Legend of Exorcism: Tianbao Fuyao Lu (Novel) Vol. 2

Legend of Exorcism: Tianbao Fuyao Lu (Novel) #2

by Fei Tian Ye Xiang

CRIMES OF PASSION

Although the Department of Exorcism has successfully thwarted the fox yao's attempts to infiltrate the imperial examinations, Hongjun, Li Jinglong, and their companions are no closer to uncovering the identity of the yao king of Chang'an. Investigations stall until the group stumbles across a series of bloody murders in the capital.

What appears to be a gruesome coincidence soon points to a larger plot as Hongjun and Li Jinglong discover evidence of yao involvement. Yet as the clues pile up, the group fears their enemies' goals go far beyond They may have their sights set on the emperor himself. Hongjun and Li Jinglong's growing bond is tested as the fate of the empire--and their very lives--are put on the line in the hunt for the mastermind lurking in the city's shadows.

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

453 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 3, 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]

This was such a wonderful journey, and I’m eagerly awaiting the next volume to come out. It took me quite a while to read this installment because I was sick, and I also wanted to savor every moment spent in this captivating world. This volume surpassed my expectations, offering even more action and engaging cases than the first, while the characters remained the true heart of the narrative.

Hongjung continues to be a character who captivates everyone with his multifaceted personality. He embodies strength, yet his underlying vulnerability elicits a protective instinct in others. Li Jinglong impressed me in this volume; his character arc was significantly developed, showcasing a more complex and relatable side that resonated deeply with me. Mergen, too, exhibited an even greater display of his abilities here, sparking my curiosity about his backstory and powers as I anticipate learning more about him.

Now, let’s spotlight my favorite character in this danmei: Lu Xu. I absolutely adore Lu Xu. He is a character who instantly captured my attention when I first encountered him in the donghua, and I was thrilled to see his transition into the novel. My attachment to him grew rapidly; there’s an inexplicable charm about him that draws me in. His secret identity only adds layers to his intrigue, and I’m eagerly awaiting the moment when the others—especially Mergen—uncover the truth about who he really is.

The relationships in this volume were explored in greater depth than in the first. I appreciate how they unfolded gradually; this pacing allows readers to genuinely invest in these connections. Hongjung and Li Jinglong's dynamic was particularly heartwarming. The way they care for and tease each other, with subtle moments revealing their mutual crush, made me smile and giggle every time they interacted on the page. Their chemistry showcases a beautifully healthy relationship. Mergen’s long-awaited meeting with his partner was another highlight, and I am especially excited to see how their relationship blossoms in the upcoming third volume.

In conclusion, this was a delightful volume filled with thrilling action and tender moments. I truly don’t know how I will cope while waiting for the release of the third volume!

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most adorable found family ever. Some new characters introduced in this volume including one of my favorites 🦌 who rivals Hong Jun in cuteness 🥰 Fei Tian IMO has perfected writing a story so serious yet somehow so charming and fun at the same time. Also, I will use every chance I get to let people know he has written four books in this Exorcism series and they are all interconnected! I’ll list them at the end of this review in both chronological and publication order.

Recap of the crew, origins, and their spiritual weapons
🗡️Li Jinglong: human, former military commander, no family, no money, Heart lamp and Sword of Wisdom
🦚Hong Jun: half Yao-half human from Yaojin Palace, Sacred pentacolor light, four knives, and gains another spiritual weapon in this volume
🐺Mo Rigen/Mergen: Grey wolf, Bow/nine nails arrows, Shiwei tribe
🪭A-Tai: Persian prince, fan ,plays enchanting flute
📚Qiu Yongsi: scholar, paint brush, so much more to hide to come!
🎏Zhao Zilong: carp


I don’t *think* these are spoilers but a few thoughts…
🐦‍🔥Mutual jealousy and it’s so funny and endearing
🐦‍🔥Typical Fei Tian with his awkward “reactions”
🐦‍🔥Pay attention to anything dragon related 🤐
🐦‍🔥Please do not stress about the “age gap”- just trust the author here
🐦‍🔥More court politics introduced so keep a list of names
🐦‍🔥Lu Xu and Hong Jun’s friendship is the cutest
🐦‍🔥Dreams are important in this series so don’t gloss over those

Exorcism series
Publication order:
1. Post Training Notice: National First-Class Registered Exorcist/Ming Wang Huan Shi Lu (modern supernatural)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
2. Legend of Exorcism/Tianbao Fuyao Lu (historical) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
3. Dinghai Fusheng Records (historical)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
4. Record of All Things (Book of Everything?) Wan Wu Feng Hua Lu ( modern supernatural) Review coming soon!

