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草茉莉 Four O’Clock Flower
Life is mysterious. Even when the difference is as vast as that between the sky and the earth, a relationship can be formed and a love can come into existence.
University teacher x Hairdresser
Zheng Siqi x Qiao Fengtian
University teacher x Hairdresser
Zheng Siqi x Qiao Fengtian
- GenresRomance
Webnovel
Published January 1, 2018
9 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 9, 2024
Brilliant “slice of life” novel with a pair of mature characters who absolutely stole my heart. I’ve finished it 2 hours ago and I’m still in a daze,with a puffy face from crying (not from sadness but because of feelings and emotions) and not knowing what to do with my life after almost 3 days of intense reading.
It’s a long book with a beautiful if a bit extense prose. It’s also heavier than one would expect because there are a lot of things that do not sit well with …well ,everybody really but that they are deeply rooted in the Chinese way of life (at least fictional) : homophobia (lots and lots of it), parents(mothers) beating their children(even when the children are adults), fat shaming, tolerance and respect towards toxic family members and bending backwards to get their approval just because they’re family, homophobic slurs, gender stereotyping etc
The two MC though ..I can’t even say how much I loved them. Their slow relationship building was reaaaaaally slow but I’ve never read a more mature and beautiful relationship. How they worked together and fought for their share of happiness in that intolerant world was admirable and nothing short of heroic.
A shoutout to the kids in this book because they were absolutely amazing and also to Quiao Fengtian’s awesome best friend Du Dong.
Excellent excellent read.
https://docs.google.com/document/u/0/...
It’s a long book with a beautiful if a bit extense prose. It’s also heavier than one would expect because there are a lot of things that do not sit well with …well ,everybody really but that they are deeply rooted in the Chinese way of life (at least fictional) : homophobia (lots and lots of it), parents(mothers) beating their children(even when the children are adults), fat shaming, tolerance and respect towards toxic family members and bending backwards to get their approval just because they’re family, homophobic slurs, gender stereotyping etc
The two MC though ..I can’t even say how much I loved them. Their slow relationship building was reaaaaaally slow but I’ve never read a more mature and beautiful relationship. How they worked together and fought for their share of happiness in that intolerant world was admirable and nothing short of heroic.
A shoutout to the kids in this book because they were absolutely amazing and also to Quiao Fengtian’s awesome best friend Du Dong.
Excellent excellent read.
https://docs.google.com/document/u/0/...
February 7, 2024
➺
5/5 🌟
Content warnings: Homophobia, slurs, gender stereotyping, forced coming out (past event), sexual acts done to a minor (past event, brief mention), self harm/attempted suicide (past event), financial troubles, severe injuries to close family, bullying (past event), offhand comments on skin tone and body weight. (copied from the translator's note)
There's an intense homophobia in here and the story's main obstacle revolved around this specific aspect. I have to say that this novel is quite heavy and so realistic that it's hard for me to read sometimes. Considering that I am not homosexual myself and I don't dare put myself in the shoes of these characters and says something insensitive, but for me to specially feel the pain and trauma of these characters, I couldn't imagine the impact this novel would make the people who experienced this firsthand feel.
I definitely cried more than once reading this. Both Qiao Fengtian and Zheng Siqi are undoubtedly flawed but they are so fleshed out as well that made it hard for me to think that they're just fictional characters. They felt so real that I can feel how they courageously struggled through their lives and how they handled it so bravely. They have a very strong heart to be able to face twice the hardship of a 'normal' person and still able to love and care so genuinely and passionately. They're definitely each other's anchor and pillar of support.
I love their mature way of handling their relationship even before they've confessed to each other, the proper communication that they've put into their relationship, them considering the pros and cons before making decisions. They're not impulsive in their actions, especially knowing that they have to put more careful effort in every actions they make. They're not those typical hot-blooded, passionate lovers that put their emotions in front of everything and think that their love can solve anything. That notion is a wishful thinking and it couldn't always apply in reality, specially in their case. I love the realistic approach to it. It's not that they not love each other enough that they couldn't put each other as their first and only priority, but it's because they love each other so genuinely that they have to think not just about their feelings for each other but also their extra baggage and responsibilities in order to make their relationship work without sacrificing important things. Maybe it's the beauty of having a couple of their age (29 y/o QFT and 35 y/o ZSQ) that I witnessed such a mature love and relationship that I really admired and it makes me want to fall in love.
Also, the way it ended, it's a happy ending but it also showed that it was not exactly the ending. Not everything is resolved but it can't be considered as loopholes in the plot, which is more realistic. Both families on each side didn't exactly agree with their relationship even until the end, but they didn't exactly do anything to break them up. There's at least a vague compromise. And that's even more real than ending it with their families suddenly giving them consent. I loved it because it's more authentic that way.
I actually want to recommend this novel to everyone but I also know that the heavy topic on this would make a lot of people uncomfortable. Please read at your own discretion. You just have to know that I love this novel so much and this definitely entered my favorite danmei list.
Content warnings: Homophobia, slurs, gender stereotyping, forced coming out (past event), sexual acts done to a minor (past event, brief mention), self harm/attempted suicide (past event), financial troubles, severe injuries to close family, bullying (past event), offhand comments on skin tone and body weight. (copied from the translator's note)
There's an intense homophobia in here and the story's main obstacle revolved around this specific aspect. I have to say that this novel is quite heavy and so realistic that it's hard for me to read sometimes. Considering that I am not homosexual myself and I don't dare put myself in the shoes of these characters and says something insensitive, but for me to specially feel the pain and trauma of these characters, I couldn't imagine the impact this novel would make the people who experienced this firsthand feel.
