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Secretly, Secretly; But Unable to Hide It
The time she is thirteen years old, Sang Zhi secretly has a crush on a man.
That man looks cold and sluggish, he can be described as someone that is careless and casual. He frequently comes to her house.
One afternoon, he stays at her Ge Ge’s (Older brother, 桑延) room to play a game. Once in a while when he sees her come inside the room to bring a plate of fruits and snacks, he will smiles like an evildoer: “Kid, what are you doing? How can you blush so hard every time you see me.”
—– This novel narrates the story of the young Sang Zhi and Duan Jia Xu. Sang Zhi gets to know Duan Jia Xu, who is seven years older than her, through her Ge Ge (Older brother, 桑延).
During their several interactions, Sang Zhi starts to develop a crush on Duan Jia Xu. It happens from her young age till she is an adult. After the graduation, Duan Jia Xu goes home and works hard. They have cut down their contact.
Sang Zhi and Duan Jia Xu begin to contact each other again after Sang Zhi attends the university in the city he is in. In their day by day intimate and close interaction, Sang Zhi notices the source of Duan Jia Xu’s burdens. With Sang Zhi’s companion, Duan Jia Xu also starts to let it go, he starts to have new relationship with her.
One afternoon, he stays at her Ge Ge’s (Older brother, 桑延) room to play a game. Once in a while when he sees her come inside the room to bring a plate of fruits and snacks, he will smiles like an evildoer: “Kid, what are you doing? How can you blush so hard every time you see me.”
—– This novel narrates the story of the young Sang Zhi and Duan Jia Xu. Sang Zhi gets to know Duan Jia Xu, who is seven years older than her, through her Ge Ge (Older brother, 桑延).
During their several interactions, Sang Zhi starts to develop a crush on Duan Jia Xu. It happens from her young age till she is an adult. After the graduation, Duan Jia Xu goes home and works hard. They have cut down their contact.
Sang Zhi and Duan Jia Xu begin to contact each other again after Sang Zhi attends the university in the city he is in. In their day by day intimate and close interaction, Sang Zhi notices the source of Duan Jia Xu’s burdens. With Sang Zhi’s companion, Duan Jia Xu also starts to let it go, he starts to have new relationship with her.
1370 pages, ebook
Published January 1, 2019
166 people are currently reading
1611 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
March 5, 2024
I LOVE THEM SO MUCHHHHH <33333
September 20, 2023
I read this after becoming completely obsessed with the drama Hidden Love, and I love this novel too! The Duan Jiaxu we get in the drama and the novel is different but he's still the greenest of green flags.
February 16, 2024
偷偷藏不住（1）漫画
read on april 11, 2023
i was first introduced to this novel when i happened to saw the english translated version of hidden love. then, i was hooked so i bought the physical version to reread. still love it!
偷偷藏不住（上）小说
read on april 14-16, 2023
爱了爱了
i adored 桑稚 and 段嘉许. she spent many years having a crush on him and he finally reciprocates. one of the things i liked about it is that everything made sense, especially the time apart and how long the book spanned. it made sense that they had to spend some time apart which allowed 桑稚 from thinking too much into her feelings and focus on studies. it made sense that they reunited and 段嘉许 developed feelings for her when she’s actually of age. the way he interacted with her after realising that he likes her was golden.
this is probably my first chinese book that i finished in a long time. i can’t wait to read the second part where they start to date officially!
偷偷藏不住（下）小说
read on june 26-30, 2023
am i going to have a slump? i don't know what i'm supposed to do now after finishing sang zhi and duan jia xu's story. i love them both so much.
i loved that sang zhi's wishes got fulfilled. she managed to get into the university that she wanted and she got the guy she had a crush on for most of her life at the end. i loved that duan jia xu finally got someone willing to stand by his side despite his family background and he could finally feel like he could love and be loved. the strength and courage they gave to each other, whether they knew it or not, was pushing them forward individually and as a couple. their interactions are always hilarious, especially with how 不要脸 he can be and sang zhi sometimes rolling her eyes, sometimes being too flustered by what he did or said.
this is my first chinese novel that i completed after many many years of not reading in this language. i'm so incredibly satisfied. i've read a lot of english books with the brother's best friend trope, but this just hit differently.