Chronological order:
1. Dinghai Fusheng Records (historical)
2. Legend of Exorcism/Tianbao Fuyao Lu (historical)
3. Post Training Notice: National First-Class Registered Exorcist/Ming Wang Huan Shi Lu (modern supernatural)
4. Record of All Things (Book of Everything?) Wan Wu Feng Hua Lu ( modern supernatural)

**FYI if you like to listen to books on a speaker while in the shower there are a few NSFW moments to be aware of 😂**

[ana ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

i really do like the story, but the pacing in this volume is absolutely all over the place and it’s not entirely the author’s fault. seven seas decided to chop it into pieces, so the first chunk of this volume is wrapping up that storyline from volume one, which is also BOOK ONE originally, before abruptly pivoting to book two halfway through. it’s jarring. it made picking up this book feel like a bit of a chore honestly.

this volume starts off with a bang and then hits the brakes hard when the department splits up. there were definitely some moments where the lore explanations got a bit excessive as well. overall though, still a solid installment and the romance got noticeably steamier which i’m not complaining about hehe

[iayal]

li jinglong laughed. "all right, i'll stop teasing. we're heading out early tomorrow, so get some sleep. some things in life don't need to be rushed. take your time thinking things over. you'll figure it out eventually—at least, that's what i did, until the day i met you."

(4.4 rating -> just decreased cause of the lit 40% where i wasn't that invested with the minor arc/subplot)

was giggling and laughing so hard during this novel… the romance in this is so, so cute. i love the found family elements of this as well. i can’t wait to see everything progress as more volumes get released.

more on the romance: i liked how hongjun was becoming more aware of his feelings for li jinglong but simultaneously, the two are brother-zoning? friend-zoning? each other when they’re doing so much romantic and freaky stuff… like, be serious. but, they’re teenagers and it’s so cute to read about them. it’s such a pure romance…

characters are improving, i guess? i always liked the main characters and i care a bit about the rest, but, not at a huge level. i hope that changes soon. i was really excited for the side romance and i lowkey didn’t care about it, but, im hoping (and guessing) that will change as well.

i’m interested in the overarching plot and mysteries of the novel but i didn’t care for all the corpse army things in this volume at all which was disappointing. also, the writing is amazing in this danmei. i honestly have to say i like the writing style of this author the most of all danmei authors, though i haven't read that much so this could change, i’m rarely bored and it’s lovely and lush. (also, not juvenile at all - i love you 2ha and yuwu but…)

also, the art for this is insane!!! has to be my favourite of all danmei, period. so gorgeous. i don’t know how i’m gonna be able to wait till october for the next volume…

1.
following the path, hongjun's fingers slid down to li jinglong's right hand where it held the reins. li jinglong switched the reins to his left, pressing his broad palm to hongjun's and interlacing their fingers.

hongjun's heart began to pound. warm light flashed between their hands.

"i think i've got it." li jing-long chuckled. "thanks, xiao-shi-fu."

"um..."

li jinglong squeezed their interlaced hands, then let go. "i'll make sure to practice diligently." this was the first time hongjun had ever interlocked his fingers with another's, and his cheeks bloomed pink. the simple act seemed to stir some unspoken yet complex well of emotion between them.

2.
"i'm the one at fault for not cherishing our days together." li jinglong raised his eyes to look at the others. slowly, he said, "i only hope we will meet again in this lifetime.

tears welled up in qiu yongsi's, mergen's, and a-tai's eyes. hongjun held back a sniffle.

3.
seeing him always reminded him of his own youth. during the years that belonged solely to the young, he had strapped a sword - the treasure for which he'd exchanged his family's entire fortune to his waist and searched desperately for a friend like hongjun: someone who hailed from an impossibly ideal world with whom he could drink, make merry, and fight his enemies; a confidant who would stand with him at the top of the world and remain with him through life and death.

but hongjun hadn't appeared at his side back then. in hindsight, his state of mind at the time was perhaps best described by li bai's verse: "sword drawn, i look around, finding myself lost and alone.”

"you came too late," li jing-long said suddenly. "if only we had met three years ago."

"three years ago, i was only thirteen."

"that's true," li jinglong conceded with a smile. "still, you saved me."

4.
“i’m going with you,” hongjun said.
“of course you are,” li jinglong said with a smile.

5.
well, as long as he's still asleep... might as well hug him a while longer. hongjun liked this feeling a lot. it reminded him of how he felt after eating something delicious, like a flower was blossoming in his heart; or when he sunned himself on the rocks as the warm breeze drifted over him-like he was being gently embraced by the whole world, the feeling of companionship constant and unending.

[V~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.8/5 🌟

It took me forever to read this and I'm so sad it did because of a reading slump! 😩 I savored this book, however!

FTYX has such a way with being so enrichingly poetic and a great world builder! Take Priest and T97 into one, and you get FTYX novels.

The relationship between the couple is so adorable! Our poor little Hongjun is really weak for handsome men and Li Jinglong be making him extra thirsty! 🤣 But, despite LJL sharing that he sees him as a little brother, it doesn't stop him from cuddling with Hongjun every night in the later half of the volume.

The first arc was intense. The suffering from brutally being tortured that everyone was going through, made me so angry that I almost threw the book! The teamwork that our exorcist went though was immaculate. I love how everyone contributed to capturing the wolf. I learn to respect each and every one of them even more, especially HJ. He's so young but he is so strong and quick thinking!

I love love love how LJL was given certain powers that makes him just as vital as everyone else. Incredible how fast he was able to utilize those powers.

Finally, the farewell of certain characters made me tear up! 😭 But I'm sure they will reunite. Lu Xu is my new pookie and I ship him with a dear wolf. Hehe.

The zombie arc has me on my toes! I'm loving everything about it. And now with the Ghost King awakened, and the final coffin's label... I'm so intrigued! I need the next volume baaad!

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5⭐️

🗡️SPOILER WARNING!🗡️

Not sure if my reviews are reviews , or more like I'm displaying my undying love of these danmei novels.

Li Jinglong and Hongjun's interactions are just chef's kiss! I absolutely love seeing their relationship grow. Even if it's "brotherly love" (I'm whispering "at the moment!"), we're definitely getting interactions that seem to be sparking deeper feelings in Hongjun for Li Jinglong. My favorite part is how all the other characters totally ship them and tease them about it.

It warms my heart to see how much Hongjun loves Mergen, A-Tai, and Qiu Yongsi. Their bond is truly special.

The found family dynamic in this novel has been one of my favorite moments. They're so rambunctious, and their personalities complement each other perfectly. Their interactions always make me laugh out loud! I cried my eyes out when they all went their separate ways – I was not expecting that at all! I'm really hoping they come back together soon.

Now, it's just Li Jinglong and Hongjun at the Department of Exorcism. They're off on an adventure outside the city to uncover what's going on. While they're doing that, we're also getting glimpses of the side couple and their own adventures. I'm loving this new dynamic between the side couple!

And seriously, Lu Xu is just too precious!

Hongjun is so kind and innocent; it actually reminds me of myself when I was younger. I love it when you find parts of yourself in a character!

I can't wait for Volume 3 to come out! I've truly enjoyed this novel so much, and I'm beyond excited to see what's in store for the next volumes. Also, I'm eagerly awaiting the release of Fei Tian's other novels! Happy reading, everyone!

[NiaKantorka · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars

Even after having read two volumes I haven’t taken to Legend of Exorcism/Tianbao Fuyao Lu like I thought I would.

Some of the thoughts that went through my head while reading:

- Kong Hongjun is so infantile and I can’t take him seriously. It feels as if he’s twelve or thirteen and not sixteen. He’s a living cliche of a growing boy who mostly thinks about stuffing himself. On top of that he only ever acts on instinct instead of thinking things through (no wonder he admires Li Jinglong so much for his capability to actually use his brain). If he didn’t have his yao powers, I’d actually find him boring. I’m afraid, but just having a good heart is not enough to make me fall in love with a character.

- Li Jinglong is not that bad but why he’s drawn so much to Kong Hongjun I’ve got no idea. Must be all that pale skin. I had a good laugh about the hot springs scene though. Our gay author must be a true size queen, for all his gongs have schlongs as long as horses.

- Mergen. Honestly, I wished for half of the book that he were the protagonist. His powers are wonderfully mysterious, he was great with Lu Xu, and his sense of humour is neat. He was the redeeming factor of this book.

- It might be my bias towards smart characters. The cleverer fictional characters are the more I love them. Of course there are different versions of cleverness and usually they come with certain flaws, but that’s exactly the fun about it. And if the antagonists are equally clever you can probably hear me sing Hallelujah. Here, the antagonists have been either mediocre, in rage, or plainly absent.

- Honestly, I’m not sure if I want to continue this series atm. When I compare this book with the depth and complexity of FTYX’s Joyful Reunion I’m simply disappointed. Maybe I shouldn’t have had such high expectations.

[ollie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have the biggest headache from reading almost the entire volume in one sitting, but it was so worth it. The perfect mixture of action, budding romance between Hongjun and Li Jinglong, and my beloved found family.

I was a bit sad that the Department of Exorcism went on their own ways much earlier than I had anticipated, but I do feel like it won’t be long before A-Tai and Qiu Yongsi group up with the others. Perhaps next volume we’ll get their point of views like we did with Mergen!

Speaking of Mergen, am I the only one who feels like there’s something going on between him and Lu Xu? Maybe I just make everything gay, but I can’t help but sense gay between these two. Lu Xu is cute, so I wouldn’t blame Mergen at all. I’m happy to see that it looks like Lu Xu will be tagging along with the gang. He’s quite the fighter when he needs to be.

The way that my jaw was on the floor when Hongjun was flat out staring at the nude Li Jinglong, and even commented on his body, like okay, speak your mind all the time Hongjun! It’s cute how even when there’s the option of two beds, Li Jinglong and Hongjun sleep together in one bed. For warmth of course, definitely no other reason at all.

The corpse army seriously had me stressing out due to the sheer size. Not only are there about one hundred thousand of them, but they’re also making all of our guys sick? I fear I’d have to call quits if I was involved.

