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University of the Underworld
All ghosts in the Professional Malevolent Spirits and Creative Terrorizing Program aspire to become a top malevolent spirit of the underworld. And as for Cui Yue? He’s only here because of Bai Shaonan's unrequited love for him—or at least that was what he thought. Oh well. If Bai Shaonan likes him, it won't hurt to give a little feedback. But ever since he met Bai Shaonan, Cui Yue’s been spending all his time either being hunted, or on his way to being hunted. Hey Shaonan, do you want to fix your love life first?
After admitting a new student who would go on to break the record for the lowest grades in the school’s history, Bai Shaonan firmly believes that Cui Yue's devotion to academia is solely because of himself. Oh well. If Cui Yue likes him, it won't hurt to give a little feedback. But since Cui Yue is spending all his time either being hunted or on the way to being hunted, the only way toward a truly peaceful future is to deal with these issues, once and for all.
After admitting a new student who would go on to break the record for the lowest grades in the school’s history, Bai Shaonan firmly believes that Cui Yue's devotion to academia is solely because of himself. Oh well. If Cui Yue likes him, it won't hurt to give a little feedback. But since Cui Yue is spending all his time either being hunted or on the way to being hunted, the only way toward a truly peaceful future is to deal with these issues, once and for all.
488 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2022
72 people are currently reading
824 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 16, 2025
3.5 stars.
I enjoyed this book, and I would have absolutely loved it if the story had delivered a more satisfying ending.
At first glance, the plot appears straightforward, but as I delved deeper into the narrative, it cleverly evolved into a more intricate tale that truly captivated my attention. I must admit that the first 100 pages felt painfully slow and somewhat tedious. There were moments when I seriously considered putting the book down, but I’m grateful I persevered because the story took a significant turn for the better.
The characters were endearing, each thoughtfully developed enough to foster a genuine connection with them. Cui Yue, the protagonist, was a standout; he brought humor and levity to the story with his charmingly clueless nature. Initially, he may come across as foolish, but by the end, every aspect of his character is illuminated, making his journey all the more meaningful. Bai Shaonan, the love interest, was likable enough, but I found him a bit dull—he had the vibe of a classic "Himbo," and I usually struggle to feel deeply attached to that archetype. Nevertheless, he did have his moments that shone through the mundane.
Qin Feng, on the other hand, emerged as one of the more complex side characters. His rich personality and compelling aura elevated the story, adding layers of intrigue and depth. Cao Zhongnan quickly became my favorite side character. Initially, when he was introduced, I didn't foresee the significant role he would play, but he completely won me over with his charisma and charm. By the end of the book, I found myself in tears because of his emotional journey.
Cui Yue and Bai Shaonan’s relationship was delightful. They shared a palpable chemistry, and their dynamic was filled with humorous misunderstandings—not the frustrating kind, but the laugh-out-loud variety that added charm to their interactions.
Now, regarding the secondary couple, I found they had an even stronger connection than the main pair. Their chemistry was electric, and I was infuriated by how the author handled their ending. Why introduce a couple with such magnetic chemistry only to deliver a finale that felt unfulfilled? Qin Feng and Cao Zhongnan made for a sizzling duo; although their screen time was limited, every fleeting reference and appearance heightened my excitement. Their relationship had that thrilling edge of toxicity I enjoy—not to the extent that it felt disturbing, but just enough to be exhilarating, like doing something risky but undeniably thrilling. I fervently hoped my instincts about Cao Zhongnan were wrong and that the author would steer the plot in a different direction, but unfortunately, my worst fears were realized. I hated being right, even in the face of such good plot twists.
Cao Zhongnan is the type of character I adore—intelligent and adept at maneuvering people and situations to suit his needs. Yet, I would have willingly sacrificed his cunning nature if it meant I could bask in the joy of his relationship with Qin Feng. Even by the story's conclusion, I was still holding my breath, hoping for another twist that would bring Cao Zhongnan back into the mix and for Qin Feng to reveal it was all part of a grand plan.
In conclusion, I genuinely wish the author had explored more of the dynamics of the side couple. I can’t help but hope she’ll consider writing a future story focusing on Qin Feng and a reincarnated Cao Zhongnan reuniting, bringing their chemistry and complexity back to life.
I enjoyed this book, and I would have absolutely loved it if the story had delivered a more satisfying ending.
At first glance, the plot appears straightforward, but as I delved deeper into the narrative, it cleverly evolved into a more intricate tale that truly captivated my attention. I must admit that the first 100 pages felt painfully slow and somewhat tedious. There were moments when I seriously considered putting the book down, but I’m grateful I persevered because the story took a significant turn for the better.