觉得甜 而且被这cp磕到了。为了看赵露思和陈哲远的戏，把偷偷藏不住（下）读完 所以现在能尽情的享受屏幕的桑稚和段嘉许了。想看看书中的情节如何转化为剧～
偷偷藏不住（2）漫画
read on august 1, 2023
in these few chapters, sang zhi managed to see duan jiaxu multiple times and she encountered events that one will in their youth. sang zhi started her first period and was confessed to for the first time. i liked that the illustrations showed the emotions on sang yan's face when zhizhi got injured and the subsequent things that happened. he's not a bad brother. he just wants to tease zhizhi.
桑稚 is still crushing on 段嘉许 and at this young age, it's pretty common to have a crush on an older boy. she's so cute too! the illustrator drew her like a hamster with her round cheeks and cute actions.
Want to read
July 27, 2024Bro its 930 pages! What is this?!!
October 11, 2023
The netflix drama made me want to read the book desperately. Unfortunately I can't read Chinese. Found online webtoon based on the novel in english. Read that instead and so far the story is equal of that from the drama. It's really good. 👍🏻
November 22, 2022
November 2022
THEY RELEASE AN ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT ITS TV SERIESS!!!! AAAHHHH!!!
Though the actor playing Duan Jia Xu isn’t who I would be choosen (in my imagination Duan Jia Xu is a bit rough and has thick wall because of his dark past) still… I’m hypeeeeeEEEeeed.. 🫶🏻
September 2021
Ah! I really like the plot of this novel.
At the beginning, we got to see thirteen years old Sang Zhi. She has good brother and good parents. One day her brother’s roommate coming over to their house and this teen Sang Zhi started to develop crush on this gege. Sang Zhi and her brother has seven years gap, so when Sang Zhi is thirteen, her brother is already twenty years old and attending university not far from their home.
Sang Zhi’s cute and clever. On the bring of her secret was revealed by her crush, she created lie that she’s in love with ‘internet boyfried’ guy. And everyone (her parents, her brother, and her crush) believed it! HAHAHAHA! Smart move Zhizhi!
Unfortunately after her crush graduated, he moved back to his hometown and Sang Zhi couldn’t see him anymore. One day, his brother casually mentioned that her crush is dating and the news broke her apart silently. Her one-side puppy love ship is finally sink.
After that, Sang Zhi focused on her study on high school and as result on it, she’s not too worry to choose her dream university. Sang Zhi chose university at her ex-crush hometown—not because she still wants to pursue him but that university is pretty good university.
As predicted, Sang Zhi and that gege reunited and at some point they begin to confirm their feeling to each other.
I thought this is just another cheesy wishy washy chinese novel that I can spent my time to entertain myself. But what I didn’t expect is the quality of the Duan Jia Xu (Sang Zhi’s crush) background story.
There is no overbearing CEO (eyerolls) on this novel. Everyhing is ordinary but it feels like it sprinkle with unicorn dust. It’s so ordinary yet magical.
I pick up this book randomly and found gems at the end. Thank you author.
4.5/5 stars ⭐️
THEY RELEASE AN ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT ITS TV SERIESS!!!! AAAHHHH!!!
Though the actor playing Duan Jia Xu isn’t who I would be choosen (in my imagination Duan Jia Xu is a bit rough and has thick wall because of his dark past) still… I’m hypeeeeeEEEeeed.. 🫶🏻
September 2021
Ah! I really like the plot of this novel.
At the beginning, we got to see thirteen years old Sang Zhi. She has good brother and good parents. One day her brother’s roommate coming over to their house and this teen Sang Zhi started to develop crush on this gege. Sang Zhi and her brother has seven years gap, so when Sang Zhi is thirteen, her brother is already twenty years old and attending university not far from their home.
Sang Zhi’s cute and clever. On the bring of her secret was revealed by her crush, she created lie that she’s in love with ‘internet boyfried’ guy. And everyone (her parents, her brother, and her crush) believed it! HAHAHAHA! Smart move Zhizhi!
Unfortunately after her crush graduated, he moved back to his hometown and Sang Zhi couldn’t see him anymore. One day, his brother casually mentioned that her crush is dating and the news broke her apart silently. Her one-side puppy love ship is finally sink.
After that, Sang Zhi focused on her study on high school and as result on it, she’s not too worry to choose her dream university. Sang Zhi chose university at her ex-crush hometown—not because she still wants to pursue him but that university is pretty good university.
