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The White Cat’s Divine Scratching Post (Novel) #2
The White Cat’s Divine Scratching Post (Novel) Vol. 2
THE CAT’S OUT OF THE BAG
Knowing that his beautiful master, Qingtong, is actually the spirit cat he pampered in his previous life, Mo Tianliao wants to get back to doting on his precious kitty! Oh, to be brushing his lovely hair, feeding him delicious treats, spoiling him all over again, and maybe even…a kiss or two? No? Claws to the face instead? Well, that’s fine. After all, the most essential thing is healing the damage to Qingtong’s divine soul, and that won’t be as simple as providing tender loving care.
To help his master, Mo Tianliao needs an elixir made from the rare Jadefruit, which only grows on a single tree. A tree that just so happens to be the property of a rival cultivation sect, one that views spirit beasts like Qingtong as valuable commodities to be bought and sold.
With his unmatched mastery of artifacts and arrays, Mo Tianliao may be able to steal the priceless fruit with his skills alone. But, as they infiltrate the Liuyun Sect, he and Qingtong risk revealing their own sect’s greatest secret: that all its highest-ranked cultivators are actually spirit beasts in human form!
Knowing that his beautiful master, Qingtong, is actually the spirit cat he pampered in his previous life, Mo Tianliao wants to get back to doting on his precious kitty! Oh, to be brushing his lovely hair, feeding him delicious treats, spoiling him all over again, and maybe even…a kiss or two? No? Claws to the face instead? Well, that’s fine. After all, the most essential thing is healing the damage to Qingtong’s divine soul, and that won’t be as simple as providing tender loving care.
To help his master, Mo Tianliao needs an elixir made from the rare Jadefruit, which only grows on a single tree. A tree that just so happens to be the property of a rival cultivation sect, one that views spirit beasts like Qingtong as valuable commodities to be bought and sold.
With his unmatched mastery of artifacts and arrays, Mo Tianliao may be able to steal the priceless fruit with his skills alone. But, as they infiltrate the Liuyun Sect, he and Qingtong risk revealing their own sect’s greatest secret: that all its highest-ranked cultivators are actually spirit beasts in human form!
396 pages, Paperback
Published April 28, 2026
About the author
Lv Ye Qian He
9 books31 followersAssociated Names:
* Lu Ye Qian He (Pinyin)/Lv Ye Qian He (English)
* 绿野千鹤 / 綠野千鶴 (Chinese)
* ลวี่เหยี่ยเชียนเฮ่อ (Thai)
* Lu Ye Qian He (Pinyin)/Lv Ye Qian He (English)
* 绿野千鹤 / 綠野千鶴 (Chinese)
* ลวี่เหยี่ยเชียนเฮ่อ (Thai)
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 22, 2026
4,5 'Honeymoon cuteness' stars
I'm delighted to report that this volume was as enjoyable as the last one. I've read a lot of reviews saying that the plot is lacking and that might be true but I was mostly here for Mo Tianliao forging artifacts, Qingtong being a spoiled kitten, and the two of them being cute together. And I got all these!
I'll get back to their relationship but let's say something about the plot first. There are a lot of things I'm curious about, for instance who's the supreme demonic lord and if he's gonna be a villain in the next vol? Also, who's a cultivator that replaced Mo Tianliao and how is he connected to him? I'm interested in Qingtong's shifu and his family background as well. Then we also have frost fox siblings, chubby leopard cub, Tianlang's son, and so many other side characters (mostly from Woyun sect) that I'm interested in. And most importantly, I need to know if Shidi and Nightmare are fucking??!?! You know, for science. I hope the last volume will be able to give me these answers.
Anyway, back to our precious darlings. This vol basically continues when the previous one ended - Mo Tianliao is searching for his divine artifact to help him heal Qingtong's damaged soul. Taishi is pretty much a fantasy eqvivalent of AI, so I wasn't really a fan. He's also annoying as much, meaning he's always everywhere and asking mostly stupid questions. I'm not sure where the author is going with this but in my opinion we could easily skip Taishi being sentient artifact. I get it that it's supposed to be for additional humor but I was having enough fun in vol 1 without it being present. Luckily, Mo Tianliao and Qingtong continued being adorable together, so I wasn't that much bothered with it.
my gif
Yes, Mo Tianliao is still over the moon in love with his cat. He spoils Pawpaw in every way imaginable; cooks for him, makes him tea, carries him around (not only in kitty form but also human, haha), probably does his hair too, serves as a reclining chair, emergancy pain relief (more about this later), in short, anything his pampered princess needs, Mo Tianliao will provide. He even build him a palace!!
I can't say that Mo Tianliao is extremly likeable character but there's no doubt that his devotion to Qingtong is very endearing. Why are demonic cultivators always the biggest simps, lol
(Yes, I managed to find an excuse for Tang Lici's gif 😄 it was truly too good to be true opportunity because of the bracelet!)
my gif
And on the other hand, we have Qingtong, who would never admit it out loud but he's also very devoted to his human. Afterall, he split his divine soul for him. And he might let himself be generously pampered by his disciple but when Mo Tianliao is in danger, he would do everything in his power to save him.
Gifs by shenzhiheng
The relationship progress between these two is much faster than they probably expected - to Mo Tianliao's satisfaction and Qingtong's annoyance. I wonder how much longer would've Qingtong kept his human at a distance if Mo Tianliao wasn't being a literal person-shaped pain relief. Ok, joking a little, because of course, Qingtong adores him too.
This description was truly precious. You can really see here the bond they have with each other. Mo Tianliao might has questionable morals but compared to righteous sects that treat spirit beasts like slaves, he's certainly one of the good guys in this aspect. And Qingtong trust him unconditionally. He might be reserved, he might try to keep his distance, he might (ok, most likely) get angry with his human for any minor thing, but when it matters the most, Qingtong knows that Mo Tianliao is his safe place.
In the first volume, Qingtong and Mo Tianliao found out that intimate contact can soothe Qingtong's pain, and ever since then, Mo Tianliao has been generously using this method every time Qingtong has been hurt. And then we also have Taishi, who is briming with various helpfull knowledge about dual cultivation, sex toys, and most importantlly - lube. It's hilarious how this author is trying to singlehandedly make up for often lack of using lube in danmei by having her characters actively promote it, lol (yes, I mean Mu Hanzhang's lube shop)
I'm not entirely sure if they are already officialy together or not? If you'd asked Mo Tianliao, he'd probably said they've been together since he found at that his Shizun and Pawpaw are the same person, while I believe that Qingtong is still waiting for some more formal display of courtship from Mo Tianliao. But despite Mo Tianliao being more of 'take first, ask persmission later' kind of guy, I like that he'staking trying to take things slow with Qingtong.
Despite the mature rating and many spicey illustrations, the smut is not very smutty. However, it was interesting to read about dual cultivation from more... I can't find the word?? - maybe spiritually point of view. It's frequently said that proper dual cultivation can heal or boost one's powers but I don't remember if I ever read about the details. But maybe we'll get more smut in the last vol 😏
Anyway, I don't think I have anything more to say. I hope tha last volume will deliver the same display of cuteness and offer even more interesting info about artifact forging.
4,5 'Fluffy furball' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
4,5 'Honeymoon phase' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
tbr
I'm delighted to report that this volume was as enjoyable as the last one. I've read a lot of reviews saying that the plot is lacking and that might be true but I was mostly here for Mo Tianliao forging artifacts, Qingtong being a spoiled kitten, and the two of them being cute together. And I got all these!
"Sweetheart, step back a bit. I'm going to refine the Primordial Stone." Mo Tianliao pulled Qingtong back a little and tossed the remainder of the Primordial Stone into the furnace.
[...]
"What did you just call me?" A clear, melodious voice sounded beside his ear.
Mo Tianliao stiffened for a moment before turning around with a smile. "Force of habit, precious one."
"You-" Qingtong raised his hand to hit him, but Mo Tianliao caught it.
"Calling someone 'precious' or 'sweetheart' means he is to be cherished, and that's completely accurate in this case," he insisted, looking at Qingtong with eyes curved into crescents. "Pawpaw is my precious darling, and so is shizun."
Qingtong was carrying the fox in one hand, and Mo Tianliao had taken hold of his other hand. In his human form, he couldn't exactly scratch Mo Tianliao with his hind claws, so he simply glared at him and pulled his hand away. "Smooth-talker. Disrespect me like this again, and I'll-"
Mo Tianliao leaned in to speak into Qingtong's smooth, fair ear. "Bite me?" he murmured.
I'll get back to their relationship but let's say something about the plot first. There are a lot of things I'm curious about, for instance who's the supreme demonic lord and if he's gonna be a villain in the next vol? Also, who's a cultivator that replaced Mo Tianliao and how is he connected to him? I'm interested in Qingtong's shifu and his family background as well. Then we also have frost fox siblings, chubby leopard cub, Tianlang's son, and so many other side characters (mostly from Woyun sect) that I'm interested in. And most importantly, I need to know if Shidi and Nightmare are fucking??!?! You know, for science. I hope the last volume will be able to give me these answers.
Anyway, back to our precious darlings. This vol basically continues when the previous one ended - Mo Tianliao is searching for his divine artifact to help him heal Qingtong's damaged soul. Taishi is pretty much a fantasy eqvivalent of AI, so I wasn't really a fan. He's also annoying as much, meaning he's always everywhere and asking mostly stupid questions. I'm not sure where the author is going with this but in my opinion we could easily skip Taishi being sentient artifact. I get it that it's supposed to be for additional humor but I was having enough fun in vol 1 without it being present. Luckily, Mo Tianliao and Qingtong continued being adorable together, so I wasn't that much bothered with it.
Looking at that exquisite profile, he slid his hand down slowly and stroked that velvety-smooth chin. Qingtong slowly tilted his chin up for him, revealing an expanse of fair neck. So well-behaved... A smile spread across Mo Tianliao's lips. He wanted to bend down and kiss him.
my gif
Yes, Mo Tianliao is still over the moon in love with his cat. He spoils Pawpaw in every way imaginable; cooks for him, makes him tea, carries him around (not only in kitty form but also human, haha), probably does his hair too, serves as a reclining chair, emergancy pain relief (more about this later), in short, anything his pampered princess needs, Mo Tianliao will provide. He even build him a palace!!
I can't say that Mo Tianliao is extremly likeable character but there's no doubt that his devotion to Qingtong is very endearing. Why are demonic cultivators always the biggest simps, lol
(Yes, I managed to find an excuse for Tang Lici's gif 😄 it was truly too good to be true opportunity because of the bracelet!)
my gif
His soft, wide sleeve slipped down, exposing a fair segment of his forearm. The moonlight wound around that beautiful arm and slowly merged into his body.
The snow-white hem of Qingtong's robe fluttered in the wind as the moonlight enveloped his etheral figure in a cloak of silk, giving Mo Tianliao the illusion that Qingtong might ascend to heaven at any moment.
"Qingtong!" Mo Tianliao strode over and grabbed his hand.
[...]
"What are you doing?" Qingtong gave him a puzzled look.
"Let's go." Mo Tianliso was going to say I was afraid you'd fly away, but on a second thought, it sounded too silly.
And on the other hand, we have Qingtong, who would never admit it out loud but he's also very devoted to his human. Afterall, he split his divine soul for him. And he might let himself be generously pampered by his disciple but when Mo Tianliao is in danger, he would do everything in his power to save him.
Gifs by shenzhiheng
An enormous blast of force erupted, reducing vegetation and buidings within several miles to ashes. The onlookers who'd reacted quickly and ereced defencive barriers escaped unscathed, while the slower ones coughed up blood.
The dust settled to reveal a figure in white standing before Mo Tianliao, shielding him, slender, fair hand meeting Ding Hu's palm. [...]
"Who are you to bully my disciple?" Qingtong said glacially.
The relationship progress between these two is much faster than they probably expected - to Mo Tianliao's satisfaction and Qingtong's annoyance. I wonder how much longer would've Qingtong kept his human at a distance if Mo Tianliao wasn't being a literal person-shaped pain relief. Ok, joking a little, because of course, Qingtong adores him too.
Qingtong was in such pain that he couldn't see clearly, but he could sense Mo Tianliao's presence. This man had scooped him up and taken him in when he was still little. He'd given him delicious food and fun toys, let him scratch and bite, and opened his collar for him on cold nights, hugging him close while he slept. This affection was something his master and seniors could never give him. To a kitten who'd just lost his parents, this man with a silly smile had been his whole world.
This description was truly precious. You can really see here the bond they have with each other. Mo Tianliao might has questionable morals but compared to righteous sects that treat spirit beasts like slaves, he's certainly one of the good guys in this aspect. And Qingtong trust him unconditionally. He might be reserved, he might try to keep his distance, he might (ok, most likely) get angry with his human for any minor thing, but when it matters the most, Qingtong knows that Mo Tianliao is his safe place.
"Go... go away," Qingtong said, his voice trembling as he pushed him away. [...]
"Ugh..." When he finally managed to grab his wrist, Qingtong cried out in pain and clutched his head with both hands.
"Qingtong, Qingtong!" Mo Tianliao hugged him tight. "It's alright. Don't be afraid. I'm here."
"It hurts... so much..." Qingtong leaned into the familiar embrace and cried out, his voice so weak it sounded like a plea for help. [...] Qingtong wrapped his arms around his neck and pressed his bloodless lips firmly against his own.
[...] Gingerly tightening his arms around the person awkwardly trying to kiss him, Mo Tianliao cradled the back of his head with a hand and kissed back deeply.
A sweet taste lingered between their lips; the light, cool touch was intoxicating. The soft moans that escaped between each breath were driving him crazy. [...] Just as he was about to tear himself away, he heard a contented purr escape from Qingtong's throat. He was stunned. The tense body in his arms gradually relaxed, becoming so comfortable he went limp.
What was going on? Could kissing relieve pain? Shocked by his own absurd thoughts, Mo Tianliao gradually pulled away, but those lips followed after him like last time.
[...]
"Mm..." With their lips touching, the intense headache was instantly relieved, and as the kiss deepend, Qingtong seemed to connect to the missing part of his divine soul. Gradually, Qingtong regained his senses and realized what he was doing, but instead of pushing Mo Tianliao away, he let him do as he pleassed - partly because he had no strenght, and partly because it felt too good.
In the first volume, Qingtong and Mo Tianliao found out that intimate contact can soothe Qingtong's pain, and ever since then, Mo Tianliao has been generously using this method every time Qingtong has been hurt. And then we also have Taishi, who is briming with various helpfull knowledge about dual cultivation, sex toys, and most importantlly - lube. It's hilarious how this author is trying to singlehandedly make up for often lack of using lube in danmei by having her characters actively promote it, lol (yes, I mean Mu Hanzhang's lube shop)
I'm not entirely sure if they are already officialy together or not? If you'd asked Mo Tianliao, he'd probably said they've been together since he found at that his Shizun and Pawpaw are the same person, while I believe that Qingtong is still waiting for some more formal display of courtship from Mo Tianliao. But despite Mo Tianliao being more of 'take first, ask persmission later' kind of guy, I like that he's
The sensation of their sould connecting felt wonderful, and the shiver he felt in his soul left him wanting more. Slowly, he raised his hands and rested them on Mo Tianliao's shoulders.
Since he'd already gone all out, Mo Tianliao hugged him tighter and deepend the kiss. He lingered on those slightly cold, thin lips, gently prying them apart to taste the sweetness within.
[...]
Mo Tianliao hugged the slightly limp Qingtong around the waist, supporting him as he lowered his head and gently wiped away the moisture on those lips with his thumb.
"Do you understand now? He looked at those dazed glass eyes with a soft smile, not at all worried Qingtong would lose his temper. His cat had been thoroughly domesticated by him. He might scratch and bite him, but he would never leave him.
"This is what I mean by 'unable to help myself.' So you understand now?"
"Mo Tianliao..." Qingtong hummed a response. His expression was calm and composed, but his palmswere sweating profuseley. His confession tonight had been purely on impulse. If Qingtong understood his feelings, then all was well and good. But if not, he'd... just have to try again another time.
Pursing his lips, Qingtong buried his face in the crook of Mo Tianliao's neck and sniffed his scent. The he opened his mouth - and bit.
With a hiss of pain, Mo Tianliao stiffened and let him bite as he pleased.
Despite the mature rating and many spicey illustrations, the smut is not very smutty. However, it was interesting to read about dual cultivation from more... I can't find the word?? - maybe spiritually point of view. It's frequently said that proper dual cultivation can heal or boost one's powers but I don't remember if I ever read about the details. But maybe we'll get more smut in the last vol 😏
Pressing their foreheads together, Mo Tianliao slowly sent his sould into Qingtong's psyche. Qingtong's damaged divine soul was curled within, an etheral beauty identical to Qingtong himslef, albeit a tad bit fainter. In contrast, Mo Tianliao's soul was clear and complex, streaked through here and there with pearlescent glow. That was Qingtong's spirit sould that had fused with him.
Qingtong's psyche initially resisted the foreign intrusion, but once the divine soul recognized Mo Tianliao, it gradually lowered its barriers. Mo Tianliao's divine soul lunged over with joy, immediately merging as one with it. The comforting sensation emanating deep from his soul spread through Qingtong's body, and he forgot his pain at once. A soft moan of pleasure escaped him.
Anyway, I don't think I have anything more to say. I hope tha last volume will deliver the same display of cuteness and offer even more interesting info about artifact forging.
4,5 'Fluffy furball' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
4,5 'Honeymoon phase' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
tbr
May 18, 2026
what won me over here is its focus on artifice. i could read ten more cultivation novels with uncommon specializations. flying swords are cool and all, but someone had to hammer them out first, yes? well, i want a novel just about that someone, please.
June 12, 2026
“He could hold this hand and walk until the end of time without ever growing tired of it. If only this mountain path could stretch on forever, and they never reached the end.”
I absolutely adored this volume, and the art had so much to do with that. The cover is so pretty. I usually don’t even prefer characters on covers, but I loved everything about this one: the lines, the colors, the expressions, the whole feel of it. The interior illustrations were just as beautiful, and they made the reading experience even sweeter. I also have such a soft spot for cats, so every time Paw Paw swatted someone, I lit up. It doesn’t even make sense how happy those little moments made me. Cats really have me in a chokehold, and this book knew exactly how to get me.
Mo Tianliao and Qingtong were still the heart of the story. I love how devoted Mo Tianliao is to Qingtong, especially once his feelings and memories become more settled. He can be shameless, clingy, and completely ridiculous, but I had fun watching him pour all that attention into Qingtong. Qingtong is still my favorite kind of proud, prickly character. He has all the dignity of someone powerful, but then his need for affection, safety, and comfort slips through, and it gets me every time. Their dynamic is sweet, funny, possessive, messy, and full of history, which made their scenes feel so emotionally satisfying. I also liked that their relationship got more intimate, even though some parts made me pause because the consent issue around the divine soul situation felt uncomfortable under the fluff.
I had such a good time with the spirit beasts, the sect secrets, and Taishi’s humor too. The world felt more fun as more characters appeared, especially with all the hidden spirit beast details. Liuyun Sect also gave the story a stronger conflict because its treatment of spirit beasts made me feel even more protective of Qingtong’s side. I also loved the little extras after every chapter. They’re short, sometimes completely ridiculous, and occasionally feel like pure nonsense, but they were so much fun to read and always left me smiling. This volume was cute, fast, funny, and full of pampering, but it also had enough emotional messiness to keep me invested. Some parts felt repetitive, especially Qingtong’s tsundere reactions, and I do wish the heavier moments had been handled with a little more care. Still, I adored this book. It gave me beautiful art, chaotic cat energy, a couple I’m very attached to, and so many moments that made me smile.
Date Read: 2026.05.31
I absolutely adored this volume, and the art had so much to do with that. The cover is so pretty. I usually don’t even prefer characters on covers, but I loved everything about this one: the lines, the colors, the expressions, the whole feel of it. The interior illustrations were just as beautiful, and they made the reading experience even sweeter. I also have such a soft spot for cats, so every time Paw Paw swatted someone, I lit up. It doesn’t even make sense how happy those little moments made me. Cats really have me in a chokehold, and this book knew exactly how to get me.
Mo Tianliao and Qingtong were still the heart of the story. I love how devoted Mo Tianliao is to Qingtong, especially once his feelings and memories become more settled. He can be shameless, clingy, and completely ridiculous, but I had fun watching him pour all that attention into Qingtong. Qingtong is still my favorite kind of proud, prickly character. He has all the dignity of someone powerful, but then his need for affection, safety, and comfort slips through, and it gets me every time. Their dynamic is sweet, funny, possessive, messy, and full of history, which made their scenes feel so emotionally satisfying. I also liked that their relationship got more intimate, even though some parts made me pause because the consent issue around the divine soul situation felt uncomfortable under the fluff.
I had such a good time with the spirit beasts, the sect secrets, and Taishi’s humor too. The world felt more fun as more characters appeared, especially with all the hidden spirit beast details. Liuyun Sect also gave the story a stronger conflict because its treatment of spirit beasts made me feel even more protective of Qingtong’s side. I also loved the little extras after every chapter. They’re short, sometimes completely ridiculous, and occasionally feel like pure nonsense, but they were so much fun to read and always left me smiling. This volume was cute, fast, funny, and full of pampering, but it also had enough emotional messiness to keep me invested. Some parts felt repetitive, especially Qingtong’s tsundere reactions, and I do wish the heavier moments had been handled with a little more care. Still, I adored this book. It gave me beautiful art, chaotic cat energy, a couple I’m very attached to, and so many moments that made me smile.
Date Read: 2026.05.31
May 5, 2026
aloof tsundere who's secretly incredibly devoted x openly doting loyal dog will never not be a knockout hit for me
April 30, 2026
Another great continuation of this series. I continue to be enamored by how silly this series is while also managing to keep me thoroughly entertained. They had quite a few fun adventures in this book and grew much closer which was fun to see (but if you're interested in detailed smut you will be disappointed because it is quite light on the details). I don't want to spoil too much but I really enjoyed all of the new characters we got and I thought everybody was fun and well fleshed out. It was also exciting to see a few fights in this book as well. It's also still really nice how much emphasis is put on the artificing in this series. It is Mo Tialiao's way of life so it comes up very frequently in this story and I think that helps it stand out as unique. Overall a great continuation of this trilogy. I can't wait to get my hands on book 3 so we can follow this story to its conclusion.
May 20, 2026
This is one of the most gorgeous danmei covers I've seen, and luckily the story and relationships within are also so entertaining. Our leads need no one but each other and their devotion is ever-present, even if one of them is much more demonstrative. But I love the grumpy/sunshine of it all. And I also love the world described within, a world full of diverse spirit beasts, and a cozy atmosphere that never leaves me unsure if things will work out. I'm looking forward to the conclusion.
May 6, 2026
chat what is this book even about
May 18, 2026
It’s true—the purrfect man is a cat lover~
July 12, 2026
this series is so dumb and I love it so much
....... dumb is actually not the correct word. This world is built on a very solid foundation of arresting emotional stakes: cultivators form a blood bond with creatures known as spirit beasts in order to aid and advance their cultivation, but of course this bond not only arrests the powers of the beast themselves, it emotionally and mentally enslaves them. The beasts, who can morph onto human form when older and have their own cultivation, are turned into a slave race by human cultivators. They can only turn the tables by forming, secretly, their own sect, and offering refuge for other beasts while presenting their human faces to the cultivation world.
Enter Mo Tianliao, of the unorthodox path, an artificer whose power comes from the creation of celestial artifacts and who doesn't really give a shit about people, much less spirit beasts. Who discovers the most beautiful white kitten and devotes all his attention to him (just because he loves animals, not because he intends to soul-bond) only to discover, several hundred years and one reincarnation later, that Pawpaw wasn't just a pretty little spirit-kitty... and his own spiritual survival had more to do with Pawpaw than sheer luck.
I feel like, in any other writer's hands, this would be the basis for a rather moving, dramatic danmei. And don't get me wrong: TWCDSP has genuinely dramatic and moving moments. That's what I mean by a solid foundation: when shit needs to get serious, it IS, and it serves the dynamics and worldbuilding extraordinarily well, despite all the other silliness.
..................... but make no mistake, the bulk of this story is silliness. And, idk, I guess I lucked out with this series: but it makes me tee-hee for page upon page. The ridiculous send-ups of the usual chivalry and honor codes of the jianghu, the decision to make a shape-shifting sentient weapon into a disembodied foul mouth who menaces his owner by turning into a dildo, even the softer and goofier jokes about how the rabbit disciple eats the garden bare and the carnivore cultivators won't practice inedia because they love meat too much... I just vibe with it. There are very few big laughs, but I am in near-constant giggles, and I don't think of myself as a giggler. But come on. COME ON. There is a chapter in here just titled, "Tiger Penis." Lv Ye Qian He, you are exactly the kind of person I would grab a beer with, you delightful troll.
and no it's not also because I have a weakness for caretaker tops who said that
There's a plot in here, for sure, but so far the stakes are low enough for it to feel very cozy overall. And the dynamic between Mo "baaaaaaaabe I love youuuuuu just lemme pet you BABE" Tianliao and Qingtong, King of the Tsundere, thrills me -- there are moments in here where the depths of Qingtong's emotion is revealed, and it just further proves Lv Ye Qian He has a very deft hand in knowing how to create emotion without bathos. I'm sure this series won't be everyone's cup of tea, because it's a ribald send-up of a lot of beloved xianxia tropes, and most of the English-reading audience of danmei probably hasn't had the time to get tired of those tropes yet. But if you're willing to read a tongue-in-cheek treatment of actually, a very touching romance (so far) with genuine emotional stakes (the whole 'the human race enslaved my race and that makes our relationship... nuanced' is, again so far, being dealt with thoughtfully), these books are pulling it off.
(So far!)
....... dumb is actually not the correct word. This world is built on a very solid foundation of arresting emotional stakes: cultivators form a blood bond with creatures known as spirit beasts in order to aid and advance their cultivation, but of course this bond not only arrests the powers of the beast themselves, it emotionally and mentally enslaves them. The beasts, who can morph onto human form when older and have their own cultivation, are turned into a slave race by human cultivators. They can only turn the tables by forming, secretly, their own sect, and offering refuge for other beasts while presenting their human faces to the cultivation world.
Enter Mo Tianliao, of the unorthodox path, an artificer whose power comes from the creation of celestial artifacts and who doesn't really give a shit about people, much less spirit beasts. Who discovers the most beautiful white kitten and devotes all his attention to him (just because he loves animals, not because he intends to soul-bond) only to discover, several hundred years and one reincarnation later, that Pawpaw wasn't just a pretty little spirit-kitty... and his own spiritual survival had more to do with Pawpaw than sheer luck.
I feel like, in any other writer's hands, this would be the basis for a rather moving, dramatic danmei. And don't get me wrong: TWCDSP has genuinely dramatic and moving moments. That's what I mean by a solid foundation: when shit needs to get serious, it IS, and it serves the dynamics and worldbuilding extraordinarily well, despite all the other silliness.
..................... but make no mistake, the bulk of this story is silliness. And, idk, I guess I lucked out with this series: but it makes me tee-hee for page upon page. The ridiculous send-ups of the usual chivalry and honor codes of the jianghu, the decision to make a shape-shifting sentient weapon into a disembodied foul mouth who menaces his owner by turning into a dildo, even the softer and goofier jokes about how the rabbit disciple eats the garden bare and the carnivore cultivators won't practice inedia because they love meat too much... I just vibe with it. There are very few big laughs, but I am in near-constant giggles, and I don't think of myself as a giggler. But come on. COME ON. There is a chapter in here just titled, "Tiger Penis." Lv Ye Qian He, you are exactly the kind of person I would grab a beer with, you delightful troll.
There's a plot in here, for sure, but so far the stakes are low enough for it to feel very cozy overall. And the dynamic between Mo "baaaaaaaabe I love youuuuuu just lemme pet you BABE" Tianliao and Qingtong, King of the Tsundere, thrills me -- there are moments in here where the depths of Qingtong's emotion is revealed, and it just further proves Lv Ye Qian He has a very deft hand in knowing how to create emotion without bathos. I'm sure this series won't be everyone's cup of tea, because it's a ribald send-up of a lot of beloved xianxia tropes, and most of the English-reading audience of danmei probably hasn't had the time to get tired of those tropes yet. But if you're willing to read a tongue-in-cheek treatment of actually, a very touching romance (so far) with genuine emotional stakes (the whole 'the human race enslaved my race and that makes our relationship... nuanced' is, again so far, being dealt with thoughtfully), these books are pulling it off.
(So far!)
July 15, 2026
3.5 stars :)
I might edit this review later because I'm trying to practice articulating the things I'm critical of, but it's not exactly my strongest suit haha! 😂
I really loved the artifact descriptions, and they reminded me of crafting in FFXIV. I always love when a story evokes those warm, familiar memories. It was also refreshing to see a cultivation world that focuses on more than just martial arts. Exploring these practical, hands-on aspects made the setting feel unique, and we also got some nice world-building, like the introduction of spirit animals, which was a fun expansion of the lore.
I also have to mention the gorgeous illustrations. The use of lighting and pencil textures gives them such a soft, almost tranquil feel, and they really elevate the reading experience, imo.
The romance between the MC and ML was sweet, too. I loved how protective the MC has become and how he keeps calling the ML all these adorable endearments. 🥰 The ML constantly trying to push him away, only to let his guard down during those rare moments of vulnerability, was really cute. However, this push-and-pull dynamic did start to feel a little repetitive by the end. Also, when it came to the explicit scenes... hmm, I'm still not sure how I feel about them. They were pretty vague and over so quickly that I was left thinking, "Wait, that's it? Where's my full-blown smut?'' xD //j
Where the novel falls a bit flat for me is the pacing and overall execution, and I still have mixed feelings about its structure as a whole. As much as I enjoy the episodic adventures and all the silliness, I found myself missing a stronger sense of direction. Part of why I felt this way is that, volume 2 has more mini high-stakes moments that could have helped give the plot a stronger backbone, they sometimes felt a little underdeveloped or passed by too quickly before they could fully build momentum.
I also found it a little difficult to follow how the story moved from point A to point B at times. There are quite a few battle scenes scattered throughout the volume, and while they're not bad, they sometimes made the transitions between events feel a bit disjointed. Because of that, parts of the story dragged for me and occasionally became a little boring. The individual arcs are definitely entertaining, but the pacing can feel a little cluttered, and I think I would have enjoyed the novel even more if there had been a clearer overarching storyline tying everything together.
Perhaps I simply enjoy this series the most when it's leaning into its cozy slice-of-life elements rather than trying to build a larger plot. ^^
Looking forward to volume 3! :D
I might edit this review later because I'm trying to practice articulating the things I'm critical of, but it's not exactly my strongest suit haha! 😂
I really loved the artifact descriptions, and they reminded me of crafting in FFXIV. I always love when a story evokes those warm, familiar memories. It was also refreshing to see a cultivation world that focuses on more than just martial arts. Exploring these practical, hands-on aspects made the setting feel unique, and we also got some nice world-building, like the introduction of spirit animals, which was a fun expansion of the lore.
I also have to mention the gorgeous illustrations. The use of lighting and pencil textures gives them such a soft, almost tranquil feel, and they really elevate the reading experience, imo.
The romance between the MC and ML was sweet, too. I loved how protective the MC has become and how he keeps calling the ML all these adorable endearments. 🥰 The ML constantly trying to push him away, only to let his guard down during those rare moments of vulnerability, was really cute. However, this push-and-pull dynamic did start to feel a little repetitive by the end. Also, when it came to the explicit scenes... hmm, I'm still not sure how I feel about them. They were pretty vague and over so quickly that I was left thinking, "Wait, that's it? Where's my full-blown smut?'' xD //j
Where the novel falls a bit flat for me is the pacing and overall execution, and I still have mixed feelings about its structure as a whole. As much as I enjoy the episodic adventures and all the silliness, I found myself missing a stronger sense of direction. Part of why I felt this way is that, volume 2 has more mini high-stakes moments that could have helped give the plot a stronger backbone, they sometimes felt a little underdeveloped or passed by too quickly before they could fully build momentum.
I also found it a little difficult to follow how the story moved from point A to point B at times. There are quite a few battle scenes scattered throughout the volume, and while they're not bad, they sometimes made the transitions between events feel a bit disjointed. Because of that, parts of the story dragged for me and occasionally became a little boring. The individual arcs are definitely entertaining, but the pacing can feel a little cluttered, and I think I would have enjoyed the novel even more if there had been a clearer overarching storyline tying everything together.
Perhaps I simply enjoy this series the most when it's leaning into its cozy slice-of-life elements rather than trying to build a larger plot. ^^
Looking forward to volume 3! :D
May 5, 2026
This continues to be sweet, low stakes (and mildly boring as a result) fluff. The characterisation is very one-note, but it's a very cute dynamic. There's not a huge amount of character growth or introspection, they just continue to adore one another, albeit one character's adoration comes in the flavour of haughty cat.
Realistically, I enjoyed this because I skim read anytime it got too boring, and I wasn't expecting much from it in the way of plot or angst. Even so, I'm not sure if I can be bothered to continue reading the series with so little to be emotionally invested in. There are no mysteries or secrets to unravel, no major trials to be overcome, no misunderstandings to resolve... The stakes just don't seem that high for the main characters individually, or as a couple. There's a little bit of world building and politics about the existence of the bonded animal companions and them not being treated well, but it's hard to see how our heroes will singlehandedly change/resolve any of that.
My favourite part of this series is the emphasis on the animal cultivators, which brings out a lot of fun as they straddle that boundary between animalesque-humans, and also hiding their identities. It makes for lots of fun, silly moments. It's also nice to see a focus on artificing as opposed to general cultivation/martial arts novels that are all about fighting techniques. It's interesting to have something a little different, but still familiar.
Overall, as the second book in a series, it continues in the same vein as the first: cute but lacks substance.
Realistically, I enjoyed this because I skim read anytime it got too boring, and I wasn't expecting much from it in the way of plot or angst. Even so, I'm not sure if I can be bothered to continue reading the series with so little to be emotionally invested in. There are no mysteries or secrets to unravel, no major trials to be overcome, no misunderstandings to resolve... The stakes just don't seem that high for the main characters individually, or as a couple. There's a little bit of world building and politics about the existence of the bonded animal companions and them not being treated well, but it's hard to see how our heroes will singlehandedly change/resolve any of that.
My favourite part of this series is the emphasis on the animal cultivators, which brings out a lot of fun as they straddle that boundary between animalesque-humans, and also hiding their identities. It makes for lots of fun, silly moments. It's also nice to see a focus on artificing as opposed to general cultivation/martial arts novels that are all about fighting techniques. It's interesting to have something a little different, but still familiar.
Overall, as the second book in a series, it continues in the same vein as the first: cute but lacks substance.
May 11, 2026
Qingtong is such a delight to read about. I definitely found this arc easier to follow than what was happening in the first book. And the dual cultivation scene (apart from being hot) was also interesting. I don't think I'd ever read a detailed ritualistic explanation for it in a danmei before. Taishi was another favourite and all the illustrations in this book were gorgeous. Do all spirit beats have such insane face cards?
I do wish the assault and servitude of spirit beasts was taken more seriously but I understand this story isn't about that and Mo Tianliao isn't exactly a good person beyond caring for Qingtong. His love for animals also only goes so far. But I actually like that he remains true to that character trait?
I do wish the assault and servitude of spirit beasts was taken more seriously but I understand this story isn't about that and Mo Tianliao isn't exactly a good person beyond caring for Qingtong. His love for animals also only goes so far. But I actually like that he remains true to that character trait?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2026
this is just a really fun, lighthearted read. following from the last volume, mo tianliao now knows that his new shizun is actually his beloved cat companion. he's determined to do whatever he can to heal his beloved's damaged soul.
there's lots of cool world-building that you would want from a fantasy wuxia setting. plus grand fighting scenes and a somewhat crazy sect full of divine beasts - cats, foxes, tigers, turtles, and so on. its a very cute and charming book with minimal stakes, if any.
there's lots of cool world-building that you would want from a fantasy wuxia setting. plus grand fighting scenes and a somewhat crazy sect full of divine beasts - cats, foxes, tigers, turtles, and so on. its a very cute and charming book with minimal stakes, if any.
May 12, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
The beginning was engaging, though I was a little confused at first. Around a third of the way through, things started to slow down, but after that I just went along with the ride and ended up having fun with it.
The ending was interesting, and honestly, the best part might’ve been the mini extras.
The beginning was engaging, though I was a little confused at first. Around a third of the way through, things started to slow down, but after that I just went along with the ride and ended up having fun with it.
The ending was interesting, and honestly, the best part might’ve been the mini extras.
May 11, 2026
not fond of the writing style but okay
mc has attachment issues beware, hes also a massive simp he ticks me off sometimes
art is gorgeous whattt
mc has attachment issues beware, hes also a massive simp he ticks me off sometimes
art is gorgeous whattt
May 13, 2026
The fluffy, lightheartedness continues in volume two and even the moment their relationship progresses is just as heartwarming 🤭 really digging the cozy fantasy danmei style
May 13, 2026
I love this series! It's totally unserious and it's just so well-crafted!
May 17, 2026
I wish there was more kitty, less humanoid, but alas – the plot got to progress. Still a pleasant, cozy read that made me snort quite a few times, though!
July 4, 2026
Still cute. Love interest got even brattier. Yes yes!
July 10, 2026
Chill and unambitious. Remains pleasant enough, though the stakes are so low that nothing really ever becomes truly interesting.
July 14, 2026
it’s mainly fluff but the loyalty and love between these two is so sweet
August 8, 2026
Nothing wrong with the book. I just lost interest in it since it's too low stakes for me at the moment and I'm craving some excitement. The characters didn't really draw me in too much either.
May 15, 2026
3.5 stars ⭐⭐⭐🌟
I binged the second volume the moment I got my hands on it! This time, the relationship between the two main characters finally comes to fruition and we get a lot of fanservice-y moments (with every trope imaginable), implied sexy-times, and even more cat-like behaviour. Mo Tianliao is truly living the life: everything he does - he succeeds, and his shizun not only acquiesces to his demands but becomes equally possessive and jealous of him :)
Third volume is still months away, so I'll be filling my time with even more danmei.
I binged the second volume the moment I got my hands on it! This time, the relationship between the two main characters finally comes to fruition and we get a lot of fanservice-y moments (with every trope imaginable), implied sexy-times, and even more cat-like behaviour. Mo Tianliao is truly living the life: everything he does - he succeeds, and his shizun not only acquiesces to his demands but becomes equally possessive and jealous of him :)
Third volume is still months away, so I'll be filling my time with even more danmei.
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