The characters were endearing, each thoughtfully developed enough to foster a genuine connection with them. Cui Yue, the protagonist, was a standout; he brought humor and levity to the story with his charmingly clueless nature. Initially, he may come across as foolish, but by the end, every aspect of his character is illuminated, making his journey all the more meaningful. Bai Shaonan, the love interest, was likable enough, but I found him a bit dull—he had the vibe of a classic "Himbo," and I usually struggle to feel deeply attached to that archetype. Nevertheless, he did have his moments that shone through the mundane.
Qin Feng, on the other hand, emerged as one of the more complex side characters. His rich personality and compelling aura elevated the story, adding layers of intrigue and depth. Cao Zhongnan quickly became my favorite side character. Initially, when he was introduced, I didn't foresee the significant role he would play, but he completely won me over with his charisma and charm. By the end of the book, I found myself in tears because of his emotional journey.
Cui Yue and Bai Shaonan’s relationship was delightful. They shared a palpable chemistry, and their dynamic was filled with humorous misunderstandings—not the frustrating kind, but the laugh-out-loud variety that added charm to their interactions.
Now, regarding the secondary couple, I found they had an even stronger connection than the main pair. Their chemistry was electric, and I was infuriated by how the author handled their ending. Why introduce a couple with such magnetic chemistry only to deliver a finale that felt unfulfilled? Qin Feng and Cao Zhongnan made for a sizzling duo; although their screen time was limited, every fleeting reference and appearance heightened my excitement. Their relationship had that thrilling edge of toxicity I enjoy—not to the extent that it felt disturbing, but just enough to be exhilarating, like doing something risky but undeniably thrilling. I fervently hoped my instincts about Cao Zhongnan were wrong and that the author would steer the plot in a different direction, but unfortunately, my worst fears were realized. I hated being right, even in the face of such good plot twists.
Cao Zhongnan is the type of character I adore—intelligent and adept at maneuvering people and situations to suit his needs. Yet, I would have willingly sacrificed his cunning nature if it meant I could bask in the joy of his relationship with Qin Feng. Even by the story's conclusion, I was still holding my breath, hoping for another twist that would bring Cao Zhongnan back into the mix and for Qin Feng to reveal it was all part of a grand plan.
In conclusion, I genuinely wish the author had explored more of the dynamics of the side couple. I can’t help but hope she’ll consider writing a future story focusing on Qin Feng and a reincarnated Cao Zhongnan reuniting, bringing their chemistry and complexity back to life.
October 26, 2023
An incredibly hilarious danmei novel!
Bai Shaonan is the dean of the Creative Terrorising programme. One day, while he's in the human world, a new ghost tries to scare him. He recruits this rookie into the programme, and since the ghost doesn't remember anything, he names the young man Cui Yue. Cui Yue is a hilarious little guy, he's not good with social cues and he's also not getting good grades at uni.
However, it seems that someone is out there to get Cui Yue, so he needs extra protection from Bai Shaonan. Cue students writing fanfics about them, and both thinking the other guy has a crush on them, so they both think they have to reciprocate. xD The mystery was interesting and the romantic relationship was sweet and cute, I loved that Bai Shaonan calls Cui Yue little hotpot. xD
My favourite thing about this novel was definitely the humour! It made me laugh out loud so many times. Might not be everyone's cup of tea, but I thought it was great. :D
Bai Shaonan is the dean of the Creative Terrorising programme. One day, while he's in the human world, a new ghost tries to scare him. He recruits this rookie into the programme, and since the ghost doesn't remember anything, he names the young man Cui Yue. Cui Yue is a hilarious little guy, he's not good with social cues and he's also not getting good grades at uni.
However, it seems that someone is out there to get Cui Yue, so he needs extra protection from Bai Shaonan. Cue students writing fanfics about them, and both thinking the other guy has a crush on them, so they both think they have to reciprocate. xD The mystery was interesting and the romantic relationship was sweet and cute, I loved that Bai Shaonan calls Cui Yue little hotpot. xD
My favourite thing about this novel was definitely the humour! It made me laugh out loud so many times. Might not be everyone's cup of tea, but I thought it was great. :D
November 6, 2022
Very cute, little junk food novel.
Plot is basically spiderman meme - few spidermen are pointing at each other.
(misunderstanding about misunderstanding with misunderstanding).
Plot is basically spiderman meme - few spidermen are pointing at each other.
(misunderstanding about misunderstanding with misunderstanding).
November 15, 2022
Here is my attempt at a little summary: Cui Yue wakes up as a ghost and decides like any self respecting dead person his goal in life is to be a malevolent spirit. Before he can make good on this dream he tries to scare the wrong dude, Bai Shaonan. Said dude is full time one of the baddest ghosts in the underworld and part time dean of the University of the Underworld. Naturally Bai Shaonan takes offense and blackmails Cui Yue into attending the University of the Underworld foremost institution for teaching malevolent ghosts. There are shenanigans, hijinks, lots of misunderstandings, and a whole mystery.
Now for my review: Have you ever seen two characters stupid their way into a relationship and supported them the whole time? Misunderstandings abound here but honestly I was delighted the whole time. It wasn't frustrating misunderstanding it was just fun and hijinks. I stopped every few pages to text my favorite quotes to friends which really slowed my reading down because there were so many good ones. Each of the characters felt so well rounded and interesting with the protagonists being especially lovable.
But what really got me with this book was while it is very fluffy there were some really beautifully written lines and good lessons. I'm still thinking about one of the ghost's career advice. Great book hope it gets a physical copy or a sequel.
Now for my review: Have you ever seen two characters stupid their way into a relationship and supported them the whole time? Misunderstandings abound here but honestly I was delighted the whole time. It wasn't frustrating misunderstanding it was just fun and hijinks. I stopped every few pages to text my favorite quotes to friends which really slowed my reading down because there were so many good ones. Each of the characters felt so well rounded and interesting with the protagonists being especially lovable.
But what really got me with this book was while it is very fluffy there were some really beautifully written lines and good lessons. I'm still thinking about one of the ghost's career advice. Great book hope it gets a physical copy or a sequel.
February 4, 2023
This book felt like the first draft of a story. It was a vague presentation of ideas with a lack of complex world building, fleshed out characters (pun intended) or well delivered plot.
The beginning chapters did have me laughing out loud with the hilarious misunderstandings between the characters and the dramatic writing style, so it does have untapped potential. I think that if this novel went through a couple of redrafts and revisions, it could have been a much more solid read (pun also intended 👻)
The beginning chapters did have me laughing out loud with the hilarious misunderstandings between the characters and the dramatic writing style, so it does have untapped potential. I think that if this novel went through a couple of redrafts and revisions, it could have been a much more solid read (pun also intended 👻)
February 3, 2024
4.75 / 5: Sometimes, eternal love was not just for humans; as long as both sides were devoted to each other, love existed even between beasts and birds.
. . . “He’s my sleeping beauty.”
okay, i just need to get this off my chest, but—
i can excuse incest (and yes!! i really do mean it!!), but i absolutely draw the line at literally burning away any chance of my favorite character returning, playing out the lovers to enemies to lovers arc of my dreams with another character 😓
that betrayal got to me, guys…..more than it probably should’ve, but well….
note: the incest is actually a bit more complicated than you would think because they’re not actually blood, but….it’s still very peculiar 😅
in all seriousness, though, this was such a bizarre & funny murder mystery, i absolutely loved it. amazing characters with interesting backstories galore and the best setting for ghosts everywhere, it felt like something i don’t read often enough. the college curriculum that guided aspiring malevolent ghosts to live their wildest dreams made this story feel as entertaining as it was also really interesting. there was some genuine knowledge imparted to these students among all the hilarity that is the general story, and i was really invested.
never mind the fact that our mc, cui yue, makes that ghostly knowledge bring out disastrous results with how terribly he handles it, but he’s a sweetheart nonetheless :’) i enjoyed his slow-burning romance with bai shaonan the most for this, because they both had empty barrels for brains, but were also very soft with each other in a way that made me smile. i think this is one of the few stories where the lots and lots and lots of miscommunication actually serve the couple well. it even brings them together, too!! such an interesting way to flip that trope on its head without being infuriating.
seeing how they were both wrapped into the mystery and how those misunderstandings did some good and bad had me on the edge of my seat. there were many hidden players involved in these plights against these two but we wouldn’t know exactly who yet, it was so exciting!!
while some parts of the mystery did feel convoluted, it came to a certain point where the pivotal characters of the story—cui yue, bai shaonan, qin feng, and cao zhongnan— had me so charmed by them, i was intrigued with all of it. granted….one of them commits the betrayal of the century (i can’t remember the last time i was this thrown off by a favorite character of mine….) but kudos to him for getting what he wanted in the end. even as fucking bizarre and unsettling as it was, it made him more compelling and i have huge respects for the author for crossing that line and still making the story feel incredible.
all of it, i was in it for the long haul; and it was a really long haul for sure—very slow pacing—but i was not complaining. a lot of parts to the story, some readers might find could have been cut down, possibly some random dialogue as well, but it packed this story in in a way that made it feel so unlike what i usually read (i wouldn’t trade bai shaonan & qin feng’s banter as boss/secretary for anything……with maybe one exception but alas).
this felt like a mash up of jin shisi chai’s in the dark and its startling reveals (enough to make you have to suspend your disbelief, but it’s all so good!!) + priest’s guardian and its lighthearted supernatural atmosphere.
i really would love to read more from this author (their note at the end made me smile so much; i am absolutely rooting for them) and im very curious to check out what more genius & chaos they can brew; it was a lot of fun.
also!! potential sequel?? 👀 i don’t know too much about it besides it centering around one very certain character (cough qin feng cough) so if there’s a chance for me to grab my hands on it, i will make it happen.
until then!!
. . . “He’s my sleeping beauty.”
okay, i just need to get this off my chest, but—
i can excuse incest (and yes!! i really do mean it!!), but i absolutely draw the line at literally burning away any chance of my favorite character returning, playing out the lovers to enemies to lovers arc of my dreams with another character 😓
that betrayal got to me, guys…..more than it probably should’ve, but well….
note: the incest is actually a bit more complicated than you would think because they’re not actually blood, but….it’s still very peculiar 😅
in all seriousness, though, this was such a bizarre & funny murder mystery, i absolutely loved it. amazing characters with interesting backstories galore and the best setting for ghosts everywhere, it felt like something i don’t read often enough. the college curriculum that guided aspiring malevolent ghosts to live their wildest dreams made this story feel as entertaining as it was also really interesting. there was some genuine knowledge imparted to these students among all the hilarity that is the general story, and i was really invested.
never mind the fact that our mc, cui yue, makes that ghostly knowledge bring out disastrous results with how terribly he handles it, but he’s a sweetheart nonetheless :’) i enjoyed his slow-burning romance with bai shaonan the most for this, because they both had empty barrels for brains, but were also very soft with each other in a way that made me smile. i think this is one of the few stories where the lots and lots and lots of miscommunication actually serve the couple well. it even brings them together, too!! such an interesting way to flip that trope on its head without being infuriating.
seeing how they were both wrapped into the mystery and how those misunderstandings did some good and bad had me on the edge of my seat. there were many hidden players involved in these plights against these two but we wouldn’t know exactly who yet, it was so exciting!!
while some parts of the mystery did feel convoluted, it came to a certain point where the pivotal characters of the story—cui yue, bai shaonan, qin feng, and cao zhongnan— had me so charmed by them, i was intrigued with all of it. granted….one of them commits the betrayal of the century (i can’t remember the last time i was this thrown off by a favorite character of mine….) but kudos to him for getting what he wanted in the end. even as fucking bizarre and unsettling as it was, it made him more compelling and i have huge respects for the author for crossing that line and still making the story feel incredible.
all of it, i was in it for the long haul; and it was a really long haul for sure—very slow pacing—but i was not complaining. a lot of parts to the story, some readers might find could have been cut down, possibly some random dialogue as well, but it packed this story in in a way that made it feel so unlike what i usually read (i wouldn’t trade bai shaonan & qin feng’s banter as boss/secretary for anything……with maybe one exception but alas).
this felt like a mash up of jin shisi chai’s in the dark and its startling reveals (enough to make you have to suspend your disbelief, but it’s all so good!!) + priest’s guardian and its lighthearted supernatural atmosphere.
i really would love to read more from this author (their note at the end made me smile so much; i am absolutely rooting for them) and im very curious to check out what more genius & chaos they can brew; it was a lot of fun.
also!! potential sequel?? 👀 i don’t know too much about it besides it centering around one very certain character (cough qin feng cough) so if there’s a chance for me to grab my hands on it, i will make it happen.
until then!!
December 11, 2022
This was a really pleasant read, not short for a one-volume book but also doesn't overstay its welcome. The interactions the MC, Cui Yue, has with the other characters is absolutely HILARIOUS, and especially with the ML Bai Shaonan. Character development doesn't get too deep, as this is a one-volume novel, after all. This book isn't just a romcom either, there is an actual murder mystery plot, too! How does that work when the setting is the actual Underworld, you ask? Please read the story to find out hehe.
One very small con I find is that while I get this is a book with humor from beginning to end, I did wish the humorous bits took a backseat in places that felt more somber. When something a bit too silly for the mood happens, it takes me out of the story instead of being a break from the scene. But again, this is only a small nitpick.
In terms of a side couple...please read the full story to answer any questions about that ^w^
Overall: 4 stars! A great Halloween read~ (disregard the fact I finished this book when it's almost Christmas time...)
One very small con I find is that while I get this is a book with humor from beginning to end, I did wish the humorous bits took a backseat in places that felt more somber. When something a bit too silly for the mood happens, it takes me out of the story instead of being a break from the scene. But again, this is only a small nitpick.
In terms of a side couple...please read the full story to answer any questions about that ^w^
Overall: 4 stars! A great Halloween read~ (disregard the fact I finished this book when it's almost Christmas time...)
November 8, 2022
I. LOVED. IT.
The novel was mostly a rollercoaster of emotions for me (brought about by the plot twist— you'll know when you read it!), but overall it was insanely funny. The author has a really good way of balancing all the misunderstandings and also great comedic timing when to inject the humor.
I also loved the chemistry between the leads. If you're expecting some deep and groundbreaking romance story, this story may not be for you, but I love their banter and everytime Bai Shaonan called Cui Yue his little hotpot I just went 🥺 because it was soooo cute.
It's a fun and definitely worthwhile read, 100% recommend it to everyone!!
The novel was mostly a rollercoaster of emotions for me (brought about by the plot twist— you'll know when you read it!), but overall it was insanely funny. The author has a really good way of balancing all the misunderstandings and also great comedic timing when to inject the humor.
I also loved the chemistry between the leads. If you're expecting some deep and groundbreaking romance story, this story may not be for you, but I love their banter and everytime Bai Shaonan called Cui Yue his little hotpot I just went 🥺 because it was soooo cute.
It's a fun and definitely worthwhile read, 100% recommend it to everyone!!
November 19, 2022
3,5⭐
I enjoyed this story, maybe not as much as I thought I would but it was sweet.
The beginning was really funny but I find it a little too long by the end.
I would love to read a story with Qin Feng as the main character.
I enjoyed this story, maybe not as much as I thought I would but it was sweet.
The beginning was really funny but I find it a little too long by the end.
I would love to read a story with Qin Feng as the main character.
July 8, 2023
This reads like a first draft - the characters lack nuance, the mystery plot is somewhat convoluted, and the ending feels rushed.
With some extra polish this could be an enjoyable little novel, but as it stands its potential remains unrealised.
With some extra polish this could be an enjoyable little novel, but as it stands its potential remains unrealised.
November 25, 2025
★★☆☆☆
University of the Underworld started out feeling like a quirky, light paranormal comedy with ghosts, underworld academia, and a clueless protagonist stumbling his way through literal death school. For a while, I genuinely thought this would be fun — the kind of silly, chaotic supernatural story that doesn’t take itself seriously but still manages to charm you. And to be fair, some moments were funny; a handful of interactions did make me laugh out loud, and for a brief stretch, I thought I had found an easy, entertaining read.
Unfortunately… that feeling didn’t last.
The early chapters are mostly harmless confusion — trying to understand the setting, who is who, and why Cui Yue has the survival instincts of a hamster in traffic. Once the story picked up, I thought, Okay, nice, this is going somewhere. And then we hit the middle-to-late section and everything derailed into a cocktail of “why is this happening” and “please make it stop.”
The biggest, most unavoidable issue:
the incest and self-incest — plural.
There is no sugarcoating it. This book introduces three different incestuous pairings/themes:
• Cui Yue × Bai Shaonan (self-incest, as they are literally made from the same energy — Cui Yue being created from Bai Shaonan’s bisected body part… yes, really)
• Cao B × his father Nan Jin/Fu-Whatever (explicit “father–son” incest roleplay basically)
• Bai Shaonan’s father → Bai Shaonan (parental romantic interest)
By the time the book openly explained that Cui Yue and Bai Shaonan are basically the same being — something the characters themselves acknowledge — I was out. I read it because I was already too deep, but the ick factor never left.
And the worst part is that the story treats these reveals as either comedic, dramatic, or romantic beats instead of absolute dealbreakers. I cannot express how genuinely unpleasant these plot turns were.
As for the plot itself: several arcs begin with promise only to fizzle out halfway. “Lovingly He?” More like Lovingly dropped. The ending is rushed, flat, and gives absolutely no satisfying payoff, especially considering how chaotic the buildup was. The epilogue didn’t help, and honestly, the book would have benefitted from zero smut — if you’re going to go bizarre, at least go vague.
Character-wise, I surprisingly liked Qin Feng the most simply because he annoyed me the least. Cui Yue, bless him, made choices that had me staring at the ceiling. Bai Shaonan as the Dean should’ve been compelling, but the writing never commits to making him serious, comedic, threatening, or romantic — he just oscillates between vibes. Everyone is either mildly exasperating or straight-up morally rotten.
If the author’s intention was to make most characters gross or unsettling, then mission accomplished. If not… well.
All in all, my reading experience went like this:
Oh this is fun → lol this is funny → wait, what? → oh god no → please end my suffering.
Finishing the book felt more like closing an obligation than experiencing a story. The concept had potential, the humor landed at times, but the execution, the plot derailments, and especially the incest themes tanked it for me.
So yes — 2 stars.
Not the worst thing I’ve ever read, but absolutely not something I’d recommend or revisit.
University of the Underworld started out feeling like a quirky, light paranormal comedy with ghosts, underworld academia, and a clueless protagonist stumbling his way through literal death school. For a while, I genuinely thought this would be fun — the kind of silly, chaotic supernatural story that doesn’t take itself seriously but still manages to charm you. And to be fair, some moments were funny; a handful of interactions did make me laugh out loud, and for a brief stretch, I thought I had found an easy, entertaining read.
Unfortunately… that feeling didn’t last.
The early chapters are mostly harmless confusion — trying to understand the setting, who is who, and why Cui Yue has the survival instincts of a hamster in traffic. Once the story picked up, I thought, Okay, nice, this is going somewhere. And then we hit the middle-to-late section and everything derailed into a cocktail of “why is this happening” and “please make it stop.”
The biggest, most unavoidable issue:
the incest and self-incest — plural.
There is no sugarcoating it. This book introduces three different incestuous pairings/themes:
• Cui Yue × Bai Shaonan (self-incest, as they are literally made from the same energy — Cui Yue being created from Bai Shaonan’s bisected body part… yes, really)
• Cao B × his father Nan Jin/Fu-Whatever (explicit “father–son” incest roleplay basically)
• Bai Shaonan’s father → Bai Shaonan (parental romantic interest)
By the time the book openly explained that Cui Yue and Bai Shaonan are basically the same being — something the characters themselves acknowledge — I was out. I read it because I was already too deep, but the ick factor never left.
And the worst part is that the story treats these reveals as either comedic, dramatic, or romantic beats instead of absolute dealbreakers. I cannot express how genuinely unpleasant these plot turns were.
As for the plot itself: several arcs begin with promise only to fizzle out halfway. “Lovingly He?” More like Lovingly dropped. The ending is rushed, flat, and gives absolutely no satisfying payoff, especially considering how chaotic the buildup was. The epilogue didn’t help, and honestly, the book would have benefitted from zero smut — if you’re going to go bizarre, at least go vague.
Character-wise, I surprisingly liked Qin Feng the most simply because he annoyed me the least. Cui Yue, bless him, made choices that had me staring at the ceiling. Bai Shaonan as the Dean should’ve been compelling, but the writing never commits to making him serious, comedic, threatening, or romantic — he just oscillates between vibes. Everyone is either mildly exasperating or straight-up morally rotten.
If the author’s intention was to make most characters gross or unsettling, then mission accomplished. If not… well.
All in all, my reading experience went like this:
Oh this is fun → lol this is funny → wait, what? → oh god no → please end my suffering.
Finishing the book felt more like closing an obligation than experiencing a story. The concept had potential, the humor landed at times, but the execution, the plot derailments, and especially the incest themes tanked it for me.
So yes — 2 stars.
Not the worst thing I’ve ever read, but absolutely not something I’d recommend or revisit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2024
I got through 29% of this novel when it was first published and then left it on pause for essentially 2 years before I finally finished it this time. And well, it was something!
I have to say I didn't really enjoy the characters. I probably only liked Qin Feng, was lukewarm about Bai Shaonan, and Cui Yue really irritated me (even though his actions are explained by plot reasons). I think this novel was really interesting in that Bai Shaonan and Qin Feng became main characters more than Bai Shaonan and Cui Yue. After Cui Yue's introduction to the school, it's really just "sit tight while everyone else solves the problem and bad things happen." Yet even then, the mystery solving was kind of convoluted? Bai Shaonan wants this mystery solved, but also doesn't really actively do anything for the first half and instead only reacts when bad things happen in the second half.
I wasn't particularly sold on Bai Shaonan/Cui Yue as a pairing either. I honestly didn't care for them, and when the "devasting" reveal happened, I can tell you that I was not devasted. I did not move. I think their relationship lacked sincerity and a stronger development/connection as the author was striving for a more comedic tone. Some parts were funny to me, but for the most part I don't think our humor matches.
The antagonists just left me going, "okay, sure, why not," which is not exactly a praise. The plot was honestly everywhere, and the pacing was honestly glacial. It was so slow, oh my god.
Overall, I think the author has a very strong writing style that could be fun, I just didn't vibe with the characters and specific humor.
I have to say I didn't really enjoy the characters. I probably only liked Qin Feng, was lukewarm about Bai Shaonan, and Cui Yue really irritated me (even though his actions are explained by plot reasons). I think this novel was really interesting in that Bai Shaonan and Qin Feng became main characters more than Bai Shaonan and Cui Yue. After Cui Yue's introduction to the school, it's really just "sit tight while everyone else solves the problem and bad things happen." Yet even then, the mystery solving was kind of convoluted? Bai Shaonan wants this mystery solved, but also doesn't really actively do anything for the first half and instead only reacts when bad things happen in the second half.
I wasn't particularly sold on Bai Shaonan/Cui Yue as a pairing either. I honestly didn't care for them, and when the "devasting" reveal happened, I can tell you that I was not devasted. I did not move. I think their relationship lacked sincerity and a stronger development/connection as the author was striving for a more comedic tone. Some parts were funny to me, but for the most part I don't think our humor matches.
The antagonists just left me going, "okay, sure, why not," which is not exactly a praise. The plot was honestly everywhere, and the pacing was honestly glacial. It was so slow, oh my god.
Overall, I think the author has a very strong writing style that could be fun, I just didn't vibe with the characters and specific humor.
October 14, 2025
Esperaba una novela de comedia, con puras risas y tonteras y no solo me dio eso, me dio historia, me dio misterio, me dio pseudoincesto y selfcest, me dio diferencia de edad y asesinatos, me dio más de lo que esperaba y mientas más avanzaba me seguía sorprendiendo por lo que seguía descubriendo, la vdd hasta lo que voy estoy muy satisfecha y me levanto para aplaudir a la autora porque lo que parecía ser una simple comedia fue tomando un camino más maduro sin perder su toque cómico, todo es orgánico y fácil de leer, se nota que la autora no ha creado la historia mientras avanzaba, no, ella ya venía dejando pequeños hilos que conectaban todo desde el inicio.
La CP principal me agradó bastante, me moría de risa con sus interacciones por la dinámica que manejan 🤣💟💟
La CP secundaria, si es que lo podemos llamar así, me dio una gran tristeza por parte de Qin Feng el grande 🥺 su corazóncito quedó lastimado pero sé que no ha quedado derrotado, conseguirá el amor en el futuro y yo voy a leer si o sí 🤭☝️
En conclusión para mi gusto la autora es excelente, divertida, atrevida 👀 y la recomiendo encarecidamente si les gusta ese tipo de comedia torpe pero con un trasfondo intrigante y de dudosa moralidad 💌
La CP principal me agradó bastante, me moría de risa con sus interacciones por la dinámica que manejan 🤣💟💟
La CP secundaria, si es que lo podemos llamar así, me dio una gran tristeza por parte de Qin Feng el grande 🥺 su corazóncito quedó lastimado pero sé que no ha quedado derrotado, conseguirá el amor en el futuro y yo voy a leer si o sí 🤭☝️
En conclusión para mi gusto la autora es excelente, divertida, atrevida 👀 y la recomiendo encarecidamente si les gusta ese tipo de comedia torpe pero con un trasfondo intrigante y de dudosa moralidad 💌
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2023
So I enjoyed the beginning of this one, more or less. I liked the idea of having to go to school to learn how to become a malevolent spirit, and how bad Cui Yue was at it, and the utter haplessness of both Cui Yue and Bai Shaonan believing the other had fallen in love with them so they might as well date anyway. Where I was much less enthused was with the murder mystery, which from the jump felt pretty weak to me and only got weaker the longer it went on. This was a strange situation where this plotline dragged on and on, but then it felt like everything towards the end was wrapped up too quickly. I didn't love that.
I can see how the lightness of this (even with the murder mystery) would appeal to other people, but I needed more substance and less zaniness, so I think this type of story is just not for me.
I can see how the lightness of this (even with the murder mystery) would appeal to other people, but I needed more substance and less zaniness, so I think this type of story is just not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2023
Took me ages to finish because it was all over the place. I just couldn’t get into the story even though it had a fun if weird start. It’s not badly edited or filled with errors it just seemed half ghost story (the characters float and eat offerings) but then have physical bodies and can interact with physical world. And then our “Little Hot Pot” -I did not like that nickname- had to go to ghost PIGS college and learn how to scare humans. I do appreciate that the spicy scenes are not violent, but lots of dubious consent here. The internal dialog can be juvenile for characters that are hundreds of years old.
August 28, 2024
It was a fun book but it had some pacing issues and lost me from around the 60% mark up until the end. The epilogue was fun again and regained some of the humour and irreverence that made the first half of the book entertaining.
February 11, 2023
Really fun and cute and entertaining!
June 25, 2024
So cute!!
Very funny story, i am sad that secretary didn’t get a HE but i still really liked this story and hope to read more by this author in the future.
Very funny story, i am sad that secretary didn’t get a HE but i still really liked this story and hope to read more by this author in the future.
August 4, 2024
Cute funny novel with actual pretty ok plot could have been a little bit more fleshed out though
October 30, 2024
Oh this was delightful! I really enjoyed it! Bai Shaonan and Cui Yue forever💖
November 30, 2024
Just a silly, lighthearted story. Nothing to write home about
December 4, 2024
This novel is really funny. It’s not perfect, sometimes the stoy was all over the place and a bit confusing, but I still enjoyed reading it.
September 14, 2024
"They treated Cui Yue as a pawn, but he would rather treat Cui Yue as a gem."
I picked up this book expecting silliness, and that's certainly what I got.
First of all, I really adored the characters. They made me laugh at how pathetic they could be (for Bai Shaonan and Cui Yue) and also how ruthless they could be (Qin Feng). Our main trio have their own unique personalities and traits that may come across as fairly stereotypical sometimes but they were still very much endearing to me. Their relationships with each other had their own flavor too. Even the minor characters, such as the nameless students, provided entertainment and many laughs.
The numerous misunderstandings in this book were played more for the sake of comedy rather than drama. The overall tone leans heavier into sitcom rather than soap opera, which is quite a refreshing take in books since oftentimes, misunderstandings between characters are played up for maximum drama. It's a bit reminiscent of manga, actually. However, I do think this style isn't for everyone. If you don't have patience and tolerance for what can be perceived as "stupidity" in characters, then this book might not be for you. (And in fact, the reason for Cui Yue's unique thought process gets explained eventually.) As for me, I enjoyed the less dramatic take on danmei as well as the mystery.
Speaking of the mystery, it actually wasn't anything special, but it was still engaging for me. The mystery encompassed not only the threats to Cui Yue and the other ghosts, but also the identities of our characters too. Bai Shaonan, Cui Yue, Qin Feng, Cao Zhongnan - all four of them have secrets of their own and you uncover the truth of who and what they are. From the very beginning, some aspects of the murders were already very much obvious, but there were still revelations that might come as a surprise. Frankly I didn't come into the book expecting a strong mystery plot anyway since the main appeal is the characters' hijinks, but it was sufficient and got me curious about the who and the what.
I do think that the length of the book is a weakness. I didn't mind how long it was but I can see how other readers may feel like it drags its feet and is unnecessarily lengthened by misunderstandings and whatnot. The middle parts of the book could've been condensed and the ending expanded upon more, because I do think the last chapter before the epilogue sped through some things. But that epilogue was sweet and did give a glimpse of what daily life (or daily death?) might be like for our ghosts.
Now, I saw on Twitter that a sequel involving Qin Feng was recently published, so I'm crossing my fingers and begging Peach Flower House to please license it. I, too, am now a member of Qin Feng's cult and would love to read all about his happy ending after everything he endured in this book!
P.S. "Little hotpot" as a term of endearment is the cutest thing ever. I will never get over it.
I picked up this book expecting silliness, and that's certainly what I got.
First of all, I really adored the characters. They made me laugh at how pathetic they could be (for Bai Shaonan and Cui Yue) and also how ruthless they could be (Qin Feng). Our main trio have their own unique personalities and traits that may come across as fairly stereotypical sometimes but they were still very much endearing to me. Their relationships with each other had their own flavor too. Even the minor characters, such as the nameless students, provided entertainment and many laughs.
The numerous misunderstandings in this book were played more for the sake of comedy rather than drama. The overall tone leans heavier into sitcom rather than soap opera, which is quite a refreshing take in books since oftentimes, misunderstandings between characters are played up for maximum drama. It's a bit reminiscent of manga, actually. However, I do think this style isn't for everyone. If you don't have patience and tolerance for what can be perceived as "stupidity" in characters, then this book might not be for you. (And in fact, the reason for Cui Yue's unique thought process gets explained eventually.) As for me, I enjoyed the less dramatic take on danmei as well as the mystery.
Speaking of the mystery, it actually wasn't anything special, but it was still engaging for me. The mystery encompassed not only the threats to Cui Yue and the other ghosts, but also the identities of our characters too. Bai Shaonan, Cui Yue, Qin Feng, Cao Zhongnan - all four of them have secrets of their own and you uncover the truth of who and what they are. From the very beginning, some aspects of the murders were already very much obvious, but there were still revelations that might come as a surprise. Frankly I didn't come into the book expecting a strong mystery plot anyway since the main appeal is the characters' hijinks, but it was sufficient and got me curious about the who and the what.
I do think that the length of the book is a weakness. I didn't mind how long it was but I can see how other readers may feel like it drags its feet and is unnecessarily lengthened by misunderstandings and whatnot. The middle parts of the book could've been condensed and the ending expanded upon more, because I do think the last chapter before the epilogue sped through some things. But that epilogue was sweet and did give a glimpse of what daily life (or daily death?) might be like for our ghosts.
Now, I saw on Twitter that a sequel involving Qin Feng was recently published, so I'm crossing my fingers and begging Peach Flower House to please license it. I, too, am now a member of Qin Feng's cult and would love to read all about his happy ending after everything he endured in this book!
P.S. "Little hotpot" as a term of endearment is the cutest thing ever. I will never get over it.
August 22, 2023
3.5 rounded up. Quick fun read. Worth checking out if you want something that’s not too serious
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