As predicted, Sang Zhi and that gege reunited and at some point they begin to confirm their feeling to each other.
I thought this is just another cheesy wishy washy chinese novel that I can spent my time to entertain myself. But what I didn’t expect is the quality of the Duan Jia Xu (Sang Zhi’s crush) background story.
There is no overbearing CEO (eyerolls) on this novel. Everyhing is ordinary but it feels like it sprinkle with unicorn dust. It’s so ordinary yet magical.
I pick up this book randomly and found gems at the end. Thank you author.
4.5/5 stars ⭐️
Read
June 16, 2024LUV this novel so much!!! I love the adaptations too, may it be the manhua or the chinese drama!! Normally, I tend to separate adaptations from the original material, to avoid disappointments, but all three materials, are in their league of their own!!
Safe, Both virgins!
Older brother's best friend
Unrequited Love
HE
Safe, Both virgins!
Older brother's best friend
Unrequited Love
HE
May 1, 2022
真的甜死了 超推荐
July 3, 2025
➺
4/5🌟
Though I was already planning on reading this for a long time, picking this up now is more of an impulse. Seeing consecutive clips from the Cdrama for days, I realized how much I missed Duan Jiaxu and Sang Zhi so I was really tempted to read this. I'm glad I did because my heart is completely satiated. It was so good to know how faithful the drama was to the original reference because plot-wise, there was not much difference between the two.
As for the characters, though Sang Zhi's personality is still the same, I found the novel Sang Zhi a little annoying and bratty, especially when she was young. Maybe because the novel is a little more detailed, we can see her inner thoughts more clearly and see how spoiled she really is. The drama also showed that part of her, but she came out more adorable and naive than the novel Sang Zhi. Or maybe I just loved how the actress Zhao Lusi portrayed the character so much.
Duan Jiaxu, on the other hand, is exactly the same. I rarely prefer watching the adaptation before reading the book, but in this case, I'm glad I watched the drama first. Picturing Chen Zheyuan as Duan Jiaxu while reading the novel is such an experience. My heart is still fluttering when it comes to him. He's character is such a dream, how reliable and attentive he is when it comes to Sang Zhi. How manly and cool he carries himself without appearing too pretentious and deliberate. I personally has a soft spot with someone rational and calm with a distant air but very devoted and passionate with it comes to those who really matters to him. He's really a perfect fictional boyfriend. Not exactly unrealistic, but definitely rare.
This story will always have a special place in my heart. This one has become my romance standard. Now I'm tempted to watch the drama again.
Though I was already planning on reading this for a long time, picking this up now is more of an impulse. Seeing consecutive clips from the Cdrama for days, I realized how much I missed Duan Jiaxu and Sang Zhi so I was really tempted to read this. I'm glad I did because my heart is completely satiated. It was so good to know how faithful the drama was to the original reference because plot-wise, there was not much difference between the two.
As for the characters, though Sang Zhi's personality is still the same, I found the novel Sang Zhi a little annoying and bratty, especially when she was young. Maybe because the novel is a little more detailed, we can see her inner thoughts more clearly and see how spoiled she really is. The drama also showed that part of her, but she came out more adorable and naive than the novel Sang Zhi. Or maybe I just loved how the actress Zhao Lusi portrayed the character so much.
Duan Jiaxu, on the other hand, is exactly the same. I rarely prefer watching the adaptation before reading the book, but in this case, I'm glad I watched the drama first. Picturing Chen Zheyuan as Duan Jiaxu while reading the novel is such an experience. My heart is still fluttering when it comes to him. He's character is such a dream, how reliable and attentive he is when it comes to Sang Zhi. How manly and cool he carries himself without appearing too pretentious and deliberate. I personally has a soft spot with someone rational and calm with a distant air but very devoted and passionate with it comes to those who really matters to him. He's really a perfect fictional boyfriend. Not exactly unrealistic, but definitely rare.
This story will always have a special place in my heart. This one has become my romance standard. Now I'm tempted to watch the drama again.
August 1, 2022
This is a sweet story. From puppy love, to growing and actually falling in love. A great relationship with communication, respect, and love. Very sweet read. The story was good and the characters engaging enough to make me read it in one go. Highly recommend.
The translation is a bit rough, but not that hard to understand.
The translation is a bit rough, but not that hard to understand.
March 31, 2022
no no no no no
i don’t even know how I finished the book
it’s definitely a two star.i wanted to give a three star but now that I think of it ,no sorry i don’t like it enough and I’ve problems understanding why everyone likes it
like oh no this is way too draggy for me,I didn’t really enjoy another story by the same author too.yea she makes everything sweet and cute but no seriously??i just don’t like her style and her plot … I feel like I prefer the story of the non main leads way more than those of the main leads like pleaseeeeeeee what is this ?? I don’t even know how to express my dislike.i just didn’t enjoy it like how everyone else on douyin enjoyed it
i have no damn idea how duanjiaxu become everyone’s fav’ like he’s way too oily for me please. I love relationships with some age gap and I expected myself to enjoy this,I was really really looking forward because apparently it was a book about unrequited love and many people said the female lead’s love was really realistic.i mean I enjoyed watching the female lead grow too but the male lead seriously just shoves me away I guess ?
He was a little too gross and pervertic for me,I didn’t feel his love for her like somehow I just felt that he was like a predator like ughhhh and the female lead’s brother ?? Seriously ???
my dislike for this book is beyond words, i don’t give 1 stars cuz it’s my basic respect for the author lol and uhh the cover was kinda nice but damn not this book… I feel like I have problems relating to the general females now ?? How does he attract you in anyway?? Sangzhi made me so much happier,nice watching her grow heh
what someone wouldn’t like about the book would most probably be the female lead but I can’t relate and what someone would like would be the male lead,something u cant relate to as well.
OHNO goodbye zhuyi,I won’t read your books anymore thanks.I’m trying to save myself from your writing,it’s great and all but tooooo toxic for me,it takes the joy of reading romance away from me 😭hell no I won’t read her books anymore
i don’t even know how I finished the book
it’s definitely a two star.i wanted to give a three star but now that I think of it ,no sorry i don’t like it enough and I’ve problems understanding why everyone likes it
like oh no this is way too draggy for me,I didn’t really enjoy another story by the same author too.yea she makes everything sweet and cute but no seriously??i just don’t like her style and her plot … I feel like I prefer the story of the non main leads way more than those of the main leads like pleaseeeeeeee what is this ?? I don’t even know how to express my dislike.i just didn’t enjoy it like how everyone else on douyin enjoyed it
i have no damn idea how duanjiaxu become everyone’s fav’ like he’s way too oily for me please. I love relationships with some age gap and I expected myself to enjoy this,I was really really looking forward because apparently it was a book about unrequited love and many people said the female lead’s love was really realistic.i mean I enjoyed watching the female lead grow too but the male lead seriously just shoves me away I guess ?
He was a little too gross and pervertic for me,I didn’t feel his love for her like somehow I just felt that he was like a predator like ughhhh and the female lead’s brother ?? Seriously ???
my dislike for this book is beyond words, i don’t give 1 stars cuz it’s my basic respect for the author lol and uhh the cover was kinda nice but damn not this book… I feel like I have problems relating to the general females now ?? How does he attract you in anyway?? Sangzhi made me so much happier,nice watching her grow heh
what someone wouldn’t like about the book would most probably be the female lead but I can’t relate and what someone would like would be the male lead,something u cant relate to as well.
OHNO goodbye zhuyi,I won’t read your books anymore thanks.I’m trying to save myself from your writing,it’s great and all but tooooo toxic for me,it takes the joy of reading romance away from me 😭hell no I won’t read her books anymore
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2024
While I was originally drawn towards this book after watching the drama which I thoroughly enjoyed, this book had quite a different feeling. The characters were slightly more cold and realistic, but I didn't hate it. In fact, it added a sense of charm that maybe took away the rose colored glasses, but still left me with that end-of-a-fairytale feeling. The book itself was also quite long; I'm honestly surprised I got through all 1000+ pages. That being said, it felt like a nice comfort read I could just pick up whenever wherever. I think I simply stumbled through it, and while I felt its length, I never protested it. It was unlike any book I have read before, but I enjoyed it. For those here after watching the drama, it's not what you're expecting, but I think it's worth the read in all the ways you never knew you needed :)
March 31, 2022
我覺得這本書十分好看。首先，作者的文筆很流暢且生動。而且故事使人深感同受，令我好像親身經歷過一樣。作為一個愛情故事，我覺得這本書所描述的暗戀十分甜，對於女主角的暗戀了男主角這麼多年，我十分佩服她，也很欣賞她那麼長情。
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May 24, 2022
so adorable 😭❤️
read this coz i have zero self control and the manhua is still updating
read this coz i have zero self control and the manhua is still updating
September 26, 2022
My first time reading a translated Chinese novel and I loved how sweet it was! Can’t wait for the Cdrama version.
March 7, 2023
I love this book so much, I don’t usually re- read but this one i wouldn’t mind.
August 2, 2023
Another novel I picked up because the cdrama is so adorable and overwhelmingly sweet. It’s definitely a nice little read between the heavier stuff I’m read.
December 1, 2023
I feel like this book is like every girl's dream come true, it is probably also one of the most accurate novels to so perfectly depict crushes. I loved the tension and the moments from the early stages of the female lead's life. How they both grew up and realised that their feelings for each other only grew stronger over the years and how they finally got together when she was 19, 6 years after she developed a crush for him.
I loved how much the guy thinks from the pov of the girl, although he is aware that the girl already has a major crush for him, he still pretends to not know and go through the process of pursuing her just to prove that he actually has genuine feelings for her and to give her a the sense of ritual that she loves. I loved how both of them were each other's pillar of support. The girl giving him a home and confidence that he has lost when he was a child. How the guy was a ray of light brightening her teenage years and inspiring her with her life's direction.
Overall I really liked how this book was written, devoured this 590 ish pages in a solid 4.5 hours (which I would say is way faster than english novels). p.s, I really loved the love hate relationship of the siblings, and honestly, I have never been a fan of brother's best friend before, but rn... I am kinda sad that I don't have an older brother because then where else would my brother's best friend boyfriend come from sigh
July 1, 2023
I loved it very much!!! It starts of as an ‘unrealistic’ one sided crush and blossoms in to such a beautiful respectful loving relationship. I love how they fall in love so naturally and how their love matures over time as they grow together. Recommend reading the manhua (webnovel) which provides illustrations (& watching the currently airing c-drama adaptation :)))) )
August 12, 2020
本文講述了青春期少女桑稚通過哥哥的關係，認識比她年長七歲的段嘉許，在相處的過程中對他暗生情愫，從年少到成長後的漫長暗戀心事。畢業後，段嘉許因為回家工作的關係，兩人減少了聯繫，又因桑稚到他所在的城市上大學，他們開始有了新的交集。在日漸親密的接觸下，桑稚漸漸發現了段嘉許一直以來的壓力來源，而在桑稚的陪伴下，段嘉許也慢慢解開心結，與她的關係有了個新的轉變。作品行文流暢，文風幽默有趣，用細膩的文筆描寫了暗。
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2021
這是我看的第一本言情小說，真的沒有讓我失望，讓我對言情小說感興趣。書裡的情節都寫得很細緻，很有畫面感，作者也描寫的十分仔細真實去滿足讀者們。書中的情節有時候就像過山車一樣，總是出其不意地傳遞給讀者，彷彿身臨其境。但是裡面的劇情都很溫暖感人，讓讀者看的時候都變得感性。
August 19, 2021
這是我看的第一本言情小說，也是至今為止我最喜歡的一本。這本書記述了女主角桑稚在初一的時候遇上了男主角段嘉許。他們的初識是在桑稚氣家，段嘉許是桑稚哥哥的大學同學，那天段嘉許來桑稚家玩卻被桑稚誤以為是他哥哥整容完的樣子，從此在桑稚心裡埋下了暗戀的種子。
May 1, 2022
哎哟好甜啊 超推荐的！！
January 31, 2022
到后面的时候有点慢，但是前面非常非常甜！非常推荐！
July 30, 2022
not rlly a fan of big age gaps but this story is sooo good
July 17, 2023
Реална оценка: 3,75 закръглена на 4 звезди
Не знам китайски. Повлияна от сериала реших да потърся фен превод на романа. Беше достатъчно разбираем, че да се забавлявам още малко с любима двойка.
Не знам китайски. Повлияна от сериала реших да потърся фен превод на романа. Беше достатъчно разбираем, че да се забавлявам още малко с любима двойка.
July 17, 2023
I'm a couple of episodes into the drama adaptation of this book, called Hidden Love, and it's super cute, so I wanted to try reading the book as well and see if there were any differences.
I'm not that far in the drama, but surprisingly everything that's happened so far follows the book to a T. If that's the case, then I'm excited for the rest of the drama, as their interactions only get cuter later on.
The story follows the romance between Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu from when it first starts out as an adolescent crush to later on when they're both older and the feelings become mutual. The MC first meets DJX when she's 13 or so and he's 20, so there's about a 7 year age gap between them. I was a bit put off by this in the drama, since the actress they found for middle school era Sang Zhi was super short and looked like an elementary school student, but I was surprisingly more okay with this in the book.
The first part of the book that covers the early years when Sang Zhi is still in middle and then high school was okay, but because the feelings were all so one-sided, I didn't find it that interesting. I enjoyed their later interactions after she starts college a lot more, simply because she was finally old enough to catch his attention and he eventually starts thinking of her as more than a younger sister.
I liked both of their personalities as well. Even though Sang Zhi has been shielded from a lot by her parents and older brother and can be a bit naive at times, but she has a strong personality and doesn't shy away from standing up for herself. I was cheering her for in the middle school bully incident when she doesn't give into her fear and reports the bullies to her parents and teacher. And this side of her comes out again when Jiang Ying tries to scare her off from dating Duan Jiaxu, and Sang Zhi isn't taking any of it and confronts her back.
Duan Jiaxu's character is very different; it feels like he's always joking around and doesn't take much seriously. Sang Zhi's description of him as a male hu li jing (fox spirit) was hilarious, especially because he doesn't even realize it's about him until another friend points it out to him. His shamelessness is what makes him endearing though, especially after he starts chasing after Sang Zhi and starts spouting a bunch of nonsense that constantly makes her embarrassed. It's a cute dynamic XD
It's a lighthearted romance story that never gets too heavy. There are some obstacles to their relationship after they get together, but they aren't too difficult to resolve. There had been some hints about DJX's past, so I was afraid it was going to be something really serious, but it didn't end up being too bad. I'm just glad he has a good job and is able to live comfortably now after all the difficulties he's been through in the past.
The translation I read for this weren't great though, which impacted my enjoyment of the story. There were a lot of grammatical and spelling errors throughout the story.
I'm not that far in the drama, but surprisingly everything that's happened so far follows the book to a T. If that's the case, then I'm excited for the rest of the drama, as their interactions only get cuter later on.
The story follows the romance between Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu from when it first starts out as an adolescent crush to later on when they're both older and the feelings become mutual. The MC first meets DJX when she's 13 or so and he's 20, so there's about a 7 year age gap between them. I was a bit put off by this in the drama, since the actress they found for middle school era Sang Zhi was super short and looked like an elementary school student, but I was surprisingly more okay with this in the book.
The first part of the book that covers the early years when Sang Zhi is still in middle and then high school was okay, but because the feelings were all so one-sided, I didn't find it that interesting. I enjoyed their later interactions after she starts college a lot more, simply because she was finally old enough to catch his attention and he eventually starts thinking of her as more than a younger sister.
I liked both of their personalities as well. Even though Sang Zhi has been shielded from a lot by her parents and older brother and can be a bit naive at times, but she has a strong personality and doesn't shy away from standing up for herself. I was cheering her for in the middle school bully incident when she doesn't give into her fear and reports the bullies to her parents and teacher. And this side of her comes out again when Jiang Ying tries to scare her off from dating Duan Jiaxu, and Sang Zhi isn't taking any of it and confronts her back.
Duan Jiaxu's character is very different; it feels like he's always joking around and doesn't take much seriously. Sang Zhi's description of him as a male hu li jing (fox spirit) was hilarious, especially because he doesn't even realize it's about him until another friend points it out to him. His shamelessness is what makes him endearing though, especially after he starts chasing after Sang Zhi and starts spouting a bunch of nonsense that constantly makes her embarrassed. It's a cute dynamic XD
It's a lighthearted romance story that never gets too heavy. There are some obstacles to their relationship after they get together, but they aren't too difficult to resolve. There had been some hints about DJX's past, so I was afraid it was going to be something really serious, but it didn't end up being too bad. I'm just glad he has a good job and is able to live comfortably now after all the difficulties he's been through in the past.
The translation I read for this weren't great though, which impacted my enjoyment of the story. There were a lot of grammatical and spelling errors throughout the story.
September 26, 2023
The novel delicately unfolds the story of Sang Zhi's formative years, punctuated by her innocent and endearing infatuation with Duan Jia Xu. At just thirteen, she finds herself captivated by a man who, on the surface, exudes an aura of indifference and nonchalance. Their encounters are often unremarkable, with Duan Jia Xu immersed in her brother's room, engrossed in his own world of games. Yet, these simple moments hold profound significance in Sang Zhi's heart.
Duan Jia Xu, seven years her senior, remains an enigmatic figure to Sang Zhi. His playful teasing and casual demeanor mask a deeper complexity that becomes more apparent as the years pass. Their initial interactions are marked by Sang Zhi's endearing blushes, a testament to the stirrings of her first crush. The author masterfully navigates this evolving infatuation, capturing the essence of young love as it matures into something deeper.
As time carries them into adulthood, the two drift apart, each embarking on their own separate journeys. But fate, it seems, has other plans. The narrative takes a poignant turn when Sang Zhi enters the same city where Duan Jia Xu resides for her university education, rekindling their connection. The subsequent rekindling of their friendship is painted with moments of intimacy and closeness. Sang Zhi's keen observations reveal the hidden burdens that weigh on Duan Jia Xu's shoulders, setting the stage for a profound transformation.
In this tale of youth and the enduring bonds it forges, Sang Zhi's steadfast companionship becomes a source of healing and renewal for Duan Jia Xu. Their connection deepens as they navigate the complexities of life, highlighting the power of empathy, understanding, and shared experiences. 'Secretly, Secretly; But Unable to Hide It' is a tender exploration of love's evolution, from the innocence of a crush to the profound connection that can blossom between two people who have weathered the trials of time and circumstance.
Duan Jia Xu, seven years her senior, remains an enigmatic figure to Sang Zhi. His playful teasing and casual demeanor mask a deeper complexity that becomes more apparent as the years pass. Their initial interactions are marked by Sang Zhi's endearing blushes, a testament to the stirrings of her first crush. The author masterfully navigates this evolving infatuation, capturing the essence of young love as it matures into something deeper.
As time carries them into adulthood, the two drift apart, each embarking on their own separate journeys. But fate, it seems, has other plans. The narrative takes a poignant turn when Sang Zhi enters the same city where Duan Jia Xu resides for her university education, rekindling their connection. The subsequent rekindling of their friendship is painted with moments of intimacy and closeness. Sang Zhi's keen observations reveal the hidden burdens that weigh on Duan Jia Xu's shoulders, setting the stage for a profound transformation.
In this tale of youth and the enduring bonds it forges, Sang Zhi's steadfast companionship becomes a source of healing and renewal for Duan Jia Xu. Their connection deepens as they navigate the complexities of life, highlighting the power of empathy, understanding, and shared experiences. 'Secretly, Secretly; But Unable to Hide It' is a tender exploration of love's evolution, from the innocence of a crush to the profound connection that can blossom between two people who have weathered the trials of time and circumstance.
August 18, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐ not because it’s flawless, but because it left me with a warmth I didn’t want to let go of.
Reading Secretly, Secretly; But Unable to Hide It felt like stepping into someone’s quiet diary — tender, shy, and achingly real. What struck me most wasn’t just the romance itself, but how naturally it grew over the years.
Sang Zhi, for me, wasn’t just a girl with a crush. I loved that in the novel, she wasn’t written as just “the girl in love.” She was playful, sharp-tongued when she needed to be, and even in her insecurities, there was a spark of boldness that made me root for her.
And then there’s Duan Jiaxu. He felt less like a typical romance hero and more like someone real — steady, kind, the sort of presence that doesn’t need big declarations because his care shows in small, everyday gestures (My fav type). The way he slowly returns Sang Zhi’s feelings was so natural that when it finally happened, it didn’t feel like a surprise twist; it felt like the most inevitable, heartwarming thing in the world. What really stayed with me was the softness of Zhu Yi’s storytelling. It never rushed, never forced drama just for the sake of it. Instead, it lingered on little details: a look, a laugh, a quiet act of care.
For me, this book was like a comforting cup of tea — warm, sweet, and easy to sink into.
Reading Secretly, Secretly; But Unable to Hide It felt like stepping into someone’s quiet diary — tender, shy, and achingly real. What struck me most wasn’t just the romance itself, but how naturally it grew over the years.
Sang Zhi, for me, wasn’t just a girl with a crush. I loved that in the novel, she wasn’t written as just “the girl in love.” She was playful, sharp-tongued when she needed to be, and even in her insecurities, there was a spark of boldness that made me root for her.
And then there’s Duan Jiaxu. He felt less like a typical romance hero and more like someone real — steady, kind, the sort of presence that doesn’t need big declarations because his care shows in small, everyday gestures (My fav type). The way he slowly returns Sang Zhi’s feelings was so natural that when it finally happened, it didn’t feel like a surprise twist; it felt like the most inevitable, heartwarming thing in the world. What really stayed with me was the softness of Zhu Yi’s storytelling. It never rushed, never forced drama just for the sake of it. Instead, it lingered on little details: a look, a laugh, a quiet act of care.
For me, this book was like a comforting cup of tea — warm, sweet, and easy to sink into.
September 26, 2025
One of the best books I have read this year!!
I watched the drama first(HIDDEN LOVE)...then read the book.
In the book, Duan Jiaxu is often described as serious, intelligent, and mature. He’s a bit aloof and distant, focused on his work and his own personal struggles. While he does have a soft side, it’s not always visible, and he can come across as slightly more cold and mysterious.
The drama makes Duan Jiaxu a little more approachable and charismatic. He still has that serious and somewhat stoic personality, but he also shows more warmth in his interactions, especially as his relationship with Sang Zhi develops. The drama often highlights his more charming and slightly playful side in certain moments, making him feel more emotionally expressive compared to the novel.
Sang Zhi in the novel is sweet, shy, and more emotionally reserved. She’s very focused on her studies and generally quite independent, but there’s also a level of vulnerability that she doesn’t always let show. Her relationship with Duan Jiaxu brings out the more emotional side of her, especially since she’s trying to understand her feelings while still being somewhat naive about romance.
Sang Zhi in the drama is still a bit shy and innocent, but she feels more energetic and optimistic compared to the novel. The drama gives her more opportunities for lighthearted moments, especially with her friends or Duan Jiaxu. She’s also more outwardly expressive about her feelings, which can make her seem more confident or open, even though she’s still learning about love.
Both Sang siblings are very generous, kind and lovable in nature(The first frost by the same author, related to Sang Yan's love story). It seems that they are actually well brought up.
Both healed their partners from their past trauma or bad memories.
It's been few days since I finished the book but it's so good that I already re-read it 4 times!!
All I have to say is, this is a novel which can instantly lift your bad mood. Highly recommended.
I watched the drama first(HIDDEN LOVE)...then read the book.
In the book, Duan Jiaxu is often described as serious, intelligent, and mature. He’s a bit aloof and distant, focused on his work and his own personal struggles. While he does have a soft side, it’s not always visible, and he can come across as slightly more cold and mysterious.
The drama makes Duan Jiaxu a little more approachable and charismatic. He still has that serious and somewhat stoic personality, but he also shows more warmth in his interactions, especially as his relationship with Sang Zhi develops. The drama often highlights his more charming and slightly playful side in certain moments, making him feel more emotionally expressive compared to the novel.
Sang Zhi in the novel is sweet, shy, and more emotionally reserved. She’s very focused on her studies and generally quite independent, but there’s also a level of vulnerability that she doesn’t always let show. Her relationship with Duan Jiaxu brings out the more emotional side of her, especially since she’s trying to understand her feelings while still being somewhat naive about romance.
Sang Zhi in the drama is still a bit shy and innocent, but she feels more energetic and optimistic compared to the novel. The drama gives her more opportunities for lighthearted moments, especially with her friends or Duan Jiaxu. She’s also more outwardly expressive about her feelings, which can make her seem more confident or open, even though she’s still learning about love.
Both Sang siblings are very generous, kind and lovable in nature(The first frost by the same author, related to Sang Yan's love story). It seems that they are actually well brought up.
Both healed their partners from their past trauma or bad memories.
It's been few days since I finished the book but it's so good that I already re-read it 4 times!!
All I have to say is, this is a novel which can instantly lift your bad mood. Highly recommended.
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