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助理建筑师
Assistant Architect [助理建筑师]
Zhang Siyi, a graduate student of architecture department went back from overseas seeking for work, he had a heated fight with his ex-girlfriend in a cafe. Angered, his ex-girlfriend was about to splash a cup of coffee in his direction but he managed to dodge it. As he stepped back, the misfortune was met by the handsome guy next table instead.
The following next day, as Zhang Siyi headed for a company interview, he discovered that the interviewer was the same man who suffered the splashing of coffee.
Hopeless, Zhang Siyi thought this work was unalterably unattainable, but that handsome man unexpectedly “disregarded past grudges” and decided to hire him. Even more, the man had become his immediate superior.
To accept Zhang Siyi by the said man, he was moved to tears with such magnanimity and kind-heartedness. Never had he realized it yet that his “miserable” fortune has just begun…
The following next day, as Zhang Siyi headed for a company interview, he discovered that the interviewer was the same man who suffered the splashing of coffee.
Hopeless, Zhang Siyi thought this work was unalterably unattainable, but that handsome man unexpectedly “disregarded past grudges” and decided to hire him. Even more, the man had become his immediate superior.
To accept Zhang Siyi by the said man, he was moved to tears with such magnanimity and kind-heartedness. Never had he realized it yet that his “miserable” fortune has just begun…
1490 pages, Web Novel
Published January 1, 2016
22 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
Xi He Qing Ling
31 books18 followersAssociated Names:
* Xi He Qing Ling
* 羲和清零
* ซีเหอชิงหลิง (Thai)
* Xi He Qing Ling
* 羲和清零
* ซีเหอชิงหลิง (Thai)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
December 25, 2023
This is my first read of this author but I'm already in love with their writing. I'm a sucker for coming-of-age and personal growth stories, and this book is one of the best I've read featuring this trope.
MC 1 is a just-graduated architecture student who's struggling to find job. At the scene of a noisy break-up with his girlfriend, the girlfriend tossed coffee at him, but it hit MC 2, who took notice of him and subsequently gave him a job at his boutique architecture firm. Thus began the rise of MC 1 to ultimately become an accomplished architect, a long journey filled with ups and downs, triumphs and disappointments, and laughs and tears. The author brings to the story realistic details of the life at an architecture firm - its daily dealings, project pitchings, political games, collaborative work, and even technical details and jargons, so realistic that I began to suspect they had personal experience working there.
On the romance side, we witness a blossoming love story between the boss and his assistant, very slow-burn but beautiful. There are the usual trappings of office romance and bi-awakening tropes - hidden feelings, innuendos, confusion and overcoming fears,.. but it's the shining personalities of the two MCs that got me hooked and rooting for them. Characterization is another strength of this book. The whole cast is all real, interesting, and memorable, making the story more entertaining and addictive.
This book ranks among my Top 5 danmei novels of all time. I encourage everybody to discover it, and fall in love with it as I do, head over heels.
MC 1 is a just-graduated architecture student who's struggling to find job. At the scene of a noisy break-up with his girlfriend, the girlfriend tossed coffee at him, but it hit MC 2, who took notice of him and subsequently gave him a job at his boutique architecture firm. Thus began the rise of MC 1 to ultimately become an accomplished architect, a long journey filled with ups and downs, triumphs and disappointments, and laughs and tears. The author brings to the story realistic details of the life at an architecture firm - its daily dealings, project pitchings, political games, collaborative work, and even technical details and jargons, so realistic that I began to suspect they had personal experience working there.
On the romance side, we witness a blossoming love story between the boss and his assistant, very slow-burn but beautiful. There are the usual trappings of office romance and bi-awakening tropes - hidden feelings, innuendos, confusion and overcoming fears,.. but it's the shining personalities of the two MCs that got me hooked and rooting for them. Characterization is another strength of this book. The whole cast is all real, interesting, and memorable, making the story more entertaining and addictive.
This book ranks among my Top 5 danmei novels of all time. I encourage everybody to discover it, and fall in love with it as I do, head over heels.
Read
April 21, 2025This is a story that clearly prioritizes character development over plot. If you’re drawn to narrative-driven books that focus heavily on emotional growth and slow-building relationships, this might be exactly what you’re looking for. The author puts real care into the characters, especially the main character, who begins the story emotionally disengaged from everything. Watching him gradually connect with architecture—and with life in general—through the influence of the male lead is one of the highlights of the book.
However, this was just too slow, even for me. I usually love a good slowburn, but the combination of slowburn romance and slice-of-life pacing made it hard to stay invested. It’s not that anything is badly done. it’s just not the kind of storytelling I personally enjoy. It also felt overly long. I ran it through my audio app, and it came out to 41 hours, which is a lot for a contemporary slice-of-life romance with minimal plot. Most of the book centers on day-to-day routines—work, casual hangouts with friends, light teasing... You know, all the riveting stuff you already get for free by existing.
dropping this, unfortunately. There were plenty of moments I liked, but not enough to carry me through the rest. It’s possible the second half offers more depth, but I no longer had the patience to find out. Still, I think this is a well-made story for a specific kind of reader. If you’re someone who loves slow, character-focused narratives and doesn’t mind minimal plot or a long format, this might be a great fit. It just wasn’t the right one for me.
