sure yet. Like he got a panic attack after petting a cat, I feel there's some parallel with him trusting himself with another person. I don't know, time will tell, maybe I'm grasping at straws. Anyway, it was "nice" to know more about him, poor baby.
LQ in the epilogue is just me.
February 22, 2026
The case in this book ... I can only say in one word "Damn"
It's sick, it's creepy and it's horrific. I love the banter between Luo Wenzhou and Fei Du. The tension, gosh. The plotline, amazing. The dark side of the case? Goddamn!
Anyways, love love love this book ❤️
It's sick, it's creepy and it's horrific. I love the banter between Luo Wenzhou and Fei Du. The tension, gosh. The plotline, amazing. The dark side of the case? Goddamn!
Anyways, love love love this book ❤️
June 18, 2026
(Chapter 10/35)
' “Another year has passed,” Luo Wenzhou began. He poured the warm milk into a cup and pushed it at Fei Du, gearing up for a long rant in the same vein as his father’s had been. “Please actually do something with your life, young man. How long do you plan to continue like this? Having a lot of material possessions should motivate a man to take on more pursuits, but instead you lie on your pile of gold like a dragon on its hoard. A young person’s life can’t be too empty, or something bad’s bound to happen. You need a dream. Do you have one?”
Fei Du had never experienced this kind of traditional Chinese lecture before, and he found it quite novel. He put a meatball in his mouth, chewed thoughtfully, swallowed, then replied delicately, “World peace.”
“Fuck off,” Luo Wenzhou responded, then continued his tirade. '
I honestly liked this case better than the previous one's, particularly about Fei Du's involvement with psychology, helping them with case-solving, and also him being another "cat" in the family, like Yiguo. Honestly, I thought it was funny how Yiguo was scared of Fei Du when they first reunited, considering the kitty didn't know why it was scared, but at chapter 19/44 that funniness went away. It's very obvious that the man talking to younger Fei Du is his dad, considering how he acted towards him in the nursing home and his somewhat-secretive opinions about him. I really fucking hate his dad, I thought he got his phobia of blood from his mom passing, but now I know that wasn't the case, or maybe it just increased it?
I do love how more flirtatious the two have gotten, as well as stupid. I love how in the epilogue Fei Du put on a more casual outfit and Luo Wenzhou just gave in and went inside bro's car, the gayass as he is, knowing damn well he always gets tricked by him. This, for example of the flirts:
(Chapter 17/42)
' He tapped on the door lightly to prompt Luo Wenzhou, who sat next to him, when the man suddenly asked, “What was last night all about?”
Fei Du leaned back apathetically, playing dumb. “Hm?” That lean backward oozed playboy energy. The corners of his lips rose slightly in what could’ve been a smile as he turned to look at Luo Wenzhou. “Last night? What did I do last night?” he asked, knowing the answer to that question full well.
Luo Wenzhou was speechless. He realized that, in posing that question, he was really asking for it. Compared to Fei Du’s bizarrely suggestive attitude now, he felt more comfortable with the version of Fei Du whose forehead was labeled I deserve a good beating.
“Last night, I decided to provide some of your officers a bit of warmth. Are you about to award me another banner, Sergeant Luo?” The light reflecting off the texture of his irises seemed to ripple outward from his pupils, forming concentric rings of light and dark resembling frozen waves. “What do you plan to put on it this time? Let me think…”
“Fei Du.” Luo Wenzhou sighed. “If you keep flirting with me like this, I’ll think you have untoward intentions.” '
Anyways, I love the gayasses, the BESTEST Yiguo, and Tao Ran.
' “Another year has passed,” Luo Wenzhou began. He poured the warm milk into a cup and pushed it at Fei Du, gearing up for a long rant in the same vein as his father’s had been. “Please actually do something with your life, young man. How long do you plan to continue like this? Having a lot of material possessions should motivate a man to take on more pursuits, but instead you lie on your pile of gold like a dragon on its hoard. A young person’s life can’t be too empty, or something bad’s bound to happen. You need a dream. Do you have one?”
Fei Du had never experienced this kind of traditional Chinese lecture before, and he found it quite novel. He put a meatball in his mouth, chewed thoughtfully, swallowed, then replied delicately, “World peace.”
“Fuck off,” Luo Wenzhou responded, then continued his tirade. '
I honestly liked this case better than the previous one's, particularly about Fei Du's involvement with psychology, helping them with case-solving, and also him being another "cat" in the family, like Yiguo. Honestly, I thought it was funny how Yiguo was scared of Fei Du when they first reunited, considering the kitty didn't know why it was scared, but at chapter 19/44 that funniness went away. It's very obvious that the man talking to younger Fei Du is his dad, considering how he acted towards him in the nursing home and his somewhat-secretive opinions about him. I really fucking hate his dad, I thought he got his phobia of blood from his mom passing, but now I know that wasn't the case, or maybe it just increased it?
