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Cold Sands [漠上寒沙]
He’s just a low-ranking deputy general and he’s a prince. They meet on the battlefield but it turns out to be the beginning of a complicated and beautiful story.
Murong Yu is a very confident man – until he meets Han Xin.
There’s nothing he cannot get; there’s nothing he cannot destroy.
To let live or not, is all up to him.
He is the future ruler of Great Yan and so it’s only natural that the world should bow down at his feet.
But he had never thought that one day he would lose control of it.
That even his own will would be uncontrollable.
Murong Yu can neither get nor destroy this prisoner of war.
Han Xin has never given a care about the world – until he meets Murong Yu.
He has never cared about anyone, nor has anyone cared about him.
It doesn’t matter if you’re alone or sad, as long as you can still laugh, life will go on.
He has learned long ago how to not question, how not to believe, how not to lose and how not to care.
Destiny’s uncaring teasing and humiliations have already become numb to him.
That’s right, he doesn’t have a care in the world.
Even if it’s this Prince Royal of Great Yan who’s started to warm up to him.
Murong Yu is a very confident man – until he meets Han Xin.
There’s nothing he cannot get; there’s nothing he cannot destroy.
To let live or not, is all up to him.
He is the future ruler of Great Yan and so it’s only natural that the world should bow down at his feet.
But he had never thought that one day he would lose control of it.
That even his own will would be uncontrollable.
Murong Yu can neither get nor destroy this prisoner of war.
Han Xin has never given a care about the world – until he meets Murong Yu.
He has never cared about anyone, nor has anyone cared about him.
It doesn’t matter if you’re alone or sad, as long as you can still laugh, life will go on.
He has learned long ago how to not question, how not to believe, how not to lose and how not to care.
Destiny’s uncaring teasing and humiliations have already become numb to him.
That’s right, he doesn’t have a care in the world.
Even if it’s this Prince Royal of Great Yan who’s started to warm up to him.
881 pages, ebook
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
February 7, 2025
To be honest, I didn't think this would be very heavy in content. I mean it only has 41 chapters, and the extras so I thought maybe the escalation of events would be pretty fast but I didn't expect this to be so heartbreaking as chapters go by. The first chapters were kind of predictable, but the second half really made me choke on between my sobs and silent misery while reading.
The story is realistic to the point that it's painfully beautiful. I've heard some things about how this one has a sad ending and all and I didn't expect it to be wonderfully executed. The thing that touches me the most with well-written endings are the ones that you really understand because of how the story was written and how it unfolded. You understand the whole meaning of why it came up to that; you understand the values, the views, and principles surrounding the whole story. And you would know that it wouldn't kind of make sense if some other 'happy' ending would happen.
Han Xin's point of view is a good character-driven perception. You would follow and understand how he's changing throughout the story. The way his feelings, thoughts, musings, and love was written is so good that it is also so heart wrenching. I would find myself thinking about the 'what ifs' of the different situations, especially his situation with Murong Yu, but you would know that their decisions are bound and can never really break or change because based on their character, the country that they are serving—even if it makes them wallow in misery—are much more important that the love that they are longing for. That's why I certainly can't quite understand who didn't like the ending because I feel like that's how it should be. It would be very unfitting if they threw everything away and sacrificed millions of innocent lives just for their love. But yeah, I understand also that what if they really did?
The story is so good. I was crying and choking through it like a kid, haha. Also, mad respect to Heng Ziyu, the most loyal subject. I feel also very very sad for him.
"From now on, there will be no wars, no arguments, no loneliness, no farewells, no separation. There will only be an eternity that belongs to them."
Han Xin doesn't want to be born again in the next life, but maybe if he did, I wish he would obtain the freedom he really wants and deserve together with the one he truly love— Murong Yu. Same goes for Heng Ziyu, and all of the other characters who deserved it.
The story is realistic to the point that it's painfully beautiful. I've heard some things about how this one has a sad ending and all and I didn't expect it to be wonderfully executed. The thing that touches me the most with well-written endings are the ones that you really understand because of how the story was written and how it unfolded. You understand the whole meaning of why it came up to that; you understand the values, the views, and principles surrounding the whole story. And you would know that it wouldn't kind of make sense if some other 'happy' ending would happen.
Han Xin's point of view is a good character-driven perception. You would follow and understand how he's changing throughout the story. The way his feelings, thoughts, musings, and love was written is so good that it is also so heart wrenching. I would find myself thinking about the 'what ifs' of the different situations, especially his situation with Murong Yu, but you would know that their decisions are bound and can never really break or change because based on their character, the country that they are serving—even if it makes them wallow in misery—are much more important that the love that they are longing for. That's why I certainly can't quite understand who didn't like the ending because I feel like that's how it should be. It would be very unfitting if they threw everything away and sacrificed millions of innocent lives just for their love. But yeah, I understand also that what if they really did?
The story is so good. I was crying and choking through it like a kid, haha. Also, mad respect to Heng Ziyu, the most loyal subject. I feel also very very sad for him.
"From now on, there will be no wars, no arguments, no loneliness, no farewells, no separation. There will only be an eternity that belongs to them."
Han Xin doesn't want to be born again in the next life, but maybe if he did, I wish he would obtain the freedom he really wants and deserve together with the one he truly love— Murong Yu. Same goes for Heng Ziyu, and all of the other characters who deserved it.
March 16, 2020
A NOVEL THAT IS TATTOOED IN MY HEART!
THE TRANSLATED DESCRIPTION*:
He’s just a low-ranking deputy general and he’s a prince. They meet on the battlefield but it turns out to be the beginning of a complicated and beautiful story.
Murong Yu is a very confident man – until he meets Han Xin.
There’s nothing he cannot get; there’s nothing he cannot destroy.
To let live or not, is all up to him.
He is the future ruler of Great Yan and so it’s only natural that the world should bow down at his feet.
But he had never thought that one day he would lose control of it.
That even his own will would be uncontrollable.
Murong Yu can neither get nor destroy this prisoner of war.
Han Xin has never given a care about the world – until he meets Murong Yu.
He has never cared about anyone, nor has anyone cared about him.
It doesn’t matter if you’re alone or sad, as long as you can still laugh, life will go on.
He has learned long ago how to not question, how not to believe, how not to lose and how not to care.
Destiny’s uncaring teasing and humiliations have already become numb to him.
That’s right, he doesn’t have a care in the world.
Even if it’s this Prince Royal of Great Yan who’s started to warm up to him.
*I've found the translation on novelupdates!
***************************
This is my favorite Chinese book of all times, nothing less. I can't review it properly as my opinion is irrational and biased by my strong feelings for the harrowing story and endearing characters. This book touched my heart like rare books did. I read it several times these past years and my opinion of it is still intact. I must be a masochist for loving it so much but I can't help it, a part of my heart will always burn for Han Xin and Murong Yu. All that I can say is that I recommend to everyone to read it at least once, it's worth it. You can't not love this book unless you're an Alien, and a mean one at that lol
There is an English version that's really good, not good... PERFECT. I rarely read a translation as flawless as Cold Sands'. If a translation can be so good, I can only imagine the quality of the original novel that is, beyond doubt, excellent.
THE TRANSLATED DESCRIPTION*:
He’s just a low-ranking deputy general and he’s a prince. They meet on the battlefield but it turns out to be the beginning of a complicated and beautiful story.
Murong Yu is a very confident man – until he meets Han Xin.
There’s nothing he cannot get; there’s nothing he cannot destroy.
To let live or not, is all up to him.
He is the future ruler of Great Yan and so it’s only natural that the world should bow down at his feet.
But he had never thought that one day he would lose control of it.
That even his own will would be uncontrollable.
Murong Yu can neither get nor destroy this prisoner of war.
Han Xin has never given a care about the world – until he meets Murong Yu.
He has never cared about anyone, nor has anyone cared about him.
It doesn’t matter if you’re alone or sad, as long as you can still laugh, life will go on.
He has learned long ago how to not question, how not to believe, how not to lose and how not to care.
Destiny’s uncaring teasing and humiliations have already become numb to him.
That’s right, he doesn’t have a care in the world.
Even if it’s this Prince Royal of Great Yan who’s started to warm up to him.
*I've found the translation on novelupdates!
***************************
This is my favorite Chinese book of all times, nothing less. I can't review it properly as my opinion is irrational and biased by my strong feelings for the harrowing story and endearing characters. This book touched my heart like rare books did. I read it several times these past years and my opinion of it is still intact. I must be a masochist for loving it so much but I can't help it, a part of my heart will always burn for Han Xin and Murong Yu. All that I can say is that I recommend to everyone to read it at least once, it's worth it. You can't not love this book unless you're an Alien, and a mean one at that lol
There is an English version that's really good, not good... PERFECT. I rarely read a translation as flawless as Cold Sands'. If a translation can be so good, I can only imagine the quality of the original novel that is, beyond doubt, excellent.
January 11, 2024
Cold Sands has been on my to-be-read list for two years and I have even forgotten of its existence as it was buried in my list. Finally got back to it after a nudge from a mutual who reminded me of its existence.
The prologue got me hooked. The way they first crossed paths was intriguing, and the story behind it kept me captivated. Han Xin's streak of bad luck turned out to be more like a blessing in disguise since he kept dodging death at every turn. It was even to the point that I found it hilarious.
The time Murong Yu and Han Xin spent together was a rollercoaster of joy and laughter. The pace was brisk, yet the romance unfolded in a slow burn. I love how they gradually opened up, building trust amid their unique positions and the situation they were in. I truly wished them happiness from the bottom of my heart despite knowing that the ending would be a BE.
Romance aside, the novel showed the hardships of being an emperor, the responsibility they shoulder, and the ripple effects of their simple actions and decisions. It is never easy being an emperor. I knew that after watching so many Chinese historical dramas; but the novel took me behind the scenes and showed me much more.
An emperor holds the fate of the country, and it's not a role you can simply bail on when you're not feeling it anymore. Million of lives weight on the shoulder of an emperor. The novel did a spot-on job portraying the realistic burden an emperor bears. The sacrifices Han Xin made for the Rui country, unknown to the people, hit right in the feels. Truly heartbreaking.
At first, I thought it was his choice, his decision shaping things differently. I was even filled with frustration with Han Xin’s every decision. Yet when I reached the novel’s end, I realized I was wrong. Becoming emperor was destined for him. Even if he stayed with Murong Yu, his uncle would have found a way to bring him back. It was inevitable.
The finale nailed the bittersweet vibe I was expecting, but instead of going full-on angst, it leaned more into a melancholic sadness. It would've been better if their parting was due to an unavoidable demise, but, it wasn't. I never thought lovemaking could be this poignant. It was full of reluctance to part, carrying this hope of melting into each other and becoming inseparable. It left me a lingering sense of heartbreak.
Just when I thought the sadness had hit its limit, the author poured on more sorrow with the epilogue and the extras. The epilogue was written in just a few pages, yet, I could imagine how much pain and anguish they must have felt when they heard of each other’s marriage and concubines. And the fact that Murong Yu waited for Han Xin to do first before doing so himself broke me. I'm just a reader, but with a few words, the author skillfully pierced my heart with several holes. I don’t even have a space left in my heart to feel sorry for Heng Ziyu.
“Cold Sand” surely hit me differently – it's the only BE novel where I secretly hoped for a miracle, like a plot twist turning it into a happily-ever-after. I knew it was wishful thinking, but the idea crossed my mind even before hit the novel’s halfway point.
It makes sense to me why this novel gets high praise from readers. I’m finding it hard to move on now that I have reached the end of the novel. I know that this would be an unforgettable piece, like how the novel Nan Chan was for me. And that’s it for this review, I need to go heal my heart.
PS. You can save “Extra: I Love You” as your last read if you can’t handle too much sadness. I was so glad I left it last, as it helped warm me up like a sunshine after the rain. It was the chapter 30 extra in Chinese BL Translations. The extra is not related to the main story so you can read it last.
The prologue got me hooked. The way they first crossed paths was intriguing, and the story behind it kept me captivated. Han Xin's streak of bad luck turned out to be more like a blessing in disguise since he kept dodging death at every turn. It was even to the point that I found it hilarious.
The time Murong Yu and Han Xin spent together was a rollercoaster of joy and laughter. The pace was brisk, yet the romance unfolded in a slow burn. I love how they gradually opened up, building trust amid their unique positions and the situation they were in. I truly wished them happiness from the bottom of my heart despite knowing that the ending would be a BE.
Romance aside, the novel showed the hardships of being an emperor, the responsibility they shoulder, and the ripple effects of their simple actions and decisions. It is never easy being an emperor. I knew that after watching so many Chinese historical dramas; but the novel took me behind the scenes and showed me much more.
An emperor holds the fate of the country, and it's not a role you can simply bail on when you're not feeling it anymore. Million of lives weight on the shoulder of an emperor. The novel did a spot-on job portraying the realistic burden an emperor bears. The sacrifices Han Xin made for the Rui country, unknown to the people, hit right in the feels. Truly heartbreaking.
At first, I thought it was his choice, his decision shaping things differently. I was even filled with frustration with Han Xin’s every decision. Yet when I reached the novel’s end, I realized I was wrong. Becoming emperor was destined for him. Even if he stayed with Murong Yu, his uncle would have found a way to bring him back. It was inevitable.
The finale nailed the bittersweet vibe I was expecting, but instead of going full-on angst, it leaned more into a melancholic sadness. It would've been better if their parting was due to an unavoidable demise, but, it wasn't. I never thought lovemaking could be this poignant. It was full of reluctance to part, carrying this hope of melting into each other and becoming inseparable. It left me a lingering sense of heartbreak.
Just when I thought the sadness had hit its limit, the author poured on more sorrow with the epilogue and the extras. The epilogue was written in just a few pages, yet, I could imagine how much pain and anguish they must have felt when they heard of each other’s marriage and concubines. And the fact that Murong Yu waited for Han Xin to do first before doing so himself broke me. I'm just a reader, but with a few words, the author skillfully pierced my heart with several holes. I don’t even have a space left in my heart to feel sorry for Heng Ziyu.
“Cold Sand” surely hit me differently – it's the only BE novel where I secretly hoped for a miracle, like a plot twist turning it into a happily-ever-after. I knew it was wishful thinking, but the idea crossed my mind even before hit the novel’s halfway point.
It makes sense to me why this novel gets high praise from readers. I’m finding it hard to move on now that I have reached the end of the novel. I know that this would be an unforgettable piece, like how the novel Nan Chan was for me. And that’s it for this review, I need to go heal my heart.
PS. You can save “Extra: I Love You” as your last read if you can’t handle too much sadness. I was so glad I left it last, as it helped warm me up like a sunshine after the rain. It was the chapter 30 extra in Chinese BL Translations. The extra is not related to the main story so you can read it last.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2021
Blimey.
I honestly thought this was going to be a very quick read - it's only 41 chapters long plus extras - and a light one, at that, something 'shallow' and easy, just your regular enemies to lovers trope with a bit of dubcon thrown in. Well, I was in for a surprise. Though it does lack the depth of Mo Dao Zu Shi or The Husky and his White Cat Shizun, because it is relatively smaller and doesn't go into such detail, with countless side plots and arcs, this novel does pack a punch, and an unexpected one at that. The Han Xin monologue about what he must do for the safety of the people is just beautiful and heart wrenching, so well written - props for the translation that was SO GOOD. The relationship between the two protagonists, and even the thrown-in chance of a love triangle happening, was lovely and well done, as far as I'm concerned, especially on Han Xin's part - the story is told in first person POV, his POV. The way he slowly realises his own feelings and comes to the conclusion that he may have made a mistake, taken the wrong decision - only to understand in the end there was no other decision he could have made, because he is who he is - is so well done, for the readers are taken along with it and experience his emotions in depth. The final chapter and the epilogue crushed me - there were tears - for how well written they were and how true to character. Kudos to the author for having the courage of delivering such ending, most other writers would shy from it and tweak the tale in a manner that would step away from that kind of finale, but even though it leaves a sadness in the heart and a bitter sting at the corner of one's eyes, it is the only realistic ending there could be. It's the only one that makes sense, and I loved it, despite the heartbreak. It's a clear 5 star for me, and unexpectedly, one of my favourite danmei so far.
I honestly thought this was going to be a very quick read - it's only 41 chapters long plus extras - and a light one, at that, something 'shallow' and easy, just your regular enemies to lovers trope with a bit of dubcon thrown in. Well, I was in for a surprise. Though it does lack the depth of Mo Dao Zu Shi or The Husky and his White Cat Shizun, because it is relatively smaller and doesn't go into such detail, with countless side plots and arcs, this novel does pack a punch, and an unexpected one at that. The Han Xin monologue about what he must do for the safety of the people is just beautiful and heart wrenching, so well written - props for the translation that was SO GOOD. The relationship between the two protagonists, and even the thrown-in chance of a love triangle happening, was lovely and well done, as far as I'm concerned, especially on Han Xin's part - the story is told in first person POV, his POV. The way he slowly realises his own feelings and comes to the conclusion that he may have made a mistake, taken the wrong decision - only to understand in the end there was no other decision he could have made, because he is who he is - is so well done, for the readers are taken along with it and experience his emotions in depth. The final chapter and the epilogue crushed me - there were tears - for how well written they were and how true to character. Kudos to the author for having the courage of delivering such ending, most other writers would shy from it and tweak the tale in a manner that would step away from that kind of finale, but even though it leaves a sadness in the heart and a bitter sting at the corner of one's eyes, it is the only realistic ending there could be. It's the only one that makes sense, and I loved it, despite the heartbreak. It's a clear 5 star for me, and unexpectedly, one of my favourite danmei so far.
May 14, 2019
*BAWLING FOREVER IN THE CORNER*
help my tears won't stop, this story is just so painfully well done i'm totally crushed under all the feels T__T
the plot! the characters! esp the characters! OMG THE CHARACTERS
my heart also goes to the side character general Heng, he was sooo loyal and everything and his feelings are true goddamn just as when i thought the end couldn't be more heartbreaking, i was once again crushed.
while this couldn't be called a true Happy Ending, i actually thought the end was really fitting and somewhat satisfying as the plot and story progression go.
over all, this novel feels really organic and such an emotional rollercoaster to me. and even today, I'm still reeling from the ending and the characterization progression T__T
help my tears won't stop, this story is just so painfully well done i'm totally crushed under all the feels T__T
the plot! the characters! esp the characters! OMG THE CHARACTERS
my heart also goes to the side character general Heng, he was sooo loyal and everything and his feelings are true goddamn just as when i thought the end couldn't be more heartbreaking, i was once again crushed.
while this couldn't be called a true Happy Ending, i actually thought the end was really fitting and somewhat satisfying as the plot and story progression go.
over all, this novel feels really organic and such an emotional rollercoaster to me. and even today, I'm still reeling from the ending and the characterization progression T__T
May 14, 2019
OMG... what an emotional roller coaster. I was not expecting the type of ending i got and it literally left me in tears. If you're not up for something heavy then this probably isn't something you want to take on. Great characters... awesome storyline and it's written so you feel like you are actually in the storyline with them. Enjoy... but beware.
December 15, 2020
This is a bittersome story, it fills the reader with anguish and despair. The fact that their love story is so tragic makes one's heart ache.
The political affairs in which both protagonists are involved are complex and leave no room for their love, they have to go through tough things having the fate of their countries in their hands, they can neither abandon their countries nor leave each other sides.
The protagonist is forced to bear with many responsabilites that he wasn't ready to assume.
He's to part ways with his lover, leaving him behind. He fears his beloved thinks he has betrayed and lied to him, but at the same time he has no way to escape from his fate.
This is a story about lovers and enemies, about fate, and about devoted love. At first, it might be difficult to understand their desicions, why can't they just love each other?, if their love is so strong, why can't they leave all behind?, why can't they elope?
There's also some irony within the story, at first, the protagonist wanted to be free, to be careless, to be far from the war,'to be like the wind', he says, he even leaves his beloved in order to accomplish this dream, but he ends up being the all mighty ruler of the contry getting completely involved in the war.
The character development is great, how the protagonist discreetly turns from a reckless youth to a cold-blooded, calculating emperor.
Their love was always doomed, the end of the story is heartbreaking and leaves a feeling of longing and melancholy. The 'what if...?' is a statement that never leaves one's mind along the story.
It's a book filled with anguish and melancholy, worth to read.
The political affairs in which both protagonists are involved are complex and leave no room for their love, they have to go through tough things having the fate of their countries in their hands, they can neither abandon their countries nor leave each other sides.
The protagonist is forced to bear with many responsabilites that he wasn't ready to assume.
He's to part ways with his lover, leaving him behind. He fears his beloved thinks he has betrayed and lied to him, but at the same time he has no way to escape from his fate.
This is a story about lovers and enemies, about fate, and about devoted love. At first, it might be difficult to understand their desicions, why can't they just love each other?, if their love is so strong, why can't they leave all behind?, why can't they elope?
There's also some irony within the story, at first, the protagonist wanted to be free, to be careless, to be far from the war,'to be like the wind', he says, he even leaves his beloved in order to accomplish this dream, but he ends up being the all mighty ruler of the contry getting completely involved in the war.
The character development is great, how the protagonist discreetly turns from a reckless youth to a cold-blooded, calculating emperor.
Their love was always doomed, the end of the story is heartbreaking and leaves a feeling of longing and melancholy. The 'what if...?' is a statement that never leaves one's mind along the story.
It's a book filled with anguish and melancholy, worth to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2021
Loved it , I took really long to read this and Tbh i was really reluctant to read it as well so i kept putting it off but i'm a sucker for tragedies so i gave it a go and i don't regret it one bit . It has beautiful poetry and well written politics surrounding the war. Both strong willed emperor willing to sacrifice everything for their country and even if they had a choice they would do the same to fulfill ones each destiny and aspiration .Its not like they didnt know the consequences , they knew fully well what that meant but still went on with it only to find themself in agony . If you're into happy ending , this is probably not for you. It leaves a lingering feeling and makes you think about them even as you go about your day ( i mean, i did ) . Their love revolved in loneliness and bittersweet as their main theme and i could actually keep myself in their shoes for some parts . This was really not my everyday tragedy read and idk i wouldnt count it as one . The ending almost made me feel like im listening to exile by taylor swift and might have also had some tears welling up as i read some lines. I knew what they did had to be done for their country but i still cant bring myself to think that even with so much love and longing between the two , they would only be together after they die . Really an underrated read . would actually give it a 4 but gave 5 to boost the rating up .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2021
Tis hard to write a review for this novel through the tears welling up but I need to wail and let my sorrows gush out.
To be honest, I was not fond of this novel at the start. I don't like novels in first person and it took me weeks before I got to the good parts, reading only a chapter or so every other day even though a novel of this length can be easily consumed over the weekends.
The plot twist or that which they call the climax was so-so after all those foreshadowing but there is something in this novel that makes it stand out against all those other tragic danmeis I have read.
It was their acceptance of their fate.
There was no gut-wrenching pain past the second part. There was no sudden jab. The pain was offered bit by bit and you get used to it but it is there wedged in your heart as it grows stronger as the chapters go.
The charm lies in anticipating what their next steps would be. How they'd interact. How could this possibly end for them.
I tear up while reading the second part but what made me bawl my eyes out was the last chapters. I cried for Han Xin and his fate. Cried for Murong Yu and his lost. Cried for Marshall Heng's end. Cried for what could have been.
Oh sorrowful sorrowful yearning.
Oh sorrowful sorrowful fate.
To be honest, I was not fond of this novel at the start. I don't like novels in first person and it took me weeks before I got to the good parts, reading only a chapter or so every other day even though a novel of this length can be easily consumed over the weekends.
The plot twist or that which they call the climax was so-so after all those foreshadowing but there is something in this novel that makes it stand out against all those other tragic danmeis I have read.
It was their acceptance of their fate.
There was no gut-wrenching pain past the second part. There was no sudden jab. The pain was offered bit by bit and you get used to it but it is there wedged in your heart as it grows stronger as the chapters go.
The charm lies in anticipating what their next steps would be. How they'd interact. How could this possibly end for them.
I tear up while reading the second part but what made me bawl my eyes out was the last chapters. I cried for Han Xin and his fate. Cried for Murong Yu and his lost. Cried for Marshall Heng's end. Cried for what could have been.
Oh sorrowful sorrowful yearning.
Oh sorrowful sorrowful fate.
April 17, 2019
Never going to read it again! I don’t think my heart can take reading such an emotional book again.
July 4, 2019
Isn't it kinda similar to War Prisnor?
November 24, 2023
This is one of those novels that promises to stay with you for a very long time, and (Re) reading Cold Sands is a uniquely bittersweet journey. It's been almost two years since I first read this, and upon remembering this underrated gem of a masterpiece; there is still this inexplicably endless hollow chasm inside my chest. Almost simultaneously, it's as if I've continuously been stabbed in the heart, and this utterly heart-wrenching and tormenting agony has left behind this melancholic bruising ache...
But by all means; please don't let this deter you from experiencing this beautiful poignant story of love, connection, sacrifices, ambitions, destiny's wicked control and the agonizing question of wondering over all the "what-ifs".
I truly cannot do this novel justice by attempting to put into words the heartrending, surreal and insurmountable emotions I went through while reading this–it was an absolutely unforgettable experience !
I can only applaud Cold Sands as the embodiment of the perfect tragedy. A tale of two souls from wholly disparate backgrounds, world-views and experiences–meet and find solace in one another. Where a proud and determined human refuses to bend, and in the end can only break. But the fickle wheel of fate has a mind of it's own, and listens not to the despairing devastating wails of man.
1) Story
Han Xin is an idle young nobleman pressed into the military by his corrupt nation, despite dreaming of nothing other than living a free life. He ends up captured by the enemy, where he remains proud and unbroken despite his seemingly lazy nature. This gains him the admiration, trust, and eventually the affection of the ruthless ambitious enemy prince Murong Yu. Out of their mutual love, Murong Yu lets him go to live that free life he always desired. Yet at this seemingly happy ending, a shocking revelation shatters everything Han Xin ever knew about himself, and he is dragged into the clutches of destiny's ruthless unceasing machinations.
The beginning of the story is an archetypal example of my favourite "enemies-to-lovers" trope and dynamic. The bickering sexual tension between Han Xin and Murong Yu is so much fun to read, especially with the hilarious levels of crude swearing coming from Han Xin's free-spirited mouth.
Then at the halfway point of the novel the story takes a drastic turn into serious court drama, palace intrigue and politics, as Han Xin's personality is suddenly forced to be warped and changed like steel forged in fire.
Finally, yes, the two main characters of Cold Sands do meet what can only be called a truly unhappy fate. The ending was absolutely flawless in that it even had the tiny glimmer of hope just to add to that depressing realism~
This is the essence of a perfect tragedy: if Han Xin and Murong Yu had the chance to do everything over, they still wouldn't have changed a thing and taken the same decisions.
2) Characters
Our main character Han Xin is absolutely the star of this novel. It's both really fascinating and really depressing to see him evolve from a carefree, lazy, and hilariously mouthy/sarcastic youth... into a cold cunning ruthless emperor who must personally take the responsibility of an entire nation on his shoulders.
On one hand, he gains a sense of purpose and the ability to make a hugely positive difference in the lives of countless people. But at what cost, at what terrible cost ?!
In the end, he's lost everything–his friends, his freedom, his love, his very self.
On the other hand, the main love interest Murong Yu is wonderfully written as Han Xin's exact counterpart. Where Han Xin grows to deny his own humanity, Murong Yu develops in the opposite direction. He starts off as an inhuman conquering prince, but grows to acknowledge his own humanity through his love for Han Xin despite being aware and knowing how it will become his glaring weakness. Still, in the end, he cannot abandon his ambition and thirst for power, and it costs him his last chance to be truly together with Han Xin.
Besides these two amazing main characters, the side characters of Cold Sands also fit the story extremely well. Every single one represents and develops the themes of the main story: Han Xin's childhood friends that he must cut ties with, the crueler subordinate generals below Murong Yu, the corrupt old order of Han Xin's nation that he must root out. Special shout-outs to the love rival of the story, the wonderfully written and woeful Heng Ziyu.
Overall :
I can only hope that in their next life, Han Xin and Murong Yu can live free of all these burdens and worries, and finally be happy together.
I'll leave you all with this poem, which I think captures the bittersweet ending of Cold Sands perfectly.
Rima XLI by Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer (Rough translation)
You were the hurricane, and I the tall tower which challenged its power: You had to either smash me or knock me down!
It could not be!
You were the ocean, and I the firm stone which awaited your waves: You had to break upon me or tear me down!
It could not be!
You beautiful, and I proud: accustomed one to crush, the other not to yield; The path narrows, the inevitable impact...
It could not be!
But by all means; please don't let this deter you from experiencing this beautiful poignant story of love, connection, sacrifices, ambitions, destiny's wicked control and the agonizing question of wondering over all the "what-ifs".
I truly cannot do this novel justice by attempting to put into words the heartrending, surreal and insurmountable emotions I went through while reading this–it was an absolutely unforgettable experience !
I can only applaud Cold Sands as the embodiment of the perfect tragedy. A tale of two souls from wholly disparate backgrounds, world-views and experiences–meet and find solace in one another. Where a proud and determined human refuses to bend, and in the end can only break. But the fickle wheel of fate has a mind of it's own, and listens not to the despairing devastating wails of man.
1) Story
Han Xin is an idle young nobleman pressed into the military by his corrupt nation, despite dreaming of nothing other than living a free life. He ends up captured by the enemy, where he remains proud and unbroken despite his seemingly lazy nature. This gains him the admiration, trust, and eventually the affection of the ruthless ambitious enemy prince Murong Yu. Out of their mutual love, Murong Yu lets him go to live that free life he always desired. Yet at this seemingly happy ending, a shocking revelation shatters everything Han Xin ever knew about himself, and he is dragged into the clutches of destiny's ruthless unceasing machinations.
The beginning of the story is an archetypal example of my favourite "enemies-to-lovers" trope and dynamic. The bickering sexual tension between Han Xin and Murong Yu is so much fun to read, especially with the hilarious levels of crude swearing coming from Han Xin's free-spirited mouth.
Then at the halfway point of the novel the story takes a drastic turn into serious court drama, palace intrigue and politics, as Han Xin's personality is suddenly forced to be warped and changed like steel forged in fire.
Finally, yes, the two main characters of Cold Sands do meet what can only be called a truly unhappy fate. The ending was absolutely flawless in that it even had the tiny glimmer of hope just to add to that depressing realism~
This is the essence of a perfect tragedy: if Han Xin and Murong Yu had the chance to do everything over, they still wouldn't have changed a thing and taken the same decisions.
2) Characters
Our main character Han Xin is absolutely the star of this novel. It's both really fascinating and really depressing to see him evolve from a carefree, lazy, and hilariously mouthy/sarcastic youth... into a cold cunning ruthless emperor who must personally take the responsibility of an entire nation on his shoulders.
On one hand, he gains a sense of purpose and the ability to make a hugely positive difference in the lives of countless people. But at what cost, at what terrible cost ?!
In the end, he's lost everything–his friends, his freedom, his love, his very self.
On the other hand, the main love interest Murong Yu is wonderfully written as Han Xin's exact counterpart. Where Han Xin grows to deny his own humanity, Murong Yu develops in the opposite direction. He starts off as an inhuman conquering prince, but grows to acknowledge his own humanity through his love for Han Xin despite being aware and knowing how it will become his glaring weakness. Still, in the end, he cannot abandon his ambition and thirst for power, and it costs him his last chance to be truly together with Han Xin.
Besides these two amazing main characters, the side characters of Cold Sands also fit the story extremely well. Every single one represents and develops the themes of the main story: Han Xin's childhood friends that he must cut ties with, the crueler subordinate generals below Murong Yu, the corrupt old order of Han Xin's nation that he must root out. Special shout-outs to the love rival of the story, the wonderfully written and woeful Heng Ziyu.
Overall :
I can only hope that in their next life, Han Xin and Murong Yu can live free of all these burdens and worries, and finally be happy together.
I'll leave you all with this poem, which I think captures the bittersweet ending of Cold Sands perfectly.
Rima XLI by Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer (Rough translation)
You were the hurricane, and I the tall tower which challenged its power: You had to either smash me or knock me down!
It could not be!
You were the ocean, and I the firm stone which awaited your waves: You had to break upon me or tear me down!
It could not be!
You beautiful, and I proud: accustomed one to crush, the other not to yield; The path narrows, the inevitable impact...
It could not be!
September 18, 2023
"Tanto como este mundo es grande, tanto como la naturaleza es hermosa; por el resto de mi vida, solo habrá uno en el corazón de Han Xin".
February 11, 2025
have not cried this hard to a novel in a hot minute 😄
January 4, 2021
Wow. This was painful but so good. I'm so glad that I decided to read this.
The emotions, yearning and longing between Han Xin (MC) and Murong Yu (ML) absolutely shattered my heart. Due to circumstances, HX becomes a prisoner of MRY and they eventually develop feelings for each other, but not due to Stockholm syndrome. They were enemies that learned to be acquaintances then friends and soon after lovers. They were the only two people who truly understood each other but they were destined to live the rest of their lives apart. The knives are ever-present from the beginning until the end of the story.
And I don't think this classifies as a tragedy because it wasn't like they never had happy moments or that they ended up regretting their choices but it was more like a quiet and tired resignation that they had to live with the choices they made. Although they both married to different people in the end, they still very much loved each other; they lived and left the world with this fact engraved in their heart. The ending was definitely very bittersweet but I have no complaints because it was realistic, for what it's worth.
The thing about this novel is that even though their romance took a backseat for most of the story while the author focused on developing HX's character and the plot, I didn't mind it at all. I found HX's character development very fascinating as he transformed from a person who wanted to run away and live in freedom into someone who was forced to shoulder the burdens of the entire sky above him. HX had always been alone and he had no choice but to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of his people, even if that meant making difficult decisions that many would curse him for.
I have to say that it made me very sad to see HX and MRY live their lives feeling an acute sense of loss and loneliness while being in a room full of people. And that thing between HX and Heng Ziyu (side character) was just so sad too. I don't think that HX was unnecessarily cruel towards HZY at the end. It was just that HX couldn't take any chances and decided to cut off a threat before it had a chance to form. But still. It drove home the message that even after all these years, HX could trust no one else but MRY.
This was one of those novels that really hit me hard because it subtly kept emphasising that no matter how hard HX tried to break away from his destiny, in the end his lofty dreams were just like a smokescreen that disappeared when he tried to grasp them. It was quite depressing and left me with a minor existential crisis.
On a side note, I felt like all the characters were fully developed, which supported the plot and story progression, and keeping the readers on the edge of their seats. The author also did a great job with the pacing of the story, by not dragging it out and not missing out any key points.
If one day I want to subject myself to pain again, I'll just come back to re-read this.
*By the way, I read the English translation of this by ayszhang who did an amazing job bringing the story to live, so I have to thank them for allowing me to read such an incredible story in the first place.
The emotions, yearning and longing between Han Xin (MC) and Murong Yu (ML) absolutely shattered my heart. Due to circumstances, HX becomes a prisoner of MRY and they eventually develop feelings for each other, but not due to Stockholm syndrome. They were enemies that learned to be acquaintances then friends and soon after lovers. They were the only two people who truly understood each other but they were destined to live the rest of their lives apart. The knives are ever-present from the beginning until the end of the story.
And I don't think this classifies as a tragedy because it wasn't like they never had happy moments or that they ended up regretting their choices but it was more like a quiet and tired resignation that they had to live with the choices they made. Although they both married to different people in the end, they still very much loved each other; they lived and left the world with this fact engraved in their heart. The ending was definitely very bittersweet but I have no complaints because it was realistic, for what it's worth.
The thing about this novel is that even though their romance took a backseat for most of the story while the author focused on developing HX's character and the plot, I didn't mind it at all. I found HX's character development very fascinating as he transformed from a person who wanted to run away and live in freedom into someone who was forced to shoulder the burdens of the entire sky above him. HX had always been alone and he had no choice but to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of his people, even if that meant making difficult decisions that many would curse him for.
I have to say that it made me very sad to see HX and MRY live their lives feeling an acute sense of loss and loneliness while being in a room full of people. And that thing between HX and Heng Ziyu (side character) was just so sad too. I don't think that HX was unnecessarily cruel towards HZY at the end. It was just that HX couldn't take any chances and decided to cut off a threat before it had a chance to form. But still. It drove home the message that even after all these years, HX could trust no one else but MRY.
This was one of those novels that really hit me hard because it subtly kept emphasising that no matter how hard HX tried to break away from his destiny, in the end his lofty dreams were just like a smokescreen that disappeared when he tried to grasp them. It was quite depressing and left me with a minor existential crisis.
On a side note, I felt like all the characters were fully developed, which supported the plot and story progression, and keeping the readers on the edge of their seats. The author also did a great job with the pacing of the story, by not dragging it out and not missing out any key points.
If one day I want to subject myself to pain again, I'll just come back to re-read this.
*By the way, I read the English translation of this by ayszhang who did an amazing job bringing the story to live, so I have to thank them for allowing me to read such an incredible story in the first place.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2021
Synopsis:
"He was just a low-ranking deputy general and he was a prince. They met on the battlefield but it turned out to be the beginning of a complicated and beautiful story.
Murong Yu was a very confident man – until he met Han Xin.
There was naught he could not get; there was naught he could not destroy.
To let live or not, was all up to him.
He was the future ruler of Great Yan thus it was only natural that the world should bow down at his feet.
However, he had never thought that one day he would lose control of it.
That even his own will would be uncontrollable.
Murong Yu could neither get nor destroy this prisoner of war.
Han Xin had never given a care about the world – until he met Murong Yu.
He had never cared about anyone, nor had anyone cared about him.
It did not matter if he was alone or sad, as long as he could still laugh, life would go on.
He had learned long ago how to not question, how not to believe, how not to lose and how not to care.
Destiny’s uncaring teasing and humiliations had already become numb to him.
That’s right, he did not have a care in the world.
Even if it was this Crown Prince of Great Yan who had started to warm up to him."
[From Chinese BL Translations]
Thoughts:
This is one book I've been trying to figure out how to write a review on because it was both perfect and tough and a whole lot in between for me. It was deeply sad and beautifully written, and that's only from the translation. I can only imagine how beautiful the actual writing is.
It is angst at a level I respect, and what made it striking is that the angst was not in the journey leading up to them loving each other but rather because they loved each other. The pain was in that what they had was rare and deep and intense but never to be even when it was. It was in everything else that was real and sensible but in a tangent against an HE for them. So, heads up on that if you're considering it.
It was not a love that flew together but one that soared apart, and fiercely so.
The book is a solid 5 stars for me and so much more. And I respect their determination to make the choices they made, their honesty in realizing what mattered and to face up when it didn't anymore but was too late, their courage to hope despite the obvious direction of their futures and their love that carved a place in both their hearts that was unrivalled and lived through the even the things it couldn't and shouldn't have, including the inevitability of time and history.
Murong Yu and Han Xin and the many characters that made this book the poignant piece it was. I'm not likely to forget them soon. If ever. Nor the name of the book itself.
'Cold Sands: Beyond the Frore Dunes'
"He was just a low-ranking deputy general and he was a prince. They met on the battlefield but it turned out to be the beginning of a complicated and beautiful story.
Murong Yu was a very confident man – until he met Han Xin.
There was naught he could not get; there was naught he could not destroy.
To let live or not, was all up to him.
He was the future ruler of Great Yan thus it was only natural that the world should bow down at his feet.
However, he had never thought that one day he would lose control of it.
That even his own will would be uncontrollable.
Murong Yu could neither get nor destroy this prisoner of war.
Han Xin had never given a care about the world – until he met Murong Yu.
He had never cared about anyone, nor had anyone cared about him.
It did not matter if he was alone or sad, as long as he could still laugh, life would go on.
He had learned long ago how to not question, how not to believe, how not to lose and how not to care.
Destiny’s uncaring teasing and humiliations had already become numb to him.
That’s right, he did not have a care in the world.
Even if it was this Crown Prince of Great Yan who had started to warm up to him."
[From Chinese BL Translations]
Thoughts:
This is one book I've been trying to figure out how to write a review on because it was both perfect and tough and a whole lot in between for me. It was deeply sad and beautifully written, and that's only from the translation. I can only imagine how beautiful the actual writing is.
It is angst at a level I respect, and what made it striking is that the angst was not in the journey leading up to them loving each other but rather because they loved each other. The pain was in that what they had was rare and deep and intense but never to be even when it was. It was in everything else that was real and sensible but in a tangent against an HE for them. So, heads up on that if you're considering it.
It was not a love that flew together but one that soared apart, and fiercely so.
The book is a solid 5 stars for me and so much more. And I respect their determination to make the choices they made, their honesty in realizing what mattered and to face up when it didn't anymore but was too late, their courage to hope despite the obvious direction of their futures and their love that carved a place in both their hearts that was unrivalled and lived through the even the things it couldn't and shouldn't have, including the inevitability of time and history.
Murong Yu and Han Xin and the many characters that made this book the poignant piece it was. I'm not likely to forget them soon. If ever. Nor the name of the book itself.
'Cold Sands: Beyond the Frore Dunes'
October 5, 2019
one of the best bl books i have ever read.
February 8, 2021
Esta novela ME HA HECHO LLORAR MUY FEO.
No tengo más palabras para describir esta tremenda historia que me hizo sentir tan frustrada...
No tengo más palabras para describir esta tremenda historia que me hizo sentir tan frustrada...
February 24, 2022
my heart is shattered
January 31, 2024
I'm never recovering from this novel
October 15, 2023
I usually am drawn to endless pages of yearning and this one did not disappoint but it did not resonate deep into my soul, only the surface. It’s more of a me problem rather than the book, though. I still enjoyed it thoroughly.
July 16, 2021
“From now on, there will be no wars, no arguments, no loneliness, no farewells, no separation. There will only be an eternity that belongs to them.”
Acredito que essa é uma daquelas novels que eu esperava muito mais. Apesar de ter quase novecentas páginas, percebe-se a falta de mais nessa história — principalmente do romance. A história é muito bem escrita, bem construída e executada, com um final eletrizante e que deve ser lembrado, mas sem o impacto necessário.
Algumas partes são apressadas demais. Essa é uma novel que não perde tempo no que faz, e ao mesmo tempo que é divertido, às vezes se torna preocupante. Porque você quer saber mais, quer que aquele personagem sofra mais, veja mais, mude mais, mas determinados eventos acontecem de um único capítulo pro outro. Alguns pontos no romance também me incomodaram um pouco, mas nada muito grave.
Se o romance tivesse sido algo muito mais presente na história, ao longo dela, em qualquer formato que fosse, o final teria sido muito mais impactante do que o que foi para mim. É uma novel bem diferente, com uma proposta muito interessante e cenas quentes que lembram muito a escrita ocidental, para os não acostumados com novels chinesas. Recomendo, mas com ressalvas.
3.5 stars.
Acredito que essa é uma daquelas novels que eu esperava muito mais. Apesar de ter quase novecentas páginas, percebe-se a falta de mais nessa história — principalmente do romance. A história é muito bem escrita, bem construída e executada, com um final eletrizante e que deve ser lembrado, mas sem o impacto necessário.
Algumas partes são apressadas demais. Essa é uma novel que não perde tempo no que faz, e ao mesmo tempo que é divertido, às vezes se torna preocupante. Porque você quer saber mais, quer que aquele personagem sofra mais, veja mais, mude mais, mas determinados eventos acontecem de um único capítulo pro outro. Alguns pontos no romance também me incomodaram um pouco, mas nada muito grave.
Se o romance tivesse sido algo muito mais presente na história, ao longo dela, em qualquer formato que fosse, o final teria sido muito mais impactante do que o que foi para mim. É uma novel bem diferente, com uma proposta muito interessante e cenas quentes que lembram muito a escrita ocidental, para os não acostumados com novels chinesas. Recomendo, mas com ressalvas.
3.5 stars.
July 17, 2021
"Their blood finally merged into one."
This novel made me cry. A lot.
From the beginning, I knew it wouldn't have a nice and perfect happy ending, but I still had hope. Even in the last chapter, I was still holding onto something - one last piece of hope - for them to have some peace and quiet, for them to be able to love without barriers. However, how Han Xin always says throughout their whole trajectory: it was their fate to never be able to be together.
This novel made me cry. A lot.
From the beginning, I knew it wouldn't have a nice and perfect happy ending, but I still had hope. Even in the last chapter, I was still holding onto something - one last piece of hope - for them to have some peace and quiet, for them to be able to love without barriers. However, how Han Xin always says throughout their whole trajectory: it was their fate to never be able to be together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2021
"You say you love me, Xin, but how much do you really?"
"As much as this world is large, as much as nature is beautiful;
for the rest of my life, there will only be one in Han Xin's heart."
——————————————————
I HATE THIS BOOK SO MUCH It got me crying the type of cry where you can't breathe.
I knew it's a sad ending but I thought one of them are gonna die and honestly I rather take one of them dieing than this
"As much as this world is large, as much as nature is beautiful;
for the rest of my life, there will only be one in Han Xin's heart."
——————————————————
I HATE THIS BOOK SO MUCH It got me crying the type of cry where you can't breathe.
I knew it's a sad ending but I thought one of them are gonna die and honestly I rather take one of them dieing than this
August 13, 2022
Love/ hate relationship. It could of been really really good and it was good but it didn't live up to its potential. It felt kind of immature (the writing style) but was still good over all. Imma leaving my rating at a two but I did enjoy this. It was just missing depth.
PS. Not a happy ending. No closure. I just can't handle that ending personally. Just like Tuck Everlasting I refuse to accept the ending.
PS. Not a happy ending. No closure. I just can't handle that ending personally. Just like Tuck Everlasting I refuse to accept the ending.
January 23, 2023
The angst? The protagonists dynamic? The tension? The yearning? The longing? The loneliness? The heartbreak? The tender and passionate love?
Finished this in two days, now see me cry my heart out for the misery I have put myself the moment I chose to read this book knowing it had sad ending. I wouldn’t call the ending sad, tho. That was the most realistic ending in the history of danmei I have ever read.
Finished this in two days, now see me cry my heart out for the misery I have put myself the moment I chose to read this book knowing it had sad ending. I wouldn’t call the ending sad, tho. That was the most realistic ending in the history of danmei I have ever read.
July 9, 2023
So wonderfully written and so well developed, it has to be one of the few danmei novels I've read that made me wish I was fluent in Chinese just so I could better enjoy the original work, and not have to read a fan translation. Still, though, it was a great read, made me excited and also torn over some chapters, but overall it is a must read and sadly, not as well appreciated as it should be.
February 21, 2022
absolutely tragic! loved it! love is hardly attainable in times of war when you’re from opposing sides.
the sacrifice of one’s autonomy for the state…you are not your own person.
the yearning…the tragic end…had me in tears…
the sacrifice of one’s autonomy for the state…you are not your own person.
the yearning…the tragic end…had me in tears…
March 31, 2020
The romance was complicated yet a beautiful story.
November 25, 2020
dame algo triste. no no tan triste.
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