I definitely cried more than once reading this. Both Qiao Fengtian and Zheng Siqi are undoubtedly flawed but they are so fleshed out as well that made it hard for me to think that they're just fictional characters. They felt so real that I can feel how they courageously struggled through their lives and how they handled it so bravely. They have a very strong heart to be able to face twice the hardship of a 'normal' person and still able to love and care so genuinely and passionately. They're definitely each other's anchor and pillar of support.
I love their mature way of handling their relationship even before they've confessed to each other, the proper communication that they've put into their relationship, them considering the pros and cons before making decisions. They're not impulsive in their actions, especially knowing that they have to put more careful effort in every actions they make. They're not those typical hot-blooded, passionate lovers that put their emotions in front of everything and think that their love can solve anything. That notion is a wishful thinking and it couldn't always apply in reality, specially in their case. I love the realistic approach to it. It's not that they not love each other enough that they couldn't put each other as their first and only priority, but it's because they love each other so genuinely that they have to think not just about their feelings for each other but also their extra baggage and responsibilities in order to make their relationship work without sacrificing important things. Maybe it's the beauty of having a couple of their age (29 y/o QFT and 35 y/o ZSQ) that I witnessed such a mature love and relationship that I really admired and it makes me want to fall in love.
Also, the way it ended, it's a happy ending but it also showed that it was not exactly the ending. Not everything is resolved but it can't be considered as loopholes in the plot, which is more realistic. Both families on each side didn't exactly agree with their relationship even until the end, but they didn't exactly do anything to break them up. There's at least a vague compromise. And that's even more real than ending it with their families suddenly giving them consent. I loved it because it's more authentic that way.
I actually want to recommend this novel to everyone but I also know that the heavy topic on this would make a lot of people uncomfortable. Please read at your own discretion. You just have to know that I love this novel so much and this definitely entered my favorite danmei list.
February 5, 2024
"And sooner or later, you’ll realise–in every bit, in every drip–that I still love you very much, that what you worried about did not happen. You thought so much, so wildly, but when you turn back, you’ll realise that you’ve already spent an entire lifetime with me."
SOMEBODY. SEDATE. ME.😭❤️💓💗
34 very long chapters and 3 extras, the equivalent of a regular 100 chapter danmei, 300k+ words, 1000+ pages, and you would think that after all the time it took me to get to the finish line (yes, yes I am a slow reader!) I would've already had and inkling of how to make a coherent review when I got here. NOPE. I literally cried over 5 times throughout the story, even before I got to the last 3 chapters *insert I'm in a glass case of emotion gif*. The letter Zheng Siqi wrote to Qiao Fengtian to read (in the future), which is the end of the main story, broke me and I had to make a 20 minute pause because my eyes simply would NOT stop leaking *insert aforementioned gif AGAIN*. The Rainbow🏳️🌈 extra made me tear up again *yeap, same gif one more time*😭💗. And here I am with watery eyes to tell you, dear bestie, that if you ever feel like reading the most beautiful love story between 2 mature men who are busy with Life™️, meet, become friends, try to keep themselves afloat while Life™️ throws sh*t at them, fall in love, realistically navigate starting a relationship while dealing with raising their children, their (bigoted and narrowminded) families, society's norms, and succeed, and you are willing to read a (slice of life) danmei without skipping a lot of what might feel at first as a lot of unnecessary minutiae, but is really what makes this such a wonderful story, YOU HAVE TO READ 草茉莉 (Four O'Clock Flower). You can thank me later.
P.S. Nicole, thanks so much for the rec!!!🥰❤️
At this point, if Nicole recommends it I am literally going through a wall to read it and you should too.
SOMEBODY. SEDATE. ME.😭❤️💓💗
34 very long chapters and 3 extras, the equivalent of a regular 100 chapter danmei, 300k+ words, 1000+ pages, and you would think that after all the time it took me to get to the finish line (yes, yes I am a slow reader!) I would've already had and inkling of how to make a coherent review when I got here. NOPE. I literally cried over 5 times throughout the story, even before I got to the last 3 chapters *insert I'm in a glass case of emotion gif*. The letter Zheng Siqi wrote to Qiao Fengtian to read (in the future), which is the end of the main story, broke me and I had to make a 20 minute pause because my eyes simply would NOT stop leaking *insert aforementioned gif AGAIN*. The Rainbow🏳️🌈 extra made me tear up again *yeap, same gif one more time*😭💗. And here I am with watery eyes to tell you, dear bestie, that if you ever feel like reading the most beautiful love story between 2 mature men who are busy with Life™️, meet, become friends, try to keep themselves afloat while Life™️ throws sh*t at them, fall in love, realistically navigate starting a relationship while dealing with raising their children, their (bigoted and narrowminded) families, society's norms, and succeed, and you are willing to read a (slice of life) danmei without skipping a lot of what might feel at first as a lot of unnecessary minutiae, but is really what makes this such a wonderful story, YOU HAVE TO READ 草茉莉 (Four O'Clock Flower). You can thank me later.
P.S. Nicole, thanks so much for the rec!!!🥰❤️
At this point, if Nicole recommends it I am literally going through a wall to read it and you should too.
January 5, 2023
A non-negotiable, unreserved, and truly deserved 5-star rating is what this novel is worth.
To be able to read a love develop so naturally, and to be able to live another life just through words written by this author is a blessing, and I cannot begin to describe how heavy my heart feels now that I have completed it. I don't think I've ever ran to grab my laptop to rate and review a work as fast as I did for Four O'Clock Flower.
Starting from the magnificent imagery that the reader will be a part of, to the reader's experience as they witness a romance blossom between two of the most mundane yet lovable characters written, every single word, every single letter of this book will be worth every second of your time.
In simple words, this is nothing but a slow and pure love story of two beautiful souls as they face the world ahead of them with a few tears and a lot of smiles.