I do love how more flirtatious the two have gotten, as well as stupid. I love how in the epilogue Fei Du put on a more casual outfit and Luo Wenzhou just gave in and went inside bro's car, the gayass as he is, knowing damn well he always gets tricked by him. This, for example of the flirts:
(Chapter 17/42)
' He tapped on the door lightly to prompt Luo Wenzhou, who sat next to him, when the man suddenly asked, “What was last night all about?”
Fei Du leaned back apathetically, playing dumb. “Hm?” That lean backward oozed playboy energy. The corners of his lips rose slightly in what could’ve been a smile as he turned to look at Luo Wenzhou. “Last night? What did I do last night?” he asked, knowing the answer to that question full well.
Luo Wenzhou was speechless. He realized that, in posing that question, he was really asking for it. Compared to Fei Du’s bizarrely suggestive attitude now, he felt more comfortable with the version of Fei Du whose forehead was labeled I deserve a good beating.
“Last night, I decided to provide some of your officers a bit of warmth. Are you about to award me another banner, Sergeant Luo?” The light reflecting off the texture of his irises seemed to ripple outward from his pupils, forming concentric rings of light and dark resembling frozen waves. “What do you plan to put on it this time? Let me think…”
“Fei Du.” Luo Wenzhou sighed. “If you keep flirting with me like this, I’ll think you have untoward intentions.” '
Anyways, I love the gayasses, the BESTEST Yiguo, and Tao Ran.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
5/5 🌟
Read this a year ago and it became one of my favorite stories. I love Priest so much! Her characters are the funniest and wittiest. I love her writing, sweet romance, and story telling. Her world building is out of this world. This volume had to be one of my favorites. It was creepy, horrific, yet so intriguing. You will not regret it!
Wendu! You both have my heart wrapped around your finger! Wait... That's Wenzhou wrapped around Fei Du Hehehe
Read: February 2025
Read this a year ago and it became one of my favorite stories. I love Priest so much! Her characters are the funniest and wittiest. I love her writing, sweet romance, and story telling. Her world building is out of this world. This volume had to be one of my favorites. It was creepy, horrific, yet so intriguing. You will not regret it!
Wendu! You both have my heart wrapped around your finger! Wait... That's Wenzhou wrapped around Fei Du Hehehe
Read: February 2025
March 13, 2026
It's my favourite read of the year so far. I love the push and pull between Luo Wenzhou and Fei Du. The drama and the investigation in this volume had me completely engrossed. The results broke my heart, but I don't think it would have made sense if everything had ended with a happy ending in that situation. I've read a lot of danmei in the fantasy genre, so it always hits extra hard when there's no magic to fall back on and reality crashes into scenes.
The illustrations were gorgeous. Fei Du posing on the front of that car is so staged and such obvious bait, but I love it. The mysteries around his past are still so shrouded, but hopefully, the next few volumes will give us some clear answers. I already have a strong sense that the boy has major daddy issues.
Hope to see him open up to Luo Wenzhou more and see more heat between them that only exists in the dark recesses of a certain young lady's mind currently. Shout out to Rylee for the cover art, especially. Both Volume 1 and 2 have covers that match the tone and feel of the story to a T. June and September can't come soon enough. I need volumes 3 and 4 in my hands now, but alas, I must exercise patience. Until then, I guess I'll just have to try and devour the rest of seven seas danmei releases with all due haste.
I blame the Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation for starting me down this road. My poor wallet cries out every time they announce a new series is being officially released. Of course, then I read these stories, and the regrets fly out the window. Thank you, Priest, for this story. I can't wait to see what happens next. I need to see Tao Ran figure out what's happening right behind his back while he's making googly eyes at his crush. I feel like he'll need a week's vacation just to process that kind of bombshell. It's not like he hasn't earned that already anyway. This whole group needs a vacation arc. Fei Du, open thy wallet and see it down. If you can afford to laugh off parking tickets, you got vacay money for at least a couple dozen people. That's all I'm saying 😂
The illustrations were gorgeous. Fei Du posing on the front of that car is so staged and such obvious bait, but I love it. The mysteries around his past are still so shrouded, but hopefully, the next few volumes will give us some clear answers. I already have a strong sense that the boy has major daddy issues.
Hope to see him open up to Luo Wenzhou more and see more heat between them that only exists in the dark recesses of a certain young lady's mind currently. Shout out to Rylee for the cover art, especially. Both Volume 1 and 2 have covers that match the tone and feel of the story to a T. June and September can't come soon enough. I need volumes 3 and 4 in my hands now, but alas, I must exercise patience. Until then, I guess I'll just have to try and devour the rest of seven seas danmei releases with all due haste.
I blame the Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation for starting me down this road. My poor wallet cries out every time they announce a new series is being officially released. Of course, then I read these stories, and the regrets fly out the window. Thank you, Priest, for this story. I can't wait to see what happens next. I need to see Tao Ran figure out what's happening right behind his back while he's making googly eyes at his crush. I feel like he'll need a week's vacation just to process that kind of bombshell. It's not like he hasn't earned that already anyway. This whole group needs a vacation arc. Fei Du, open thy wallet and see it down. If you can afford to laugh off parking tickets, you got vacay money for at least a couple dozen people. That's all I'm saying 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2026
4.25 ★
February 19, 2026
Me when Fei Du: 😛
June 24, 2026
i liked many parts of this, specially the romance and the investigation, but i have a hard time with violence against children and this is the whole thing about this book. the first part has the more explicit and direct violent parts (the kidnappings, etc), but the second part flowed much better (who was saved, was saved, and who was dead, was dead) because we focused less on the victims themselves and more on the investigation. it's was an ok read; if you don't have my hang ups, it will be pretty good, probably.
May 4, 2026
that was… disturbing.
Read
May 20, 2026cara que volume é esse... esse caso foi bizarro pra mim desde o epílogo passado e foi tão intrigante de acompanhar os desdobramentos deles. como envolve crianças, eu já tava com o estômago embrulhado desde a premissa. gostei de como a priest tratou o ciclo do abuso aqui. ela também deixou uma pulga atrás da orelha sobre um possível envolvimento maior do pai do fei du, que eu imagino que deve acabar se relacionando com os casos. do mesmo jeito que o caso atual tinha a ver com o de 20 anos atrás, talvez? enfim, mesmo se não for, o jeito que a transição entre as situações é fluida e dá essa sensação de que tá tudo conectado é um aspecto que me agrada bastante e que me deixa muito imersa na escrita desses livros. ALSO eu to me descabelando com o que a relação de zhoudu tá se tornando porque eles de longe tem o flerte que eu mais gostei de ler em um danmei até agora. completamente doentes e ao meu gosto. a lang qiao cresceu muito pra mim nesse volume também!! diva fujo que nem eu
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2026
I cannot rate it just yet because Forbidden Planet apparently got stock early as it got delivered to me last week. But 5 Stars, and I'll add that later when I can rate it.
Arc 2: Humbert Humbert
Turn the page.
"I loved you. I was a pentapod monster, but I loved you- Lolita"
Oh... Oh no...
While the first book was a little bit confusing with so many names and twists and turns, this one had a much smaller cast. It was also easier to read knowing and seeing when the perspectives changed and shifted, almost like a TV show.
The relationship between Fei Du and Lou Wenzhou has changed and developed a lot between the two books and even during this one.
But more importantly, the topic of this book. It is very intense...
Trigger Warnings for- Child Murder, Child Kidnapping, Child Sexual Abuse, Paedophilia, Child Prostitution, Grooming
That said it does raise some things that will probably be answered going forwards and one question in particular isn't answered, but considering it is raised right at the end, I think it might come up again in the future.
Arc 2: Humbert Humbert
Turn the page.
"I loved you. I was a pentapod monster, but I loved you- Lolita"
Oh... Oh no...
While the first book was a little bit confusing with so many names and twists and turns, this one had a much smaller cast. It was also easier to read knowing and seeing when the perspectives changed and shifted, almost like a TV show.
The relationship between Fei Du and Lou Wenzhou has changed and developed a lot between the two books and even during this one.
But more importantly, the topic of this book. It is very intense...
Trigger Warnings for- Child Murder, Child Kidnapping, Child Sexual Abuse, Paedophilia, Child Prostitution, Grooming
That said it does raise some things that will probably be answered going forwards and one question in particular isn't answered, but considering it is raised right at the end, I think it might come up again in the future.
March 8, 2026
Dopo la terza rilettura di questo arco confermo che si tratta di una discreta bomba.
Per il resto non penso ci sia altro da aggiungere, considerando che negli ultimi due mesi su questa storia credo di aver speso un quantitativo di parole pari a una tesi di laurea.
Non vedo l'ora però che escano gli altri volumi, avere fisicamente fra le mani il cartaceo a questo punto è niente di meno che una necessità.
Per il resto non penso ci sia altro da aggiungere, considerando che negli ultimi due mesi su questa storia credo di aver speso un quantitativo di parole pari a una tesi di laurea.
Non vedo l'ora però che escano gli altri volumi, avere fisicamente fra le mani il cartaceo a questo punto è niente di meno che una necessità.
March 23, 2026
Relectura traducción oficial en inglés
Este es mi caso favorito de todo Mo Du, y sigue siendo igual de interesante que la primera vez que lo leí.
Este es mi caso favorito de todo Mo Du, y sigue siendo igual de interesante que la primera vez que lo leí.
"You can't even carry something like this upstairs? Where's your stamina, young man?"
Fei Du turned and gazed down at him from a few steps up. "Want to put it to the test, Sergeant Luo?"
salaried worker"
That left luo Wenzhou speechless.
April 4, 2026
3.75 ⭐ ?
саме розслідування було набагато краще структуроване ніж те що було у першому томі і від того за ним було цікавіше (і легше) спостерігати і мені жодного разу не було нудно + мені сподобалось що в цьому томі розказали більше про минуле фей ду + нарешті головні герої більше взаємодіють між собою
алее авторка вибрала таку важку тривожну тему для цього тома (сексуальне насильство над дітьми) і я не відчула що це було розкрито як слід і цей факт постійно чухав мій мозок не в ту сторону
саме розслідування було набагато краще структуроване ніж те що було у першому томі і від того за ним було цікавіше (і легше) спостерігати і мені жодного разу не було нудно + мені сподобалось що в цьому томі розказали більше про минуле фей ду + нарешті головні герої більше взаємодіють між собою
алее авторка вибрала таку важку тривожну тему для цього тома (сексуальне насильство над дітьми) і я не відчула що це було розкрито як слід і цей факт постійно чухав мій мозок не в ту сторону
July 18, 2026
Another good volume, the case was really interesting although hard to read about. The slowburn is really slowburning.
July 16, 2026
While I quite like the characters this volume was neither can't put downable or too boring? Just kind of plain . The Case was ok if a little predictable. I don't really know how to feel about it.
December 10, 2025
Забудьте о том, что я собиралась понемногу читать новеллу, разбив её по томам. План растянуть текст на месяц-другой довольно быстро схлопнулся, а всё потому, что каждая новая глава вызывала во мне всё больше положительных эмоций. И уже было совсем неважно, что такая направленность в детективах вообще ни разу не для меня. У новеллы весьма гармоничная завязка на тотальной коррупции, личной драме и романтике (правда, последнее начинается полноценно только с четвёртого тома, но моменты присутствуют и раньше, хоть и не такие явные). И писательница так удачно «вплетает» все эти темы в роман.
Не так давно Ло Вэньчжоу рассказал о закрытом деле, которое волновало его прошлого начальника. Некто похищал маленьких девочек, а после преступники звонили родителям, но не для того, чтобы потребовать выкуп, а чтобы напомнить об их горе. У девочек не было ничего общего, помимо одежды — все они носили платья в цветочек. Не дождавшись поимки похитителя, отец одной из жертв самостоятельно провёл расследование, отыскал похитителя и лишил его жизни. Прошло двадцать лет. Школьники вместе с учителем отправились на экскурсию, но на середине пути неизвестные взяли их в заложники, чтобы затребовать выкуп. Одной из девочек удалось сбежать, но помощи она не нашла. Кто-то забрал бедняжку, а спустя пару дней пропала ещё одна девочка. Неужели объявился подражатель или всё куда страшнее и двадцать лет назад убили не того человека?
Я уже упомянула, что авторка умеет в правильный баланс заданных тем, и это действительно так. Она не перегружает текст и не мечется, а последовательно ведёт сюжет и грамотно заканчивает каждую линию. Впрочем, если присмотреться, то в новелле присутствует определённая градация. Первый том охватывал личную драму и коррупцию, второй сосредоточился сильнее на личной драме, третий исключительно на коррупции, четвёртый повторил путь второго (но с сильной коррупционной линией), а последний опять же пришёл к тому, с чего всё начиналось. И вот эта личная драма изрядно встряхнула меня, изничтожив все нервные клетки. Наверное, по этой же причине второй и четвертый том для меня стопроцентное попадание в сердце.
Педофилия, проституция, родительский беспредел и посреди всего этого мрака искреннее желание быть хорошим и правильным человеком. Мне было больно за каждую из девочек, которым не посчастливилось закончить свою жизнь таким ужасным способом. Не могу сказать, что писательница уж так сильно углублялась в драматизм, скорее наоборот — она была весьма суха на эмоциональную часть, но это холодное повествование только сильнее давило и морально уничтожало. Это один из главных плюсов текста. Он не давит на жалость намеренно, а описывает всё без прикрас, и такой подход задевает за живое.
Рано ещё признаваться в любви Ло Вэньчжоу, но этот мужчина так прекрасен, а я так падка на сильных мужских персонажей. Он кажется таким обычным парнем. Где-то несерьёзным, где-то грубым и излишне поспешным, но стоит ему на чём-то сосредоточиться, и вот он уже превращается в стойкого и хладнокровно-мыслящего человека. И в любой из своих ипостасях он остаётся настоящим взрослым. Тем идеальным примером, на который хочется равняться. Честное слово, Ло Вэньчжоу — моя римская империя. К сожалению, Фэй Ду никогда не приблизится к этому неподъёмному уровню, но с каждым томом я всё сильнее к нему проникаюсь, и в этом он уже представлен куда лучше.
Новелла меня захватила и стала одной из той, к которой я буду возвращаться. Наверняка я в каждом томе буду говорить о том, что коррупционные детективы не моё и что писательница каким-то способом умудрилась влюбить меня в этот текст, но так оно и есть. Невзирая на нелюбимый поджанр, я читала до утра, не желая прерываться, и наслаждалась каждой строчкой. И даже пообещав себе растянуть новеллу, заканчивая один том, я сразу же бралась за следующий.
Не так давно Ло Вэньчжоу рассказал о закрытом деле, которое волновало его прошлого начальника. Некто похищал маленьких девочек, а после преступники звонили родителям, но не для того, чтобы потребовать выкуп, а чтобы напомнить об их горе. У девочек не было ничего общего, помимо одежды — все они носили платья в цветочек. Не дождавшись поимки похитителя, отец одной из жертв самостоятельно провёл расследование, отыскал похитителя и лишил его жизни. Прошло двадцать лет. Школьники вместе с учителем отправились на экскурсию, но на середине пути неизвестные взяли их в заложники, чтобы затребовать выкуп. Одной из девочек удалось сбежать, но помощи она не нашла. Кто-то забрал бедняжку, а спустя пару дней пропала ещё одна девочка. Неужели объявился подражатель или всё куда страшнее и двадцать лет назад убили не того человека?
Я уже упомянула, что авторка умеет в правильный баланс заданных тем, и это действительно так. Она не перегружает текст и не мечется, а последовательно ведёт сюжет и грамотно заканчивает каждую линию. Впрочем, если присмотреться, то в новелле присутствует определённая градация. Первый том охватывал личную драму и коррупцию, второй сосредоточился сильнее на личной драме, третий исключительно на коррупции, четвёртый повторил путь второго (но с сильной коррупционной линией), а последний опять же пришёл к тому, с чего всё начиналось. И вот эта личная драма изрядно встряхнула меня, изничтожив все нервные клетки. Наверное, по этой же причине второй и четвертый том для меня стопроцентное попадание в сердце.
Педофилия, проституция, родительский беспредел и посреди всего этого мрака искреннее желание быть хорошим и правильным человеком. Мне было больно за каждую из девочек, которым не посчастливилось закончить свою жизнь таким ужасным способом. Не могу сказать, что писательница уж так сильно углублялась в драматизм, скорее наоборот — она была весьма суха на эмоциональную часть, но это холодное повествование только сильнее давило и морально уничтожало. Это один из главных плюсов текста. Он не давит на жалость намеренно, а описывает всё без прикрас, и такой подход задевает за живое.
Рано ещё признаваться в любви Ло Вэньчжоу, но этот мужчина так прекрасен, а я так падка на сильных мужских персонажей. Он кажется таким обычным парнем. Где-то несерьёзным, где-то грубым и излишне поспешным, но стоит ему на чём-то сосредоточиться, и вот он уже превращается в стойкого и хладнокровно-мыслящего человека. И в любой из своих ипостасях он остаётся настоящим взрослым. Тем идеальным примером, на который хочется равняться. Честное слово, Ло Вэньчжоу — моя римская империя. К сожалению, Фэй Ду никогда не приблизится к этому неподъёмному уровню, но с каждым томом я всё сильнее к нему проникаюсь, и в этом он уже представлен куда лучше.
Новелла меня захватила и стала одной из той, к которой я буду возвращаться. Наверняка я в каждом томе буду говорить о том, что коррупционные детективы не моё и что писательница каким-то способом умудрилась влюбить меня в этот текст, но так оно и есть. Невзирая на нелюбимый поджанр, я читала до утра, не желая прерываться, и наслаждалась каждой строчкой. И даже пообещав себе растянуть новеллу, заканчивая один том, я сразу же бралась за следующий.
June 16, 2026
Jika Volume 1 terasa seperti fondasi yang membangun dunia, karakter, dan misteri besar di balik layar, maka Volume 2 terasa jauh lebih fokus, lebih emosional, dan jauh lebih menghantui.
Salah satu hal yang langsung terasa adalah pacingnya. Dibandingkan Volume 1 yang kadang terasa cukup lambat karena banyaknya nama, karakter, petunjuk, dan plot twist yang harus diperkenalkan, Volume 2 bergerak jauh lebih cepat.
Jumlah karakternya lebih sedikit, perpindahan sudut pandangnya juga lebih jelas, sehingga jauh lebih mudah diikuti. Membacanya bahkan terasa seperti menonton serial kriminal yang terus berpindah dari satu adegan ke adegan lain dengan ritme yang pas.
Namun yang membuat volume ini lebih menonjol adalah kasus yang menjadi pusat ceritanya.
Tanpa membahas spoiler terlalu jauh, ini adalah kasus yang jauh lebih gelap, lebih tragis, dan lebih dekat dengan kenyataan dibandingkan kasus sebelumnya.
Tema utama yang diangkat berkaitan dengan kekerasan terhadap anak, eksploitasi anak, penculikan, pembunuhan, grooming, serta bagaimana trauma dapat diwariskan dan menciptakan siklus kekerasan yang terus berulang.
Yang paling mengerikan adalah bagaimana cerita ini memperlihatkan bahwa korban tidak selalu tetap menjadi korban. Dalam beberapa kasus, mereka tumbuh menjadi pelaku berikutnya. Siklus trauma, kekerasan, manipulasi, dan penyalahgunaan kekuasaan digambarkan dengan sangat realistis.
Selain itu, buku ini juga mengangkat isu yang terasa sangat nyata di dunia modern: kegagalan sistem dalam melindungi anak2. Kasus hilangnya anak2 selama bertahun tahun, laporan yang diabaikan, dan penyelidikan yang tidak memadai.
Buku ini pun terdapat pembahasan bagaimana masyarakat sering kali gagal melihat pola kriminal yang sebenarnya sudah ada tepat di depan mata menjadi salah satu aspek yang paling membuatku tidak nyaman. Dan mungkin justru karena itulah cerita ini terasa begitu berdampak.
Meski kasus utamanya berhasil diselesaikan, Priest tetap meninggalkan beberapa misteri yang belum terjawab. Ada beberapa pertanyaan besar yang sengaja ditahan untuk volume berikutnya, dan aku sangat penasaran ke mana semua petunjuk ini akan mengarah nantinya.
Di luar misterinya, hal lain yang benar-benar membuatku terus membalik halaman adalah hubungan antara Fei Du dan Luo Wenzhou.
Mereka masih saling menyebalkan, masih saling menguji batas satu sama lain, tetapi sekarang semuanya dibumbui dengan tension yang jauh lebih personal.
Hubungan mereka berkembang secara perlahan, tanpa terburu, namun justru itulah yang membuatnya terasa begitu memuaskan.
Luo Wenzhou si sarkastik keras kepala, yang suka menyembunyikan kepedulian di omelan2 nya. Tiap tindakan kecilnya sangat perhatian bagi orang2 sekitanya.
Lalu Fei Du menjadi salah satu alasan terbesar mengapa aku terus ingin melanjutkan seri ini. Volume ini mulai membuka sedikit lapisan yang selama ini menutupi dirinya. Kita mulai melihat sekilas masa lalunya yang tragis, namun rasanya masih misterius.
Fei Du selalu berbicara dalam setengah kebenaran. Ia menggunakan humor, godaan, dan monolog yang berputar putar sebagai tameng. Sulit sekali mengetahui kapan ia sedang tulus dan kapan ia sedang memainkan peran yang ingin ia tampilkan kepada orang lain.
Secara keseluruhan, ceritanya makin menarik. Beberapa bagian terasa cukup padat karena penyelidikannya digali dengan sangat rinci, tetapi justru itulah yang aku hargai. Detail2 tersebut membuat semuanya terasa nyata dan membumi
Salah satu hal yang langsung terasa adalah pacingnya. Dibandingkan Volume 1 yang kadang terasa cukup lambat karena banyaknya nama, karakter, petunjuk, dan plot twist yang harus diperkenalkan, Volume 2 bergerak jauh lebih cepat.
Jumlah karakternya lebih sedikit, perpindahan sudut pandangnya juga lebih jelas, sehingga jauh lebih mudah diikuti. Membacanya bahkan terasa seperti menonton serial kriminal yang terus berpindah dari satu adegan ke adegan lain dengan ritme yang pas.
Namun yang membuat volume ini lebih menonjol adalah kasus yang menjadi pusat ceritanya.
Tanpa membahas spoiler terlalu jauh, ini adalah kasus yang jauh lebih gelap, lebih tragis, dan lebih dekat dengan kenyataan dibandingkan kasus sebelumnya.
Tema utama yang diangkat berkaitan dengan kekerasan terhadap anak, eksploitasi anak, penculikan, pembunuhan, grooming, serta bagaimana trauma dapat diwariskan dan menciptakan siklus kekerasan yang terus berulang.
Yang paling mengerikan adalah bagaimana cerita ini memperlihatkan bahwa korban tidak selalu tetap menjadi korban. Dalam beberapa kasus, mereka tumbuh menjadi pelaku berikutnya. Siklus trauma, kekerasan, manipulasi, dan penyalahgunaan kekuasaan digambarkan dengan sangat realistis.
Selain itu, buku ini juga mengangkat isu yang terasa sangat nyata di dunia modern: kegagalan sistem dalam melindungi anak2. Kasus hilangnya anak2 selama bertahun tahun, laporan yang diabaikan, dan penyelidikan yang tidak memadai.
Buku ini pun terdapat pembahasan bagaimana masyarakat sering kali gagal melihat pola kriminal yang sebenarnya sudah ada tepat di depan mata menjadi salah satu aspek yang paling membuatku tidak nyaman. Dan mungkin justru karena itulah cerita ini terasa begitu berdampak.
Meski kasus utamanya berhasil diselesaikan, Priest tetap meninggalkan beberapa misteri yang belum terjawab. Ada beberapa pertanyaan besar yang sengaja ditahan untuk volume berikutnya, dan aku sangat penasaran ke mana semua petunjuk ini akan mengarah nantinya.
Di luar misterinya, hal lain yang benar-benar membuatku terus membalik halaman adalah hubungan antara Fei Du dan Luo Wenzhou.
Mereka masih saling menyebalkan, masih saling menguji batas satu sama lain, tetapi sekarang semuanya dibumbui dengan tension yang jauh lebih personal.
Hubungan mereka berkembang secara perlahan, tanpa terburu, namun justru itulah yang membuatnya terasa begitu memuaskan.
Luo Wenzhou si sarkastik keras kepala, yang suka menyembunyikan kepedulian di omelan2 nya. Tiap tindakan kecilnya sangat perhatian bagi orang2 sekitanya.
Lalu Fei Du menjadi salah satu alasan terbesar mengapa aku terus ingin melanjutkan seri ini. Volume ini mulai membuka sedikit lapisan yang selama ini menutupi dirinya. Kita mulai melihat sekilas masa lalunya yang tragis, namun rasanya masih misterius.
Fei Du selalu berbicara dalam setengah kebenaran. Ia menggunakan humor, godaan, dan monolog yang berputar putar sebagai tameng. Sulit sekali mengetahui kapan ia sedang tulus dan kapan ia sedang memainkan peran yang ingin ia tampilkan kepada orang lain.
Secara keseluruhan, ceritanya makin menarik. Beberapa bagian terasa cukup padat karena penyelidikannya digali dengan sangat rinci, tetapi justru itulah yang aku hargai. Detail2 tersebut membuat semuanya terasa nyata dan membumi
February 19, 2026
always happy to be back with fei du and luo wenzhou. while this might not be my favourite arc of silent reading it is the one that has stuck with me the most.
fei du and luo wenzhou are reunited on a case where a young girl has gone missing in an eerily similar way to a series of chilling kidnappings from 20 years ago. things get a lot more personal when the second victim is a child they both know.
volume 2 feels very fast in comparison to how drawn out volume 1 was, but I feel like that makes sense given the nature of the crime at the centre of this arc.
and it truly is a horrifying crime; exploring the cycle of violence and abuse, and how the victim can become the perpetrator in twisted, spine-chilling irony. and there's this ongoing theme of young flowers just blooming that just makes everything more sick and sad.
its not lost on me that this is the volume we first start to see some of the horrors a young fei du faced.
another thing the book does well is the advancement of fei du and luo wenzhou's relationship. in volume 1, they were mutual annoyances who somewhat made peace, and in volume 2 they're still annoying each other but now its tinted with flirtation that leaves both of them baffled at first.
fei du and luo wenzhou are reunited on a case where a young girl has gone missing in an eerily similar way to a series of chilling kidnappings from 20 years ago. things get a lot more personal when the second victim is a child they both know.
volume 2 feels very fast in comparison to how drawn out volume 1 was, but I feel like that makes sense given the nature of the crime at the centre of this arc.
and it truly is a horrifying crime; exploring the cycle of violence and abuse, and how the victim can become the perpetrator in twisted, spine-chilling irony. and there's this ongoing theme of young flowers just blooming that just makes everything more sick and sad.
its not lost on me that this is the volume we first start to see some of the horrors a young fei du faced.
another thing the book does well is the advancement of fei du and luo wenzhou's relationship. in volume 1, they were mutual annoyances who somewhat made peace, and in volume 2 they're still annoying each other but now its tinted with flirtation that leaves both of them baffled at first.
June 30, 2026
This is such a TENSE second volume. It comes with many TWs for all kinds of crimes against children—so, beware before reading.
But, all that is to say that I really enjoyed this second volume—probably more than the first, and I also liked that first one a lot.
This second volume is more gripping though. The central mystery is deeply unsettling and how it twists and unravels is quite unexpected. Honestly, I found parts of this volume hard to read—because children are involved. Some of the content is just disturbing. There are a lot of hurt characters in this story who hurt a lot of other characters. It’s a bit bleak.
But, profound disappointment and despair aside, how’s the romance in this second volume?
Alright—I suppose.
I appreciate how this series is taking its time to craft the central relationship. They are growing softer towards each other and starting to rely more on each other. The banter is also transitioning from being purely snarky to sexually charged. As a reader, it’s pretty satisfying.
So, all around, I’m enjoying this series a lot more than I anticipated. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where this story goes~
But, all that is to say that I really enjoyed this second volume—probably more than the first, and I also liked that first one a lot.
This second volume is more gripping though. The central mystery is deeply unsettling and how it twists and unravels is quite unexpected. Honestly, I found parts of this volume hard to read—because children are involved. Some of the content is just disturbing. There are a lot of hurt characters in this story who hurt a lot of other characters. It’s a bit bleak.
But, profound disappointment and despair aside, how’s the romance in this second volume?
Alright—I suppose.
I appreciate how this series is taking its time to craft the central relationship. They are growing softer towards each other and starting to rely more on each other. The banter is also transitioning from being purely snarky to sexually charged. As a reader, it’s pretty satisfying.
So, all around, I’m enjoying this series a lot more than I anticipated. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where this story goes~
April 4, 2026
I adored this book. I ate it up in no time flat.
This book delivered for me more what I was expecting from the first book - a complicated mystery that was fun (though the subject matter in this one is very dark, check for trigger warnings) and a good amount of relationship development from our two leads, but not going so far as to make them a couple or courting yet.
I think the pacing of this one was a lot stronger too and there was a lot more 'fun' moments and passages. It also made me want to reread the book Lolita, so there is that.
Overall, I cannot wait to continue this series. June cannot come fast enough.
The cover art for this one is also amazing and the interior illustrations are very adorable though it is funny you can tell the artist didn't read the text because there is small details that are missing (like Fei Du wearing a cast in some scenes not being portrayed), but genuinely I hope we see more from this artist. They have a lot of talent.
This book delivered for me more what I was expecting from the first book - a complicated mystery that was fun (though the subject matter in this one is very dark, check for trigger warnings) and a good amount of relationship development from our two leads, but not going so far as to make them a couple or courting yet.
I think the pacing of this one was a lot stronger too and there was a lot more 'fun' moments and passages. It also made me want to reread the book Lolita, so there is that.
Overall, I cannot wait to continue this series. June cannot come fast enough.
The cover art for this one is also amazing and the interior illustrations are very adorable though it is funny you can tell the artist didn't read the text because there is small details that are missing (like Fei Du wearing a cast in some scenes not being portrayed), but genuinely I hope we see more from this artist. They have a lot of talent.
May 1, 2026
This volume leans heavily into its psychological depth, delivering a case that is both unsettling and impossible to step away from. The pacing keeps a steady tension throughout, and the gradual reveal makes the payoff feel earned rather than rushed.
The narrative’s connection to events from 20 years prior adds a compelling layer, highlighting the contrast between past and present—both in investigative methods and in the broader social environment. It gives the story a weight that lingers beyond the final page. Character-wise, the development continues to be subtle but effective. The dynamic between the two leads evolves through sharp, restrained dialogue and brief moments of levity that balance the darker tone. Overall, this volume strengthens the series’ blend of crime, psychology, and slow-burn character work. Easily one of my favorite reads of the year so far.
Looking forward to the next installment.
The narrative’s connection to events from 20 years prior adds a compelling layer, highlighting the contrast between past and present—both in investigative methods and in the broader social environment. It gives the story a weight that lingers beyond the final page. Character-wise, the development continues to be subtle but effective. The dynamic between the two leads evolves through sharp, restrained dialogue and brief moments of levity that balance the darker tone. Overall, this volume strengthens the series’ blend of crime, psychology, and slow-burn character work. Easily one of my favorite reads of the year so far.
Looking forward to the next installment.
July 3, 2026
I genuinely couldn't stop turning the pages.
Compared to the previous case, this one felt a little more straightforward, but that didn't make it any less addictive. Every chapter kept pulling me in, and I was constantly telling myself, "Just one more."
I'm still not sure what to think about Fei Du. I love how incredibly smart he is, but... why does he always seem to be around whenever a murder case happens? 🤨 Every time he appears, I end up suspecting him even more. I have absolutely no idea who the mastermind is, and the mystery is driving me insane in the best way.
And the romance??? I'M OBSESSED. The slow burn is painfully good. Every interaction has me kicking my feet one minute and tearing my hair out the next because I just need these two to get together already.
This series keeps giving me exactly what I want: gripping investigations, clever characters, and a romance that makes every tiny moment feel worth the wait.
I need Volume 3 immediately.
4.5⭐
Compared to the previous case, this one felt a little more straightforward, but that didn't make it any less addictive. Every chapter kept pulling me in, and I was constantly telling myself, "Just one more."
I'm still not sure what to think about Fei Du. I love how incredibly smart he is, but... why does he always seem to be around whenever a murder case happens? 🤨 Every time he appears, I end up suspecting him even more. I have absolutely no idea who the mastermind is, and the mystery is driving me insane in the best way.
And the romance??? I'M OBSESSED. The slow burn is painfully good. Every interaction has me kicking my feet one minute and tearing my hair out the next because I just need these two to get together already.
This series keeps giving me exactly what I want: gripping investigations, clever characters, and a romance that makes every tiny moment feel worth the wait.
I need Volume 3 immediately.
4.5⭐
February 13, 2026
I wasn't entirely convinced after the first volume that I would love this series, but after this one, I need to know more!
The mystery was even better than in the first I thought. It was somewhat personal on a few levels. We also got a more insight in Fei Du's past and motivations, and I just need more. His memory about his father (I think) explaining about life and death was so heartbreaking. I think it may explain the fact he didn't want to keep Luo Yigue (the cat). The relationship between Fei Du and Luo Wenzhou is also slowly changing and I look forward to seeing what's coming next.
I like the side characters as well, have a lot of fondness for Luo Wenzhou, but Fei Du intrigues me enormously. I feel very protective about him but I can't help fear there's a darker side, like Wenzhou keeps thinking. I can't wait for the next volume! 🥰
The mystery was even better than in the first I thought. It was somewhat personal on a few levels. We also got a more insight in Fei Du's past and motivations, and I just need more. His memory about his father (I think) explaining about life and death was so heartbreaking. I think it may explain the fact he didn't want to keep Luo Yigue (the cat). The relationship between Fei Du and Luo Wenzhou is also slowly changing and I look forward to seeing what's coming next.
I like the side characters as well, have a lot of fondness for Luo Wenzhou, but Fei Du intrigues me enormously. I feel very protective about him but I can't help fear there's a darker side, like Wenzhou keeps thinking. I can't wait for the next volume! 🥰
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews