What do you think?
There’s Something Wrong with the Chief: Du Zhu You Bing (Novel) #1
There's Something Wrong with the Chief: Du Zhu You Bing (Novel) Vol. 1
A tragic past and a deadly world of assassins spark a love that defies fate in this fan-favorite danmei series!Xiahou Lian, the youngest assassin of the infamous Qiye Garden enclave, has infiltrated the prestigious Xie household on a vague but deadly mission. Posing as a servant under Xie Jinglan, the youngest son of the family, he bides his time, awaiting orders. But as the days pass, an unexpected bond forms between them--mark and assassin alike--throwing a wrench in Xiahou Lian's plans. The decision he makes will land him in dire straits with the Qiye Garden, while Xie Jinglan walks free.
Two years later, their paths cross again in the Imperial Palace. Forced to walk a perilous tightrope of secrecy, both boys hide dangerous truths from one another. Something is terribly wrong, and they can both feel it. As one of those secrets spirals into mortal danger, an assassin from Qiye Garden--familiar and fearsome--arrives with an ultimatum that threatens to tear their fragile bond apart.
Two years later, their paths cross again in the Imperial Palace. Forced to walk a perilous tightrope of secrecy, both boys hide dangerous truths from one another. Something is terribly wrong, and they can both feel it. As one of those secrets spirals into mortal danger, an assassin from Qiye Garden--familiar and fearsome--arrives with an ultimatum that threatens to tear their fragile bond apart.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2025
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
November 11, 2025
I don’t know what’s to come later but I absolutely adored this first volume! I’m a little wary of the misunderstanding and separation tropes that I know are coming so🤞 fingers crossed my love for the characters makes everything okay. And as always, Zolaida’s art is incredible. Xie Jinglan’s white hair is so pretty 🥰
📚Childhood friends (they are 12-14 for this entire volume- feels coming of age-ish)
📚Young aspiring assassin x young aspiring scholar (in this volume lol)
📚Really believable and lovable friendship+ bond
📚Rascal MC x Tsundere ML
📚Another horrible step mom 🤬
📚Easy, somewhat fast paced read (at least this volume is!)
I’m looking forward to see where this story goes given the polarizing reviews. I feel like this was a strong introduction that really drew me in with the characters and plot so hoping I continue to love it!
Spoilers:
I need more Situ and Mingyue! I shed actual tears for them
Hope we get more of the Assassin’s club
Wei De can just go ahead and die. I hate him so much
Twin brother?!
📚Childhood friends (they are 12-14 for this entire volume- feels coming of age-ish)
📚Young aspiring assassin x young aspiring scholar (in this volume lol)
📚Really believable and lovable friendship+ bond
📚Rascal MC x Tsundere ML
📚Another horrible step mom 🤬
📚Easy, somewhat fast paced read (at least this volume is!)
I’m looking forward to see where this story goes given the polarizing reviews. I feel like this was a strong introduction that really drew me in with the characters and plot so hoping I continue to love it!
Spoilers:
I need more Situ and Mingyue! I shed actual tears for them
Hope we get more of the Assassin’s club
Wei De can just go ahead and die. I hate him so much
Twin brother?!
February 14, 2026
4 'justice & revenge' stars
I admit I struggled a little bit with this book at first. It might've been the wrong choice to start this after just watching Blood River. But I wanted more assassins and to continue riding that high that Su Muyu & Su Changhe gave me, however it's not entirely the book's fault of being unable to deliver what precisely I wanted because the story is very different and so are the characters.
We start this volume with both MCs being twelve and by the end of vol 1 they are fourteen. So, of course, no romance to speak of whatsoever yet. It's also hard to say anything about characters' development because they are practically still just kids, and I'm not gonna judge them for some stupid choices they'd made in trying to survive without practically any help. I might have started this review sounding like I didn't enjoy this book, which is not true. I liked it just fine but it took me some time to get properly invested, so I would not exactly count it among my favourites. At least not yet, but I belive this can change in vol 2. We'll see.
my gif
As I said already, both main characters are just kids at the beginning of the story. Xiahou Lian comes from a family of assassins. He's not assassin himself yet because he's still too young but he doesn't have much other choices. He's been a part of the Qiye Garden - the assassin organization - since he was born. So, it's either he becomes an assassin and gains partial freedom or never leave Qiye Garden mountain. On the other hand, we have Xie Jinglan, who's been born into privileged family but his father neglects him, his mother is dead, and because she was just a concubine, the official wife, of course, hates him and bullies him all the time. However, Xie Jinglan is determined that he will rise above everyone, and get his revenge.
These boys met by chance and almost immediately formed some kind of connection with each other despite being so different in their personalities. Xiahou Lian, who is destined to become a heartless killer but who is actually kind and sweet and mischievous, always prepared to do everything for his Shaoye. And then Xie Jinglan, who is intelligent and cold and sickly, who is supposed to become a scholar and serve the country, but is instead brimming with merciless desire to kill everyone who ever wronged him in any way. But they have something in common - they had always had to fend for themselves and they are practically alone in this world. They only have each other to rely on, so despite all the differences, they mean everything to each other.
I was a little surprised by the dynamic that established between them. I thought that Xiahou Lian is gonna be the bad boy type. I mean, he is (will be) an assassin, compared to delicate, pretty, could-probably-mistake-him-for-a-girl young master. But it's actually Xie Jinglan/ Shen Jue, who is already very possessive over Xiahou Lian, so I guess that their relationship in the future will be kind of different that I initially thought.
There are some side characters I really liked and I hope we'll get to see more of them. The first is definitely Xiahou Pei. She might not be the best mother out there (but certainly far from the worst) since she chose career over motherhood and she excels in being an assassin, however even if she mainly doesn't care much about her son, she's still always there for him when he needs her the most.
The other ones are two unexpected characters that barely had any page time but somehow managed to stole my heart. We'll probably see more of Situ Jin in the next volumes but I have no idea what kind of role will he play in this story. He already helped Shen Jue once, so maybe that's the direction his character will go. We've met Mingyue only twice, I think, and I also have no idea if she will have any significant role to play in the grand scheme of things. But this scene ⬇️ was so adorable, I hope these two will get HEA together. I'm very supportive of her decision; girl saw Situ Jin once and was like 'I'm gonna make him marry me, even if I'll have to cross half the country for it'.