I wish to see this book on my shelves one day…
To be able to read a love develop so naturally, and to be able to live another life just through words written by this author is a blessing, and I cannot begin to describe how heavy my heart feels now that I have completed it. I don't think I've ever ran to grab my laptop to rate and review a work as fast as I did for Four O'Clock Flower.
Starting from the magnificent imagery that the reader will be a part of, to the reader's experience as they witness a romance blossom between two of the most mundane yet lovable characters written, every single word, every single letter of this book will be worth every second of your time.
In simple words, this is nothing but a slow and pure love story of two beautiful souls as they face the world ahead of them with a few tears and a lot of smiles.
I wish to see this book on my shelves one day…
October 7, 2023
ruined my life in the best way possible probably my favourite cnov of the year
May 21, 2025
This story features a lot of realistic situations—blending heartbreaking and heartwarming moments with mature characters and a slow-burn progression. It captures the raw emotional toll of being different in a judgmental society and doesn’t shy away from how isolating that can feel, so I recommend checking the trigger warnings.
September 8, 2022
De las mejores novelas Slice of life que he leído, sinceramente. El desarrollo de los personajes y las relaciones están muy bien cuidadas. La narración también es buena. Es una novela que te hace reflexionar, y tiene párrafos bastante profundos. Refleja muy bien esa sociedad de mente cerrada y sin empatía. El slow-burn es maravilloso, los sentimientos de cada uno van floreciendo poco a poco como una flor. Sin duda, la relación de Qiao Fengtian y Zheng Siqi es muy bonita.
Si tuviera que ponerle un 'pero', diría que me hubiera gustado que se centraran más en la comunidad lgbt y no solo en la comunidad gay. Es un poco triste ver como un personaje claramente bisexual no se reconozca como tal en la novela. No es la primera vez que leo o veo algo así - he perdido la cuenta de las veces que he oído la frase "no soy gay, solo me gustas tú". En esta novela no se dice exactamente eso, pero se llega a plantear de una forma parecida. Igualmente, es cierto que también podría ser debido a que en la sociedad en la que viven los personajes, la comunidad bisexual esté invisibilizada (al igual que otras comunidades).
Si tuviera que ponerle un 'pero', diría que me hubiera gustado que se centraran más en la comunidad lgbt y no solo en la comunidad gay. Es un poco triste ver como un personaje claramente bisexual no se reconozca como tal en la novela. No es la primera vez que leo o veo algo así - he perdido la cuenta de las veces que he oído la frase "no soy gay, solo me gustas tú". En esta novela no se dice exactamente eso, pero se llega a plantear de una forma parecida. Igualmente, es cierto que también podría ser debido a que en la sociedad en la que viven los personajes, la comunidad bisexual esté invisibilizada (al igual que otras comunidades).
August 7, 2023
Four O’Clock Flower is a novel that revolves around two mature individuals with opposite personalities. Both of them were feeling trapped in their own circumstances and found salvation in each other. It’s a short novel but each chapter was longer.
The ML and the MC met in a very common way. As if fate was tying them together in a knot, they met several times coincidentally. Despite having several encounters, it was a slow-burn romance that started with friendship. The MC had suffered a traumatic experience in his past but it was only narrated. In my opinion, the angst would have been more first-hand if the author included that scene in detail. In that way, readers could connect more with the MC’s emotional dependence on ML. As they got together, they respected each other’s views and opinions, compromised, and met in the middle works for both of them.
The author wrote the novel in a literary way with several applicable life quotes in almost every chapter. What put me off was the way the author overdid the quoting and referencing lines from different literary works. Once, twice or thrice was okay, but it was too much I lost count of how many authors or book titles were mentioned. It was unnecessary to add so many of them. It would have been better if she wrote the lines herself and delivered them in her own way.
To be honest, I was surprised to reach the end of the main story. There were still problems that I think they would have to face, tackle together, and work it out to truly reach the perfect ending. With such a fairytale-like ending, it was a bit too far-fetched. But I do have to admit that the ending was not the common route for danmei novels, and that made this novel stood out. Well, at least that part of the ending was very practical, I suppose.
The ending of the main story may seem like an open ending, and it had the potential to be longer, but the author added those in the extras instead. It wasn’t satisfying enough for me, and was just enough for me to move on. I’d say this novel is just an “okay” read, not something I would reread.
PS. The smut was great, short, and not written directly but as an avid danmei reader, I could imagine it precisely.
The ML and the MC met in a very common way. As if fate was tying them together in a knot, they met several times coincidentally. Despite having several encounters, it was a slow-burn romance that started with friendship. The MC had suffered a traumatic experience in his past but it was only narrated. In my opinion, the angst would have been more first-hand if the author included that scene in detail. In that way, readers could connect more with the MC’s emotional dependence on ML. As they got together, they respected each other’s views and opinions, compromised, and met in the middle works for both of them.
The author wrote the novel in a literary way with several applicable life quotes in almost every chapter. What put me off was the way the author overdid the quoting and referencing lines from different literary works. Once, twice or thrice was okay, but it was too much I lost count of how many authors or book titles were mentioned. It was unnecessary to add so many of them. It would have been better if she wrote the lines herself and delivered them in her own way.
To be honest, I was surprised to reach the end of the main story. There were still problems that I think they would have to face, tackle together, and work it out to truly reach the perfect ending. With such a fairytale-like ending, it was a bit too far-fetched. But I do have to admit that the ending was not the common route for danmei novels, and that made this novel stood out. Well, at least that part of the ending was very practical, I suppose.
The ending of the main story may seem like an open ending, and it had the potential to be longer, but the author added those in the extras instead. It wasn’t satisfying enough for me, and was just enough for me to move on. I’d say this novel is just an “okay” read, not something I would reread.
PS. The smut was great, short, and not written directly but as an avid danmei reader, I could imagine it precisely.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2024
An extraordinary slice of life. Before reading, I wondered what could make so many readers say they were jealous of their love... It is rare to stumble upon a depiction of love that is so raw yet mature, so sweet and caring, yet allowing sadness and anger. They love so brilliantly, and I truly felt jealousy for that kind of ideal love that I did not ever dare to dream about. Both characters definitely deserve a love so beautiful and a care so reliable.
I will say, do read the warnings for this one as, at times, it was quite difficult to read through. However, the angst was not excessive, and it managed to be felt quite close to reality.
The hurdles they face were very painful but also resolved in a realistic way. At times, it felt too realistic, I had to pull myself back a bit, lol.
The character development had a very nice pace. I also quite liked the narrative.
An excellent translation as well, such poetic and reflecting writing, must have been hard to stay true to. It is often this is lost in the translation of danmei, I am so grateful to the translator.
It took me so long to finish because I didn't want to say goodbye to such a wonderful love and a great resilient MC.
This has undoubtedly exceeded all my expectations and has become my favourite slice of life, danmei.
I will say, do read the warnings for this one as, at times, it was quite difficult to read through. However, the angst was not excessive, and it managed to be felt quite close to reality.
The hurdles they face were very painful but also resolved in a realistic way. At times, it felt too realistic, I had to pull myself back a bit, lol.
The character development had a very nice pace. I also quite liked the narrative.
An excellent translation as well, such poetic and reflecting writing, must have been hard to stay true to. It is often this is lost in the translation of danmei, I am so grateful to the translator.
It took me so long to finish because I didn't want to say goodbye to such a wonderful love and a great resilient MC.
This has undoubtedly exceeded all my expectations and has become my favourite slice of life, danmei.
August 15, 2025
It's a slow romance and the story focuses more on Qiao Fengtian and Zheng Siqi's lives and how they, especially the Fengtian, deals with family, identity, and community. I'd say the story is more about toleration and what some people are willing to do or give up in order to fit their definition of "liberated". I think the introduction to the novel sums it up perfectly—Qiao Fengtian is a gladioli who stands firm in his beliefs no matter what life throws his way. And I think that's beautiful.
August 31, 2025
This was such a good, emotional read! I cried so much ♡
May 1, 2023
Rating: 3/5 - My opinion regarding this novel is probably controversial.
I did not like it.
The story is wonderful. Prose is poetic and top-notch. Characters are well defined.
Yet I felt this story was lifeless. The excessive use of literary prose made this story longer than necessary and detracted from the intent of resilience and self-acceptance and forgiveness.
This story is realistic and tragic, except those feelings of morose and helplessness never really come across as you read. It’s got more of a “diary of a masochist” feel.
Around the 13th chapter I found myself skipping the repetitive prose to get to the gist of the story. Towards the end of the story I felt myself completely uninvested in the characters.
There are families as cynical and horrifying in reality - maybe I just did not want to be reminded of that very distinct reality and my experiences of it.
Ultimately, I do not believe I am the intended reader for this novel and I cannot seem to share the sentiments and enthusiasm as the majority of this novel’s readers too.
The reviews for this story may have created too high an expectation - leading to this disappointing opinion.
Nonetheless - my review should not prevent others from appreciating a very well written and poignant novel.
I did not like it.
The story is wonderful. Prose is poetic and top-notch. Characters are well defined.
Yet I felt this story was lifeless. The excessive use of literary prose made this story longer than necessary and detracted from the intent of resilience and self-acceptance and forgiveness.
This story is realistic and tragic, except those feelings of morose and helplessness never really come across as you read. It’s got more of a “diary of a masochist” feel.
Around the 13th chapter I found myself skipping the repetitive prose to get to the gist of the story. Towards the end of the story I felt myself completely uninvested in the characters.
There are families as cynical and horrifying in reality - maybe I just did not want to be reminded of that very distinct reality and my experiences of it.
Ultimately, I do not believe I am the intended reader for this novel and I cannot seem to share the sentiments and enthusiasm as the majority of this novel’s readers too.
The reviews for this story may have created too high an expectation - leading to this disappointing opinion.
Nonetheless - my review should not prevent others from appreciating a very well written and poignant novel.
January 18, 2024
Another beautiful tale, told in a really beautiful manner - and the translation was spot on.
It's not about angts, in this story, though there is a bit of it, intertwined in the mundane daily life of the protagonists. Because, in the end, this is the story of two random people, with lives like those of so many others - yes, even Fengtian DOES have a life like that of so many others like him. I loved the fact that the characters were men in their 30s (Fengtian starts with 28, but he is far older than his years, lol) who have their lifes pretty much figured out, knowing what they want, what they don't want, with their paths stretched out before them from personal choices and inclinations, their personal beliefs and what life has handed them. One is confident in himself and comfortable with his life, working as a university teacher and raising his young daughter as a widower who has no desire to remarry. The other is a man who thinks too lowly of himself - due to prior life circumstances and the incapacity his mother has to accept him - but owns his own business with a partner, has his own apartment, lives a quiet, healthy life where relationships of the intimate kind don't very much figure out because he's too scared of being hurt again. On a first look, their worlds would never collide, seing they are such different people, from such different backgrounds. And yet, the universe is conspiring to place them in each others' path. After a very random and a little amusing first meeting, circumstances keep bringing these two men - one gay, one straight - together in a dance they won't be able to disentangle from, and as they further get to know each other, feelings will wake. In such an organic, natural form, may I say. Sure there are doubts, moments of confusion, but these are two adult men who ACT like adult men, and they may question their emotions and fear them, but in the end, they are mature enough to overcome these doubts and fears and move on together. The fact none of them is willing to sacrifice their feelings for the sake of 'keeping the other safe' is a breath of fresh air - there is no absurd breaking up for the sake of the other's happiness and acceptance in a world that is still not queer friendly, they are willing to face friends and family and persist in what they know is their path to personal happiness, regardless of their support or lack of. I loved this about the novel more than anything else. The difficulties they know they must face are thought of, and conversations are had between them, their opinions and hang-ups exposed for the other, together, as a couple. Or as a couple should. They are adult about everything and that was rather refreshing.
As a mother myself, it was very painful reading the bits about Fengtian and his mother. because I cannot understand how a parent is able to do this to their own child. Regardless of how hard things will be out there - or because of it, in fact - denying support, acceptance to the child you've given life to, I cannot come to terms with that. The fact his mother does not allow him to sit at the family table on the Lunar turn of the year fest because he's gay was one of the most revolting parental reactions I've ever read. If Siqi's sister's reaction to his coming out was angering, Fengtian's mother managed to bristle me to the point I just wanted to throw the woman in a lake. Fengtian suffers so much, has to shoulder so much, he does so much for his family, and that mother still won't accept him. I think I loved Zheng Siqi all the better for how much he loves and cares for Fengtian and how good he is to him. Siqi is the pillar where he can lean on, the force that strengthens him, his haven, his shelter.
If you're looking for a novel where everything screams angst and suffering in your face - and I do love me those tales - where everything is so damn difficult and the MCs paths are filled with obstacles that seem unsurmounting and defeating, where they must struggle and suffer and pine and ache to finally be together, this isn't it. This isn't it. The angts level is very low, and yet, the social commentary is weaved through every line, every chapter, and without you noticing, you end up pondering on certain subjects, certain aspects of society and family and how these shape us, mould us, destroy us, even. It's a beautiful story, this one, where love takes many forms and comes in different ways, where hope - even if just a small flicker of it - is present.
One of the best Danmei I ever read.
It's not about angts, in this story, though there is a bit of it, intertwined in the mundane daily life of the protagonists. Because, in the end, this is the story of two random people, with lives like those of so many others - yes, even Fengtian DOES have a life like that of so many others like him. I loved the fact that the characters were men in their 30s (Fengtian starts with 28, but he is far older than his years, lol) who have their lifes pretty much figured out, knowing what they want, what they don't want, with their paths stretched out before them from personal choices and inclinations, their personal beliefs and what life has handed them. One is confident in himself and comfortable with his life, working as a university teacher and raising his young daughter as a widower who has no desire to remarry. The other is a man who thinks too lowly of himself - due to prior life circumstances and the incapacity his mother has to accept him - but owns his own business with a partner, has his own apartment, lives a quiet, healthy life where relationships of the intimate kind don't very much figure out because he's too scared of being hurt again. On a first look, their worlds would never collide, seing they are such different people, from such different backgrounds. And yet, the universe is conspiring to place them in each others' path. After a very random and a little amusing first meeting, circumstances keep bringing these two men - one gay, one straight - together in a dance they won't be able to disentangle from, and as they further get to know each other, feelings will wake. In such an organic, natural form, may I say. Sure there are doubts, moments of confusion, but these are two adult men who ACT like adult men, and they may question their emotions and fear them, but in the end, they are mature enough to overcome these doubts and fears and move on together. The fact none of them is willing to sacrifice their feelings for the sake of 'keeping the other safe' is a breath of fresh air - there is no absurd breaking up for the sake of the other's happiness and acceptance in a world that is still not queer friendly, they are willing to face friends and family and persist in what they know is their path to personal happiness, regardless of their support or lack of. I loved this about the novel more than anything else. The difficulties they know they must face are thought of, and conversations are had between them, their opinions and hang-ups exposed for the other, together, as a couple. Or as a couple should. They are adult about everything and that was rather refreshing.
As a mother myself, it was very painful reading the bits about Fengtian and his mother. because I cannot understand how a parent is able to do this to their own child. Regardless of how hard things will be out there - or because of it, in fact - denying support, acceptance to the child you've given life to, I cannot come to terms with that. The fact his mother does not allow him to sit at the family table on the Lunar turn of the year fest because he's gay was one of the most revolting parental reactions I've ever read. If Siqi's sister's reaction to his coming out was angering, Fengtian's mother managed to bristle me to the point I just wanted to throw the woman in a lake. Fengtian suffers so much, has to shoulder so much, he does so much for his family, and that mother still won't accept him. I think I loved Zheng Siqi all the better for how much he loves and cares for Fengtian and how good he is to him. Siqi is the pillar where he can lean on, the force that strengthens him, his haven, his shelter.
If you're looking for a novel where everything screams angst and suffering in your face - and I do love me those tales - where everything is so damn difficult and the MCs paths are filled with obstacles that seem unsurmounting and defeating, where they must struggle and suffer and pine and ache to finally be together, this isn't it. This isn't it. The angts level is very low, and yet, the social commentary is weaved through every line, every chapter, and without you noticing, you end up pondering on certain subjects, certain aspects of society and family and how these shape us, mould us, destroy us, even. It's a beautiful story, this one, where love takes many forms and comes in different ways, where hope - even if just a small flicker of it - is present.
One of the best Danmei I ever read.
January 6, 2025
“If love can be separated into right and wrong, then there is nothing that is true in this world.”
I believe finding an unputdownable book is every bookworm's wish. Something so immersive that it robs me of all my sleep, takes over my thoughts and frustrates me because I can't be reading 24/7. And yet, when I finally reach the end, I feel like it's too soon. It doesn't matter I've been reading as if my life depended on it. The end always comes too soon. This is one of those books.
I'm aware this is a heavy story and that a lot of readers might struggle more than me to get through it. If you read danmei for escapism, action, and thrilling scenes, this isn't it. This story is told with no hurry, meandering in every aspect of everyday life. Reality is ready to tackle our characters at every corner and homophobia is a monster too powerful for them to beat completely.
"You were a university teacher with a bright future, I was a heretical deviant struggling for survival. Between us, the difference is as vast as that between the sky and the earth."
What made this story so engaging for me despite it being very slow, with long wordy chapters, is very simple: curiosity. I just had to know how a university teacher and a hairdresser, people situated at vastly different stations in life with wildly different backgrounds, came to meet and fall in love. How did Qiao Fengtian manage to get to his happy ending even after being struck by misfortunes again and again? I had to know ASAP.
I just came to care so much for these people it hurts. They are not words on a page anymore. Beautiful, gentle, and generous Qiao Fengtian, who was put through hell because of his sexuality, fights tooth and nail to live a decent life and help out a family he's not welcome to be part of. The mature widower and father of a sweet little girl, Zheng Siqi, who is not an unreachable and perfect man above everyone else but someone very down to earth, broad-minded, and honest. They felt so real to me.
Even though it can get dense, the writing is beautiful and full of colorful descriptions. It goes without saying that the translation is fantastic. I was never bored but always marveled at the realness of it all.
This is a must-read for all slice-of-life lovers. If you liked Not Asking If It's Three Or Nine/不问三九 works (Ferocious Dog of Old, Tattoo, Wildfire) or An Accident in Broad Daylight (all my favorites!) you will love Four O' Clock Flower too.
Even if it doesn't seem like your type of read, give this a chance. I swear that Qiao Fengtian and Zheng Siqi's love story is worth living through.
“And sooner or later, you’ll realise – in every bit, in every drip– that I still love you very much, that what you worried about did not happen. You thought so much, so wildly, but when you turn back, you’ll realise that you’ve already spent an entire lifetime with me.”
June 10, 2025
Qiao Fengtian is a hairdresser who gets a slighted a lot for being gay, worse times from when he was in middle school. Back then, his relationship with his predatory TA was exposed and everyone in his little village, even his own mom, spat on him for it . Really horrible treatment, while the predator just moved cities from the get-go. Despite that, he found a livelihood for himself and grew up fierce but kind.
Zheng Siqi is the uni professor that's six years older. He's got a very cute daughter from a previous marriage, and in his college days,
The confession took a long time. Slowest of slow burns because ZSQ and QFT were being really realistic about it (the consequences of being homosexual back in their time). Post-confession scenes were warmly sweet though. It made me really happy that QFT finally found someone to lean on wholeheartedly after so many years. Someone to warm up his perpetually cold hands. Of course, not everyone was okay with the relationship, Gosh, I want these two to be happy forever, to be able to introduce each other as partners especially.
Side character-wise, I also loved them! We got to know all of QFT's and ZSQ's families. His mom also So many more about the others, like QFT's friend and ZSQ's sister. Like them all a lot. The webnovel ended perfectly with an excerpt from their daughter's college essay.
Zheng Siqi is the uni professor that's six years older. He's got a very cute daughter from a previous marriage, and in his college days,
The confession took a long time. Slowest of slow burns because ZSQ and QFT were being really realistic about it (the consequences of being homosexual back in their time). Post-confession scenes were warmly sweet though. It made me really happy that QFT finally found someone to lean on wholeheartedly after so many years. Someone to warm up his perpetually cold hands. Of course, not everyone was okay with the relationship, Gosh, I want these two to be happy forever, to be able to introduce each other as partners especially.
Side character-wise, I also loved them! We got to know all of QFT's and ZSQ's families. His mom also So many more about the others, like QFT's friend and ZSQ's sister. Like them all a lot. The webnovel ended perfectly with an excerpt from their daughter's college essay.
June 23, 2023
This is a beautiful story about love, family and friendship. Qiao Fengtian (MC) and Zheng Siqi (ML) are well-written and developed characters and I truly enjoyed their interactions and the development of their relationship. They're both mature characters in their late 20s and mid 30s respectively and because of that, the overall tone of the novel is also more mature, which I appreciate - especially when it came to matters related to family.
There's definitely a lot of layers and nuance to QFT's relationship with his mother in particular and I liked how the author navigated their complicated mother-son relationship. It made my heart hurt so much for him because he has so much love and patience to be able to understand the people around him. I think a lot of readers would have probably thought that he should just cut off contact with his mother for being so unaccepting of him, but due to QFT's personality, he can't do that and with ZSQ by his side, I was glad that he finally had someone in his corner, someone who would and could protect and support him.
What I loved about QFT and ZSQ's relationship is how supportive they are of each other, both of them always trying to one-up each other in doing things for the other. They were considerate and attentive to each other's needs, they worried about each other and although they were from vastly different backgrounds, they didn't let that get in the way of their relationship. They communicated with each other and always did their best to understand where the other was coming from, and I am glad to report that there isn't any unecessary drama in this novel. They could tease each other but when things got real, they were each other's pillar of support. I just love their relationship so much.
I also liked QFT's friendship with Du Dong and not only that, Du Dong was a good source of humour in this story and their friendship added another dimension to QFT's character. The addition of kids in this story was also done tastefully - they were cute and I enjoyed the family dynamics between the characters because it was so heartwarming.
It's a bit of a slice-of-life novel that's character-driven and honestly some people might find it boring but there's just something about it that does it for me.
There's definitely a lot of layers and nuance to QFT's relationship with his mother in particular and I liked how the author navigated their complicated mother-son relationship. It made my heart hurt so much for him because he has so much love and patience to be able to understand the people around him. I think a lot of readers would have probably thought that he should just cut off contact with his mother for being so unaccepting of him, but due to QFT's personality, he can't do that and with ZSQ by his side, I was glad that he finally had someone in his corner, someone who would and could protect and support him.
What I loved about QFT and ZSQ's relationship is how supportive they are of each other, both of them always trying to one-up each other in doing things for the other. They were considerate and attentive to each other's needs, they worried about each other and although they were from vastly different backgrounds, they didn't let that get in the way of their relationship. They communicated with each other and always did their best to understand where the other was coming from, and I am glad to report that there isn't any unecessary drama in this novel. They could tease each other but when things got real, they were each other's pillar of support. I just love their relationship so much.
I also liked QFT's friendship with Du Dong and not only that, Du Dong was a good source of humour in this story and their friendship added another dimension to QFT's character. The addition of kids in this story was also done tastefully - they were cute and I enjoyed the family dynamics between the characters because it was so heartwarming.
It's a bit of a slice-of-life novel that's character-driven and honestly some people might find it boring but there's just something about it that does it for me.
January 17, 2025
Calificación 4,5 / 5 ⭐
"¿Cómo debería amarte para que me baste? Por supuesto que no me basta.
Eres la vista impresionante de montañas y lagos en los años que me quedan de vida, las nubes que se elevan teñidas con los colores del atardecer. Ahora y siempre, seguiré amándote un poco más."
Dios mio, no hay novela más poética, bien abordada y escrita como esta. Es una novela en la que sufres y te nace ese sentimiento de abrazar, proteger y ser el escudo de por vida de Qiao Fengtian, un joven peluquero que vive día a día buscando un lugar en el mundo. Donde su espalda siempre es apuntada por su tradicional y de cero mente abierta familia para alguien como él, donde incluso lo tratan como una especie de maldición que recayó sobre su familia. Pero él jamás se detiene, a pesar de las dificultades, el avanza, es amable y cuida de los suyos con el corazón, y en su camino, conoció a Zheng Siqi, un maestro universitario, de mente amplia, de conocimiento de miles de libros y poetas, y que a pesar de tener una hija, no sabe lo que es el amor, qué es enamorarse y qué impulsa a las personas a tener esos sentimientos.
Esta es una historia llena de literatura, de crecimiento personal y de pareja, así como retratar la realidad, donde no todo es color de rosas, donde hay otros colores que enfrentar, la familia, los estatus y hasta las propias barreras psicólogas fundadas en el pasado.
"¿Cómo debería amarte para que me baste? Por supuesto que no me basta.
Eres la vista impresionante de montañas y lagos en los años que me quedan de vida, las nubes que se elevan teñidas con los colores del atardecer. Ahora y siempre, seguiré amándote un poco más."
Dios mio, no hay novela más poética, bien abordada y escrita como esta. Es una novela en la que sufres y te nace ese sentimiento de abrazar, proteger y ser el escudo de por vida de Qiao Fengtian, un joven peluquero que vive día a día buscando un lugar en el mundo. Donde su espalda siempre es apuntada por su tradicional y de cero mente abierta familia para alguien como él, donde incluso lo tratan como una especie de maldición que recayó sobre su familia. Pero él jamás se detiene, a pesar de las dificultades, el avanza, es amable y cuida de los suyos con el corazón, y en su camino, conoció a Zheng Siqi, un maestro universitario, de mente amplia, de conocimiento de miles de libros y poetas, y que a pesar de tener una hija, no sabe lo que es el amor, qué es enamorarse y qué impulsa a las personas a tener esos sentimientos.
Esta es una historia llena de literatura, de crecimiento personal y de pareja, así como retratar la realidad, donde no todo es color de rosas, donde hay otros colores que enfrentar, la familia, los estatus y hasta las propias barreras psicólogas fundadas en el pasado.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2025
A slow romance, but feels natural. Prose is beautiful. Super realistic story - I don't think I've ever read a danmei with such realistic struggles, queer or otherwise. It was a bit heartbreaking at times to read, honestly. It's funny that Zheng Siqi isn't gay because he was whipped from the start for Qiao Fengtian. It was beautiful to read.
Quotes:
Ch. 7: "If you truly feel that you are wrong about something, the thing you would be tying yourself in knots over would be how you could best make up for it, and not whether or not your next step should be to advance or retreat. To advance is to be stubborn, to retreat is to run away, neither show that you have changed your view. If it's not that you're unwilling to give up, then the matter must have gone beyond your ability to help."
Ch. 13: It was rare for someone to be able to find a stolen moment in their busy lives for this almost depraved act of leisure outside of the things they needed to do to keep on surviving.
Ch. 17: "I can only guarantee that every choice I make is to advance and not to retreat in avoidance. Right or wrong, good or bad, I leave these to my grave."
Quotes:
Ch. 7: "If you truly feel that you are wrong about something, the thing you would be tying yourself in knots over would be how you could best make up for it, and not whether or not your next step should be to advance or retreat. To advance is to be stubborn, to retreat is to run away, neither show that you have changed your view. If it's not that you're unwilling to give up, then the matter must have gone beyond your ability to help."
Ch. 13: It was rare for someone to be able to find a stolen moment in their busy lives for this almost depraved act of leisure outside of the things they needed to do to keep on surviving.
Ch. 17: "I can only guarantee that every choice I make is to advance and not to retreat in avoidance. Right or wrong, good or bad, I leave these to my grave."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2022
I have no words. Beautiful feels redundant. To describe this novel with such simple words feels unjust. It was pulchritudinous. A perfectly pretentious adjective for a perfectly pretentious novel. It's one of my top favourite novels (and I've read a lot of books in my life) that I will definitely come back to and reread. It is a sheer masterpiece and deserves to be read by any and every single queer person because it will resonate to us all in some form or another.
For better reviews go to novel updates because people have actually left serious, proper reviews on why exactly this novel is a masterpiece.
For better reviews go to novel updates because people have actually left serious, proper reviews on why exactly this novel is a masterpiece.
March 19, 2023
Absolutely agree with the reader below -- the book must be read with patience, every word counts, descriptions of nature merge together into a beautiful painting (when you painstakingly imagine line by line). One needs to take breaks to digest the book in order to get the best possible experience. Very perceptive writing, the main character's background is indeed bleak but the way he perseveres is inspiring even though painful. I do agree that the last three chapters drag a bit but so be it.
I would definitely recommend it to everyone.
I would definitely recommend it to everyone.
September 7, 2025
He leído muchas novelas danmei pero nunca una que tocará de una forma tan personal el maltrato, la homofobia y el vivir en una sociedad de mentalidad tan cerrada.
Cada que leía más y más sobre la vida Qiao Fengtian no podía hacer más que admirarlo por resistir, por no rendirse, por seguir amando con tanta intensidad.
En el momento más desesperado de su vida nuestro protagonista conoce a Zheng Siqi un profesor universitario que le muestra que aún existe calidez en el mundo.
Es maravilloso leer como se van conociendo, enamorando y como pasarán el resto de sus vidas juntos.
Cada que leía más y más sobre la vida Qiao Fengtian no podía hacer más que admirarlo por resistir, por no rendirse, por seguir amando con tanta intensidad.
En el momento más desesperado de su vida nuestro protagonista conoce a Zheng Siqi un profesor universitario que le muestra que aún existe calidez en el mundo.
Es maravilloso leer como se van conociendo, enamorando y como pasarán el resto de sus vidas juntos.
November 26, 2024
Really well written, but don’t let the small chapter numbers fool you… I thought this would be a quick read, but boy, was I mistaken! Not only were the chapters long, the the poor MC is also doing it so tough that the some chapters were quite heavy (tissues should be at the ready). Both of which made this a more complex read that you need to take your time digesting.
October 16, 2025
Just crying my eyes out for this story.
Stories like these remind me again and again why I love reading so much.
I love books that make me cry a lot, but not out of sadness; instead, through the realistic portrayal of emotions and feelings.
The translator did an amazing job.
As always, thank you to the authors who bring characters and their stories to life
Stories like these remind me again and again why I love reading so much.
I love books that make me cry a lot, but not out of sadness; instead, through the realistic portrayal of emotions and feelings.
The translator did an amazing job.
As always, thank you to the authors who bring characters and their stories to life
July 6, 2023
Si quieren conocer el amor (romántico o no), léanlo. Y si no, léanlo igual. Es una belleza de libro.
P.S: me enfureció (sin atacar a la autora) la violencia intrafamiliar y que, lamentablemente, es algo normal en la novela (¿y en la cultura china?)
P.S: me enfureció (sin atacar a la autora) la violencia intrafamiliar y que, lamentablemente, es algo normal en la novela (¿y en la cultura china?)
October 19, 2022
just like what i've once said: if love can be separated into right or wrong, then there is nothing that is true in this world.
January 28, 2023
definitely my dream relationship. the plot was kind of fucked up but im glad mc has finally get the chance to meet his walking green flag man he deserves! this story is realistic
September 23, 2025
4.5
so very poetic and full of love and pain and yearning AND LOVE !!!!!!!!!
so very poetic and full of love and pain and yearning AND LOVE !!!!!!!!!
November 16, 2023
I live for a good slow burn, but as warned by the translator, the prose occasionally gets quite dense, bordering on tedious. This was the singular barrier that prevented me from progressing through the story quickly. If you're into slow, contemplative stories rich in imagery, literary references, and a fair bit of philosophizing, there's a lot for you to enjoy here. However, if you prefer a faster-paced narrative, you may not have the patience for this story.
There's a long buildup before it melts into an utterly sweet romance, characterized by enduring understanding and patience amidst all the hardships and ugliness of the world thrown MC's way.
The depiction of Chinese parenting was the deepest point of heartache for me. The impact of such an upbringing undoubtedly inflicts its own brand of trauma, with the relationship between mother and child simultaneously forgiving and unforgiving.
Another highlight of this novel is the depiction of children. I often find children to be poorly written in many stories, making it evident which authors have spent prolonged time in the presence of a child and which ones have not. In this book, the children are both realistic and endearing.
Overall: 8/10
Enjoyability: 3/5
Would I reread? No
There's a long buildup before it melts into an utterly sweet romance, characterized by enduring understanding and patience amidst all the hardships and ugliness of the world thrown MC's way.
The depiction of Chinese parenting was the deepest point of heartache for me. The impact of such an upbringing undoubtedly inflicts its own brand of trauma, with the relationship between mother and child simultaneously forgiving and unforgiving.
Another highlight of this novel is the depiction of children. I often find children to be poorly written in many stories, making it evident which authors have spent prolonged time in the presence of a child and which ones have not. In this book, the children are both realistic and endearing.
Overall: 8/10
Enjoyability: 3/5
Would I reread? No
October 25, 2024
one of my favorite danmei! when i said i love slowburn this is exactly what i meant. prosesnya gak ngebosenin, keduanya sama-sama dewasa meskipun age-gap nya 6 tahun, ceritanya juga detail dan terbilang realistis.
yang lebih bikin menarik adalah perbedaan latar belakang mereka. satunya dosen duda anak satu dari keluarga berada, satunya lagi hairdresser yang terpaksa harus mandiri setelah keluar dari rumah. mereka sama-sama 'melengkapi' satu sama lain
ceritanya gak fokus ke romance aja, tapi ngeliatin masa lalu dan development dari karakter lainnya juga. aku juga suka gimana penulis bikin karakternya ‘berdialog.’ you might not agree with their opinion, but you will probably understand why they think that way
yang lebih bikin menarik adalah perbedaan latar belakang mereka. satunya dosen duda anak satu dari keluarga berada, satunya lagi hairdresser yang terpaksa harus mandiri setelah keluar dari rumah. mereka sama-sama 'melengkapi' satu sama lain
ceritanya gak fokus ke romance aja, tapi ngeliatin masa lalu dan development dari karakter lainnya juga. aku juga suka gimana penulis bikin karakternya ‘berdialog.’ you might not agree with their opinion, but you will probably understand why they think that way
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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