[Zoey · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was sad to see the group part, but it also gave Hongjun and Li Jinglong the opportunity to figure out their own relationship (not really because they’re delusional). Not to mention, Mergen immediately came back into the mix with a new addition, and I’m loving Lu Xu so far, especially with his attachment to Mergen and Hongjun.

[Rose ✧⁎⁺ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75/5☆

“Mergen transformed back into the gray wolf and pulled Lu Xu close with one great paw, tucking him fast against his chest. Bodies curled toward the fire, the boy and the wolf slept, nestled together.”

More scenes of Lu Xu & Mergen together in the next vol please!! They have my heart already. 😔💝

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I can see this becoming a new favorite down the line. It's such a wonderful mix of humor, action, and beautiful relationships.
The found family and friendships are just as important as the romance, and all of the characters involved are richly developed and so easy to love, including the newest addition, Lu Xu, whose preciousness rivals Hongjun at times.
As for the romance? Our main couple is adorable even as they only acknowledge each other right now as dear friends and "brothers." It's a bit of a slow burn, but also not, because their connection is so obvious to the reader and to everyone they meet. One of my favorite ongoing jokes is how everyone instantly ships Hongjun and Li Jinglong together.
Events move by quickly in this volume, and I absolutely am ready for more.

[Queens Love Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Bonds broken and formed, life and death, success and failure, momentous changes that upend heaven and earth—all are decided by a series of simple, fleeting choices.”



Legend of Exorcism: Tianbao Fuyao Lu, Vol. 2 is a decent follow-up, though I’m still on the fence about how much it clicks with me. The writing is solid, and the emotional threads are starting to take shape—especially with Hongjun slowly becoming aware of his own feelings, even if he hasn’t quite figured them out yet. The chemistry between him and Li Jinglong is playful and charged, even if it’s constantly brushed off as “brotherly.” It’s funny watching Hongjun miss all the signals, though it adds a layer of tension that works.

The strongest part of the story is definitely the found family dynamic. The way the characters naturally pull toward each other feels genuine and well-earned. There’s a quiet kind of closeness forming among them that adds warmth to the more intense plot moments. It gave the book a heartbeat I could connect to, even when other parts didn’t fully land for me.

What tripped me up were the action scenes and certain passages of dialogue. I like visualizing things clearly as I read, but a lot of the fights were hard to follow, and there were moments when I couldn’t tell who was talking or what exactly was happening. It made me question if I missed something or just wasn’t focused enough. I’m planning to re-read this volume at some point to see if it hits differently the second time around—maybe with more context, things will fall into place.

Date Read: 2025.07.01
Re-read: 2025.09.25

[Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic read.
Loved it just as much as the first volume.

Fast paced, beautiful character interactions, hot bird dads, and even lots of flirting. There is so much to love with this series, and I hope more moots can fall in love with it too. Definitely in my top 10 danmei I've read this year. We love when a single brain cell is shared among a group trying to save the world. :)

[Kate♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5stars

I read this volume via the fan translation because it is not yet out, But I was absolutely obsessed with volume one so I just had to continue. I'm assuming the second volume from Seven Seas is going to go up till the end of the fan translation volume 1 aka chapter 43 aka the end of the first arc. and I just truly love this story and these characters so much I find the world so interesting I love the world building within it and again every single character is just perfect and I cannot wait for more of hongjun and jinglong's relationship 🫶🏻 I will be going right into the fan translation volume 2

[kay! ☾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I haven’t even known you a month, but it’s obvious from everything you say and do that you hail from somewhere beyond the mortal realm. The way you interact with the world is pure and honest. What common man could compare?”

⋆｡ ﾟ☁︎︎ ｡ ✧ ⋆ ★★★★ 4.25 stars 🍓｡ ﾟ☾ ﾟ｡ ⋆

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

it took me forever to finish the last 40% of this because of a reading slump but i had just as much of a blast with this volume that i did the first. there was a small chunk of this volume that felt dragging at times while simultaneously being hectic because so much plot stuff was happening. fei tian ye xiang novels are chefs kiss but the action sequences jump from thing to thing so fast that i have to mentally map out what each character is doing 😭

i need the next volume asap

[Khael · Rating 5 out of 5]

LongJun cuddles eachother about a million times a night and says how they see the other as attractive, but ah yes, you only have a "brotherly friendship" with eachother, this is like a MikaYuu (seraph of the end) situation all over again but instead they're actually canon and not bromance.

Also I love Mergen and Lu Xu they're so cute, although I do hope Lu Xu gets better at his talking. It feels weird having him speak very little while clinging towards Mergen and Hongjun at 17yo-18yo (according to Mergen guessing of his age from earlier) but I don't know how to word what I mean. I do not mind at all whatsoever about the clingyness though, I love that as well as brotherly Mergen and Hongjun.