4 'justice & revenge' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
tbr
tbr
tbr
I admit I struggled a little bit with this book at first. It might've been the wrong choice to start this after just watching Blood River. But I wanted more assassins and to continue riding that high that Su Muyu & Su Changhe gave me, however it's not entirely the book's fault of being unable to deliver what precisely I wanted because the story is very different and so are the characters.
Xiahou Lian felt that the other boy simply poked his nose into everything - he seemed to be a meddler through and through.
Alas, Xiahou Lian was only a servant - and, on top of that, Xie Jinglan's exclusive attendant. Despite knowing better, he had no choice but to humor him. Xiahou Lian would've summarized what he'd learned thusly: In the future, he definitely shouldn't marry anyone like Xie Jinglan.
We start this volume with both MCs being twelve and by the end of vol 1 they are fourteen. So, of course, no romance to speak of whatsoever yet. It's also hard to say anything about characters' development because they are practically still just kids, and I'm not gonna judge them for some stupid choices they'd made in trying to survive without practically any help. I might have started this review sounding like I didn't enjoy this book, which is not true. I liked it just fine but it took me some time to get properly invested, so I would not exactly count it among my favourites. At least not yet, but I belive this can change in vol 2. We'll see.
my gif
"Don't... don't be reckless," Xie Jinglan muttered, his face tucked into Xiahou Lian's neck. Xiahou Lian could barley make out his words.
[...]
"Relax," said Xiahou Lian. "I won't do anything stupid." He tugged Xie Jinglan upward and continued. "Don't fall asleep, Shaoye. Talk to me. Don't die on me."
A little less groggy, Xie Jinglan closed his eyes. "If I die, you won't lose much," he said. "After all... you're going to leave anyway."
"But I'll be torn up. I don't have many friends. You're my first real brother," Xiahou Lian said, resting his head gently against Xie Jinglan's. "How about... how about you come with me?" I'll take you back to the mountains. We're poor there, but there's planty of game, so you won't go hungry. My mother won't mind having another son."
Managing to tug his lips upward, Xie Jinglan offered a listless smile. "Are you asking me to elope?"
As I said already, both main characters are just kids at the beginning of the story. Xiahou Lian comes from a family of assassins. He's not assassin himself yet because he's still too young but he doesn't have much other choices. He's been a part of the Qiye Garden - the assassin organization - since he was born. So, it's either he becomes an assassin and gains partial freedom or never leave Qiye Garden mountain. On the other hand, we have Xie Jinglan, who's been born into privileged family but his father neglects him, his mother is dead, and because she was just a concubine, the official wife, of course, hates him and bullies him all the time. However, Xie Jinglan is determined that he will rise above everyone, and get his revenge.
Step by step, Xiahou Lian walked into the distance, lit by the slanting sunlight. That light turned his figure hazy, as if he might vanish into the sunset at any moment.
Suddenly, Xie Jinglan felt un uncontrollable fear. Would he and Xiahou Lian ever see each other again?
"Xiahou Lian!"
Xie Jinglan suddenly chased after him. At the sound of his voice, Xiahou Lian turned around just in time for Xie Jinglan to pull him into a tight embrace.
Xiahou lian sniffled lightly. Xie Jinglan smelled of soap.
"Don't forget our talk in the study the other day," Xie Jinglan murmured into his shoulder.
"I won't forget. I took it to heart."
"I'll find you."
"Mm-hmm. I know."
These boys met by chance and almost immediately formed some kind of connection with each other despite being so different in their personalities. Xiahou Lian, who is destined to become a heartless killer but who is actually kind and sweet and mischievous, always prepared to do everything for his Shaoye. And then Xie Jinglan, who is intelligent and cold and sickly, who is supposed to become a scholar and serve the country, but is instead brimming with merciless desire to kill everyone who ever wronged him in any way. But they have something in common - they had always had to fend for themselves and they are practically alone in this world. They only have each other to rely on, so despite all the differences, they mean everything to each other.
[...] see Xie Jinglan gazing at him with the utmost seriousness, eyelashes fluttering like delicate wings, his face as fair as a fine porcelain. Xiahou Lian had never seen a youth so lovely in his twelve short years. His lips parted in a grin, and he said instead, "It's your fault for being so dazzlineg, Jinglan-shaoye! I can't help but adore you. I was captivated by you at first sight! I, Xiahou Lian, would brave fire and flood or traverse a forest of blades for you!"
Not responding, Xie Jinglan held his hand to his forehead. He shouldn't have asked.
Xiahou Lian touched Shen Jue's fingers. "It's been hard for you, Shaoye."
"Yes, A-Lian." Shen Jue's eyes darkened, becoming deep and unfathomable as an ancient well. He leaned close to Xiahou Lian's ear and murmured, "Stay here and protect me, okay?"
"I..." Xiahou Lian hesitated.
Shen Jue's voice held an unyielding determination. "I saved your life. It belongs to me now."
I was a little surprised by the dynamic that established between them. I thought that Xiahou Lian is gonna be the bad boy type. I mean, he is (will be) an assassin, compared to delicate, pretty, could-probably-mistake-him-for-a-girl young master. But it's actually Xie Jinglan/ Shen Jue, who is already very possessive over Xiahou Lian, so I guess that their relationship in the future will be kind of different that I initially thought.
Xiahou Lian grabbed the basin and headed out to dump the water. As he was about to open the door, Shen Jue's voice came from behind.
"I don't need your pity, Xiahou Lian."
Stubborn brat. Always unwilling to swallow his pride. Xiahou Lian sighed. "I don't pity you."
Shen Yue didn't reply. Xiahou Lian assumed the matter was settled and reached for the door. [...] Turning, he saw Shen Jue, his head lowered, his bangs covering half his face. Xiahou Lian only caught a glimpse of the redness at the corner of his eyes.
Xiahou Lian, who couldn't stand to see anyone cry - especially not Shen Jue - panicked immediately. "What's wrong?"
"You're not allowed to leave, Xiahou Lian," Shen Jue said, suddenly pressing close and wrapping his arms tightly around the other boy. "I won't you go!" Shen Jue's voice rang in his ears, and Xiahou Lian noticed that it was laced with a subtle tremor of fear.
