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Guardian: Zhen Hun (Novel) #1
Il Guardiano delle Anime, Vol. 1: Gli oggetti sacri dell'oltretomba
Zhao Yunlan è a capo del Dipartimento Investigativo Speciale, una misteriosa unità del Ministero della Pubblica Sicurezza che si occupa di eventi insoliti, a cavallo tra il Regno dei Mortali e l’Oltretomba. Il suo atteggiamento sicuro e disinvolto nasconde la mente acuta e la profonda conoscenza del soprannaturale tipiche dei Guardiani delle Anime. Mentre indaga su una morte raccapricciante all’Università di Longcheng, Zhao Yunlan conosce Shen Wei, docente di Lingua e letteratura dai modi schivi e raffinati. Intrigato dalla sua bellezza e dal suo sguardo penetrante, il direttore del DIS lo sente subito familiare. L’attrazione tra loro è immediata e potente, ma Shen Wei cerca di mantenere le distanze. Quali segreti nasconde? Per Zhao Yunlan, il professore costituisce un enigma da svelare a tutti i costi, mentre strane circostanze continuano a portarli l’uno sulla strada dell’altro e il loro legame si fa sempre più inconfutabile.
444 pages, Paperback
First published August 29, 2023
890 people are currently reading
10962 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 848 reviews
December 27, 2024
If you are horny and looking for ‘spice’ then it’s not the time for you to pick up this amazing book. If you are the type to hate on a book because you’re not in the mood for some heavy lore and mythology, don’t be that guy and just leave it, it has an amazing plot otherwise.
The one thing I dislike about it was the narrative, it’s 3rd person but focuses on different characters in every other paragraph, which had me confused at first. As well as the translation, but they both get better thankfully and I cannot wait to continue with this wonderful series.
In a few words, it’s about a Special Investigation Department team called the ‘Soul Guarding Order’ in Dragon city that deals with supernatural cases; and the case in each arc is connected to the four ‘Hallowed Artifacts’ of the Netherworld, so we get a mysterious character that comes to help from there. The main characters are a badass cheeky director who starts pursuing a gentle, well mannered professor that looks at him longingly but keeps turning him down. I just love his confidence and how he’s described😆 after getting ready for their date and adding cologne: “Satisfied that he was a feast for all the senses, he strode off to inflict himself on the world.” OHMYGOD LMFAO!!!! It’s a GLACIAL LOW SIMMERING SLOW BURN🔥🔥🔥 The secondary characters are just as awesome and hilarious as their boss, they’re a mix of creatures, animals, fake monks and mysterious people. This encounter with a half snake employee cracked me up, her tail can’t be hidden for a few days each month:
The art that is added after every other chapter was such a beautiful idea and I loved it, just don’t get too excited and look for fanart that will spoil some plot points like I did😭💔
The Appendix of characters, name guide, pronunciation and terminology was much appreciated. And if you’re like me and confuse Chinese names, here’s my own cheat sheet lol, it’s in order of character appearance and I hope it helps:
The one thing I dislike about it was the narrative, it’s 3rd person but focuses on different characters in every other paragraph, which had me confused at first. As well as the translation, but they both get better thankfully and I cannot wait to continue with this wonderful series.
In a few words, it’s about a Special Investigation Department team called the ‘Soul Guarding Order’ in Dragon city that deals with supernatural cases; and the case in each arc is connected to the four ‘Hallowed Artifacts’ of the Netherworld, so we get a mysterious character that comes to help from there. The main characters are a badass cheeky director who starts pursuing a gentle, well mannered professor that looks at him longingly but keeps turning him down. I just love his confidence and how he’s described😆 after getting ready for their date and adding cologne: “Satisfied that he was a feast for all the senses, he strode off to inflict himself on the world.” OHMYGOD LMFAO!!!! It’s a GLACIAL LOW SIMMERING SLOW BURN🔥🔥🔥 The secondary characters are just as awesome and hilarious as their boss, they’re a mix of creatures, animals, fake monks and mysterious people. This encounter with a half snake employee cracked me up, her tail can’t be hidden for a few days each month:
“Zhu Hong patted her lap—what would have been a human woman’s thigh. “That would take at least two or three years, and I’m like this once a month. How exactly would I explain being absent so often?”
Without hesitation or batting an eye, Zhao Yunlan said, “You’d tell them it was menstrual cramps, dumbass.”
She absorbed this in brief silence, then said, “You’re always destroying my romanticized fantasy of you, boss.”
“You’re the one who has the nerve to fantasize about your boss.” Zhao Yunlan lightly pushed down on her head. “Are you trying to lose your bonus?”
The art that is added after every other chapter was such a beautiful idea and I loved it, just don’t get too excited and look for fanart that will spoil some plot points like I did😭💔
The Appendix of characters, name guide, pronunciation and terminology was much appreciated. And if you’re like me and confuse Chinese names, here’s my own cheat sheet lol, it’s in order of character appearance and I hope it helps:
Guo Changcheng ‘intern’
Zhao Yunlan 🚬 ‘guardian’
Wang Zheng 👻 ‘HR woman’
Lao-Wu 👻 ‘security guard’
Daqing🐈⬛
Shen Wei 👓 ‘professor’
Zhu Hong 🐍
Lin Jing📿 ‘fake monk’
Chu Shuzhi ‘mysterious agent’
Reading Updates:
OMG I NEED ANSWERS ASAP
I’m starting the second arc soon but please if you have read this book, tell me: is Shen Wei ‘The Soul Executing Emissary’?! I have a feeling it’s him?!!!!! Yay or nay?
-
I watched a few episodes of the drama but decided to stop spoiling it for myself and read the book, because they changed a few themes I was interested in originally!
July 18, 2025
3.5 stars.
I have a profound appreciation for how this author intricately weaves the relationships between the main couples in her novels. Each pair is infused with complexity and depth, creating an emotional landscape that feels rich and tangible. The intricacies of their feelings are palpable, and the character development showcases a remarkable attention to detail. However, in this novel, there were moments when the plot began to drag, rendering certain sections decidedly tedious. As someone who thrives on suspense and delights in piecing together mysteries, I found my interest waning during several drawn-out passages.
The story unfolds leisurely, only gathering momentum in the second arc, when the stakes escalate and the tension intensifies. Unfortunately, the very aspect that initially captivated me—the romance—did not live up to my expectations. I’ve always found the “I’m lying to you because I want to protect you” trope frustrating, and "Guardian" leans heavily on this device within the central romance, which ultimately detracted from my enjoyment.
Shen Wei is a mesmerizing character, yet my feelings toward him are decidedly ambivalent. He carries a multitude of secrets, causing his character to oscillate between icy detachment and burning passion, which made it challenging for me to fully invest in his love for Zhao Yunlan. While I recognize that layers of their shared past influence their dynamic, the way the author depicts Shen Wei's affection failed to resonate with me emotionally.
Zhao Yunlan, in contrast, presents a mixed bag of charm and frustration. At times, he is an entertaining figure to follow, buoyed by his sharp wit and bravado. However, I can easily envision myself feeling exasperated if I attempted to digest the entire novel in one sitting. His character traits often clash with my personal preference for more straightforward heroes. Their relationship is marked by a labyrinth of secrets and deceit from the outset, which made it difficult for me to genuinely invest in their "love you for a thousand years" narrative. I typically enjoy the trope of "I’ve been waiting for you for an eternity," but here it felt forced and overdone—especially in the portrayal of Shen Wei.
In summary, I’m left feeling a bit underwhelmed by this book. My expectations were high, and ultimately, it fell short of what I had hoped for. The one character I found truly lovable was Daqing, whose presence brought a refreshing spark amid the shadows of the other relationships.
I have a profound appreciation for how this author intricately weaves the relationships between the main couples in her novels. Each pair is infused with complexity and depth, creating an emotional landscape that feels rich and tangible. The intricacies of their feelings are palpable, and the character development showcases a remarkable attention to detail. However, in this novel, there were moments when the plot began to drag, rendering certain sections decidedly tedious. As someone who thrives on suspense and delights in piecing together mysteries, I found my interest waning during several drawn-out passages.
The story unfolds leisurely, only gathering momentum in the second arc, when the stakes escalate and the tension intensifies. Unfortunately, the very aspect that initially captivated me—the romance—did not live up to my expectations. I’ve always found the “I’m lying to you because I want to protect you” trope frustrating, and "Guardian" leans heavily on this device within the central romance, which ultimately detracted from my enjoyment.
Shen Wei is a mesmerizing character, yet my feelings toward him are decidedly ambivalent. He carries a multitude of secrets, causing his character to oscillate between icy detachment and burning passion, which made it challenging for me to fully invest in his love for Zhao Yunlan. While I recognize that layers of their shared past influence their dynamic, the way the author depicts Shen Wei's affection failed to resonate with me emotionally.
Zhao Yunlan, in contrast, presents a mixed bag of charm and frustration. At times, he is an entertaining figure to follow, buoyed by his sharp wit and bravado. However, I can easily envision myself feeling exasperated if I attempted to digest the entire novel in one sitting. His character traits often clash with my personal preference for more straightforward heroes. Their relationship is marked by a labyrinth of secrets and deceit from the outset, which made it difficult for me to genuinely invest in their "love you for a thousand years" narrative. I typically enjoy the trope of "I’ve been waiting for you for an eternity," but here it felt forced and overdone—especially in the portrayal of Shen Wei.
In summary, I’m left feeling a bit underwhelmed by this book. My expectations were high, and ultimately, it fell short of what I had hoped for. The one character I found truly lovable was Daqing, whose presence brought a refreshing spark amid the shadows of the other relationships.
October 13, 2023
✦ i loved the main characters and their dynamic, but i couldn't really get into the overall plot. i honestly pushed through it just to get more glimpses of the mcs. this also has some great side characters that make the story more fun. i will definitely try the next books once they officially come out, hopefully the plot itself picks up.
April 24, 2024
This was just so good. I mean, the premise meant it wasn’t a hard sell as it had so many elements that are things that make a book an auto read for me- supernatural investigations and murder mysteries, sassy bisexual MC (who’s a bit of a mess yet highly competent at what they do), talking cat companion, ghosts and spirits, yearning love stories. All the good stuff, and no one does yearning and undying devotion like a danmei novel.
I think that this series would be an easy and accessible starting point for people who are interested in getting into Danmei as a genre given it’s modern day setting makes it a little less content dense than some others feel initially.
I laughed out loud several times throughout this but had also forgotten how emotionally brutal danmei story elements can be, I am eagerly awaiting the next installments to be emotionally devastated and then given a little kiss on the forehead as a consolation for the pain.
I will also be perfectly honest, as someone who is a die hard Lan Zhan/ Wei Ying girlie, the character dynamics between Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan, literally read like a modern day au of them. I mean this as a highest compliment but if that’s a vibe that does it for you this is so worthwhile as a read.
Bless Seven Seas for producing all these danmei translations. I’ll be marking the calendar for book 2.
Guardian: Zhen Hun (Novel) Vol. 2 4 ⭐️
I think that this series would be an easy and accessible starting point for people who are interested in getting into Danmei as a genre given it’s modern day setting makes it a little less content dense than some others feel initially.
I laughed out loud several times throughout this but had also forgotten how emotionally brutal danmei story elements can be, I am eagerly awaiting the next installments to be emotionally devastated and then given a little kiss on the forehead as a consolation for the pain.
I will also be perfectly honest, as someone who is a die hard Lan Zhan/ Wei Ying girlie, the character dynamics between Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan, literally read like a modern day au of them. I mean this as a highest compliment but if that’s a vibe that does it for you this is so worthwhile as a read.
Bless Seven Seas for producing all these danmei translations. I’ll be marking the calendar for book 2.
Guardian: Zhen Hun (Novel) Vol. 2 4 ⭐️
December 3, 2023
“Some people believe reincarnation is an endless cycle of killing, the old replaced by the new. What’s lost will be lost forever, and what has passed will never return. With a turn of the clock, one can look back, but not go back. With a turn of the reincarnation cycle, though, even if one tried to look back, they wouldn’t know which way to look.”
Guo Changcheng is in need of a job and his beloved uncle was able to use the power of nepotism to get him one at S.I.D. When Guo Changcheng arrives he meets a ghost, a half-snake lady and promptly passes out. Turns out S.I.D means Special Investigations Department and they deal with the supernatural end of criminal investigations. But Guo Changcheng isn’t our main character, he’s the beloved intern.
Zhao Yunlan is the director or S.I.D and it is his responsibility to sign off on possible cases that deal with the people from Dixing but when a case leads to him meeting the elusive professor Shen Wei, he can’t help but be intrigued by the man. Who is he? And why is he rejecting his advances?!!
Guys, I feel a favourite new series coming up. I loved this. I loved the mystery elements, I loved the fantasy plot, I loved everything about this. I just know my heart is going to be broken. There’s already an adaptation of this series and I want to watch it so badly but I also don’t want to spoil it for myself.
Also Guo Changcheng is baby.
August 20, 2024
It occurred to Zhao Yunlan that he could try making another move. He reached over to gently smooth out a caught corner of Shen Wei’s collar. When his curled finger grazed the tender skin just below Shen Wei’s earlobe, it could have been unintentional.
“Just fixing your collar,” he said, straightening back up and adjusting the rearview mirror.
This time, Shen Wei’s blush reached his ears.
NOT THEM LITERALLY MAKING ME GIGGLE AND SCREAM THE MOST I'VE EVER WHEN HE'S ONLY FIXING HIS COLLAR 🦋 the scene almost made me faint.
zhao yunlan's heart fluttered so much when he was around shen wei and i totally could understand. shen wei was so freaking dreamy omg. and then zhao yunlan with his cocky arrogant self making shen wei blush like crazy UGHHHHHHHHHHHHJFSHFSKHF 🫠
this is my first danmei and definitely won't be my last. i feel like this was really out of my comfort zone of what i'm used to reading. i'm a romance girl at heart through and through. and when romance is only a subplot i tend to lose interest but that was not the case here! especially when this was like 20% romance and 80% plot. the plot may have gone over my head a few times not going to lie 😅 because so much was going on, but i had a great time. this is the type of book where it's very much on the lower level of romance but when you do get the scenes, it pays off!! i pretty much thought they were in love from the first moment they met.
i adored both main characters. i loved zhao yunlan's cocky attitude and how much of a know at all he was. normally, i hate characters like this but he made it charming and he wasnt an asshole about it. i loved shen wei’s mysterious vibes and his protective and caretaker side with zhao yunlan. the moment he lost control and couldn't hold himself back from touching zhao yunlan…. i could feel his longing throughout the whole book even though he was denying that he didn’t like zhao yunlan. also i loved guo changcheng. he was a whole ass mood and if i was in this world, i'd definitely be him 😂
some quotes that had me swooning.
🖤 “Good night, sleeping beauty. When I’m done with the case, I’ll ask you out properly.”
~ zhao yunlan talking to shen wei 🥹 also dude was so obsessed with pursuing shen wei!!! we love this energy
💙 Shen Wei’s expression darkened. “Enough nonsense. Hurry up.”
Zhao Yunlan peeled off his jacket and pants with no further hesitation, leaving him lounging casually in front of Shen Wei in pajamas that revealed most of his chest and chiseled abs. Shen Wei’s face changed color as if it had been boiled.
~ ahhhhkdhfkdhgkshgsidghdjkghsjhgsdgb
🖤 Shen Wei’s brow creased. Zhao Yunlan grabbed his hand and was shocked by how cold it was. That one touch gave him the feeling that Shen Wei was desperately drinking in his body heat. His heart ached faintly in response.
“Don’t frown,” Zhao Yunlan said. “It’ll be okay.”
~ just taking care of his baby 🥰
💙 For some time, Shen Wei couldn’t look away. He watched Zhao Yunlan quietly for a while, expression softening. He carefully removed Zhao Yunlan’s earbuds, rolled them up, and set them aside. Then he took the coat Zhao Yunlan had thrown aside and spread it over him.
~ when he looks at you and his expression softens>>>>>>
🖤 “I was planning to keep my hands to myself, but then you went and threw yourself at me.”
~ SIRRRRRRRR- to say I was speechless is an understatement. I did NOT expect this scene at all 😳
the last 25% of the book had me on the edge of my seat. i flew through it like 🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️
THE ART THOUGH? imagine when i opened up this book and there was art. MULTIPLE!!!!!!!!! fucking beautiful art too. i should have epxetced that with how pretty the cover it.
AND THE CAT😭😭😭😭 the most main character energy ever 😌
anyway, i'm excited for the second volume because i have a lot of questions.
preread:
THIS HAS A SERIES TOO AHHHHHHHHDHDHDGSHSJD AND THE MCS MATCH SO PERFECTLY LIKE WOW 😍😭🫠 i will definitely be watching after i finish this.
this is also my first danmei novel so i'm so excited 🥰
“Just fixing your collar,” he said, straightening back up and adjusting the rearview mirror.
This time, Shen Wei’s blush reached his ears.
NOT THEM LITERALLY MAKING ME GIGGLE AND SCREAM THE MOST I'VE EVER WHEN HE'S ONLY FIXING HIS COLLAR 🦋 the scene almost made me faint.
zhao yunlan's heart fluttered so much when he was around shen wei and i totally could understand. shen wei was so freaking dreamy omg. and then zhao yunlan with his cocky arrogant self making shen wei blush like crazy UGHHHHHHHHHHHHJFSHFSKHF 🫠
this is my first danmei and definitely won't be my last. i feel like this was really out of my comfort zone of what i'm used to reading. i'm a romance girl at heart through and through. and when romance is only a subplot i tend to lose interest but that was not the case here! especially when this was like 20% romance and 80% plot. the plot may have gone over my head a few times not going to lie 😅 because so much was going on, but i had a great time. this is the type of book where it's very much on the lower level of romance but when you do get the scenes, it pays off!! i pretty much thought they were in love from the first moment they met.
i adored both main characters. i loved zhao yunlan's cocky attitude and how much of a know at all he was. normally, i hate characters like this but he made it charming and he wasnt an asshole about it. i loved shen wei’s mysterious vibes and his protective and caretaker side with zhao yunlan. the moment he lost control and couldn't hold himself back from touching zhao yunlan…. i could feel his longing throughout the whole book even though he was denying that he didn’t like zhao yunlan. also i loved guo changcheng. he was a whole ass mood and if i was in this world, i'd definitely be him 😂
some quotes that had me swooning.
🖤 “Good night, sleeping beauty. When I’m done with the case, I’ll ask you out properly.”
~ zhao yunlan talking to shen wei 🥹 also dude was so obsessed with pursuing shen wei!!! we love this energy
💙 Shen Wei’s expression darkened. “Enough nonsense. Hurry up.”
Zhao Yunlan peeled off his jacket and pants with no further hesitation, leaving him lounging casually in front of Shen Wei in pajamas that revealed most of his chest and chiseled abs. Shen Wei’s face changed color as if it had been boiled.
~ ahhhhkdhfkdhgkshgsidghdjkghsjhgsdgb
🖤 Shen Wei’s brow creased. Zhao Yunlan grabbed his hand and was shocked by how cold it was. That one touch gave him the feeling that Shen Wei was desperately drinking in his body heat. His heart ached faintly in response.
“Don’t frown,” Zhao Yunlan said. “It’ll be okay.”
~ just taking care of his baby 🥰
💙 For some time, Shen Wei couldn’t look away. He watched Zhao Yunlan quietly for a while, expression softening. He carefully removed Zhao Yunlan’s earbuds, rolled them up, and set them aside. Then he took the coat Zhao Yunlan had thrown aside and spread it over him.
~ when he looks at you and his expression softens>>>>>>
🖤 “I was planning to keep my hands to myself, but then you went and threw yourself at me.”
~ SIRRRRRRRR- to say I was speechless is an understatement. I did NOT expect this scene at all 😳
the last 25% of the book had me on the edge of my seat. i flew through it like 🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️
THE ART THOUGH? imagine when i opened up this book and there was art. MULTIPLE!!!!!!!!! fucking beautiful art too. i should have epxetced that with how pretty the cover it.
AND THE CAT😭😭😭😭 the most main character energy ever 😌
anyway, i'm excited for the second volume because i have a lot of questions.
preread:
THIS HAS A SERIES TOO AHHHHHHHHDHDHDGSHSJD AND THE MCS MATCH SO PERFECTLY LIKE WOW 😍😭🫠 i will definitely be watching after i finish this.
this is also my first danmei novel so i'm so excited 🥰
September 2, 2024
When I decided to pick this book up, I thought that it's gonna be something in a shape of all the reincarnation fanfics that I used to stumble upon in AO3, but, you know, in a novel version. I didn't quite got what I expected.
Let's start with the writing. First of all, the story lacks the balance between the serious stuff and the unserious stuff. This book's writing feels a little bit too unserious for my liking and I couldn't help, but cringe a little wherever the sentences ended with !. It destroyed the ominous atmosphere that the author (sometimes) tried to build. The story has some of horror-like type moments that normally would frighten me, but I couldn't bring myself to feel anything. I also got the impression that the 'show, don't tell' rule was forgotten by the author and, even worse, there was no depth in most of the characters. It was like the author immersed himself in the action and forgot to give life to his characters. I couldn't bring myself to care about anyone, except for Guo Changcheng.
Honestly, Guo Changcheng, despite not being a main character of the story, is one of the most relatable characters (if not the most relatable one!) I have ever encountered in a book. I felt like I have been reading about myself wherever he showed up in a scene. Just look at these:
But Guo Changcheng had always been terrified of social interactions, and staying home for more than half a year had given him a severe case of telephone phobia. As soon as he even thought about having to call someone, he felt so stressed that he couldn't sleep for nights on end.
He loved people like this, warm and brimming with enthusiasm. As long as the other person's mouth was moving, he only had to nod or shake his head. No need to string words together.
He didn't feel lucky at all - father, he felt a puff of misfortune float up from his head like a ghost.
Once again, Guo Changcheng didn't understand, but he was still afraid of seeming stupid, and embarrassment kept him silent.
Guo Changcheng, who had been pretending not to exist, suddenly butted in.
It's like I was reading about myself. I didn't know if I should laugh or cry, really, especially because of the way this character was treated by others through most of the story. He's supposed to be a comedic relief, I guess, but I didn't felt the need to laugh. In the contrary.
Now let's talk a little bit about the plot. To be quite honest, most of the time I didn't know what is happening. I didn't understand how the events tied together until the very end of the story. I thought that the main center of the story will be the past and the present of the relationship between the main heroes: Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei, but most of the story's time is taken by the action. I know that Zhao Yunlan is a detective-like hero, so there had to be some kind of mystery going on, but I needed the balance between the action and the romance, but the story didn't gave me that.
I thought that Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei's story will be one of the soulmates kind and I was excited to read about the reincarnation and how their past looked like, but this book didn't deliver it. If they are soulmates, I didn't felt it. There were multiple foreshadowing moments of the reincarnation and the sacrifice, so I thought that it's gonna bring me somewhere I needed to be, but nah. It will either be the plot of the next books or will be completely ignored *sigh* Even without the soulmates part, the romance should stay strong on it's own, but it didn't. These two didn't felt like they were falling in love or were already in love with one another. All it seems to come from both the characters was lust and that's it. There was a couple of moments that gave me hope when it comes to Shen Wei (when he looked longingly at Zhao Yunlan), but on the end it all came to the lust. It's not what I am here for.
But hey, I found the worldbuilding very interesting. I didn't quite understand everything. So many things were mentioned with only a little bit of description that made me feel lost and confused, but that's all right. It means that I have many things to learn and many things to uncover, so I'm excited. Anyways, I really like the various types of species that this world has and I hope to see more.
Now, the Shen Wei's mystery plot point. I did NOT expect him to be who he ended up to be. It was obvious that he wasn't just a human, but I didn't realize who he actually is, so I need to give a big point for the author for the great plot twist. Now I wonder how it ties up to the reincarnation part, if the reincarnation part is indeed a plot point of the next books. I will know when I will pick the next books up, I guess! I hope that I will enjoy them more than book one, I genuinely hope so :)
Let's start with the writing. First of all, the story lacks the balance between the serious stuff and the unserious stuff. This book's writing feels a little bit too unserious for my liking and I couldn't help, but cringe a little wherever the sentences ended with !. It destroyed the ominous atmosphere that the author (sometimes) tried to build. The story has some of horror-like type moments that normally would frighten me, but I couldn't bring myself to feel anything. I also got the impression that the 'show, don't tell' rule was forgotten by the author and, even worse, there was no depth in most of the characters. It was like the author immersed himself in the action and forgot to give life to his characters. I couldn't bring myself to care about anyone, except for Guo Changcheng.
Honestly, Guo Changcheng, despite not being a main character of the story, is one of the most relatable characters (if not the most relatable one!) I have ever encountered in a book. I felt like I have been reading about myself wherever he showed up in a scene. Just look at these:
But Guo Changcheng had always been terrified of social interactions, and staying home for more than half a year had given him a severe case of telephone phobia. As soon as he even thought about having to call someone, he felt so stressed that he couldn't sleep for nights on end.
He loved people like this, warm and brimming with enthusiasm. As long as the other person's mouth was moving, he only had to nod or shake his head. No need to string words together.
He didn't feel lucky at all - father, he felt a puff of misfortune float up from his head like a ghost.
Once again, Guo Changcheng didn't understand, but he was still afraid of seeming stupid, and embarrassment kept him silent.
Guo Changcheng, who had been pretending not to exist, suddenly butted in.
It's like I was reading about myself. I didn't know if I should laugh or cry, really, especially because of the way this character was treated by others through most of the story. He's supposed to be a comedic relief, I guess, but I didn't felt the need to laugh. In the contrary.
Now let's talk a little bit about the plot. To be quite honest, most of the time I didn't know what is happening. I didn't understand how the events tied together until the very end of the story. I thought that the main center of the story will be the past and the present of the relationship between the main heroes: Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei, but most of the story's time is taken by the action. I know that Zhao Yunlan is a detective-like hero, so there had to be some kind of mystery going on, but I needed the balance between the action and the romance, but the story didn't gave me that.
I thought that Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei's story will be one of the soulmates kind and I was excited to read about the reincarnation and how their past looked like, but this book didn't deliver it. If they are soulmates, I didn't felt it. There were multiple foreshadowing moments of the reincarnation and the sacrifice, so I thought that it's gonna bring me somewhere I needed to be, but nah. It will either be the plot of the next books or will be completely ignored *sigh* Even without the soulmates part, the romance should stay strong on it's own, but it didn't. These two didn't felt like they were falling in love or were already in love with one another. All it seems to come from both the characters was lust and that's it. There was a couple of moments that gave me hope when it comes to Shen Wei (when he looked longingly at Zhao Yunlan), but on the end it all came to the lust. It's not what I am here for.
But hey, I found the worldbuilding very interesting. I didn't quite understand everything. So many things were mentioned with only a little bit of description that made me feel lost and confused, but that's all right. It means that I have many things to learn and many things to uncover, so I'm excited. Anyways, I really like the various types of species that this world has and I hope to see more.
Now, the Shen Wei's mystery plot point. I did NOT expect him to be who he ended up to be. It was obvious that he wasn't just a human, but I didn't realize who he actually is, so I need to give a big point for the author for the great plot twist. Now I wonder how it ties up to the reincarnation part, if the reincarnation part is indeed a plot point of the next books. I will know when I will pick the next books up, I guess! I hope that I will enjoy them more than book one, I genuinely hope so :)
May 24, 2024
Reading this book was like a breath of fresh air. It was a simple and fast read but that did not stop it from being so beautifully intriguing (I mean this is priest we’re talking about so what else would one expect). The romance is being built up so satisfyingly, and while it seems it’s ‘fast-paced,’ think again! Because there is so much more complexity to our main couple, and I for one cannot wait to delve deeper into their layers in the coming volumes (and I’m proud to say that my theories about Shen Wei’s identity were correct, thank you very much)
Zhao Yunlan, our flirty main character and a total heartthrob sure to have all the men and women swooning, I feel is going to be in for a hell of a ride in the next volume. And I cannot wait to find out more of his backstory, or rather his past life’s backstory. Shen Wei, our quiet little scholar, or the fucking Soul-Executing Emissary (basically a god), I feel is going to be flipping our Yunlan’s world on its head.
Zhao Yunlan, our flirty main character and a total heartthrob sure to have all the men and women swooning, I feel is going to be in for a hell of a ride in the next volume. And I cannot wait to find out more of his backstory, or rather his past life’s backstory. Shen Wei, our quiet little scholar, or the fucking Soul-Executing Emissary (basically a god), I feel is going to be flipping our Yunlan’s world on its head.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2025
This is my fave first book in a Danmei series, ever. I was home sick today, and casually read the entire thing in a day.
THE PREMISE: supernatural Police force, a ghost murder mystery, and epic displays of pining and *I’ve loved you in another life* energy.
TROPES & VIBES:
- Super slowburn MM romance / Danmei
- The plot is SO COMPELLING
- Secret histories and mysteries
- Chaotic bisexual main character
- Hurt x comfort 🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼
It was basically Kate crack. I’m obsessed.
5⭐️ No 🌶️
THE PREMISE: supernatural Police force, a ghost murder mystery, and epic displays of pining and *I’ve loved you in another life* energy.
TROPES & VIBES:
- Super slowburn MM romance / Danmei
- The plot is SO COMPELLING
- Secret histories and mysteries
- Chaotic bisexual main character
- Hurt x comfort 🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼
It was basically Kate crack. I’m obsessed.
5⭐️ No 🌶️
December 27, 2025
4,5 'Talking cat' stars
This is another danmei I almost skipped but after reading SPL, I decided I need to read every priest's book, even genres I don't usually read, so here we are :) I don't think Zhen Hun will ever be among my top favourite danmei but I had a really good time reading vol 1 and I'm excited to continue.
I'm not exactly sure what's going on, except that SID investigates supernatural crimes and stuff. But I'm still pretty much confused about everything that happened in the second half of this vol. Well, I'm certain some things will become clearer in the future.
Let me start with Zhao Yunlan. He's the boss of SID team and Guardian from the title (as I said, I'm still not entirely sure what that means and what his job as a Guardian is, and I have a feeling that neither does Zhao Yunlan - that's mostly because everyone is keeping secrets from him). He's a total badass, he smokes like a chimney and swears like a sailor, he can be a mean bastard, when he's moody - especially to his co-workers - but at the same time he secretly takes care of them like a mother han. He's particulary vain about his apperance and think's he's gods' gift to everyone 😄 He's incapable of taking care for his health but he's brilliant at his job - no crimial, alive or dead - is able to escape him. So, in short, he's certified to be my precious baby.
Shen Wei is a professor, who SID team meets during one of the cases. He has kind of mysterious vibes and it's apparent there's something more about him that meets the eye. And, of course, Zhao Yunlan is immediately drawn to him - opposites attract and all that.
Gif by lilianhuas
We, as readers, are aware that there is some connection between them, that they might already know each other or even have a shared past. However, that's something that Zhao Yunlan himself is not aware off, while Shen Wei is trying (and failing) to avoid or maybe forget(?)
Gif by zhivchik
I can't say I'm already completely sold on their relationship but they have so many amazing scenes together. Zhao Yunlan is, of course, relentless in pursuing the uptight professor, and even if Shen Wei seems to be moved, these two keep getting in interesting situations. So, how much exactly is Shen Wei trully resisting, haha (he's just taking care of Officer Zhao's health *wink wink*)
They are on a good way to become an old married couple already. But Shen Wei is not the only one Zhao Yunlan has a "connection" with. There's also The Soul-Executing Emissary - a being from the deepest depths of hell basically, who everyone, alive or dead, is afraid of. Except Zhao Yunlan. Which probaly has something to do with the fact that Emissary only treats Yunlan nicely and doesn't ignore him.
Again, as usual, I'm not sure where I'm going with this review. I enjoyed this volume more than I thought I would, and I can't wait to continue. Despite not being 100% invested in the plot, I love the chemistry/relationship between Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei. So far, I loved every priest's couple, and I have no doubt about weilan ❤️❤️
Gif by smittenskitten
And now, as most likely expected, I give you some sexy times for the end 😏
I forgot to mention other SID members. All of them are very entertaining group and every single one of them deserves a medal for tolerating their asshole boss, lol
4,5 'Talking cat' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
4 'Secrets revealed' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
tbr
This is another danmei I almost skipped but after reading SPL, I decided I need to read every priest's book, even genres I don't usually read, so here we are :) I don't think Zhen Hun will ever be among my top favourite danmei but I had a really good time reading vol 1 and I'm excited to continue.
I'm not exactly sure what's going on, except that SID investigates supernatural crimes and stuff. But I'm still pretty much confused about everything that happened in the second half of this vol. Well, I'm certain some things will become clearer in the future.
Let me start with Zhao Yunlan. He's the boss of SID team and Guardian from the title (as I said, I'm still not entirely sure what that means and what his job as a Guardian is, and I have a feeling that neither does Zhao Yunlan - that's mostly because everyone is keeping secrets from him). He's a total badass, he smokes like a chimney and swears like a sailor, he can be a mean bastard, when he's moody - especially to his co-workers - but at the same time he secretly takes care of them like a mother han. He's particulary vain about his apperance and think's he's gods' gift to everyone 😄 He's incapable of taking care for his health but he's brilliant at his job - no crimial, alive or dead - is able to escape him. So, in short, he's certified to be my precious baby.
Shen Wei is a professor, who SID team meets during one of the cases. He has kind of mysterious vibes and it's apparent there's something more about him that meets the eye. And, of course, Zhao Yunlan is immediately drawn to him - opposites attract and all that.
Gif by lilianhuas
We, as readers, are aware that there is some connection between them, that they might already know each other or even have a shared past. However, that's something that Zhao Yunlan himself is not aware off, while Shen Wei is trying (and failing) to avoid or maybe forget(?)
Gif by zhivchik
In the dim hallway, his shadow streched out, long against the floor, looking lonely and dejected. The eyes that had so determinedly avoided Zhao Yunlan were now fixed on his back.
There was a dark distance in that intense gaze. His expression held both a sort of restrained yearning and an affection that was almost palpable... but at the same time, there was deep, crushing pain.
Out of knowhere, Guo Changcheng got the feeling that the man had been standing there for thousands and thousands of years.
[...] he took hold of Shen-laoshi's right hand and drew an invisible calming charm on the back of it with his forefinger. That done, he grinned smugly and planted a light kiss in the same spot. Having allowed himself this indulgance, he said gleefully, "Good night, sleeping beauty. When I'm done with the case, I'll ask you out properly."
I can't say I'm already completely sold on their relationship but they have so many amazing scenes together. Zhao Yunlan is, of course, relentless in pursuing the uptight professor, and even if Shen Wei seems to be moved, these two keep getting in interesting situations. So, how much exactly is Shen Wei trully resisting, haha (he's just taking care of Officer Zhao's health *wink wink*)
Exasperated, Shen Wei said, "Take off your jacket when you lie down. Aren't you uncomfortable?"
"I'm afraid you'll think I'm a pervert if I take this off." [...]
Shen Wei's expression darkened. "Enough nonsense. Hurry up."
Zhao Yunlan peeled off his jacket and pants with no further hesitation, leaving him lounging casually in front of Shen Wei in pajamas that revealed most of his chest and chiseled abs. Shen Wei's face changed color as if it had been boiled.
Unbashed, Zhao Yunlan said, "You're the one who told me to strip."
Shen Wei looked away immediately.
"Give me your cup and I'll go get - Zhao Yunlan, where are your socks?!"
Zhao Yunlan had taken off his shoes, revealing bare feet that were blue with cold. "I just stepped out for a minute to get medication," he said matter-of-factly. "Wearing socks would mean I'd have to wash them."
Any further explanation was cut off when Shen Wei bent down and grabbed hold of Zhao Yunlan's feet. Shen Wei's hands were always cold, but they were warm in comparison. Shocked, Zhao Yunlan instictively tried to pull his feet back, but Shen Wei's grip was too firm. Strong fingers began massaging his pressure points.
They are on a good way to become an old married couple already. But Shen Wei is not the only one Zhao Yunlan has a "connection" with. There's also The Soul-Executing Emissary - a being from the deepest depths of hell basically, who everyone, alive or dead, is afraid of. Except Zhao Yunlan. Which probaly has something to do with the fact that Emissary only treats Yunlan nicely and doesn't ignore him.
I can't pass out here. Hand sticky with blood, he made a decisive grab for the knife sheated to his calf, then aimed the knife for his own palm.
As the blade descended, an icy hand grabbed it by the hilt. Someone's arms closed around him from behind, dragging him into an embrace. Through the reek of blood, he smelled something... familliar. It was light, chilly fragrance that came from the end of the Huangquan.
The Soul-Executing Emissary...?
The knife in Zhao Yunlan's hand clattered to the ground. He relaxed, passing out completely.
The Emissary wiped the blood from the corner of Zhao Yunlan's mouth almost tenderly. His finngertips lingered barely perceptibly where they grazed Zhao Yunlan's lips. The air was charged with an indescribable tension, as if the Emissary would lean down and kiss him at any moment.
Again, as usual, I'm not sure where I'm going with this review. I enjoyed this volume more than I thought I would, and I can't wait to continue. Despite not being 100% invested in the plot, I love the chemistry/relationship between Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei. So far, I loved every priest's couple, and I have no doubt about weilan ❤️❤️
Gif by smittenskitten
And now, as most likely expected, I give you some sexy times for the end 😏
Zhao Yunlan tilted his head back indulgently. Shen Wei could tear whatever he wanted; meanwhile, Zhao Yunlan's hand was traveling lower. He slid it down Shen Wei's pants and started to explore underneath. But before he managed to start touching in earnest, he found himself picked up by the waist. He was totally unprepared for his feet to leave the floor entirely or to be spun around in midair... or to fall backward as Shen Wei slammed him into the bed.
The bed creaked in protest at this treatment. Fortunately, the hotel's pillows and bedding were thick enough that the impact didn't hurt, but Zhao Yunlan yelped, hald in earnest. He dabbed at the blood on his lips and gave a faint laugh. "Babe, you're a little wild."
I forgot to mention other SID members. All of them are very entertaining group and every single one of them deserves a medal for tolerating their asshole boss, lol
4,5 'Talking cat' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
4 'Secrets revealed' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
tbr
February 26, 2025
5💫
This piece is a masterfully woven narrative that effortlessly blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and mythology within a contemporary setting. Having previously enjoyed Stars of Chaos, I approached Guardian without firm expectations, aside from a general curiosity about its premise. What I discovered, however, was a novel that completely enthralled me, both in its narrative depth and its rich character portrayals.
From the very first pages, Guardian proves to be a mesmerizing read. The pacing is seamless, pulling the reader into an intricate world where mythology and modernity collide. Priest’s ability to craft an engaging story is evident—every reading session felt far too short, and having to set the book down was a genuine challenge. Time seemed to dissolve as I navigated the world she constructed, a testament to the gripping nature of both the plot and its execution.
At the heart of Guardian lies its compelling characters, particularly Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei. Zhao Yunlan emerges as an electrifying protagonist—charming, audacious, and possessing an innate sense of justice that manifests through his fiercely protective nature. He is, quite simply, the epitome of an ideal character: strong-willed yet deeply caring, exuding both confidence and warmth. Shen Wei, in contrast, is an enigma cloaked in quiet dignity, his presence imbued with a profound kindness that hints at hidden depths. Their dynamic is tantalizing, a slow-burn connection laced with mystery, admiration, and an unspoken intensity that adds a poignant emotional layer to the novel.
As with Stars of Chaos, Priest’s writing is exquisitely immersive. Her prose is strikingly evocative, drawing readers into the world she meticulously constructs. While the translation generally does justice to her style, there are occasional moments where certain passages feel somewhat disjointed or unclear—minor imperfections that likely stem from the challenges inherent in translating such a rich and nuanced work. However, these moments are fleeting and do little to detract from the novel’s overall impact.
The novel’s thematic depth further enhances its appeal. Unlike many danmei works that gravitate toward historical or high fantasy settings, Guardian presents a refreshing alternative, weaving together elements of urban fantasy, contemporary investigative drama, and deeply rooted Chinese mythology. As someone who favors modern and science-fiction-inspired narratives over traditional high fantasy, I found this fusion particularly compelling. The integration of folklore, Buddhist philosophy, and historical allusions adds a profound cultural richness that elevates the novel beyond mere entertainment—it becomes a gateway into a deeply fascinating mythological landscape. Every reference, every piece of lore, is intricately woven into the fabric of the story, enhancing its immersive quality and making it an absolute delight to explore.
Ultimately, this volume earns very high praise from me. The novel delivers not only a thrilling narrative and a captivating, incipient romance but also an intellectual and cultural feast for readers interested in Asian history, religious philosophy, and folklore. The unfolding revelations and tantalizing mysteries left in the wake of this first volume demand immediate continuation, and I eagerly anticipate delving into the next installment.
This piece is a masterfully woven narrative that effortlessly blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and mythology within a contemporary setting. Having previously enjoyed Stars of Chaos, I approached Guardian without firm expectations, aside from a general curiosity about its premise. What I discovered, however, was a novel that completely enthralled me, both in its narrative depth and its rich character portrayals.
From the very first pages, Guardian proves to be a mesmerizing read. The pacing is seamless, pulling the reader into an intricate world where mythology and modernity collide. Priest’s ability to craft an engaging story is evident—every reading session felt far too short, and having to set the book down was a genuine challenge. Time seemed to dissolve as I navigated the world she constructed, a testament to the gripping nature of both the plot and its execution.
At the heart of Guardian lies its compelling characters, particularly Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei. Zhao Yunlan emerges as an electrifying protagonist—charming, audacious, and possessing an innate sense of justice that manifests through his fiercely protective nature. He is, quite simply, the epitome of an ideal character: strong-willed yet deeply caring, exuding both confidence and warmth. Shen Wei, in contrast, is an enigma cloaked in quiet dignity, his presence imbued with a profound kindness that hints at hidden depths. Their dynamic is tantalizing, a slow-burn connection laced with mystery, admiration, and an unspoken intensity that adds a poignant emotional layer to the novel.
As with Stars of Chaos, Priest’s writing is exquisitely immersive. Her prose is strikingly evocative, drawing readers into the world she meticulously constructs. While the translation generally does justice to her style, there are occasional moments where certain passages feel somewhat disjointed or unclear—minor imperfections that likely stem from the challenges inherent in translating such a rich and nuanced work. However, these moments are fleeting and do little to detract from the novel’s overall impact.
The novel’s thematic depth further enhances its appeal. Unlike many danmei works that gravitate toward historical or high fantasy settings, Guardian presents a refreshing alternative, weaving together elements of urban fantasy, contemporary investigative drama, and deeply rooted Chinese mythology. As someone who favors modern and science-fiction-inspired narratives over traditional high fantasy, I found this fusion particularly compelling. The integration of folklore, Buddhist philosophy, and historical allusions adds a profound cultural richness that elevates the novel beyond mere entertainment—it becomes a gateway into a deeply fascinating mythological landscape. Every reference, every piece of lore, is intricately woven into the fabric of the story, enhancing its immersive quality and making it an absolute delight to explore.
Ultimately, this volume earns very high praise from me. The novel delivers not only a thrilling narrative and a captivating, incipient romance but also an intellectual and cultural feast for readers interested in Asian history, religious philosophy, and folklore. The unfolding revelations and tantalizing mysteries left in the wake of this first volume demand immediate continuation, and I eagerly anticipate delving into the next installment.
August 20, 2025
1 star of shame for terrible translation. I'm giving it 2.5* overall because the story deserves way better than the translation 7S punished it with. 3 translators and a host of editors and proofreaders are credited in this one, and yet it manages to be riddled with grammar mistakes, not to mention the abysmal, middle-grade translation style that did not even preserve the humor in the novel. This is by far the worst translation 7S churned out yet (granted, I haven't read their MDZS, it might be worse or about the same level of bad). I sincerely hope nobody picks it up as their first Priest novel because they'd be fooled into thinking the author can't write.
September 26, 2023
Having read this right after Stars of Chaos, I'm amazed at Priest's range. From steampunk to supernatural detective noir, she can do everything! I enjoyed the cast of misfits working for Zhao Yunlan, and the detective's funny banter was everything. Also both him and Shen Wei are so smitten with each other, I can't wait to see where it goes next!
Rep: bi/pan mc, mlm love interest
Rep: bi/pan mc, mlm love interest
October 5, 2024
This first book in Guardian was amazing, but beware, this isn't exactly a series, this is more like a book cut in three. There's no cliffhanger, the two cases that are told in this book are solved, but the "big plot" isn't solved, in fact we only scratch the surface in here. Anyway, I loved any minute of this. I wasn't expecting this to be horror, nor paranormal... well, I don't know what was expecting from this because I went into it blind, I decided to give it a try because I loved the cover, but I liked the characters and the story a lot. The narrative style is different from the other danmei I've read (not that I've read a lot), but I suppose being this contemporary is what make this a bit different, still, it has a distinctive style. I loved all the cultural references we got through the book. I'm not very familiar with Chinese culture and I loved to learn a lot of interesting things while reading, but what I loved most were the characters. Those are who are carring the story for me. I loved Daquin, the chubby black cat. He is so funny, he is a mix between my Frodo and my dear old Coco (I miss you my boy!), demanding but adorable. . I also liked Zhao Yunlan, he is cheeky, fun and a bit of a slob (that appartmet description had me itching to take a mop), and absolutely loved the mysterious Shen Wei
In this first book we met all the SID employees and we're faced with two paranormal cases which involves mysterious artifacts. I enjoyed the little clues the author leaves and I loved thinking about crazy theories. Not for solving the cases, I'm not familiar enough with Chinese folkclore so I can't even give an approximation of what's happening, I go with the flow in that, but I like to try to anticipate what's happening with the overreaching plot of the books. I think we might be faced with enemies among the ones we thought friends.
In this first book we met all the SID employees and we're faced with two paranormal cases which involves mysterious artifacts. I enjoyed the little clues the author leaves and I loved thinking about crazy theories. Not for solving the cases, I'm not familiar enough with Chinese folkclore so I can't even give an approximation of what's happening, I go with the flow in that, but I like to try to anticipate what's happening with the overreaching plot of the books. I think we might be faced with enemies among the ones we thought friends.
September 8, 2023
I watched the show and I only got a little past where this volume ends, and already I can see just how different they are. I knew that already of course (thanks censorship), but even in the characterization, everyone feels totally different, but in a refreshing way, not like a rehash of things I already knew about.
Looking at the book on its own merits, I really love the way the book drops you into the world, never leaving you too confused as to the way things work, but also not holding your hand to explain every single little detail of how the realms and the different government bureaus work.
And unsurprisingly, Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan are gold. I just want good things to happen to them, and this is only book 1 so I know good things are gonna take a little while, but I'm HERE FOR IT.
Last but not least, I have to say it cause if you follow my different danmei reviews you know I can never help myself, Shen Wei continues to be my favorite little snarky man(?) of mystery.
Looking at the book on its own merits, I really love the way the book drops you into the world, never leaving you too confused as to the way things work, but also not holding your hand to explain every single little detail of how the realms and the different government bureaus work.
And unsurprisingly, Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan are gold. I just want good things to happen to them, and this is only book 1 so I know good things are gonna take a little while, but I'm HERE FOR IT.
Last but not least, I have to say it cause if you follow my different danmei reviews you know I can never help myself, Shen Wei continues to be my favorite little snarky man(?) of mystery.
May 18, 2024
Do they accept a third ? 🥹
August 19, 2024
To be honest, I don't understand the hype this story receives. I thought it was just okay, but since this is the first book in a three book series, there is a possibility that book two will hook me. I didn't get invested in Heaven Official's Blessing (my current favorite danmei) until book two, so maybe that'll be the case here.
I tried - and I mean I reeeally tried - to get into the overall plot, but I just couldn't find it in me to care about what was happening. Arc one felt like a chore to get through, and arc two wasn't much better. I didn't care enough about Wang Zheng to want to spend that much time learning about her past but because her story concerned the Mountain River Awl it was unavoidable. Halfway through, I found myself wishing it would hurridly wrap up so I could just focus on what was happening between Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei.
Another problem I had was that for the majority of the story, I didn't feel any connection to Zhao Yunlan. Even though I liked him, I felt like I was mostly following around a stranger. This was probably due to the very matter-of-fact, non-emotional way in which he carried himself. If I were in his head and privy to his memories and internal thoughts, this wouldn't have been an issue.
This was especially a problem when it came to his feelings for Shen Wei. Aside from knowing he kept in touch with him after wrapping up his case at the university (arc 1), I could only infer the intensity of his feelings based on comments he or his employees made. The problem with this is that a lot of those things were said in passing with no real emphasis on how remarkable his actions were. It wasn't until the very end of this nearly 400 page story that I felt like I truly understood how they felt about each other. Finally, I saw some real emotions from both characters!
I'm interested in seeing where the story goes from here so I will be reading book 2. I'll just need to temper my expectations and not allow that gorgeous to throw me off. 2.5 stars, rounded up
I tried - and I mean I reeeally tried - to get into the overall plot, but I just couldn't find it in me to care about what was happening. Arc one felt like a chore to get through, and arc two wasn't much better. I didn't care enough about Wang Zheng to want to spend that much time learning about her past but because her story concerned the Mountain River Awl it was unavoidable. Halfway through, I found myself wishing it would hurridly wrap up so I could just focus on what was happening between Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei.
Another problem I had was that for the majority of the story, I didn't feel any connection to Zhao Yunlan. Even though I liked him, I felt like I was mostly following around a stranger. This was probably due to the very matter-of-fact, non-emotional way in which he carried himself. If I were in his head and privy to his memories and internal thoughts, this wouldn't have been an issue.
This was especially a problem when it came to his feelings for Shen Wei. Aside from knowing he kept in touch with him after wrapping up his case at the university (arc 1), I could only infer the intensity of his feelings based on comments he or his employees made. The problem with this is that a lot of those things were said in passing with no real emphasis on how remarkable his actions were. It wasn't until the very end of this nearly 400 page story that I felt like I truly understood how they felt about each other. Finally, I saw some real emotions from both characters!
I'm interested in seeing where the story goes from here so I will be reading book 2. I'll just need to temper my expectations and not allow that gorgeous to throw me off. 2.5 stars, rounded up
August 28, 2025
We've got a bad case of professional yearning here, fellas.
May 27, 2025
I recently finished Guardian: Zhen Hun (Volume 1) by Priest, and while I can see why this series has a passionate following, I had mixed feelings about this first volume. It’s a story full of potential, interesting ideas, and a unique supernatural world—but it didn’t fully land for me.
What drew me in initially was the setting: a hidden world of ghosts, gods, and ancient mysteries beneath modern-day China. I enjoyed the premise and liked that the story didn’t rely on the usual Western tropes you often see in urban fantasy. Zhao Yunlan, the head of the Special Investigations Department, is an engaging lead with a playful charm, and his interactions with the stoic Professor Shen Wei were among the highlights of the book.
However, the pacing was uneven. Much of the volume felt like setup, and by the end, I didn’t feel like the story had truly started. There were a lot of introductions—of characters, of supernatural elements, of long-term mysteries—but not much plot movement. I often found myself wanting something more immediate or emotionally gripping to latch onto.
The translation also posed some challenges. While I appreciate the effort of bringing this novel to an English-speaking audience, the prose occasionally felt awkward or overly stiff, and some humor or nuance may have been lost. It made certain passages feel flat or confusing when I suspect they were more vivid or meaningful in the original Chinese.
Character-wise, Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei definitely have chemistry, and there are hints of a deeper backstory that I suspect will unfold in later volumes. But in this installment, their development felt surface-level. Many of the side characters blended together, and I struggled to care about them because they weren’t given enough depth or distinctive voices.
Overall, I’d say Guardian: Zhen Hun (Volume 1) is a decent start with a lot of promise, especially for fans of slow-burn stories with supernatural intrigue and emotional subtext. Personally, I wanted a bit more plot momentum and stronger character development to really hook me. I may continue the series, but I’m hoping future volumes offer more payoff for the setup laid out here.
What drew me in initially was the setting: a hidden world of ghosts, gods, and ancient mysteries beneath modern-day China. I enjoyed the premise and liked that the story didn’t rely on the usual Western tropes you often see in urban fantasy. Zhao Yunlan, the head of the Special Investigations Department, is an engaging lead with a playful charm, and his interactions with the stoic Professor Shen Wei were among the highlights of the book.
However, the pacing was uneven. Much of the volume felt like setup, and by the end, I didn’t feel like the story had truly started. There were a lot of introductions—of characters, of supernatural elements, of long-term mysteries—but not much plot movement. I often found myself wanting something more immediate or emotionally gripping to latch onto.
The translation also posed some challenges. While I appreciate the effort of bringing this novel to an English-speaking audience, the prose occasionally felt awkward or overly stiff, and some humor or nuance may have been lost. It made certain passages feel flat or confusing when I suspect they were more vivid or meaningful in the original Chinese.
Character-wise, Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei definitely have chemistry, and there are hints of a deeper backstory that I suspect will unfold in later volumes. But in this installment, their development felt surface-level. Many of the side characters blended together, and I struggled to care about them because they weren’t given enough depth or distinctive voices.
Overall, I’d say Guardian: Zhen Hun (Volume 1) is a decent start with a lot of promise, especially for fans of slow-burn stories with supernatural intrigue and emotional subtext. Personally, I wanted a bit more plot momentum and stronger character development to really hook me. I may continue the series, but I’m hoping future volumes offer more payoff for the setup laid out here.
October 4, 2024
3.75 stars, rounded up
This was a lot of fun. I wasn't sure how I'd like this genre set in modern day, but I liked it. Priest makes it interesting and keeps the story flowing, and I like trying to figure out what exactly is going on before the story tells me. Some things were pretty obvious , but there are still plenty of other mysteries to figure out, though I have theories about those too.
I liked Guo Changcheng immediately and wish he'd had a larger role in this first volume. I'd read a whole story of Guo and Daqing just doing random stuff, lol. I can't say I've warmed up to the romance aspect of the story. I hadn't read any blurbs and went into this with no idea who the romantic pairing would be, so it took me awhile to figure it out. It is what it is, I guess. There are still two more volumes for me to get on board with it, lol. (Is it my fault that during most of their interactions, I couldn't help but compare it to WangXian? Is it my fault they fell way short of the mark? No, no it's not. 😊)
The illustrations, while lovely, haven't really done much for me. They seem kind of random, like the illustrator couldn't figure out which moments were significant enough to merit them. And the moments I would have liked to see illustrations for didn't have them. 🤷🏻♀️
This was a lot of fun. I wasn't sure how I'd like this genre set in modern day, but I liked it. Priest makes it interesting and keeps the story flowing, and I like trying to figure out what exactly is going on before the story tells me. Some things were pretty obvious , but there are still plenty of other mysteries to figure out, though I have theories about those too.
I liked Guo Changcheng immediately and wish he'd had a larger role in this first volume. I'd read a whole story of Guo and Daqing just doing random stuff, lol. I can't say I've warmed up to the romance aspect of the story. I hadn't read any blurbs and went into this with no idea who the romantic pairing would be, so it took me awhile to figure it out. It is what it is, I guess. There are still two more volumes for me to get on board with it, lol. (Is it my fault that during most of their interactions, I couldn't help but compare it to WangXian? Is it my fault they fell way short of the mark? No, no it's not. 😊)
The illustrations, while lovely, haven't really done much for me. They seem kind of random, like the illustrator couldn't figure out which moments were significant enough to merit them. And the moments I would have liked to see illustrations for didn't have them. 🤷🏻♀️
October 17, 2024
Knew I was going to like this, but oh my god I loved it. If you’ve ever watched the show Lucifer, it’s that kind of vibe, but with Chinese folklore. The plot is great, I had to highlight multiple quotes solely because of how funny they were, and I am already obsessed with the dynamic between Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei. Literally the only negative is that I found Shen Wei’s true identity to…almost immediately be very obvious. I don’t really feel it cheapened anything and actually had me excited for Zhao Yunlan to figure it out as well, but I wouldn’t go into it expecting that to be the big mystery—you’re probably going to work it out as well within the first half of the book.
November 23, 2023
Detectives + fantasy + gay romance... This book catered to all my interests! I thought I had given up on danmei due to the tiring lengths of each book but since Guardian is just a trilogy, I decided to collect it. It's action-packed, occasionally creepy, occasionally funny, and just so cool... It felt like an anime in the best way possible.
Admittedly, I didn't get much of a read on Shen Wei's personality yet in volume 1, though I delightfully guessed the plot twist. Zhao Yunlan is the perfect hero: handsome, charming and intelligent yet a total manslut sleaze, hotheaded and messy, contradictory yet very lovable. I really appreciated how we have a strong fantasy plot alongside the relationship. Really looking forward to see how their romance develops!
Admittedly, I didn't get much of a read on Shen Wei's personality yet in volume 1, though I delightfully guessed the plot twist. Zhao Yunlan is the perfect hero: handsome, charming and intelligent yet a total manslut sleaze, hotheaded and messy, contradictory yet very lovable. I really appreciated how we have a strong fantasy plot alongside the relationship. Really looking forward to see how their romance develops!
March 30, 2025
I remember that one question that went around on twitter that goes like: "Does male yearning even exist?!" And the first person that came to my mind is Shen Wei. No man has yearned so much more than him, as far as I recall. And we're only offered glimpses of the true roots of this hunger that Shen Wei tries so hard to restrain. And I honestly can't wait! Shen Wei's pining transcends time and it pains me to even think about reading everything once again. I love yearners!
The last time I read 镇魂 was three years ago and it may not be my first Priest novel, it knocked my lights out I could barely shoulder the fondness I have felt about it. Reading it once again felt like seeing your past crush after years of no contact. And this volume sets the stage for this amazing series, with unforgettable character dynamics and great worldbuilding that is a must-read!
What makes Guardian special is its perfect mix of modern and historical fantasy, layered with mystery that keeps you guessing. The blend of past lives, ancient secrets, and current investigations is gripping. The deep and mind-boggling mythological concepts that was infused also adds a lot of charm to its already amazing touch. What's more, Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei, total opposites, share undeniable chemistry—our Yunlan's chaotic energy paired with his Lord Emissary's calm demeanor creates a magnetic dynamic. Even without blatant romance, their quiet tension and subtle connection are incredibly intimate. I can't help but scream and giggle whenever Zhao Yunlan is pursuing Shen Wei! He's really testing Shen Wei's self-restraint, haha! Damn, I really can't wait for more.
The last time I read 镇魂 was three years ago and it may not be my first Priest novel, it knocked my lights out I could barely shoulder the fondness I have felt about it. Reading it once again felt like seeing your past crush after years of no contact. And this volume sets the stage for this amazing series, with unforgettable character dynamics and great worldbuilding that is a must-read!
What makes Guardian special is its perfect mix of modern and historical fantasy, layered with mystery that keeps you guessing. The blend of past lives, ancient secrets, and current investigations is gripping. The deep and mind-boggling mythological concepts that was infused also adds a lot of charm to its already amazing touch. What's more, Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei, total opposites, share undeniable chemistry—our Yunlan's chaotic energy paired with his Lord Emissary's calm demeanor creates a magnetic dynamic. Even without blatant romance, their quiet tension and subtle connection are incredibly intimate. I can't help but scream and giggle whenever Zhao Yunlan is pursuing Shen Wei! He's really testing Shen Wei's self-restraint, haha! Damn, I really can't wait for more.
October 13, 2024
I wasn’t sure what to expect because I didn’t even read the blurb, my friends Rosa and Linda were going to BR the first book, I tried the sample and got hooked.
Unlike the only other book in this genre that I’ve read (GMDC, even though that one wasn't contemporary), it was easier to keep track of the characters names here, maybe because there weren’t as many.
I find difficult to review this first volume because it feels like reviewing the first few chapters of a book. Although there were two different arcs/cases that were solved, there are still a lot of open matters and so far the only thing I can say is that I’m definitely interested in the characters and learning the answers to the many questions raised so far. The few revelations in this volume were a mix of surprises and confirmation of my suspicions ().
The only thing I can add for now is that I like the cast of characters, the Special Investigations Department is an interesting workplace. 🤭
Unlike the only other book in this genre that I’ve read (GMDC, even though that one wasn't contemporary), it was easier to keep track of the characters names here, maybe because there weren’t as many.
I find difficult to review this first volume because it feels like reviewing the first few chapters of a book. Although there were two different arcs/cases that were solved, there are still a lot of open matters and so far the only thing I can say is that I’m definitely interested in the characters and learning the answers to the many questions raised so far. The few revelations in this volume were a mix of surprises and confirmation of my suspicions ().
The only thing I can add for now is that I like the cast of characters, the Special Investigations Department is an interesting workplace. 🤭
September 5, 2023
4.5 stars
I adored this! I've been wanting to try danmei for a while now, but have worried that it'd be a bit dense. Since Guardian is contemporary fantasy rather than historical, I started with this one, and it was wonderful. It was funny, creepy, and filled with amazing characters (including a talking cat). The central romance, while very much a slow burn, was filled with so much mystery, all leading to a reveal promising nothing short of an epic romance. I need to see more of the past connections between Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan in order to fully obsess over them, but I can definitely see myself getting there. While their time together in this volume is often limited (sort of...no spoilers!), they are constantly on each other's minds. Shen Wei is filled with so much painful yearning when he sees Zhao Yunlan, and when Zhao Yunlan sees Shen Wei, it's nothing but joy. The ending, while answering some questions, also opens up many more, and I want more now. Too bad volume two doesn't release until January. :(
I adored this! I've been wanting to try danmei for a while now, but have worried that it'd be a bit dense. Since Guardian is contemporary fantasy rather than historical, I started with this one, and it was wonderful. It was funny, creepy, and filled with amazing characters (including a talking cat). The central romance, while very much a slow burn, was filled with so much mystery, all leading to a reveal promising nothing short of an epic romance. I need to see more of the past connections between Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan in order to fully obsess over them, but I can definitely see myself getting there. While their time together in this volume is often limited (sort of...no spoilers!), they are constantly on each other's minds. Shen Wei is filled with so much painful yearning when he sees Zhao Yunlan, and when Zhao Yunlan sees Shen Wei, it's nothing but joy. The ending, while answering some questions, also opens up many more, and I want more now. Too bad volume two doesn't release until January. :(
February 3, 2024
❤️ Guardian - Priest ❤️
🪭 danmei
🌌 supernatural
💫 soulmates
🔎 detective/police
🦋 mysterious
Let me start off by saying that I started reading Guardian bc of one quote and honestly... I did not expect to adore ots characters as well as this danmei as much as I do 😭😭😭 I just LOVE the whole mystery around Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan regarding their connection 💞 I do not want to spoil too much but the way in which these two gravitate towards each other is EVERYTHING 💗 (especially knowing the fact they do have an actual past together) Although the book does have an actual plot, it seems to effortlessly be connected to both Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei's relationship 🥰 I love when this kind of thing happens in a book!! Definitely gonna read more Priest books soon!!
🪭 danmei
🌌 supernatural
💫 soulmates
🔎 detective/police
🦋 mysterious
Let me start off by saying that I started reading Guardian bc of one quote and honestly... I did not expect to adore ots characters as well as this danmei as much as I do 😭😭😭 I just LOVE the whole mystery around Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan regarding their connection 💞 I do not want to spoil too much but the way in which these two gravitate towards each other is EVERYTHING 💗 (especially knowing the fact they do have an actual past together) Although the book does have an actual plot, it seems to effortlessly be connected to both Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei's relationship 🥰 I love when this kind of thing happens in a book!! Definitely gonna read more Priest books soon!!
Want to read
June 30, 2023The cover 😫👏🏻 I remember reading this ages ago but I never got to finish it (I also watched the series adaptation but didn't finish that as well even though I remember enjoying it lmao I was just so easily distracted).
Anyway, I think this is a sign for me to finish reading this series this time, especially given how this was my first foray into Priest's works.
Anyway, I think this is a sign for me to finish reading this series this time, especially given how this was my first foray into Priest's works.
September 8, 2023
Priest is so good at reveals. Even when I know, I’m still shocked
May 5, 2024
*прочитала вся новелла целиком*
Финальная арка была скучная, хотя до этого все было отлично. Но вот эти флэшбеки и попытки докопаться до сути происходящего меня вообще не впечатлили, да еще и порядком запутали, поэтому поставила всей истории 4, а не 5. Новелла все таки держалась на ярких персонажах, а не на сюжете.
Финальная арка была скучная, хотя до этого все было отлично. Но вот эти флэшбеки и попытки докопаться до сути происходящего меня вообще не впечатлили, да еще и порядком запутали, поэтому поставила всей истории 4, а не 5. Новелла все таки держалась на ярких персонажах, а не на сюжете.
September 3, 2023
Guardian: Zhen Hun is urban fantasy set in an imaginary Dragon City in modern China, with references to party politics and complete with a nepo hire, when a nephew of a high-up party official is given a job at the Special Investigations Department, the supernatural division of the Ministry of Public Security.
Guo Changcheng is a recent college graduate and a shut-in who has no idea what he has been signed for. Learning that some of his coworkers aren’t human, or even alive, is a bit too much for him, but after the initial blackout, he promptly (timidly) sets out to work, only to spend most of the book fainting, screaming, and crying. But he has an empathic nature and isn’t quite as hopeless as his boss originally feared. And after encountering some really bad ghosts, his coworkers don’t seem so scary anymore either. The only one who frightens him is his perfectly human boss, Zhao Yunlan.
Zhao Yunlan is the Director of the Special Investigations and in charge of investigating supernatural crimes. He’s in his early thirties, a handsome and temperamental chain-smoker and a bit of a player. He’s also the Guardian to the Soul-Guarding Order, which allows him to freely move in all three realms (heaven, mortal realm and the netherworld) and hobnob with the people there, like the Soul-Executing Emissary feared by everyone but him.
The book consists of two stories. In the first, Guo Changcheng and Zhao Yunlan investigate a murder of a university student that’s supernatural in origin. At the university, they encounter Shen Wei, a handsome, mild-mannered young professor whom they end up pulling into their investigation, mostly because Zhao Yunlan is attracted to him at first sight. But the professor isn’t what he seems, as the readers are soon shown.
The second story takes place in the mountains after an earthquake. Wang Zheng, a ghost employee at the SID, is from that region and she wants to return to rebury her bones. By coincidence, Shen Wei is going there with his students too, and the two parties travel together. But things aren’t how Wang Zheng has let them believe, and Zhao Yunlan ends up needing the help of the Soul-Executing Emissary to get everyone home safely. And once there, it’s finally time for Zhao Yunlan to confront Shen Wei to find out who he truly is and if he’s as indifferent to Zhao Yunlan as he pretends to be.
This was an excellent book. The mysteries weren’t complicated but they were suitably scary. Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei were interesting characters, and even though there wasn’t as much interaction between them as I wanted, theirs is clearly a romance larger than life. Side characters were fun, especially Daqing, a talking black cat who is thousands of years old. There was a lot of information about Chinese mythology, but I would’ve wanted more about the everyday Chinese life too. The book ends at a natural point with a promise of interesting things to come. I will definitely read more.
Guo Changcheng is a recent college graduate and a shut-in who has no idea what he has been signed for. Learning that some of his coworkers aren’t human, or even alive, is a bit too much for him, but after the initial blackout, he promptly (timidly) sets out to work, only to spend most of the book fainting, screaming, and crying. But he has an empathic nature and isn’t quite as hopeless as his boss originally feared. And after encountering some really bad ghosts, his coworkers don’t seem so scary anymore either. The only one who frightens him is his perfectly human boss, Zhao Yunlan.
Zhao Yunlan is the Director of the Special Investigations and in charge of investigating supernatural crimes. He’s in his early thirties, a handsome and temperamental chain-smoker and a bit of a player. He’s also the Guardian to the Soul-Guarding Order, which allows him to freely move in all three realms (heaven, mortal realm and the netherworld) and hobnob with the people there, like the Soul-Executing Emissary feared by everyone but him.
The book consists of two stories. In the first, Guo Changcheng and Zhao Yunlan investigate a murder of a university student that’s supernatural in origin. At the university, they encounter Shen Wei, a handsome, mild-mannered young professor whom they end up pulling into their investigation, mostly because Zhao Yunlan is attracted to him at first sight. But the professor isn’t what he seems, as the readers are soon shown.
The second story takes place in the mountains after an earthquake. Wang Zheng, a ghost employee at the SID, is from that region and she wants to return to rebury her bones. By coincidence, Shen Wei is going there with his students too, and the two parties travel together. But things aren’t how Wang Zheng has let them believe, and Zhao Yunlan ends up needing the help of the Soul-Executing Emissary to get everyone home safely. And once there, it’s finally time for Zhao Yunlan to confront Shen Wei to find out who he truly is and if he’s as indifferent to Zhao Yunlan as he pretends to be.
This was an excellent book. The mysteries weren’t complicated but they were suitably scary. Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei were interesting characters, and even though there wasn’t as much interaction between them as I wanted, theirs is clearly a romance larger than life. Side characters were fun, especially Daqing, a talking black cat who is thousands of years old. There was a lot of information about Chinese mythology, but I would’ve wanted more about the everyday Chinese life too. The book ends at a natural point with a promise of interesting things to come. I will definitely read more.
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