DNF P.964
However, this was just too slow, even for me. I usually love a good slowburn, but the combination of slowburn romance and slice-of-life pacing made it hard to stay invested. It’s not that anything is badly done. it’s just not the kind of storytelling I personally enjoy. It also felt overly long. I ran it through my audio app, and it came out to 41 hours, which is a lot for a contemporary slice-of-life romance with minimal plot. Most of the book centers on day-to-day routines—work, casual hangouts with friends, light teasing... You know, all the riveting stuff you already get for free by existing.
dropping this, unfortunately. There were plenty of moments I liked, but not enough to carry me through the rest. It’s possible the second half offers more depth, but I no longer had the patience to find out. Still, I think this is a well-made story for a specific kind of reader. If you’re someone who loves slow, character-focused narratives and doesn’t mind minimal plot or a long format, this might be a great fit. It just wasn’t the right one for me.
DNF P.964
June 19, 2025
This is actually my all time favorite book. Like, ALL TIME. I’m shocked I didn’t review it yet!
If I were forced to read only one book for the rest of my life, I’d choose Assistant Architect and maybe sneak SVSSS behind my back because, come on, who’s ever satisfied with just one? 🙄
Back to the book:
It’s so human. You watch the characters grow into better versions of themselves — slowly, believably — and the relationship builds brick by brick in real time. It’s funny, emotional, and warm in all the right ways.
Please read it… or don’t, if it’s not your thing.
But I wish the fandom were bigger so it might have a shot at getting licensed someday — and if that day ever comes? You know I’ll be buying two copies: one to read, one to proudly display.
If I were forced to read only one book for the rest of my life, I’d choose Assistant Architect and maybe sneak SVSSS behind my back because, come on, who’s ever satisfied with just one? 🙄
Back to the book:
It’s so human. You watch the characters grow into better versions of themselves — slowly, believably — and the relationship builds brick by brick in real time. It’s funny, emotional, and warm in all the right ways.
Please read it… or don’t, if it’s not your thing.
But I wish the fandom were bigger so it might have a shot at getting licensed someday — and if that day ever comes? You know I’ll be buying two copies: one to read, one to proudly display.
December 22, 2017
This is only the first volume of the story "助理建筑师" (translation: Assistant Architect), which, by the way, is M/M (BL) romance, but it's pretty slow burn thus far in this volume. This story is a web novel that later got published. The story is still available online. I have previously read and enjoyed 3 of 羲和清零's other works and this was no exception. It's a rather long story but well worth the read. It's only available in Chinese though. I don't think it's been translated into English by anyone as of yet.
Zhang Siyi had just returned back to China to look for a job after graduating from university overseas (he majored in architecture). After getting into an argument with his girlfriend in a cafe, she tossed her cup of coffee in his face. Nimbly, he managed to dodge it, however, the coffee ended up splashing a good-looking guy seated on the neighbouring table. The next day, as Zhang Siyi went for a job interview in an architecture firm, he realised to his horror, that his interviewer was the good-looking guy from the cafe yesterday. Utterly dejected, he thought the interview would be a gone case. Yet to his surprise, he was offered the job and the handsome interviewer ended up becoming his new boss. Overwhelmed with gratitude on finally securing a job, Zhang Siyi was unaware of the 'hardships' that would come his way as he embarks on his new life as an assistant architect.
Zhang Siyi's new boss, Gu Xiao, is quite the slave driver, who has pretty high expectations of the work being churned out by himself and his subordinates. He's the quintessential overachiever: top in class during his school days, driven, motivated, hard worker, knows what he wants in life.
In this volume, we read about how Zhang Siyi assimilates into working life in this architecture firm, as well as the new friendships he forged with his colleagues. We also read about how Gu Xiao 'tortures' him (and his fellow colleagues) as he demands top quality work from Siyi, making him redraw blueprints again and again if they're unsatisfactory. There isn't much of the romance yet in this volume, but there are many instances of little moments and interactions between Gu Xiao and Zhang Siyi that make you wanna smile. Although I've already read the entire web novel online, I'm very much looking forward to the subsequent volume(s) being published.
Zhang Siyi had just returned back to China to look for a job after graduating from university overseas (he majored in architecture). After getting into an argument with his girlfriend in a cafe, she tossed her cup of coffee in his face. Nimbly, he managed to dodge it, however, the coffee ended up splashing a good-looking guy seated on the neighbouring table. The next day, as Zhang Siyi went for a job interview in an architecture firm, he realised to his horror, that his interviewer was the good-looking guy from the cafe yesterday. Utterly dejected, he thought the interview would be a gone case. Yet to his surprise, he was offered the job and the handsome interviewer ended up becoming his new boss. Overwhelmed with gratitude on finally securing a job, Zhang Siyi was unaware of the 'hardships' that would come his way as he embarks on his new life as an assistant architect.
Zhang Siyi's new boss, Gu Xiao, is quite the slave driver, who has pretty high expectations of the work being churned out by himself and his subordinates. He's the quintessential overachiever: top in class during his school days, driven, motivated, hard worker, knows what he wants in life.
In this volume, we read about how Zhang Siyi assimilates into working life in this architecture firm, as well as the new friendships he forged with his colleagues. We also read about how Gu Xiao 'tortures' him (and his fellow colleagues) as he demands top quality work from Siyi, making him redraw blueprints again and again if they're unsatisfactory. There isn't much of the romance yet in this volume, but there are many instances of little moments and interactions between Gu Xiao and Zhang Siyi that make you wanna smile. Although I've already read the entire web novel online, I'm very much looking forward to the subsequent volume(s) being published.
September 28, 2022
I had to admit. This was a rollercoaster ride for me. At first, I like how the story started and how it was written. Every detail is explained & the pace isn’t hurried at all. The author doesn’t seem to limit the use of words & thinks more about how the readers would better understand the story. Not only was the story interesting, but is also informative. However, midway, I started to feel disinterested because the progress was too slow, and there were a lot of times I wanted to press “fast forward”. But after reading the ending, I was enlightened. The author was making the readers feel the same way as ZSY. The frustration, hard work, and patience he experienced to finally reach the ending he wanted. I was gonna rate this a 4, but after this realization, this deserves a 5!
Also, I forgot to mention that I love how the other couples are heterosexual and not homosexuals. It shows how accepted they are by society and the people around them and I love it. Most novels got sub couples as homosexuals as well, and like, all homosexuals gather together instead of truly integrating themselves to the society.
PS. The bed scenes are so funny. 🤣🤣
Also, I forgot to mention that I love how the other couples are heterosexual and not homosexuals. It shows how accepted they are by society and the people around them and I love it. Most novels got sub couples as homosexuals as well, and like, all homosexuals gather together instead of truly integrating themselves to the society.
PS. The bed scenes are so funny. 🤣🤣
Read
December 12, 2024didnt read this as a whole. didnt plan to. just wanted to read some quick fluff so i skimmed through everything to get the gist of it. i liked the ending, everything seemed to come full circle.
wont give any stars, doesnt seem fair.
wont give any stars, doesnt seem fair.
July 18, 2022
I first encountered the author through her light BL novel about campus idols, and I was looking for something quick to pass the time. But lo and behold! I learned so much about architecture and appreciated many of the design theories that were also used in my industry (game development). I was a bit surprised to see that despite Mainland's issue of "tofu-dregs", there are many valuable philosophies that people who are really passionate about architecture would fight for. Could totally relate to many of the design processes, despite being in game development, because what the protagonists do for a living reminded me of how Shigeru Miyamoto conceptualized The Legend of Zelda: he explored the hills and countryside surrounding his childhood home. This super fascinating read had me Googling names like Richard Rogers, Tadao Ando's Church of Light, etc.
The novel also made me reflect about how different my life would have been if I had pushed through with UST's Architecture, instead of majoring in Behavioral Studies at UP Manila. Do I feel a tinge of regret? Slight. The story made me realize that when designers are serious about their craft, there will be a lot of intersections between architecture and anthropology.
As for the protagonists? Very few authors could write slow burning character developments so well (one of them is 肉包不吃肉 of Er Ha fame), but 羲和清零 comes close. Both Gu Yu and Zhang Siyi start out in their 20s and the novel ends with them being in their 30s. They are also very relatable, as I really got stressed with Siyi's money and time management skills at the beginning. I hope this gets picked up by international publishers. It's fiction, but it's good reading material for design students.
The novel also made me reflect about how different my life would have been if I had pushed through with UST's Architecture, instead of majoring in Behavioral Studies at UP Manila. Do I feel a tinge of regret? Slight. The story made me realize that when designers are serious about their craft, there will be a lot of intersections between architecture and anthropology.
As for the protagonists? Very few authors could write slow burning character developments so well (one of them is 肉包不吃肉 of Er Ha fame), but 羲和清零 comes close. Both Gu Yu and Zhang Siyi start out in their 20s and the novel ends with them being in their 30s. They are also very relatable, as I really got stressed with Siyi's money and time management skills at the beginning. I hope this gets picked up by international publishers. It's fiction, but it's good reading material for design students.
July 3, 2024
a modern danmei fav, such a comforting read, akin to being hugged and told everything will be okay in life 🥹❤️ sincerely hope it gets licensed in eng one day soon so I can admire it on my bookshelf forever ah …
May 15, 2024
This was the first time I felt so connected on a personal level with a danmei. I'm currently in my senior year of college and everyone is already talking about work, monthly incomes, possible Master programs, and all other adult-related subjects that I didn't have to worry about as a student. It was a surprise to see so many similarities between my situation and the plot of the book: some anxieties and the 'questioning my career choice' moments for example.
In general, the novel was very special to me. Not only has the best gay awakening ever, but it's also very open about sexuality and queer topics. The journey MC took to realize his feelings and then accept he's possibly not as straight as he thought was amazing to read. It was the little details that did it for me, the subtle changes in his way of thinking, the physical reactions as well as his search for answers in books and media. It was so skillfully written that I was mesmerized.
On that note, the way homophobia was portrayed also left a deep impression on me. Not only did MC notice that he never thought he could be anything other than straight because that's what society taught him, but other characters were weirded out by their relationship and it was mainly explained as ignorance. They couldn't understand how two men could love each other but once they talked and saw how happy the couple was they mostly accepted it. Although it took more time for others, it was a very optimistic view on the subject.
The novel is mostly a slice-of-life and it follows MC through almost 10 years of his life. At first, there's no mention of romance, even if you know what's going to happen at the end, the way it's written leaves many options open on how and when it would happen. The pace is slow but enjoyable, there's no boring moment. When nothing is happening in his romantic situation there are work projects and social gatherings that keep you interested. But, once the relationship started there was no slowing down! They burnt hot 🥵. I haven't read so many good smut scenes in a while. The sex was fun and awkward! Weird conversations during sex were their kink 😂.
Also, forget everything you know about boss x employee relationships. This was the healthiest and most real couple I have encountered. So many things could have gone wrong but the author never failed to impress me. They made mistakes but they communicated and learned from them. Not a red flag was seen.
PS: The architectural world was so interesting! I love learning new things from books and I picked a thing or two about architecture and design.
In general, the novel was very special to me. Not only has the best gay awakening ever, but it's also very open about sexuality and queer topics. The journey MC took to realize his feelings and then accept he's possibly not as straight as he thought was amazing to read. It was the little details that did it for me, the subtle changes in his way of thinking, the physical reactions as well as his search for answers in books and media. It was so skillfully written that I was mesmerized.
On that note, the way homophobia was portrayed also left a deep impression on me. Not only did MC notice that he never thought he could be anything other than straight because that's what society taught him, but other characters were weirded out by their relationship and it was mainly explained as ignorance. They couldn't understand how two men could love each other but once they talked and saw how happy the couple was they mostly accepted it. Although it took more time for others, it was a very optimistic view on the subject.
The novel is mostly a slice-of-life and it follows MC through almost 10 years of his life. At first, there's no mention of romance, even if you know what's going to happen at the end, the way it's written leaves many options open on how and when it would happen. The pace is slow but enjoyable, there's no boring moment. When nothing is happening in his romantic situation there are work projects and social gatherings that keep you interested. But, once the relationship started there was no slowing down! They burnt hot 🥵. I haven't read so many good smut scenes in a while. The sex was fun and awkward! Weird conversations during sex were their kink 😂.
Also, forget everything you know about boss x employee relationships. This was the healthiest and most real couple I have encountered. So many things could have gone wrong but the author never failed to impress me. They made mistakes but they communicated and learned from them. Not a red flag was seen.
PS: The architectural world was so interesting! I love learning new things from books and I picked a thing or two about architecture and design.
October 17, 2022
Didn't even realize I'd started crying at the end. It was so beautiful. Can't believe I got this attached to every character in the book. I've never had such an experience where I love every single character and remember every single one of them too.
You can see how much the author herself loves the characters and how much work has gone into this which was expected tbh cause the author also put a lot of effort into adding details about gaming in Waiting for You Online and in this book about architecture.
And the extras were so sweet too. It was great that we could see how their futures go. Am never moving on from this book. This is also something I'd recommend to everyone cause of how good it is.
You can see how much the author herself loves the characters and how much work has gone into this which was expected tbh cause the author also put a lot of effort into adding details about gaming in Waiting for You Online and in this book about architecture.
And the extras were so sweet too. It was great that we could see how their futures go. Am never moving on from this book. This is also something I'd recommend to everyone cause of how good it is.
April 29, 2023
Zhang Siyi grew on me a lot. At first he was kind of annoying and irresponsible, but he's so funny and endearing that I see how Gu Yu feels. I really just needed to suspend disbelief for that first house visit though. Also, who wears sweats to a company part? Ok, I actually don't like this relationship dynamic. I don't like the power difference, Gu Yu is overbearing, Zhang Siyi basically has hero worship even while in the relationship. And they're so judgy too, about social media usage and poseurs and careers and everything. I get it, but it felt like a sermon at times. Glad that Gu Yu made Siyi feel like he wanted to work hard to improve, but it got to be a little too much. But still, I like the story and the characters. The rotten girls are my favorite.
The ending was really nice! I appreciate that the pace sped up towards the end. The fluff was cute. Just the right amount of vinegar in the story overall. I really binged this one lol.
QUOTES
Ch. 10
He took a deep breath, consoling himself: It’s an office plant, not a gay thing. (=_=)
Ch.11
With his diminishing job opportunities when he returned home, Zhang Siyi could only hear the echo of his professors’ words, making him feel foolish. What talent? Zhang Siyi is not afraid of talented people. He is afraid of hardworking people.
Ch. 28
Gu Yu: "Everyone works with different values and intensity. I should not sacrifice you to satisfy my own determination. Today’s result is also beyond my expectation, and probably the next time we will not be so lucky."
Ch. 41
Zhang Siyi: "Anyway, I will always be with you. If we have money, we can enjoy hot-pot and if we don’t, we will eat instant noodles. Either way, we will be happy to live our lives!”
Ch. 74
Gu Yao laughed out loud then said: “He is like this; giving advice to whomever will listen. I don’t know how much I listened to when I was young. If I was afraid that an exam would not go well, he would encourage me. Don’t be afraid! Don’t think about it! Go study! Don’t be afraid of the result. Be strong for the exam!” Gu Yao raised her fists in the air like an athlete’s victory pose.
She continued: “It’s really useful. I don’t know when it started, but I rarely fear anything. My dad said that people’s troubles are often over exaggerated. Don’t think, just do it.”
Ch. 93
Gu Yu thought He Chengtian wouldn’t be able to understand so he didn’t bother explaining it further. He poured a cup of tea: “Less nonsense, drink tea. I think you, who has only thought about money will never understand the ‘feeling’ for things.
He Chengtian was angry: “What ‘feeling’? I think it’s just being pretentious.”
Gu Yu patiently explained: “Its something you want to do for your own sake even if it seems useless to others. It is a satisfaction of heart and mind and not monetary gains and losses.” Gu Yu paused suddenly then turned to He Chengtian and smirked: “Maybe for you, the value of money itself is probably your ‘feeling’. In the eyes of Old Chiang, money is not what he pursues.”
The ending was really nice! I appreciate that the pace sped up towards the end. The fluff was cute. Just the right amount of vinegar in the story overall. I really binged this one lol.
QUOTES
Ch. 10
He took a deep breath, consoling himself: It’s an office plant, not a gay thing. (=_=)
Ch.11
With his diminishing job opportunities when he returned home, Zhang Siyi could only hear the echo of his professors’ words, making him feel foolish. What talent? Zhang Siyi is not afraid of talented people. He is afraid of hardworking people.
Ch. 28
Gu Yu: "Everyone works with different values and intensity. I should not sacrifice you to satisfy my own determination. Today’s result is also beyond my expectation, and probably the next time we will not be so lucky."
Ch. 41
Zhang Siyi: "Anyway, I will always be with you. If we have money, we can enjoy hot-pot and if we don’t, we will eat instant noodles. Either way, we will be happy to live our lives!”
Ch. 74
Gu Yao laughed out loud then said: “He is like this; giving advice to whomever will listen. I don’t know how much I listened to when I was young. If I was afraid that an exam would not go well, he would encourage me. Don’t be afraid! Don’t think about it! Go study! Don’t be afraid of the result. Be strong for the exam!” Gu Yao raised her fists in the air like an athlete’s victory pose.
She continued: “It’s really useful. I don’t know when it started, but I rarely fear anything. My dad said that people’s troubles are often over exaggerated. Don’t think, just do it.”
Ch. 93
Gu Yu thought He Chengtian wouldn’t be able to understand so he didn’t bother explaining it further. He poured a cup of tea: “Less nonsense, drink tea. I think you, who has only thought about money will never understand the ‘feeling’ for things.
He Chengtian was angry: “What ‘feeling’? I think it’s just being pretentious.”
Gu Yu patiently explained: “Its something you want to do for your own sake even if it seems useless to others. It is a satisfaction of heart and mind and not monetary gains and losses.” Gu Yu paused suddenly then turned to He Chengtian and smirked: “Maybe for you, the value of money itself is probably your ‘feeling’. In the eyes of Old Chiang, money is not what he pursues.”
December 30, 2024
I'm so in love with this book
I like how the title actually stay true to the architecture part, as I'm someone who's kinda familiar with architecture myself, this book exceed my expectations
During the few early chapters, I saw some comments about people not liking the ML, so as to not affecting my reading experience and opinions, I decided to not delved too far into comment section, and it's indeed the right thing to do
The story is slowly progressed but it didn't makes me feel bored, the relationship are slowly building in the perfect rhythm
I can see how MC slowly progressing to improve his character, he was really relatable person, being clueless fresh graduate, not really sure of what he need to truly pursue, confused about his own goals, feeling frustrated at his own shortcomings until he finally find his own goals and personal purpose, I am also glad that ML is someone that can lead MC into the great path, while some people might think he is kinda controlling at how he act around MC during early chapters it's all turn out for MC good sake. And I do feel like if you really want to achieve something great, polishing your foundation and stay focus and consistent is the key. Not many people can do this. Not many people can pursue their passion because of the lack of privilege, but while you can, it's good to pursue it even you have to sacrifice other things. You only live a short life anyway, while making money is good, if your only goals is only money then it would probably still feel like you lack sense of peesonal achievement, can't say this for all of people tho. Some people goals are always different than us
The side characters are also carefully written. You can see that everyone here has their own problems and shortcomings, and yet the author letting us to know that each character has their own goals and achievement.
I like how the title actually stay true to the architecture part, as I'm someone who's kinda familiar with architecture myself, this book exceed my expectations
During the few early chapters, I saw some comments about people not liking the ML, so as to not affecting my reading experience and opinions, I decided to not delved too far into comment section, and it's indeed the right thing to do
The story is slowly progressed but it didn't makes me feel bored, the relationship are slowly building in the perfect rhythm
I can see how MC slowly progressing to improve his character, he was really relatable person, being clueless fresh graduate, not really sure of what he need to truly pursue, confused about his own goals, feeling frustrated at his own shortcomings until he finally find his own goals and personal purpose, I am also glad that ML is someone that can lead MC into the great path, while some people might think he is kinda controlling at how he act around MC during early chapters it's all turn out for MC good sake. And I do feel like if you really want to achieve something great, polishing your foundation and stay focus and consistent is the key. Not many people can do this. Not many people can pursue their passion because of the lack of privilege, but while you can, it's good to pursue it even you have to sacrifice other things. You only live a short life anyway, while making money is good, if your only goals is only money then it would probably still feel like you lack sense of peesonal achievement, can't say this for all of people tho. Some people goals are always different than us
The side characters are also carefully written. You can see that everyone here has their own problems and shortcomings, and yet the author letting us to know that each character has their own goals and achievement.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2023
“…Kissing the side of his face. Gu Yu whispered: “It’s not good to stay up all night until morning….. Do you still want to go into work today?”Only half conscious, Zhang Siyi muttered a reply: “I have to work hard….. in order to catch up…. with you…..” chapter - 206
Look, I’m not a danmei connoisseur or anything but this story is so underrated .
If you’re a fan of BL or gay fiction please give it a shot!
It has a very slow pace, and I understand how some people can find that boring or uninteresting but I loved it because it felt very realistic and natural.
The side characters are (mostly) very lovable and interesting. There are only like, 2 sexually explicit scenes, which I genuinely appreciate cause I just like wholesomeness better.
My favorite aspect of this novel is definitely the relationship between the two leads. They just love and adore each other dearly and would do virtually anything to be together. They are both flawed individuals and grow over time. Just the darlingist.
[Little Fox Kiss]
August 11, 2025
It's nice reading how MC gradually grows as a new and fresh graduate to eventually succeeding in developing/ creating distinguished projects.
However, I feel that the novel is very slice-of-life and mostly down-to-earth. Maybe I'm used to reading novels with lots of face-slapping, this novel feels quite dull.
I have to give credit for author not conforming to usual cliches as I always felt that the plot was going a certain way but it just curves away. There is a lack of antagonists in this novel and I literally cannot find a character to hate. Everybody seems to get along so well and even those supposed antagonists have reasonable / well-explained intentions.
I do enjoy the Extras the most though and I liked how the extra ended, ALMOST as if going back to the beginning.
While there is quite a bit of fluff and some smut, I feel that it lacks the excitement / doki-doki feeling I like in my novels...
However, I feel that the novel is very slice-of-life and mostly down-to-earth. Maybe I'm used to reading novels with lots of face-slapping, this novel feels quite dull.
I have to give credit for author not conforming to usual cliches as I always felt that the plot was going a certain way but it just curves away. There is a lack of antagonists in this novel and I literally cannot find a character to hate. Everybody seems to get along so well and even those supposed antagonists have reasonable / well-explained intentions.
I do enjoy the Extras the most though and I liked how the extra ended, ALMOST as if going back to the beginning.
While there is quite a bit of fluff and some smut, I feel that it lacks the excitement / doki-doki feeling I like in my novels...
April 20, 2023
Loved their love story!!! Is a really slow burn between an architect's assistant and his boss!
The ML just finished his architecture studies and is looking for a job with NO LUCK!
Then also his girlfriend left him in a cafe while throwing a cup of cafe! He avoids the cafe but end on another man behind him... I guess you can connect the dots... that guy is going to be his new boss!!
I also think the second half of the book has a lot filler and is not really very necessary! It would be better ending thing around the 50%!
But anyways they are so cute together! It's worth it!
The ML just finished his architecture studies and is looking for a job with NO LUCK!
Then also his girlfriend left him in a cafe while throwing a cup of cafe! He avoids the cafe but end on another man behind him... I guess you can connect the dots... that guy is going to be his new boss!!
I also think the second half of the book has a lot filler and is not really very necessary! It would be better ending thing around the 50%!
But anyways they are so cute together! It's worth it!
January 19, 2025
3.5 - MC was annoying for the majority of the book. Although the character growth was shown, I felt there was too much focus on his insecurities and whingy nature. Also, I do love a slow burn… but in this case, it was so obvious and still there were so many misunderstandings. Frustrating the max!
I gave it more than a 3, because of the character growth and architectural focus weaved throughout. If I was to base my rating just on the relationship, I would score it lower, but that is because I prefer stronger characters.
I gave it more than a 3, because of the character growth and architectural focus weaved throughout. If I was to base my rating just on the relationship, I would score it lower, but that is because I prefer stronger characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2024
Initially I wasn't that impressed but I kept going and slowly the characters I couldn't stand became really endearing and sweet to read. I think the character and plot development were both good, and I think I'd reread but maybe skip the first several chapters LMAO
August 7, 2024
First reading of this author… I enjoyed it very much, her style feels refreshing, simple but not boring at all, the conversations between characters are pretty reliable and I love the story and love growth between GuYu and SiYi 🫶🏼
January 19, 2025
reading this during my final year on high school cause i thought i would be an archi student (i lead astray in civil eng now in my third year)
it was fun read but i didn't really favor toward the end of the story. also remembering this danmei maybe i should get my own measuring tape
it was fun read but i didn't really favor toward the end of the story. also remembering this danmei maybe i should get my own measuring tape
June 4, 2023
Cute, slow burn and heartwarming romance
September 22, 2023
Slow burn, but worth it :)
October 11, 2023
Most good!
July 1, 2024
Can't decide if it's a 3.5 or a 4 but it was a very enjoyable read! The couple is lovely but I felt it went on for too long.
December 13, 2024
This was such a beautiful story, I'm a bit sad it's over.
January 30, 2023
Assistant Architect is probably in my top 10 BL books I've ever read. I liked it so much, I read it twice. I highly recommend it for those who like danmei, boss x subordinate, gay seme x straight shou, and other fun tropes...
March 21, 2022
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, but it ended up being a cute fluffy workplace romance story.
**Warning: Spoilers Ahead**
I really appreciated the relationship between the ML and MC; Zhang Siyi starts out as a mediocre architect at best, but thanks to Gu Yu's guidance, he's able to learn a lot and achieve things in his professional career that he could only dream about when he first started working. GY is super supportive throughout the whole process and not only helps pay for ZSY's masters program but also follows him to London so that they don't have to tough out two years' of long distance. What a sweet boyfriend!!
Most of the story follows ZSY's day-to-day life working at Borderless and taking on various projects, going on field trips to evaluate the site, working on the design bids, etc. Once they get together, we get to see what their life looks like from the office to the home and it all feels very domestic.
I was worried about how ZSY's parents, and his father in particular as he seems quite strict with ZSY, would react to the fact that his son was gay, but that was covered pretty well. Luckily GY's parents were both fine with it, and ZSY's mother was also on their side, so they were able to gradually win over ZSY's father with a series of gifts, Weibo posts detailing out their life together in London, and some help from GY's dad.
A couple things I didn't like about the story:
It was never explained why GY started liking ZSY, and I would've liked to get more insight into that. As it is now, it felt a bit like insta-love which I don't like.
I get that for both GY and ZSY, this is their first real relationship, but mannnn they both get jealous so easily, even after establishing their relationship. I couldn't believe GY even got jealous of his own sister. Sometimes it was cute, but it happened quite often and sometimes lead to arguments that I thought were unnecessary.
They also took a long time to confirm their feelings. I was quite frustrated at one point because they were both pretty sure that the other party liked them but didn't take any action in it for a while. GY's actions when they were playing truth or dare in bed were SO obvious but ZSY never got the hint...
It was teased a bit by the author at the beginning that ZSY's best friend and roommate Fu Xinhui might've had something for him, but the author never resolved that fully. By the end he was engaged to a girl, so I guess that was kind of the resolution for it, but I am mildly curious about this still.
There were some pretty funny scenes that had me chuckling. For example, here's where ZSY thinks GY wants to do something for his birthday and GY takes him to inspect the parking lot of a local shopping plaza instead:
Along the way, Gu Yu pointed to the parking lot and explained to him: “The traffic inside the parking lot is designed very well. Previously, I have wanted to show you, but it was sidetracked because of the Z City project.”
Zhang Siyi: “……”
Gu Yu: “I told you before, the idea of doing residential planning and designing a parking lot is the same. If you are skilled in parking lot layouts, it will be very easy to do anything in the future. Come and see this structural column. How big is the axis spacing?”
Zhang Siyi: “…” Damn it, his eyes are not meters! How can he measure how big it is! He took a few steps around and gave a guess: “About nine meters and ten meters.”
Shaking his head, Gu Yu sighed. He took a large tape measure from his trouser pocket saying: “Come and help me measure.”
Zhang Siyi: “……” Damn, you brought a tape measure. Why bother asking me!?
--------------------
Or this scene where ZSY is supposed to catch up with his old (female) childhood friend and Gu Yao, and somehow GY and some other friends get mixed in:
Inside the theater the girls sat down in the back row while the three men walked forward to find their seats. Almost everyone in the theater were either couples or chaperones accompanying little girls. The three men together walking through the theater and sitting down in a row attracted a bunch of curious eyes.
He Chengtian: “……” Why did I go out today? How did he get into this mess? Why is he sitting with two other guys watching “Cinderella”? And one of them was his most hated nemesis in high school? (O..o)
Zhang Siyi: “……” What happened to dating two girls? Why has it become a date with two men? (o..o)
**Warning: Spoilers Ahead**
I really appreciated the relationship between the ML and MC; Zhang Siyi starts out as a mediocre architect at best, but thanks to Gu Yu's guidance, he's able to learn a lot and achieve things in his professional career that he could only dream about when he first started working. GY is super supportive throughout the whole process and not only helps pay for ZSY's masters program but also follows him to London so that they don't have to tough out two years' of long distance. What a sweet boyfriend!!
Most of the story follows ZSY's day-to-day life working at Borderless and taking on various projects, going on field trips to evaluate the site, working on the design bids, etc. Once they get together, we get to see what their life looks like from the office to the home and it all feels very domestic.
I was worried about how ZSY's parents, and his father in particular as he seems quite strict with ZSY, would react to the fact that his son was gay, but that was covered pretty well. Luckily GY's parents were both fine with it, and ZSY's mother was also on their side, so they were able to gradually win over ZSY's father with a series of gifts, Weibo posts detailing out their life together in London, and some help from GY's dad.
A couple things I didn't like about the story:
It was never explained why GY started liking ZSY, and I would've liked to get more insight into that. As it is now, it felt a bit like insta-love which I don't like.
I get that for both GY and ZSY, this is their first real relationship, but mannnn they both get jealous so easily, even after establishing their relationship. I couldn't believe GY even got jealous of his own sister. Sometimes it was cute, but it happened quite often and sometimes lead to arguments that I thought were unnecessary.
They also took a long time to confirm their feelings. I was quite frustrated at one point because they were both pretty sure that the other party liked them but didn't take any action in it for a while. GY's actions when they were playing truth or dare in bed were SO obvious but ZSY never got the hint...
It was teased a bit by the author at the beginning that ZSY's best friend and roommate Fu Xinhui might've had something for him, but the author never resolved that fully. By the end he was engaged to a girl, so I guess that was kind of the resolution for it, but I am mildly curious about this still.
There were some pretty funny scenes that had me chuckling. For example, here's where ZSY thinks GY wants to do something for his birthday and GY takes him to inspect the parking lot of a local shopping plaza instead:
Along the way, Gu Yu pointed to the parking lot and explained to him: “The traffic inside the parking lot is designed very well. Previously, I have wanted to show you, but it was sidetracked because of the Z City project.”
Zhang Siyi: “……”
Gu Yu: “I told you before, the idea of doing residential planning and designing a parking lot is the same. If you are skilled in parking lot layouts, it will be very easy to do anything in the future. Come and see this structural column. How big is the axis spacing?”
Zhang Siyi: “…” Damn it, his eyes are not meters! How can he measure how big it is! He took a few steps around and gave a guess: “About nine meters and ten meters.”
Shaking his head, Gu Yu sighed. He took a large tape measure from his trouser pocket saying: “Come and help me measure.”
Zhang Siyi: “……” Damn, you brought a tape measure. Why bother asking me!?
--------------------
Or this scene where ZSY is supposed to catch up with his old (female) childhood friend and Gu Yao, and somehow GY and some other friends get mixed in:
Inside the theater the girls sat down in the back row while the three men walked forward to find their seats. Almost everyone in the theater were either couples or chaperones accompanying little girls. The three men together walking through the theater and sitting down in a row attracted a bunch of curious eyes.
He Chengtian: “……” Why did I go out today? How did he get into this mess? Why is he sitting with two other guys watching “Cinderella”? And one of them was his most hated nemesis in high school? (O..o)
Zhang Siyi: “……” What happened to dating two girls? Why has it become a date with two men? (o..o)
February 17, 2025
This was a five star up until about chapter 150. It was pretty fluffy with some good tension, but then became rather flat in the second half due to unnecessary subplots and character regression.
June 4, 2021
4⭐
Es muy divertida, me reí a carcajadas en varias ocasiones. No es una historia con un argumento complejo, ni nada parecido. Todo lo contrario. Es más como un "Slice of life" de un joven que acaba de terminar la carrera de arquitectura y se adentra al terrible mundo laboral (y a la adultez), encontrando no solo varios problemas y dificultades, sino también inadvertidamente, el amor.
Me encantaron los personajes principales y su relación. Me gustó mucho lo infantil e inmaduro que era Zhang SiYi al principio, ya que luego con ayuda de Gu Yu, creció y maduró (un poco, ya que Gu Yu lo sigue malcriando XD).
Hay algunas ideas problemáticas mencionadas que me molestaron un poco, como la idea de que un hombre gay masculino es mejor que un hombre gay femenino. Pero lo dejo pasar porque la novela ya tiene unos buenos años de que se escribió. Las cosas cambian.
En fin, la recomiendo si buscas algo liviano que leer. Algo del día a día. Un slowburn muy gracioso, un poco frustante y DEMASIADO tierno.
Es muy divertida, me reí a carcajadas en varias ocasiones. No es una historia con un argumento complejo, ni nada parecido. Todo lo contrario. Es más como un "Slice of life" de un joven que acaba de terminar la carrera de arquitectura y se adentra al terrible mundo laboral (y a la adultez), encontrando no solo varios problemas y dificultades, sino también inadvertidamente, el amor.
Me encantaron los personajes principales y su relación. Me gustó mucho lo infantil e inmaduro que era Zhang SiYi al principio, ya que luego con ayuda de Gu Yu, creció y maduró (un poco, ya que Gu Yu lo sigue malcriando XD).
Hay algunas ideas problemáticas mencionadas que me molestaron un poco, como la idea de que un hombre gay masculino es mejor que un hombre gay femenino. Pero lo dejo pasar porque la novela ya tiene unos buenos años de que se escribió. Las cosas cambian.
En fin, la recomiendo si buscas algo liviano que leer. Algo del día a día. Un slowburn muy gracioso, un poco frustante y DEMASIADO tierno.
November 16, 2023
A gratifying slowburn about the grind of kicking off one’s career as a young professional, personal growth, as well as discovering and coming to terms with one’s sexual identity. Ignoring the romantic aspect of it, ML is the mentor and boss we all could have used—tough but fair, notices the little things, and willing to invest in his employees' professional development. He is seemingly perfect but his flaws emerge when he becomes interested in MC. It is an imbalanced relationship but a major part of the story is about MC becoming ML's professional equal and ML providing guidance along the way. The relationship is quite sweet and their bedroom shenanigans are a bit of a slowburn, too.
Overall: 9/10
Enjoyability: 5/5
Would I reread? Maybe
Overall: 9/10
Enjoyability: 5/5
Would I reread? Maybe
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