[...]
Xiahou Lian was silent for a long time - so long that Shen Jue felt his blood turning cold. Finally, Xiahou Lian let out a long sigh. "Alright, I won't leave."
There are some side characters I really liked and I hope we'll get to see more of them. The first is definitely Xiahou Pei. She might not be the best mother out there (but certainly far from the worst) since she chose career over motherhood and she excels in being an assassin, however even if she mainly doesn't care much about her son, she's still always there for him when he needs her the most.
The other ones are two unexpected characters that barely had any page time but somehow managed to stole my heart. We'll probably see more of Situ Jin in the next volumes but I have no idea what kind of role will he play in this story. He already helped Shen Jue once, so maybe that's the direction his character will go. We've met Mingyue only twice, I think, and I also have no idea if she will have any significant role to play in the grand scheme of things. But this scene ⬇️ was so adorable, I hope these two will get HEA together. I'm very supportive of her decision; girl saw Situ Jin once and was like 'I'm gonna make him marry me, even if I'll have to cross half the country for it'.
Mingyue wiped the tears from her cheeks. "I'm sixteen this year, Lord Situ. I'll wait five years for you." [...]
He hesitated for a moment before stammering. "Five years is too long. Miss Mingyue. You-"
"What?" Mingyue sniffled and raised her chin. "You have that saying - 'Even four horses couldn't break a gentleman's word.' Well, my word can't be broken by ten of them."
[...]
Situ Jin sighed. "Fine," he said hoarsley. "If I haven't returned in five years, Miss Minqyue, please find someone else. Don't wait for me."
Minqyue shook her head. "No. If you haven't returned in five years, I'll go north to find you. I'll wait for you and you must wait for me."
4 'justice & revenge' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
tbr
tbr
tbr
December 12, 2025
Well, I've read about 90 danmei novels and this is in my top 3: what more can I say? I can't wait to reread the rest and suffer again and, most importantly, I can't wait for Chiyan's appearance!!
February 15, 2026
alright, twice ive dropped the FTL, but third time was the charm. the 7s translation was excellent as was the art. (no, we still dont talk about the white hair.)
ok its a fun read but u gotta roll with the bullshit as they say and make sure miss suspension of disbelief is in the same room as u. if not drag her in and hold her by the tiddies - ull need that energy, trust.
its very dogblood, unrealistic and has the subtlety of a freight train busting into a building. i mean all the people ur supposed to be sympathizing with are hot supermodels and all the nasties are ugly toads (not that i was counting but at least 3 baddies in vol 1 were fat. and if ur sensitive to fatphobia, ur butt will be on fire for a while). most problemos are solved by deux ex machinas in the form of an X and Y person who shows up at just the right place and the right time.
also one of chars is a eunuch, but if u expect some eunuch sauce, dont. the eunuch is fake.
somehow shen jue managed to enter the palace unsnipped. how? je ne sais pas. a better question, how he managed to last that long without his jewels being detected even?? maybe he mastered the art of tuck idk. (technically someone did learn his secret but he got a shiv in the neck real quick bcs shen jue is a badass.)
i dont think i like shen jue very much, that bish gives me too many whiplashes, but im partial to the himbo energy of xiahou lian. his mum, too, is kinda cool.
there is, believe it or not, a third mc, Situ Jin, a guard at the palace. idk what his role in this mess is going to be for now, but he seems like that guy who keeps getting stamped on for doing the right thing.
anyway, its a fun but a very messy novel - it actually reminded me of a show i watched, yanxi palace, they are kinda similar in spirit.
ok its a fun read but u gotta roll with the bullshit as they say and make sure miss suspension of disbelief is in the same room as u. if not drag her in and hold her by the tiddies - ull need that energy, trust.
its very dogblood, unrealistic and has the subtlety of a freight train busting into a building. i mean all the people ur supposed to be sympathizing with are hot supermodels and all the nasties are ugly toads (not that i was counting but at least 3 baddies in vol 1 were fat. and if ur sensitive to fatphobia, ur butt will be on fire for a while). most problemos are solved by deux ex machinas in the form of an X and Y person who shows up at just the right place and the right time.
also one of chars is a eunuch, but if u expect some eunuch sauce, dont. the eunuch is fake.
somehow shen jue managed to enter the palace unsnipped. how? je ne sais pas. a better question, how he managed to last that long without his jewels being detected even?? maybe he mastered the art of tuck idk. (technically someone did learn his secret but he got a shiv in the neck real quick bcs shen jue is a badass.)
i dont think i like shen jue very much, that bish gives me too many whiplashes, but im partial to the himbo energy of xiahou lian. his mum, too, is kinda cool.
there is, believe it or not, a third mc, Situ Jin, a guard at the palace. idk what his role in this mess is going to be for now, but he seems like that guy who keeps getting stamped on for doing the right thing.
anyway, its a fun but a very messy novel - it actually reminded me of a show i watched, yanxi palace, they are kinda similar in spirit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2025
This was soooo good omg!!! I really loved the pacing, and the characters were definitely going through enough drama to keep me intrigued. (Though I am really scared for Shen Jue’s revenge arc next book 😭 he’s just a little dude and he deserves peace)
And also Xiahou Lan’s mom is so HOT and I really hope we see more of her in the next volume 😭🙏
And also Xiahou Lan’s mom is so HOT and I really hope we see more of her in the next volume 😭🙏
November 28, 2025
I cannot express how much I loved loved LOVED this book. Only one volume in and I feel it in my heart that this danmei will become one of my favourites. My current favourites might have some competition…
“Xiahou Lian was about to blurt, only to turn and see Xie Jinglan gazing at him with the utmost seriousness, eyelashes fluttering like delicate wings, his face as fair as fine porcelain. Xiahou Lian had never seen a youth so lovely in his twelve short years.”
“Xie Jinglan turned over and gazed serenely at Xiahou Lian’s face. Moonlight filtered through the paper window, casting a gentle glow on his porcelain cheeks. He stared at the other boy for a long time before finally closing his eyes and drifting off to sleep.”