[amia ──★ ˙ ̟ !! · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐
OMG???? ok this volume definitely had a lot more space for action and the actual story and i think the world building is done perfectly, but what i appreciated is the building of the relationship between Hongjun and Li Jinglong, their scenes are both super sweet and also super 👀👀 u know. even if everything seems to be extremely balanced, and i really appreciated how Li Jinglong was go-ahead throughout the book, let's go chief I'm sure you'll be able to win Hongjun over!
anyway i can't wait to know more about the relationship between Mergen and Lu Xu too (i hope they'll become lovers they're too cute PLS)
THE ONLY THING THAT MADE ME SAD IS THAT THE FOUND FAMILY SPLIT UP SO QUICKLY. I HOPE THEY WILL ALL COME BACK TOGETHER SOON DJDJDJ see you in the next volume 🥳🥳

[Ky ! · Rating 5 out of 5]

After finishing volume two, Legend of Exorcism has officially earned a spot in my top five favorite danmei of all time. I’m completely hooked.

The characters are just so well written, and their dynamics are absolutely top tier. There’s something so satisfying about how their relationships evolve. I’m such a sucker for the found family trope, and this series delivers it so well I could cry 🥹

And don’t even get me started on Mergen and Lu Xu’s arc. finally! I’ve been waiting for that moment, and it did not disappoint. The payoff was so good, and I can’t wait to see where their story goes next.

Honestly, I wasn’t expecting to fall this hard for the series, but now I’m fully obsessed.

[mara - hyrulevalkyrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A FOOT?? It’s A FOOT LONG???

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 ⭐

[JuliaMoranmu · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5

Ah I feel like the autor is not the best at writing the fight scenes they are quite confusing. But I like their dynamic more and more, although I feel like there’s not much development and it irks me a bit. I’m glad I didn’t wait for the official vol 2 because I feel like I would’ve been a bit disappointed, the story has a weird pacing idk.

[Keiko the manga enthusiast ♒︎ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Halfway through the book, I can’t wipe the smile off my face. The second half, I’m just dying for it to end already coz it suddenly turned into a bland chunk of meat you kept on chewing but can’t swallow. What I do like about Chicken-gege though is that he makes me hungry with his narrating skills—ESPECIALLY ABOUT FOOD—legit, with my jaw dropped, and saliva pooling down.

To tell you what, I really love Li Jinglong and Hongjun, but I guess my love isn’t enough to have me stay rooted in this book without getting agitated about what’s to come next—because, what?! It’s a bit all-over the place, isn’t it? I was shocked when the Department of Exorcism arc wrapped up in the middle of the book, and suddenly our exorcist friends are bidding farewell. Like, what the fuck? This is why I’m seated for this show, now I’m so confused. Like, hello, Chicken-gege, this wasn’t the whole plot?

There’s still a healthy amount of thrill, action and adventure, including the budding romance of our main characters, but even then, it just wasn’t doing it for me.

The plot is convoluted—so many things happening at the same time that I had to breathe before I continue, breathing wasn’t enough though, coz I had to drop it halfway—not intending to—and realized my loan expired so I had to wait for two months to loan it again! Gah! I so hate waiting, and I so hate reading books that felt too long to read it became like a chore.

But I really do want to finally meet that yao king though. Too many red herring, I only wished I’d be satisfied once I finally see him.

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was soooo good. I loved it from start to finish. FTYX does so well with political intrigue and war storytelling. I may have liked this one even more than the first.

This goes in a lot of different directions but it all works well and makes sense. It starts out lighthearted and then we get to action and peril and it’s back to simplicity and then we get hit with war. It’s so all over the place but it feels intentional and fitting.

I really like the concept of the terrifying corpse soldiers and this figure behind the scenes controlling it all.
Li Jinglong and Hongjun and soooo freaking cute together, I love them so much. They have so much tension and I like how close they’re getting and how they’re opening up to each other.

The found family trope is still going strong and it’s one of the reasons I love this series so much. All of the characters work so well together. Their fight scenes together are so cohesive and I like how they all get along so well. Their teasing towards Li Jinglong and Hongjun is just too cute lol.

I also really like these new characters we’re getting introduced to. Lu Xu is too cute and I think it’s so adorable how protective he is of Mergen. Side couple maybe??

The art is lovely as well. All of the covers for this series so so pretty. I also had no idea that this series and Dinghai Fusheng Records share the same universe. Now I’ll have to read the second volume of that series before I continue this one.

All in all, I loved this volume and I’m really excited to read the next one.

[Stay Alive · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is getting better and better!

[Maria Drago · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, not as fun as the first. I feel like there's a big shift between this one and the first volume, with this one splitting up our main cast and giving us more frustratingly titillating scenes of romance. There was one pretty sick battle toward the end, but in general I wasn't following a lot of the politicking and court nonsense.

Notes (spoilers!!):
- ADJDJALLSJD OKAY WE'RE JUMPING IN STRAIGHT TO A BROTHEL SCENE AND HONGJUN IS CURIOUS AND LI JINGLONG IS JEALOUSLY OVERBEARING. I'm loving it here.
- "There are so many delicacies in the world," Li Jinglong said. "I'll take you to try all of them someday."
SCCREAAAAMINGGGGGGGG!!!
- Hongjun leaning against Li Jinglong the whole time, and both of them singing together during the performance T_T My heart <3
- My GOD they are too cute. Hongjun getting homesick and inviting Li Jinglong over sometime, and Li Jinglong happily accepting, then Hongjun spontaneously napping on Li Jinglong's chest. These two ain't even TRYING to conceal it anymore.
- Oh my goddd Li Jinglong was accused of flirting (and possibly doing more) with his old subordinates in the army. Everyone thinks he's a cut-sleeve!! No wonder people are always assuming Hongjun is his new little boy-toy. And poor Hongjun has no clue what's going on or what any of it means... T_T
I feel so bad for Li Jinglong who keeps taking innocent beans under his wing, then getting accused of being gay. Although he's definitely a little gay for Hongjun XD
- A proper conversation about sexuality?? In my danmei??? It's more likely than you think O.O
- Love the carp yao interrogating Hongjun on romance and whether he's ever been in love. And love Hongjun not even knowing what "falling in love" is.
- Hongjun worrying so much about Li Jinglong after that old army friend who betrayed him comes by, my sweet boiiiiiii.
- They're so...casual about their like for each other. I can't tell if they mean it in a romantic or platonic sense.
- LI JINGLONG'S MAGICAL AWAKENING LET'S FUCKIN GOOOOOOOOO. Of course it's when Hongjun is on the very verge of death. Our man has HIS OWN man to protect!
- Peak comedy is the Emperor enjoying some hot-tub time, before the entire Department of Exorcism comes portaling into his pool, dousing everything, then Li Jinglong trying to bow but just slapping the water with his face, everyone is spluttering, the guards think an assassination attempt is happening, and then the person they need to kill is standing right behind them, leading to an impromptu murder spree.
- The HOT SPRINGS SCENE had me SWEATING, BROTHA. I ain't seen a pool scene that sexually charged since Chu Wanning came back from the dead. I was also soooo excited about it because of the art at the front of the book and was expecting it the entire read through. It was both better and lesser than I hoped. Better because HOLY the tension, but lesser because nothing actually came of it, aside from Hongjun finally revealing his yao identity (although, as we suspected, Li Jingling fully knew already and accepted this).
- Oh my goddd not the whole group splitting up T_T I feel like we barely had any time together...
- "The walls of paper thin pretense" THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT THIS FARCE OF A FRIENDSHIP IS!!! ZHAO ZILONG LITERALLY JUST TOLD THEM OUT LOUD HOW IN-LOVE THEY SEEM. CAN WE STOP BEATING AROUND THE BUSH NOW??!
- The fortune teller was genuinely so mysterious!! I'm actually nervous!! What did he put on Li Jinglong's chest?? And what does it mean that Li Jinglong owes him a body!!??
(My guess is that someone important will die and he really won't want to give up the body, but the fortune teller, Yuan Kun, will appear and demand it.)
- Obsessed with Li Jinglong letting Hongjun sleep against his back while horseback riding.
- Well would you look at that...there was only one bed at the inn...( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)
WAIT, NOTHING HAPPENED??! LI JINGLONG IMMEDIATELY FELL ASLEEP, HONGJUN JUST DECIDED TO PAINT HIM, AND THAT WAS IT?! WE DON'T EVEN GET TO SEE THE PAINTING??!
- Oh no, I was already bummed that the whole group got separated (although we love some one-on-one Honglong time, or whatever their ship name is), and now we have to deal with dual perspectives?? Ugghhh...
- Li Jinglong seriously spoils Hongjun.
- I—They—I can't—How—What—
I literally shrieked aloud (and it's night-time as I write this) when I got to the scene were Li Jinglong rubs salve on Hongjun's inner thighs which got chafed from horseback riding. And if that's not enough, Hongjun gets a boner??! And they both ignore it??! And then Li Jinglong...swipes a hand over Hongjun's dick??? Just for funsies?????
WHAT IS THEIR RELATIONSHIP EVEN??!!!
- Li Jinglong: Seeing [Hongjun] always reminded [Li Jinglong] of his own youth.
Me: Oh... oh no...
Li Jinglong: "I don't have any improper intentions toward you."
Me: Please...please stop speaking...
Li Jinglong: "I've always seen you as a little brother."
Me: K.O.!!! x.x
(BTW, he then proceeds to ask Hongjun if he has had any "impure intentions," and when Hongjun blushes, Li Jinglong intertwines their fingers together, which gives Hongjun another boner. Then they both go to sleep.)
I...am going to kILL MYSELF—
- Oh look, now they're both waking up with morning wood. Then going about their day as if nothing happened.
AUTHOR, I SWEAR TO GOD—
- Very cute, Hongjun taking care of Li Jinglong when he got sick during the blizzard.
- Li Jinglong's bad luck is something else, man... Staking his life on the existence of corpse soldiers, accidentally getting taken up on the offer, and then having to run for his life from court, pride in tatters, when his claims were (inexplicably) proven false. What a guy...
- Oh so there's ZOMBIE WARS now?? What an action scene. Can't say I followed most of it.
- Stopppp they finally have their own separate beds and still end up sleeping together to stay warm T_T <3
- I love how Hongjun has become the appointed healer. Taking care of Li Jinglong when he was sick, watching over Mergen when he was wounded after battle, checking on the general and then his wife when the corpse sickness begins. He's such a cutie, of course he's also a great caretaker.
- Alas, yet another romantic moment cut short. Hongjun only just listened to the general's wife telling her love story and started thinking that he wants a romance lasting a lifetime like that for his own, when Li Jinglong comes in to drag him off toward more bad news. Can people stop getting sick?? For like, a second???
- Hongjun cannot stop thinking about how handsome Li Jinglong is XD Bro is a sucker for a man in unform—or armor.

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started reading this one back in September and got about halfway through before I was interrupted by a surprise move. I packed it away with the rest of my boxes, and then once everything was back on the shelves and reorganized, I got sidetracked by a bunch of others and forgot to return for the rest.

Honestly, I was also a little nervous that the four month break would be difficult to bridge without having to start over (since I hadn't taken any notes as I read), but it didn't take too much effort to get back into the story's rhythm. It probably helped that I'd actually stopped shortly after the conclusion of "book one," which was the completion of the fox yao storyline. It also helps that the story and the characters are very distinct and memorable.

Reading this after Fei Tian Ye Xiang's Joyful Reunion really hammered home how much more lighthearted this series is. An odd thing to say, maybe, considering how many people die in this volume, and how brutal some of the battles are. But there's a lightness throughout that's carried by Hongjun's irrepressible good nature and off-kilter antics.

He's smart, capable, and thoughtful, but there's a strangeness to him that sets him apart: he's a half-yao who'd only recently entered the human world, and that odd sort of divinity really shows. He is, interestingly, getting more and more human as the story goes on, and as he learns more about his own history and his ties to the human world.

The fox storyline played out a little bit like I'd expected, but with some good twists and lots of excellent character moments. There are still some major mysteries around Hongjun's parents, but the empress consort did in fact know them, and he apparently still has some human relatives living - whom Li Jinglong mentions going to visit when they have a chance.

The conclusion of "book one" is satisfying but upsetting: I wasn't expecting the exorcists to all part ways that early on. Not only does Hongjun lose all his new friends, but he finally gets to see his adoptive father again, only to be rejected by him because he hesitates over an impossible decision: returning to his father's yao world and leaving Li Jinglong behind forever.

I liked the additional glimpses of Qing Xiong and Yuan Kun, and the advice they give to both Hongjun and Li Jinglong. Yuan Kun demands things in return from each of them - a soul and a corpse - with the "who" of each still left nebulous.

We then embark on the next mystery, which leaves the other exorcists out of it, at least for now, with only Mergen's dream-deer-hunting story overlapping with Hongjun's and Li Jinglong's journey to the north.

It was great to see more of Mergen on his own; he's very powerful and is treated as a benevolent wolf god by many of the northerners, who all have stories of him saving them. He hates the attention, but it's difficult to escape it when you can literally transform into a gigantic wolf.

There's a new character introduced who essentially becomes the Hongjun for Mergen (in his own words) - when he rescues a traumatized young man who'd escaped from a corpse army, he begins to dote on him and to rely on his companionship. There are some big questions remaining, like how Lu Xu can be immune from the corpse poisons like yao-Hongjun and heartlamp-Li Jinglong. I have some guesses about his true identity, but I can't tell yet if it entirely makes sense. For now, he's just doing his best to keep Mergen safe, who (despite his wolf form) is a human who is susceptible to mysterious poisons.

Li Jinglong was finally able to tap into the heart lamp's power during the fox yao incidents and is becoming a crucial figure as a result: his attacks seem to be the only thing that can actually drive the corpse army back. But now that they've captured the corpse king and Mergen has released whatever nightmare curse was laid on him, they'll be able to figure out more of what was going on and who the mastermind behind it may be.

The Hongjun and Li Jinglong romance is still in its slow burn stages, with Li Jinglong teasing Hongjun and telling him he has no intentions towards him - he cares for him, but as he would a little brother. Even though he had that whole backstory with another soldier with very clear gay undertones there as well...

Hongjun is gradually becoming more and more aware of his growing feelings for Li Jinglong. I loved the parallel he drew between the general and his wife, and the love story he was beginning to long for, with forty years of loyal partnership...and how he feels about and responds to Li Jinglong. It's nicely paced, particularly considering all the life-and-death situations they're constantly thrown into.

Mergen and Lu Xu might progress faster at this rate...

[cocopuff · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book actually ends up wrapping up, halfway through this book- so I will comment on both story arcs :)

Set in the Tianbao era in the height of imperial China our story takes place. Hongjun, half yao/half human (although raised as a yao/demon) is tasked away with fulfilling the mysteries of his past as he is called to protect the mortal world as a member of the long forgotten, Department of Exorcism.

This author takes such a beautiful trope and does wonders with it. Found family! In even the familial regard as well. The characters take up so much space in this story and I absolutely love it. A lot of the first book is exploring the newfound dynamics of a ragtag group of heros(because they are all so silly + cool) that love, LOVE to get into horribly laughable situations- all lead by head of the exorcism department, Li Jinglong, who is the most unextraordinary hero of all.

But in regards to that and in many other aspects, one of my favorite lessons I left with after finishing the first arc was: the belief in oneself, and the ability to persevere beyond our inherent limitations or what people will say we are.

Hongjun is such a fantastic protagonist to explore this world with, because just like the reader, this is his first time interacting with not only the mortals of this realm, but the power and politics behind the systems that feed the evil in this world. He is excellent at asking questions and always! chooses to lean into curiosity before making decisions.

Without spoiling anything, the second book starts in such an exciting side quest and we are able to follow the story of a fan favorite character alongside our main characters! So much bonding and emotional confessions in this one. The first book was like a trust fall, and the second book was the catch.

I so enjoy where this story is going and can't wait to see how this arc ends in the third book because...what a cliffhanger.

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is SO GOOD.

If you enjoy a historical fiction/mystery inspired by Chinese mythology with supernatural elements and queer characters, I think you’d REALLY enjoy this series!

Especially if you’re on the fence about whether or not danmei as a genre is for you, I think this series is a good entry point because the storytelling offers a solid balance between plot and relationship development.

I mean, I picked up this series because I liked how the romance sounded—but, now I’m all kinds of invested in solving this mystery.

(I came for the PWP but now I’m all about that P.)

I think this story is able to accomplish that because of it being structured much more like a mystery novel than your standard romance.

I’ve said it before but this story has a “Scooby Doo” vibe to it in that we are introduced to a ragtag group of central characters who have distinct personalities/skills that we get to know as they investigate these very episodic cases for the emperor throughout the main storyline, uncovering clues along the way that help them with their own individual quests as well as with their collective mission to defeat the big, bad yao villains trying to wrest control of the country from humans.

It’s an engaging and entertaining approach to storytelling that really reels readers in.

Granted, if you aren’t into a “slow-burn” type of romance or if you want a “spicy” read, this story may not be your speed. It’s leaning more wholesome and endearing. We’re watching these characters gradually fall in love.

I find it lovely. Maybe you will, too?

Anyway.

I’m having SO MUCH FUN reading this series and I would highly recommend it to all readers—but especially fans of historical, fantasy mysteries or romances. I truly think this danmei has such a wide appeal.

This series inspires me to pick up more stories from this author~

[Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Is it odd to say that I both enjoyed this and thought it was just okay? I think part of my problem simply stems from the danmeis licensed in America being predominantly fantasy or historical or a mixture of the two. It gets tiring at times. I think the other part is so far Fei Tian and I have not vibes with voice and writing style. I find his writing to be a bit too silly for my taste. Normally I enjoy a good silly story but for some reason this story feels too serious so the silly ends up kind of taking away from the story to me. Again I think it's mostly Fei Tian's writing voice not hitting for me personally. I'm about to read Joyful Reunion and I'm hoping I finally vibe with his writing with that one. In general though I think he is a quite good storyteller. The story continued in this book very interestingly. We followed Hongjun and Li Jinglong on their continued adventures together. I'm enjoying how slowly their relationship is developing (especially considering their ages and lack of experience). I think the two of them are quite cute together but definitely less innocent than they pretend to be. It was also fun to begin the parallell story of Mergen and Lu Xu. We didn't get a ton about the two of them just yet so I'll be looking forward to book 3 where I think I will enjoy their story. I already loved how close Hongjun and Lu Xu were. Hongjun has needed a fellow youth to be friends with and I think they'll continue to get along swimmingly. Overall a great story and I will get back to book 3 at some point as I continue trying to catch up to all of the danmei I have bought.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good sequel, I was ✨Captivated✨.

I love that we get to see more of the world and the developing relationship between Hongjun and Li Jinglong. The entire time they were at the inn I was hooked, couldn’t put the book down!

With the Department splitting up, it looks like we will have more focus on the individuals along side the main two and this book is Mergen. He’s such a good character, and I really enjoyed his care and relationship with Lu Xu. Keeping my fingers crossed for a side pairing.

Hongjun continues to be just a delight to follow along with. He’s a little less naive as he experiences more of the mortal world and he’s becoming more aware of his own feelings as well as the future that’s in front of him. To that end, I need to see the awkward family dinner that I’m hoping is going to happen when Hongjun brings Li Jonglong home (screaming over his promise to do exactly that, it’s fine, I’m fine). Chong Ming turns up, is just so affectionately bitchy, and leaves and he’s amazing.

I can’t wait for the next book in the series.