Xiaohou Lian and Xie Jinglan immediately hit it off and became quick friends. Though as they interact more throughout the story it’s clear that friendship isn’t the only thing they feel towards each other. It’s more so of a puppy love without either party being aware. I can’t wait to read how these characters grow, inside and outside of their blooming relationship.
The plot is easy to understand and there is never a dull moment. The reader isn’t thrown into the deep end with dozens of names, titles, and roles of characters. You are eased into the world of ‘There’s Something Wrong with the Chief’.
If you’re new to historical danmei or are looking for a historical danmei that is both compelling and not too complex, I highly suggest you read this one. I would’ve read this in a day if I wasn’t purposely slowing myself down.
“Xiahou Lian was about to blurt, only to turn and see Xie Jinglan gazing at him with the utmost seriousness, eyelashes fluttering like delicate wings, his face as fair as fine porcelain. Xiahou Lian had never seen a youth so lovely in his twelve short years.”
“Xie Jinglan turned over and gazed serenely at Xiahou Lian’s face. Moonlight filtered through the paper window, casting a gentle glow on his porcelain cheeks. He stared at the other boy for a long time before finally closing his eyes and drifting off to sleep.”
Xiaohou Lian and Xie Jinglan immediately hit it off and became quick friends. Though as they interact more throughout the story it’s clear that friendship isn’t the only thing they feel towards each other. It’s more so of a puppy love without either party being aware. I can’t wait to read how these characters grow, inside and outside of their blooming relationship.
The plot is easy to understand and there is never a dull moment. The reader isn’t thrown into the deep end with dozens of names, titles, and roles of characters. You are eased into the world of ‘There’s Something Wrong with the Chief’.
If you’re new to historical danmei or are looking for a historical danmei that is both compelling and not too complex, I highly suggest you read this one. I would’ve read this in a day if I wasn’t purposely slowing myself down.
November 16, 2025
3.25/5stars
This danmei was just okay for me. It's only volume 1, and it follows the characters when they're quite young (12 and 14) so I'm hoping it will improve in future volumes as I'm not usually a fan of the set up of starting off when they're kids and going up to when they're adults. BECAUSE I find it a bit boring.
Boring is a strong word for this book, but i felt almost meandering - there were very few truly interesting parts, or parts with any type of stakes/plot to it. The beginning was cute where they first met and were getting to know each other under such strange circumstances, but after the timeskip to where they were 14, I lost a LOT of interest. It felt like nothing was happening and I didn't really care for any of the plot points or characters.
I'm hoping the next volume will be better because I think the overall premise of this one sounds so good!
This danmei was just okay for me. It's only volume 1, and it follows the characters when they're quite young (12 and 14) so I'm hoping it will improve in future volumes as I'm not usually a fan of the set up of starting off when they're kids and going up to when they're adults. BECAUSE I find it a bit boring.
Boring is a strong word for this book, but i felt almost meandering - there were very few truly interesting parts, or parts with any type of stakes/plot to it. The beginning was cute where they first met and were getting to know each other under such strange circumstances, but after the timeskip to where they were 14, I lost a LOT of interest. It felt like nothing was happening and I didn't really care for any of the plot points or characters.
I'm hoping the next volume will be better because I think the overall premise of this one sounds so good!
December 25, 2025
"My mother said that hugs can cure all sadness—and you, Jinglan-shaoye, are the only person I've ever hugged, other than my mother. You should feel honored."
I’ve been impatiently waiting for this book, and a white or gray haired main character was honestly all it took to have me sold from the start. I pre-ordered my copy and spent far too long side-eyeing Fully Booked while I waited, but at least it arrived before Christmas. The wait ended up fitting the story’s mood: restrained, tense, and quietly relentless. From the opening chapters, the book establishes a direction that doesn’t rush to comfort the reader. It moves steadily from secrecy into confrontation, with each choice tightening the path forward instead of offering easy exits.
The core of the story rests on its two leads. Xie Jinglan is defined by control and buried fury, shaped by deprivation rather than idealism. His intelligence feels sharpened by necessity, and his calm never reads as gentle. Xiahou Lian stands in sharp contrast: impulsive, reckless, and emotionally exposed, shaped by violence he hasn’t fully processed. On their own, they feel raw and incomplete. Together, they form a volatile but functional balance. Their connection develops through action rather than confession, built on protection, defiance, and shared survival. Every shift in their dynamic feels earned, not granted.
This is not a comforting read. Suffering lingers, safety is rare, and justice rarely arrives cleanly. Power and cruelty shape every interaction, and the story commits fully to long-term consequence rather than quick resolution. Readers drawn to slow devotion, psychological tension, and moral complexity will find this deeply absorbing. Those hoping for swift romance, emotional softness, or clear relief may struggle with the weight and pacing. It’s a demanding story, but one that stays with you precisely because it refuses to soften its edges.
Date Read: 2025.12.22
I’ve been impatiently waiting for this book, and a white or gray haired main character was honestly all it took to have me sold from the start. I pre-ordered my copy and spent far too long side-eyeing Fully Booked while I waited, but at least it arrived before Christmas. The wait ended up fitting the story’s mood: restrained, tense, and quietly relentless. From the opening chapters, the book establishes a direction that doesn’t rush to comfort the reader. It moves steadily from secrecy into confrontation, with each choice tightening the path forward instead of offering easy exits.
The core of the story rests on its two leads. Xie Jinglan is defined by control and buried fury, shaped by deprivation rather than idealism. His intelligence feels sharpened by necessity, and his calm never reads as gentle. Xiahou Lian stands in sharp contrast: impulsive, reckless, and emotionally exposed, shaped by violence he hasn’t fully processed. On their own, they feel raw and incomplete. Together, they form a volatile but functional balance. Their connection develops through action rather than confession, built on protection, defiance, and shared survival. Every shift in their dynamic feels earned, not granted.
This is not a comforting read. Suffering lingers, safety is rare, and justice rarely arrives cleanly. Power and cruelty shape every interaction, and the story commits fully to long-term consequence rather than quick resolution. Readers drawn to slow devotion, psychological tension, and moral complexity will find this deeply absorbing. Those hoping for swift romance, emotional softness, or clear relief may struggle with the weight and pacing. It’s a demanding story, but one that stays with you precisely because it refuses to soften its edges.
Date Read: 2025.12.22
September 15, 2026
“No matter where I am, if I’m alive, I’ll come to you.”
The way my heart SQUEEZED while reading this book.
Only for it to plummet and kick it bloody.
😀
I really liked how the story starts out as kids and it actually lasted the entire book with them as kids. Too many times the laziness gets the better out of authors and they click their fingers with a flashback and time jump and whatever else and here… its just them… growing up together 🥹🤧🤧🤧
Also this story gives me the eeriest flashbacks to heavens official blessing-AND FUCK THAT. but fuck man, jinglan reminds me of xie lian and
Just-just-JUST LOOK AT THIS!!
“Xiahou Lian, why are you trying so hard to help me?” “Because I have a good heart!” Xiahou Lian was about to blurt, only to turn and see Xie Jinglan gazing at him with the utmost seriousness, eyelashes fluttering like delicate wings, his face as fair as fine porcelain.
Xiahou Lian had never seen a youth so lovely in his twelve short years. His lips parted in a grin, and he said instead,
“It’s your fault for being so dazzling, Jinglan-shaoye! I can’t help but adore you. I was captivated by you at first sight! I, Xiahou Lian, would brave fire and flood or traverse a forest of blades for you!”
“If you’re worried about money, don’t be. I’ve saved up silver for the past two years. It’ll be more than enough to support your studies.”
>>>>> the boy who couldn’t save money btw 😭😭😭😭
This kid couldn’t have read all night without a wink of sleep, could he?
🤧🤧🤧🤧😔😔😔
But every time Xie Jinglan saw Xiahou Lian sprawled there, asleep, he couldn’t help but wonder whether master and servant had reversed their positions. Resigned, Xie Jinglan poured his own tea, mixed his own ink, and fixed Xiahou Lian’s blankets when they slipped off.
He was quite entertained that Xie Jinglan was a hypocrite. Look at him! Just a few fleeting glances at some erotic artwork left him that flustered. Xiahou Lian tucked that little secret safely away in his heart; he’d pull it out to amuse himself whenever Xie Jinglan threw a tantrum.
“What nonsense are you talking?”
>>>>>>> you cant NOT hear this quote and NOT think about the love of my life!
Well aware of Xie Jinglan’s fastidiousness, he wiped the stones seven or eight times with his sleeve before tugging the other boy to sit down.
An assassin captured by the enemy must commit suicide. But since you’re not an assassin, I can save you.” Without hesitation, Xiahou Lian said, “Go, then. I’ll stay here.” At this point, whether he became an assassin was secondary. He simply couldn’t leave Xie Jinglan alone.
Dying would be a relief for Xiahou Lian—no more pain, no more concerns. But Shen Jue would have to continue suffering alone in the palace.
>>> die for you? No. LIVE FOR U!
The way my heart SQUEEZED while reading this book.
Only for it to plummet and kick it bloody.
😀
I really liked how the story starts out as kids and it actually lasted the entire book with them as kids. Too many times the laziness gets the better out of authors and they click their fingers with a flashback and time jump and whatever else and here… its just them… growing up together 🥹🤧🤧🤧
Also this story gives me the eeriest flashbacks to heavens official blessing-AND FUCK THAT. but fuck man, jinglan reminds me of xie lian and
Just-just-JUST LOOK AT THIS!!
“Xiahou Lian, why are you trying so hard to help me?” “Because I have a good heart!” Xiahou Lian was about to blurt, only to turn and see Xie Jinglan gazing at him with the utmost seriousness, eyelashes fluttering like delicate wings, his face as fair as fine porcelain.
Xiahou Lian had never seen a youth so lovely in his twelve short years. His lips parted in a grin, and he said instead,
“It’s your fault for being so dazzling, Jinglan-shaoye! I can’t help but adore you. I was captivated by you at first sight! I, Xiahou Lian, would brave fire and flood or traverse a forest of blades for you!”
“If you’re worried about money, don’t be. I’ve saved up silver for the past two years. It’ll be more than enough to support your studies.”
>>>>> the boy who couldn’t save money btw 😭😭😭😭
This kid couldn’t have read all night without a wink of sleep, could he?
🤧🤧🤧🤧😔😔😔
But every time Xie Jinglan saw Xiahou Lian sprawled there, asleep, he couldn’t help but wonder whether master and servant had reversed their positions. Resigned, Xie Jinglan poured his own tea, mixed his own ink, and fixed Xiahou Lian’s blankets when they slipped off.
He was quite entertained that Xie Jinglan was a hypocrite. Look at him! Just a few fleeting glances at some erotic artwork left him that flustered. Xiahou Lian tucked that little secret safely away in his heart; he’d pull it out to amuse himself whenever Xie Jinglan threw a tantrum.
“What nonsense are you talking?”
>>>>>>> you cant NOT hear this quote and NOT think about the love of my life!
Well aware of Xie Jinglan’s fastidiousness, he wiped the stones seven or eight times with his sleeve before tugging the other boy to sit down.
An assassin captured by the enemy must commit suicide. But since you’re not an assassin, I can save you.” Without hesitation, Xiahou Lian said, “Go, then. I’ll stay here.” At this point, whether he became an assassin was secondary. He simply couldn’t leave Xie Jinglan alone.
Dying would be a relief for Xiahou Lian—no more pain, no more concerns. But Shen Jue would have to continue suffering alone in the palace.
>>> die for you? No. LIVE FOR U!
April 19, 2026
I feel so protective of these two. Xiaohou Lian and Xie Jinglan are thrown into terrible situations beyond their control and are essentially alone until they find each other. Though very different in temperament, they are alike in their devotion to the other. It's a beautiful friendship with hints towards something more in the future.
The world introduced here is a dangerous one, and I find myself intrigued by both it and by several notable side characters.
I'm glad volume two is already out, because I'm eager to see where this goes.
The world introduced here is a dangerous one, and I find myself intrigued by both it and by several notable side characters.
I'm glad volume two is already out, because I'm eager to see where this goes.
November 19, 2025
5☆ for xiahou pei she is the mother
May 5, 2026
Actual Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
I am about to jump into all 3 books that are out POSTHASTE. I loved this. The story of an assassin who doesn't have killing intent in his heart and the boy he lives to serve who has the makings of a determined psychopath. Gotta love that dynamic. I'll be very curious to see if Xiahou Lian actually becomes a full fledged assassin by the end of book 2 for the sake of his shaoye who he would kill for simply so shaoye won't have to dirty his hands because he is someone who was born to be worshiped (that's pretty close to verbatim something Xiahou Lian said). I really enjoy stories where we follow the characters for many years so we get to see them grow and change. We followed them for a bit at the age of 12 and then for some time at the age of 14. Really incredible story. I don't want to say too much about it in case of spoilers, but please if you enjoy historical dramas I would highly recommend this one. It has some good drama and action sequences and it is building up nicely to be a great relationship in later books. I look forward to starting book 2 tomorrow.
I am about to jump into all 3 books that are out POSTHASTE. I loved this. The story of an assassin who doesn't have killing intent in his heart and the boy he lives to serve who has the makings of a determined psychopath. Gotta love that dynamic. I'll be very curious to see if Xiahou Lian actually becomes a full fledged assassin by the end of book 2 for the sake of his shaoye who he would kill for simply so shaoye won't have to dirty his hands because he is someone who was born to be worshiped (that's pretty close to verbatim something Xiahou Lian said). I really enjoy stories where we follow the characters for many years so we get to see them grow and change. We followed them for a bit at the age of 12 and then for some time at the age of 14. Really incredible story. I don't want to say too much about it in case of spoilers, but please if you enjoy historical dramas I would highly recommend this one. It has some good drama and action sequences and it is building up nicely to be a great relationship in later books. I look forward to starting book 2 tomorrow.
August 3, 2026
3.5
Book two will prob be a lot more entertaining 👀
Book two will prob be a lot more entertaining 👀
November 28, 2025
Member of the Qielan assassin clan Xiahou Lian finds himself acting as the servant of Xie Jinglan, the youngest and neglected son of the Xie family. The two form a friendship as they support each other through the hardships and neglect of the Xie family, but outside forces drive them apart and back together again. Both are set out on very different paths in life and yet their friendship seems to hold fast.
Interestingly, I picked this up as a result of negative reviews and, while I can partially see where they were coming from, it had a wholly different effect on me. While it is always difficult to rate a single volume of a danmei series, this first instalment was very promising - the first 60% felt a little like a long prologue which is what might have put some off. Depending on what you look for in a story, it could indeed appear boring. Personally, I loved reading about Xiahou Lian and Xie Jinglan's time growing up together - it's worth noting that both are 12 years old when the story begins and there is no romance yet. The conditions under which they live were harsher than I expected and it seems this series generally doesn't hold back with some more gruesome elements. I think having spent such a good chunk of time getting to know these two characters as children will add to the overall depth and character development of what is yet to come.
I really enjoyed the writing - as far as one can judge a translated work - and I also especially enjoyed the main characters. They are in ways opposites attract but I also feel like they are a little in reverse roles; Xiahou Lian is an assassin in training, and while he is certainly roguish, he doesn't seem to have a single bad bone in his body and is constantly being told he is no good material for being an assassin. Jie Jinglan on the other hand is frail and scholarly but he is also driven by ambition and revenge. He is much more manipulative and cold hearted. I am truly intrigued to see where things go. For the latter half of the book, the characters are 14 years old and hints of a possible romance are creeping in very slowly.
Another complaint I have seen a few times is Jie Jinglan being depicted with white hair; while it is true that he is not stated to have white hair in the novel, all official art including the original Chinese, seems to depict him with white hair. My assumption would be that the first artist took that liberty to show his physical fragility and other artists followed suit. Personally, I felt not bothered at all and appreciated the art. The English Sevenseas edition has quite a lot of illustrations on the inside too and they are very beautiful indeed - my only complaint is that on all illustrations, pretty as they may be, the characters look much older than 12 years old.
November 12, 2025
A good start to a series! Overall a pretty easy read, but I do feel like the pacing was a little weird from the start. I love Shen Jue though, I feel like he’s gonna be my favorite character going forward
July 23, 2026
A very slow beginning but towards the end the plot really got me. I'm looking forward to the next volume.
August 31, 2026
.....honestly, there were several things about this book that I kind of, um, hated (wow that fatphobia), but somehow one of the things that bothered me the most was the art. I mean. It was really pretty? But why do Xiahou Lian and Xie Jinglan look like they're 18?? When they're 12 or 14 throughout the book??? Um????
Anyway I'll continue with the series since I already have the next two volumes and kind of want to know what happens next, but my god.
Anyway I'll continue with the series since I already have the next two volumes and kind of want to know what happens next, but my god.
July 29, 2026
I did not expect to love this as much as I did. It's full of unexpected twists and awful choices made by awful people. Absolutely yes.
March 14, 2026
I have read some subtlely fatphobic books before but this one is NOT subtle about it. It's really over the top. I definitively regret buying it
November 16, 2025
More like 3.5 stars, close to 4. The story was fascinating, with good characters, and just had a few silly elements that disrupted it for me.
The main one was the whole idea of the elaborate wax masks that somehow let the assassins pretend to be other - well-known!! - people for MONTHS. It's one thing to slip in and out of the shadows for brief glimpses, but Xiahou Lian made a mask of a eunuch he'd never even seen, based on a drawing Xie Jinglan made for him, and lived as that person for a considerably long time, with no one suspecting a thing? Even when the guy he was pretending to be had been explicitly described as being very overweight, and no one ever commented on the fact that the "smallpox" he'd contracted had made him shrink from like an XXL to a Medium.
Another plot point that made very little sense was Xiahou Lian being installed in Xie Jinglan's household to begin with. At 12 years old, he talks big (to himself) about being an assassin, just waiting there for his mission to be assigned to him, but it turns out that he was not only not an official assassin by any means, the only thing they ever had him do was go into Xie Jinglan's father's office to read some letters. One time.
Which wasn't even necessary, because the same day he did that, another seasoned assassin (the expert at the appearance-masking skills) entered the same office on his own infiltration mission.
So why was Xiahou Lian there, other than for story-related reasons? It's a kind of gaping hole that I'm willing to ignore because I obviously enjoyed the relationship build with Xie Jinglan very much, but it does drop the overall rating down a bit.
Another point of confusion: the abbott, the leader of the assassins, is described as both an extremely old man on the edge of death, and also an assassin of such immense skill with the blade, he can even defeat Xiahou Lian's terrifyingly powerful mother. I assume he'll actually be a character we'll see more of in future volumes, to better understand what he's actually like, but I couldn't reconcile the different portraits of what he was supposed to be.
The heart of this story, though, is the relationship between Xiahou Lian and the neglected third son of the Xie household, who is the only one to escape the head eunuch's paid-for slaughter. Xie Jinglan is fascinating because he has a cruel, ruthless core that everyone except Xiahou Lian seems to recognize. He is far more of an assassin than good-hearted, kind, friendly Xiahou Lian could ever be...and in fact, by the tender age of 14, he's killed more people. Meanwhile, Xiahou Lian is mostly just being sent off on information-gathering missions because he hates killing people so much he fumbles every job.
I found their relationship really interesting. Right now, it's very unbalanced: Xiahou Lian keeps sacrificing for Xie Jinglan, while considering him a friend and a brother. Xie Jinglan is very clearly the only one who is developing romantic feelings at this point - or at least, in a way where he's actually recognizing that he sees Xiahou Lian in a pretty non-platonic light. Xiahou Lian is devoted to him, but Xie Jinglan is desperate for him: he has a very small, selfish heart with very little room in it, and right now Xiahou Lian is taking up the entirety of it.
There's a two year timeskip before they meet again in the imperial palace, and I'm assuming there will be several more years passing before the next volume begins, since this one ends with them parting ways again. Definitely looking forward to seeing more of them as adults.
My biggest surprise was how attached I was to the secondary, straight couple: the shy and honorable imperial soldier and the pretty, outspoken doctor's daughter who promised to follow him into exile if he didn't come back for her. Maybe the rating is reduced a little too because I ended up being more interested in following their story...
But this was an intriguing start to a series, and it's always refreshing to read one that's grounded more in real-world intrigue and sword skills that are developed from boots-on-the-ground hard work. Except for the silly reality-bending wax masks.
The main one was the whole idea of the elaborate wax masks that somehow let the assassins pretend to be other - well-known!! - people for MONTHS. It's one thing to slip in and out of the shadows for brief glimpses, but Xiahou Lian made a mask of a eunuch he'd never even seen, based on a drawing Xie Jinglan made for him, and lived as that person for a considerably long time, with no one suspecting a thing? Even when the guy he was pretending to be had been explicitly described as being very overweight, and no one ever commented on the fact that the "smallpox" he'd contracted had made him shrink from like an XXL to a Medium.
Another plot point that made very little sense was Xiahou Lian being installed in Xie Jinglan's household to begin with. At 12 years old, he talks big (to himself) about being an assassin, just waiting there for his mission to be assigned to him, but it turns out that he was not only not an official assassin by any means, the only thing they ever had him do was go into Xie Jinglan's father's office to read some letters. One time.
Which wasn't even necessary, because the same day he did that, another seasoned assassin (the expert at the appearance-masking skills) entered the same office on his own infiltration mission.
So why was Xiahou Lian there, other than for story-related reasons? It's a kind of gaping hole that I'm willing to ignore because I obviously enjoyed the relationship build with Xie Jinglan very much, but it does drop the overall rating down a bit.
Another point of confusion: the abbott, the leader of the assassins, is described as both an extremely old man on the edge of death, and also an assassin of such immense skill with the blade, he can even defeat Xiahou Lian's terrifyingly powerful mother. I assume he'll actually be a character we'll see more of in future volumes, to better understand what he's actually like, but I couldn't reconcile the different portraits of what he was supposed to be.
The heart of this story, though, is the relationship between Xiahou Lian and the neglected third son of the Xie household, who is the only one to escape the head eunuch's paid-for slaughter. Xie Jinglan is fascinating because he has a cruel, ruthless core that everyone except Xiahou Lian seems to recognize. He is far more of an assassin than good-hearted, kind, friendly Xiahou Lian could ever be...and in fact, by the tender age of 14, he's killed more people. Meanwhile, Xiahou Lian is mostly just being sent off on information-gathering missions because he hates killing people so much he fumbles every job.
I found their relationship really interesting. Right now, it's very unbalanced: Xiahou Lian keeps sacrificing for Xie Jinglan, while considering him a friend and a brother. Xie Jinglan is very clearly the only one who is developing romantic feelings at this point - or at least, in a way where he's actually recognizing that he sees Xiahou Lian in a pretty non-platonic light. Xiahou Lian is devoted to him, but Xie Jinglan is desperate for him: he has a very small, selfish heart with very little room in it, and right now Xiahou Lian is taking up the entirety of it.
There's a two year timeskip before they meet again in the imperial palace, and I'm assuming there will be several more years passing before the next volume begins, since this one ends with them parting ways again. Definitely looking forward to seeing more of them as adults.
My biggest surprise was how attached I was to the secondary, straight couple: the shy and honorable imperial soldier and the pretty, outspoken doctor's daughter who promised to follow him into exile if he didn't come back for her. Maybe the rating is reduced a little too because I ended up being more interested in following their story...
But this was an intriguing start to a series, and it's always refreshing to read one that's grounded more in real-world intrigue and sword skills that are developed from boots-on-the-ground hard work. Except for the silly reality-bending wax masks.
September 13, 2026
I'm really conflicted about the rating because the book has a very engaging plot, compelling main characters, and an endearing friendship slowly blossoming between them. The assassin's guild was also quite intriguing, but I wish the book had explored it in greater depth.
That said, I struggled with some fundamental aspects of the plot. The whole premise of Xiahou Lian infiltrating the Xie household as an "assassin" at twelve years old has a significant plot hole at its foundation, and I also had trouble understanding why Xie Jinglan would be so determined to avenge the Xie clan when they all abused him. The only person whose death I could really understand him wanting to avenge was his maid that raised him.
I was also taken aback by the amount of fatphobia in the book, as well as the way eunuchs are consistently used as cheap, grotesque shorthand for being corrupt, and repulsive. Virtually every eunuch is portrayed as an especially despicable and predatory villain, and it feels like this characterization stems from a deeper bias because they don't fit traditional masculine ideals, rather than being a natural consequence of the story.
Instead of taking the time to create villains with terrifying, complex, or even understandable motivations, the author repeatedly relies on physical characteristics and stigmatized identities as standin for evil. It's disappointing to see the author rely on real-world prejudices to make characters seem repulsive rather than on the strength of the writing itself.
I also found the artwork quite strange. The protagonists are much younger in this volume, yet the artwork portrays them as noticeably older, almost as if they're already adults. I'm not sure why the characters would be aged up visually, I found it quite disturbing. And then there's Xie Jinglan's hair, which is inexplicably drawn white despite being explicitly described as black. I genuinely don't understand that choice.
I'm still compelled to follow through with the story for Xiahou Lian and Xie Jinglan, particularly to see how their relationship develops as adults, but it's a shame that the book relies on prejudices and some really lazy writing tropes.
That said, I struggled with some fundamental aspects of the plot. The whole premise of Xiahou Lian infiltrating the Xie household as an "assassin" at twelve years old has a significant plot hole at its foundation, and I also had trouble understanding why Xie Jinglan would be so determined to avenge the Xie clan when they all abused him. The only person whose death I could really understand him wanting to avenge was his maid that raised him.
I was also taken aback by the amount of fatphobia in the book, as well as the way eunuchs are consistently used as cheap, grotesque shorthand for being corrupt, and repulsive. Virtually every eunuch is portrayed as an especially despicable and predatory villain, and it feels like this characterization stems from a deeper bias because they don't fit traditional masculine ideals, rather than being a natural consequence of the story.
Instead of taking the time to create villains with terrifying, complex, or even understandable motivations, the author repeatedly relies on physical characteristics and stigmatized identities as standin for evil. It's disappointing to see the author rely on real-world prejudices to make characters seem repulsive rather than on the strength of the writing itself.
I also found the artwork quite strange. The protagonists are much younger in this volume, yet the artwork portrays them as noticeably older, almost as if they're already adults. I'm not sure why the characters would be aged up visually, I found it quite disturbing. And then there's Xie Jinglan's hair, which is inexplicably drawn white despite being explicitly described as black. I genuinely don't understand that choice.
I'm still compelled to follow through with the story for Xiahou Lian and Xie Jinglan, particularly to see how their relationship develops as adults, but it's a shame that the book relies on prejudices and some really lazy writing tropes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2025
Xiahou Lian is sent to Xie household to do a mission for the Qiye Garden enclave. Here he meets the youngest son Xie Jinglan, who looks sickly, but is full of ambitions. They become friends, but they ways eventually split.
They meet again after two years in the imperial palace. Xie Jinglan changes his name to Shen Jue, and becomes an eunuch. Meanwhile Xiahou Lian, who was excited to become an assassin, don’t want to do it anymore, but he’s willing to stay by Shen Jue’s side and help him.
We meet the characters when they’re young, and watch them grow up a bit. They’re still young at the end of the book (14). I like the characters, and how they interact together. The plot is getting interesting as well, so I’m quite excited for the next volume.
I’m rating it 3*, because it was ok, and while I finished it quite quickly, some parts just weren’t that interesting.
A lot of people told me this is quite angsty, so I’m curious about how the story progresses.
They meet again after two years in the imperial palace. Xie Jinglan changes his name to Shen Jue, and becomes an eunuch. Meanwhile Xiahou Lian, who was excited to become an assassin, don’t want to do it anymore, but he’s willing to stay by Shen Jue’s side and help him.
We meet the characters when they’re young, and watch them grow up a bit. They’re still young at the end of the book (14). I like the characters, and how they interact together. The plot is getting interesting as well, so I’m quite excited for the next volume.
I’m rating it 3*, because it was ok, and while I finished it quite quickly, some parts just weren’t that interesting.
A lot of people told me this is quite angsty, so I’m curious about how the story progresses.
December 25, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
this one was going great, I loved half the book, even what came after but then it was lost somewhere, the plot i mean. I get the gist of it, but still. I'll see about the next volume, if the mood hits.
this one was going great, I loved half the book, even what came after but then it was lost somewhere, the plot i mean. I get the gist of it, but still. I'll see about the next volume, if the mood hits.
February 27, 2026
More like a 4.5/5 for me.
Devoured this volume. I just love it when the bond starts out young. And I do love how they are solid with each other. I am looking forward to them meeting again.
So I will probably head out to the bookstore today ang get volume 2. 😅
Devoured this volume. I just love it when the bond starts out young. And I do love how they are solid with each other. I am looking forward to them meeting again.
So I will probably head out to the bookstore today ang get volume 2. 😅
June 29, 2026
4,5⭐️
I came for the beautiful art and left completely surprised. This book was nothing like I expected, which made it even better. It was so well written and psychologically deep that I couldn’t stop thinking about the characters. I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
I came for the beautiful art and left completely surprised. This book was nothing like I expected, which made it even better. It was so well written and psychologically deep that I couldn’t stop thinking about the characters. I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
December 13, 2025
i want his mommy.
February 15, 2026
I enjoyed this one but it low-key stressed me out the whole time 💀.
July 18, 2026
Good start. I like the story so far. I really like Lian but I don't like how manipulative Jinglan is. I hope it gets better in the next books.
August 29, 2026
Really really liking this so far - it's very pacy and the set-up is similar to QJJ but with the inclusion of childhood friends (AKA my fave trope of all time) sooooo let's see where we go....
Read
November 11, 2025DNF at 17%
Ahhh I'm bored. I usually DNF books after the first chapter if it's not catching me. But my love for Danmei has me in such a chokehold that l'll read much past my usual limits to try and take interest in the story. I see how the premise would captivate someone but it's just kinda boring here.
Maybe later I'll try this again later, but for now it's a soft dnf from me
Ahhh I'm bored. I usually DNF books after the first chapter if it's not catching me. But my love for Danmei has me in such a chokehold that l'll read much past my usual limits to try and take interest in the story. I see how the premise would captivate someone but it's just kinda boring here.
Maybe later I'll try this again later, but for now it's a soft dnf from me
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews