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Soul Vibration: 灵魂骚动 Vol. 2 （English Edition）
When the sun rises, I want to hold you tight
And then just like this, together forever
Us together…
Forget the past, ignore tomorrow
Talented Bassist X Indie Singer-songwriter,
Idol x Fanboy,
Rock Star x Assistant,
Straight x Straight
From admiration to love.
This novel describes the daily lives of a chart-topping rock band, LOTUS, told from the perspective of the bassist's personal assistant.
Independent singer-songwriter Chi Nan had to give up on his music dream after finding out about his incurable hearing defect. At the depths of his despair, the bassist of his favourite band, LOTUS, bought the rights to all his songs and made him his personal assistant.
“Even if I become completely deaf, I can't break free from myself. Even if half of me grows old, the other half will always remain within the dream named Rock and roll, the dream named Teenage Dream, named Salinger.”
And then just like this, together forever
Us together…
Forget the past, ignore tomorrow
Talented Bassist X Indie Singer-songwriter,
Idol x Fanboy,
Rock Star x Assistant,
Straight x Straight
From admiration to love.
This novel describes the daily lives of a chart-topping rock band, LOTUS, told from the perspective of the bassist's personal assistant.
Independent singer-songwriter Chi Nan had to give up on his music dream after finding out about his incurable hearing defect. At the depths of his despair, the bassist of his favourite band, LOTUS, bought the rights to all his songs and made him his personal assistant.
“Even if I become completely deaf, I can't break free from myself. Even if half of me grows old, the other half will always remain within the dream named Rock and roll, the dream named Teenage Dream, named Salinger.”
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 12, 2023
8 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
June 6, 2025
✰*ੈ✩‧₊˚ five ✰’s
RTC but just know that soul vibration is my now in my top five danmei of all time.
RTC but just know that soul vibration is my now in my top five danmei of all time.
The melody of the piano seems to connect me, him, along with the glass of water on the table, the fog outside the window, everything and beyond, to vibrate and resonate with my every heartbeat. Salinger, I hope you can find the motifs you want through the sound of my heartbeats, maybe it’s the loneliness of a long night, the confusion draped in the fog, the longing for the dawn to come, the passion that nearly burns you to ashes … but all of those are ultimately you, yours alone.
July 11, 2025
灵魂骚动's first volume got me so hooked that I started this second volume right after, and now I want to jump to the next volume as soon as possible, grr!
First, honestly, the early parts of this volume really pissed me off. Even though I knew maybe it wasn’t exactly like that, it still felt like Dong Jia got close to Chi Nan solely because of Salinger. And by the end, that suspicion felt somewhat validated, because all she seemed to think about was Salinger. That said, it was still sad. Even if she reached her dream, she could never reach Salinger. And Chi Nan, as kind as he is, despite all the confusion and hurt this whole situation caused him, still sympathized with her. Because he, too, slowly starts acknowledging that his feelings toward Salinger are so much more than just fanboy admiration.
And in that same light, we begin to see that as much as Chi Nan yearns, Salinger longs too. They both move carefully, quietly, with so much held back. Perhaps they both believe they could never truly be with the other. That’s why the slowburn is so agonizingly slowburning! And yet, so rewarding.
One of the things I absolutely loved about this volume was its focus on musicality. I’ve been both a performer and an audience member, so I could completely relate to how the characters felt as they brewed compositions, rehearsed, and performed. Even just witnessing someone you admire live out their moment on stage is an overwhelming experience. Reading this felt like whiplash (which honestly reminded me a bit of Neimann from the 2014 film entitled Whiplash), especially that scene where Salinger plays the drums for Chi Nan and Ray. It's unforgettable to me. I do think that readers who aren’t musically inclined might miss some of the emotional weight, because Chi Nan’s perspective is so steeped in sound, rhythm, and the nuances of music-making (besides all his thoughts about Salinger, of course).
And the jealousy, my god! I couldn’t help but giggle every time Chi Nan or Salinger made a remark or gesture that hinted at it. Like, just kiss already! But of course, I understand why it’s drawn out. They’ve placed each other on a pedestal, too afraid to cross that line. Still, the way Chi Nan describes his feelings is absolutely beautiful. And Salinger, his stares, silences, and every little action that involves Chi Nan. Gosh, I love them both so much.
But it’s also heartbreaking. Chi Nan’s hearing is deteriorating, and he begins to express real fear about whether he still has the right to stand beside Salinger, especially as someone who is becoming disabled. He works so hard, and now that he has something to fight for, it feels like he’s losing it even faster. It's so sad!
And then there’s the voice message: "Your right ear is the most precious thing in the world right now, but that belongs to YOU. You can use it however you want. But it fills me with regret, my heart deeply aches for you, but I shall help you fulfill its final values." It’s the most heartfelt and affirming response Chi Nan could have received. Not pity, not grief, but support. It’s the kind of love that doesn’t shout but simply shows up.
To wrap things up, late as I may be, Happy 5th Anniversary to LOTUS! I just hope Chi Nan’s heartbeat's rhythm reaches Salinger, and Salinger’s love songs reach Chi Nan. Like please, I just want them to reach each other already.
First, honestly, the early parts of this volume really pissed me off. Even though I knew maybe it wasn’t exactly like that, it still felt like Dong Jia got close to Chi Nan solely because of Salinger. And by the end, that suspicion felt somewhat validated, because all she seemed to think about was Salinger. That said, it was still sad. Even if she reached her dream, she could never reach Salinger. And Chi Nan, as kind as he is, despite all the confusion and hurt this whole situation caused him, still sympathized with her. Because he, too, slowly starts acknowledging that his feelings toward Salinger are so much more than just fanboy admiration.
And in that same light, we begin to see that as much as Chi Nan yearns, Salinger longs too. They both move carefully, quietly, with so much held back. Perhaps they both believe they could never truly be with the other. That’s why the slowburn is so agonizingly slowburning! And yet, so rewarding.
One of the things I absolutely loved about this volume was its focus on musicality. I’ve been both a performer and an audience member, so I could completely relate to how the characters felt as they brewed compositions, rehearsed, and performed. Even just witnessing someone you admire live out their moment on stage is an overwhelming experience. Reading this felt like whiplash (which honestly reminded me a bit of Neimann from the 2014 film entitled Whiplash), especially that scene where Salinger plays the drums for Chi Nan and Ray. It's unforgettable to me. I do think that readers who aren’t musically inclined might miss some of the emotional weight, because Chi Nan’s perspective is so steeped in sound, rhythm, and the nuances of music-making (besides all his thoughts about Salinger, of course).
And the jealousy, my god! I couldn’t help but giggle every time Chi Nan or Salinger made a remark or gesture that hinted at it. Like, just kiss already! But of course, I understand why it’s drawn out. They’ve placed each other on a pedestal, too afraid to cross that line. Still, the way Chi Nan describes his feelings is absolutely beautiful. And Salinger, his stares, silences, and every little action that involves Chi Nan. Gosh, I love them both so much.
But it’s also heartbreaking. Chi Nan’s hearing is deteriorating, and he begins to express real fear about whether he still has the right to stand beside Salinger, especially as someone who is becoming disabled. He works so hard, and now that he has something to fight for, it feels like he’s losing it even faster. It's so sad!
And then there’s the voice message: "Your right ear is the most precious thing in the world right now, but that belongs to YOU. You can use it however you want. But it fills me with regret, my heart deeply aches for you, but I shall help you fulfill its final values." It’s the most heartfelt and affirming response Chi Nan could have received. Not pity, not grief, but support. It’s the kind of love that doesn’t shout but simply shows up.
To wrap things up, late as I may be, Happy 5th Anniversary to LOTUS! I just hope Chi Nan’s heartbeat's rhythm reaches Salinger, and Salinger’s love songs reach Chi Nan. Like please, I just want them to reach each other already.
November 13, 2023
I am so invested in this story but when I say it’s a slow burn, it’s a SLOW BURN.
August 5, 2025
3.5/5 🌟
I sure am going off the rails to explain why I gave the rating I did. There's many things I loved, but overall many things I wasn't fond of in this volume. I apologize in advanced. Maybe I'm too stupid to fully comprehend the beauty of this style of story telling. I think that's it. I'm too dumb. (っ- ‸ - ς)
Let's begin.
Honestly, this one was more disappointing than I had expected. However, if it wasn't for the ending of the volume, it would have been lower. But let's start with the good parts first.
♥️♥️♥️
🔸I am so in awe with some of the moments where it's so poetic.
🔸I love how picturesk some scenes are. Those scenes where Chi Nan is slowly coming to terms with his hearing loss. The angst is sadder than I expected.
🔸I love how Chi Nan is not weak and is still seeking to make music and relate to music. He still sees Salinger as his top idol—his god.
Despite being constantly hurt by Salinger, he still remains strong. He doesn't care about the rumors, the mistakes Salinger makes, etc. He sees the good sides of him, even the small moments where Salinger smiles. 💔
Chi Nan is such a good man. Even if it hurts, he chooses to do his job well and be the number one fan to protect Salinger. He refuses to admit his hearing loss and even at one point says, "you will be the last person I will ever tell" that made me cry. 😭
More ❤️❤️❤️
🔸I feel like we finally just have a little sparkle at the end. The sparkle that Chi Nan is Salinger's unwavering anchor— his unwavering fan and lighthouse.
We FINALLY get to see at the very end Salinger finally vocalize things. Such as saying the very beautiful quotes:
"It feels incredible to be someone's idol. You wonder how he could love you so much—to learn music for you, how to play guitar, to play bass, to write songs to tribute to you, to be able to stick around for so many years and to go around defending you, trying to get to know you. Turning a blind eye to the flaws he learns about, believing in you unconditionally even with all the scandals, never looking at you with doubt in his eyes."
And
"Were you afraid that I'd stop you? Stop you from taking off your headphones at our concerts, stop you from writing songs and making music, stop you from attending rehearsals? Your right ear is the most precious thing in the world right now, but that belongs to you You can use it however you want. It fills me with regret-my heart deeply aches for you-but I shall help you fulfil its final wishes."
🔸I'm very happy to see that Salinger is the one person and No.1 supporter of Chi Nan by making Chi Nan's fan boy and aspirational dreams, even ones he could never dream of, come true.
🔸When they're in their own little world of music.
Chi Nan had no one.
No one who supported him.
No one who believed in him.
No one who cared about his precious, fragile dream of becoming a singer.
No one—except Salinger.
Salinger, who did support, believe, and care—embracing that dream as his own, and chose to make it come true before Chi Nan was lost to his illness.
。Sure: Salinger did go back for him in the fire.
。Sure: Salinger did I guess sponser that girl, but enough to date her? Wtf.
。Sure: Salinger did get the CD signed and found the CD for the Japanese restaurant owner because Chi Nan was working on gifting it. (I love how Chi Nan doesn't have to ask and Salinger just does it. It's very meaningful.)
。Sure: Salinger did search and find Chi Nan at the beach side and spend the whole day with him (this was cute.)
。Sure: Salinger did help Chi Nan write those songs by being his co-creater and you see him relying more and more on Chi Nan. It's cute and I did tear up many times, especially because it brought Chi Nan such happiness. He felt so blessed, my son deserves this happiness OKAY!!
。Sure: MAYbe he bought matching key chains. But did he really have to be rather cold about it?
。Sure: He stood up for Chi Nan twice— defending CN's music, enough to put his reputation on the line.
。Sure: Finally, it seems like an epiphany light bulb lite up on top of Salinger's head and finally shows appreciation TOWARDS Chi Nan, "wow... This guy has been with me for years, hasn't he?" YES, YOU DUMMY! HE LOVES YOU! HE'S THE ONLY ONE WHO HAS SEEN YOU FOR YOU AND BELIEVED IN YOU, DUMMY! Took you long enough, GAH! ᕙ( ᗒᗣᗕ )ᕗ
I swear, I just wanna shake and or smack him sometimes!!
🗑️My UGH! 🗑️(っ ͡ ͡º - ͡ ͡º ς)
Why is this man so mysterious, for the love of —!
🔹Why is he remixing her song she wrote for him!!!!!!? Ugh!!
🔹Why did he look disappointed when he found out that he forgot his other ex's birthday and that's why she broke up with him?
🔹Are we ever going to know who he's suspiciously talking to for a long time on the phone? What were they even talking about??
🔹Why did he date that girl?? Why did she show up drunk? Why did he have her in his house all night? Was he oblivious to all the things Chi Nan has done for him, and never so much has thanked him for covering for him. Chi Nan was exposed to a loud sound and Salinger never noticed? You can't tell me that.
🔹Why was he so damn cold like 75% of the book? And to Chi Nan of all people. It doesn't make any sense to me. Especially the first 35% of the book.
Did he do something to you, sir?
I know I can't expect a perfect character, and I'm glad we see these flaws. I wish the change in mentality and feelings was shown/told a bit more rapidly...?? The story, scenes, side characters, conversations are off balance for me. Too much of some and not enough of others.
Maybe it's the slow burn.
Maybe it's this whole idea of things getting hot and then cold and hot and then cold, over and over again.
Salinger's so closed off that it's making me want to rip my hair out.
Not to mention that there's always a women getting involved that just come and ruin everything.
Salinger's never verbally thanks Chi Nan and it's kinda unfortunate.
Maybe his way of appreciation is inviting Chi Nan into his world of music, and I can see that being very precious. But I still see this wall up, and it's so frustrating! I wish we knew more of what is going on inside Salinger's head. Has he not seen how much he's hurting Chi Nan? Like... Common man... He's your assistant, but at least say THANK YOU! Surely you're not this blind not to notice. USE YOUR WORDS MAN!
💔 We are already finished with book two and they haven't: held hands; touched hands; hugged; caressed faces, back or hands; kissed; confessed... Just a... shoulder touch.
Idk... I hate feeling so in the dark.💔
I don't mind one sided POV, but with something like TGCF, we already saw how Huacheng is so madly attracted to Xielian and in love by the end of book one. Xielian was just completely clueless. Lmao
Author... Can we not mention how talented, amazing, handsome, sexy and oh so perfect Salinger and LOTUS is for 5 pages please.
Like.... I know my boy Chi Nan is a simp, but COMMON!
Please author, we need less of many of the drawn out scenes of the band doing band things, and more conversation or meaningful moments between the couple. I need answers, mmk! (っ.❛ ▽ ❛.)っ
Also, has anyone in this story ever heard of earplugs one can wear to protect one's hearing? Whether it be for concerts or every day things... Chi Nan be exposing himself to loud sounds without wearing earplugs? Common my boy, they exist! Even fancy good ones!
Anyway, overall, it was good, but not super great.
I still need to finish the 3rd volume to really get an idea of what I feel for this story, in general. My review is subject to change.
I sure am going off the rails to explain why I gave the rating I did. There's many things I loved, but overall many things I wasn't fond of in this volume. I apologize in advanced. Maybe I'm too stupid to fully comprehend the beauty of this style of story telling. I think that's it. I'm too dumb. (っ- ‸ - ς)
Let's begin.
Honestly, this one was more disappointing than I had expected. However, if it wasn't for the ending of the volume, it would have been lower. But let's start with the good parts first.
♥️♥️♥️
🔸I am so in awe with some of the moments where it's so poetic.
🔸I love how picturesk some scenes are. Those scenes where Chi Nan is slowly coming to terms with his hearing loss. The angst is sadder than I expected.
🔸I love how Chi Nan is not weak and is still seeking to make music and relate to music. He still sees Salinger as his top idol—his god.
Despite being constantly hurt by Salinger, he still remains strong. He doesn't care about the rumors, the mistakes Salinger makes, etc. He sees the good sides of him, even the small moments where Salinger smiles. 💔
Chi Nan is such a good man. Even if it hurts, he chooses to do his job well and be the number one fan to protect Salinger. He refuses to admit his hearing loss and even at one point says, "you will be the last person I will ever tell" that made me cry. 😭
More ❤️❤️❤️
🔸I feel like we finally just have a little sparkle at the end. The sparkle that Chi Nan is Salinger's unwavering anchor— his unwavering fan and lighthouse.
We FINALLY get to see at the very end Salinger finally vocalize things. Such as saying the very beautiful quotes:
"It feels incredible to be someone's idol. You wonder how he could love you so much—to learn music for you, how to play guitar, to play bass, to write songs to tribute to you, to be able to stick around for so many years and to go around defending you, trying to get to know you. Turning a blind eye to the flaws he learns about, believing in you unconditionally even with all the scandals, never looking at you with doubt in his eyes."
And
"Were you afraid that I'd stop you? Stop you from taking off your headphones at our concerts, stop you from writing songs and making music, stop you from attending rehearsals? Your right ear is the most precious thing in the world right now, but that belongs to you You can use it however you want. It fills me with regret-my heart deeply aches for you-but I shall help you fulfil its final wishes."
🔸I'm very happy to see that Salinger is the one person and No.1 supporter of Chi Nan by making Chi Nan's fan boy and aspirational dreams, even ones he could never dream of, come true.
🔸When they're in their own little world of music.
Chi Nan had no one.
No one who supported him.
No one who believed in him.
No one who cared about his precious, fragile dream of becoming a singer.
No one—except Salinger.
Salinger, who did support, believe, and care—embracing that dream as his own, and chose to make it come true before Chi Nan was lost to his illness.
。Sure: Salinger did go back for him in the fire.
。Sure: Salinger did I guess sponser that girl, but enough to date her? Wtf.
。Sure: Salinger did get the CD signed and found the CD for the Japanese restaurant owner because Chi Nan was working on gifting it. (I love how Chi Nan doesn't have to ask and Salinger just does it. It's very meaningful.)
。Sure: Salinger did search and find Chi Nan at the beach side and spend the whole day with him (this was cute.)
。Sure: Salinger did help Chi Nan write those songs by being his co-creater and you see him relying more and more on Chi Nan. It's cute and I did tear up many times, especially because it brought Chi Nan such happiness. He felt so blessed, my son deserves this happiness OKAY!!
。Sure: MAYbe he bought matching key chains. But did he really have to be rather cold about it?
。Sure: He stood up for Chi Nan twice— defending CN's music, enough to put his reputation on the line.
。Sure: Finally, it seems like an epiphany light bulb lite up on top of Salinger's head and finally shows appreciation TOWARDS Chi Nan, "wow... This guy has been with me for years, hasn't he?" YES, YOU DUMMY! HE LOVES YOU! HE'S THE ONLY ONE WHO HAS SEEN YOU FOR YOU AND BELIEVED IN YOU, DUMMY! Took you long enough, GAH! ᕙ( ᗒᗣᗕ )ᕗ
I swear, I just wanna shake and or smack him sometimes!!
🗑️My UGH! 🗑️(っ ͡ ͡º - ͡ ͡º ς)
Why is this man so mysterious, for the love of —!
🔹Why is he remixing her song she wrote for him!!!!!!? Ugh!!
🔹Why did he look disappointed when he found out that he forgot his other ex's birthday and that's why she broke up with him?
🔹Are we ever going to know who he's suspiciously talking to for a long time on the phone? What were they even talking about??
🔹Why did he date that girl?? Why did she show up drunk? Why did he have her in his house all night? Was he oblivious to all the things Chi Nan has done for him, and never so much has thanked him for covering for him. Chi Nan was exposed to a loud sound and Salinger never noticed? You can't tell me that.
🔹Why was he so damn cold like 75% of the book? And to Chi Nan of all people. It doesn't make any sense to me. Especially the first 35% of the book.
Did he do something to you, sir?
I know I can't expect a perfect character, and I'm glad we see these flaws. I wish the change in mentality and feelings was shown/told a bit more rapidly...?? The story, scenes, side characters, conversations are off balance for me. Too much of some and not enough of others.
Maybe it's the slow burn.
Maybe it's this whole idea of things getting hot and then cold and hot and then cold, over and over again.
Salinger's so closed off that it's making me want to rip my hair out.
Not to mention that there's always a women getting involved that just come and ruin everything.
Salinger's never verbally thanks Chi Nan and it's kinda unfortunate.
Maybe his way of appreciation is inviting Chi Nan into his world of music, and I can see that being very precious. But I still see this wall up, and it's so frustrating! I wish we knew more of what is going on inside Salinger's head. Has he not seen how much he's hurting Chi Nan? Like... Common man... He's your assistant, but at least say THANK YOU! Surely you're not this blind not to notice. USE YOUR WORDS MAN!
💔 We are already finished with book two and they haven't: held hands; touched hands; hugged; caressed faces, back or hands; kissed; confessed... Just a... shoulder touch.
Idk... I hate feeling so in the dark.💔
I don't mind one sided POV, but with something like TGCF, we already saw how Huacheng is so madly attracted to Xielian and in love by the end of book one. Xielian was just completely clueless. Lmao
Author... Can we not mention how talented, amazing, handsome, sexy and oh so perfect Salinger and LOTUS is for 5 pages please.
Like.... I know my boy Chi Nan is a simp, but COMMON!
Please author, we need less of many of the drawn out scenes of the band doing band things, and more conversation or meaningful moments between the couple. I need answers, mmk! (っ.❛ ▽ ❛.)っ
Also, has anyone in this story ever heard of earplugs one can wear to protect one's hearing? Whether it be for concerts or every day things... Chi Nan be exposing himself to loud sounds without wearing earplugs? Common my boy, they exist! Even fancy good ones!
Anyway, overall, it was good, but not super great.
I still need to finish the 3rd volume to really get an idea of what I feel for this story, in general. My review is subject to change.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2024
"You are the inexhaustible source of the motifs of my music. If only I could return a millionth of that back to you."
4 stars - love how this developed! The romantic moments between Chi Nan and Salinger are very barely there but they are there!(I'm trying to convince myself TvT). This was more touching than the first volume, as with the loss of hearing in his left ear Chi Nan constantly is reminded of how soon he'll lose the hearing in his left, which feels all the more tragic. Didn't talk about this much in my review of the first book but I loved the dynamic between the LOTUS members as well - it's very clear to see how much they care for each other, despite the childish bickering.
4 stars - love how this developed! The romantic moments between Chi Nan and Salinger are very barely there but they are there!
August 8, 2025
4.6/5
I'm loving both of these characters so much! Chi Nan is such an inspiration. The way he sees music through every aspect of his life. And the inspirations he sees all around him. I hate knowing that he's going to lose his hearing. I hope he can still experience music, maybe by seeing the melodies as colors or auras.
I feel like Salinger is so misunderstood, and I just feel the need to protect him. He hides his true feelings, maybe doesn't want to burden those around him. The only way he knows how to express himself is through his music. He seems so lonely, always searching for something or someone to help ease that loneliness. He deserves someone who can truly understand him, even if he is mysterious. Chi Nan may not fully know who Salinger is, but I also do believe that he does know who he is.
The musical connection that Salinger and Chi Nan have together is amazing! It is a SLOW BURN, but when they play music together, you can see how connected, and comfortable they are with each other. They read each other perfectly. They have both helped each other in so many ways, from defending one another to helping each other write music and asking for advice on their writing and composition. This is how they show their appreciation for one another. I can't wait to see what happens in vol 3!
I'm loving both of these characters so much! Chi Nan is such an inspiration. The way he sees music through every aspect of his life. And the inspirations he sees all around him. I hate knowing that he's going to lose his hearing. I hope he can still experience music, maybe by seeing the melodies as colors or auras.
I feel like Salinger is so misunderstood, and I just feel the need to protect him. He hides his true feelings, maybe doesn't want to burden those around him. The only way he knows how to express himself is through his music. He seems so lonely, always searching for something or someone to help ease that loneliness. He deserves someone who can truly understand him, even if he is mysterious. Chi Nan may not fully know who Salinger is, but I also do believe that he does know who he is.
The musical connection that Salinger and Chi Nan have together is amazing! It is a SLOW BURN, but when they play music together, you can see how connected, and comfortable they are with each other. They read each other perfectly. They have both helped each other in so many ways, from defending one another to helping each other write music and asking for advice on their writing and composition. This is how they show their appreciation for one another. I can't wait to see what happens in vol 3!
June 4, 2024
While Salinger remains an enigma, his creative vulnerability with Chi Nan hints at a deeper connection. He already bared his soul towards Chi Nan, trusts him with his music, listens attentively to his feedback... What's more intimate than that? Might as well get married already.
It's kind of a paradox. Chi Nan himself constantly points out Salinger's unknowable nature, yet their bond functions flawlessly. Words seem superfluous; a single look from Salinger and Chi Nan understands everything. And this unspoken communication deepens their bond, the way they perfectly blend into each other is startling.
But the reason why this volume is my favorite, it's because there's something beneath the surface at all moments: Salinger's yearning. Not obvious at all, and never out loudly spoken, ambiguous at best. The key is that, with Salinger, actions speak louder than words: welcoming Chi Nan into his routine, his home, even hinting at a shared future... Come onnnn.
Why is the japanese restaurant owner the best character though.
It's kind of a paradox. Chi Nan himself constantly points out Salinger's unknowable nature, yet their bond functions flawlessly. Words seem superfluous; a single look from Salinger and Chi Nan understands everything. And this unspoken communication deepens their bond, the way they perfectly blend into each other is startling.
But the reason why this volume is my favorite, it's because there's something beneath the surface at all moments: Salinger's yearning. Not obvious at all, and never out loudly spoken, ambiguous at best. The key is that, with Salinger, actions speak louder than words: welcoming Chi Nan into his routine, his home, even hinting at a shared future... Come onnnn.
Why is the japanese restaurant owner the best character though.
December 23, 2024
This second volume in the "Soul Vibration" trilogy picks up right where the first installment leaves off, with Chi Nan continuing his duties as LOTUS bassist Salinger's personal assistant -- except now, Salinger appears to be in a relationship with Dong Jia, a down-on-her-luck dancer who befriended Chi Nan. Although he feels upset by this news, Chi Nan does his best to hide it and continues to support Salinger, following him to a rock festival in Osaka, helping him write songs, and covering for him when his bandmates or the paparazzi try to hunt him down. Eventually, Chi Nan acknowledges his love for Salinger, but with the hearing in his left ear gone and that of his right quickly deteriorating, he knows it won't be long before he as to quit his job and leave Salinger's side. So, he's determined to hide his feelings forever and simply enjoy the privilege of being by Salinger's side, but fate has other plans in store with the gentle songwriter.
I greatly appreciated how this book follows a much more linear storyline and wasn't bogged down in flashbacks like the first one. Unfortunately, volume two introduced a new annoyance for me: long stretches of social media threads. As someone who doesn't call one bit about celebrity speculations, having pages of fan and hater comments about LOTUS and Salinger was incredibly boring, and they didn't even add anything useful to the story, so I skimmed all of them.
As for the plot itself, I liked it more than book one, but it's still pretty slow, and the writing style again has an abstract tone, and that coupled with the grammatical mistakes and somewhat awkward translation definitely detracted from my enjoyment. Chi Nan's realization of his love for Salinger was also very abrupt, and initially, I disliked how the author simply threw it out there casually, but later, I thought that wasn't such a bad decision for two reasons: 1) It fits Chi Nan's somewhat flighty and oblivious nature; and 2) not every realization of love is some grand event with fireworks and a shift in the earth. Sometimes it happens so subtly that one doesn't remember when it occurred; there's simply a time Before We Loved and a time Since We've Loved. That being said, towards the end of the book, I thought Chi Nan's increasingly overt fawning over Salinger was getting to be a bit much, and the dramatic event towards the end of the book read like a typical Asian drama. That wouldn't be such a contentious point for me except that it was written as a climactic event, and yet nothing came of it; there was no progression in Chi Nan and Salinger's relationship (although Salinger is slightly more expressive in volume two, frustratingly, he's still mostly granite), and the story all but glossed over it after everything "went back to normal." That, unfortunately, relegated it to "unnecessary drama" in my mind.
Meanwhile, the real climax at the end of the book happens suddenly, without any agency on the characters' part, and I felt that accidental nature brought the plot back down to reality. Life happens when we least expect it after all, and the author nailed that pretty well: the chaos and shock of the moment, Chi Nan's helplessness, Salinger's surprising show of care and concern, the sorrowful aftermath -- I felt it all vividly. This drama I appreciated, because it struck quickly but quietly and left a larger impact. While I'm still not greatly invested in this book, I'm actually pretty curious to see what happens next.
I greatly appreciated how this book follows a much more linear storyline and wasn't bogged down in flashbacks like the first one. Unfortunately, volume two introduced a new annoyance for me: long stretches of social media threads. As someone who doesn't call one bit about celebrity speculations, having pages of fan and hater comments about LOTUS and Salinger was incredibly boring, and they didn't even add anything useful to the story, so I skimmed all of them.
As for the plot itself, I liked it more than book one, but it's still pretty slow, and the writing style again has an abstract tone, and that coupled with the grammatical mistakes and somewhat awkward translation definitely detracted from my enjoyment. Chi Nan's realization of his love for Salinger was also very abrupt, and initially, I disliked how the author simply threw it out there casually, but later, I thought that wasn't such a bad decision for two reasons: 1) It fits Chi Nan's somewhat flighty and oblivious nature; and 2) not every realization of love is some grand event with fireworks and a shift in the earth. Sometimes it happens so subtly that one doesn't remember when it occurred; there's simply a time Before We Loved and a time Since We've Loved. That being said, towards the end of the book, I thought Chi Nan's increasingly overt fawning over Salinger was getting to be a bit much, and the dramatic event towards the end of the book read like a typical Asian drama. That wouldn't be such a contentious point for me except that it was written as a climactic event, and yet nothing came of it; there was no progression in Chi Nan and Salinger's relationship (although Salinger is slightly more expressive in volume two, frustratingly, he's still mostly granite), and the story all but glossed over it after everything "went back to normal." That, unfortunately, relegated it to "unnecessary drama" in my mind.
Meanwhile, the real climax at the end of the book happens suddenly, without any agency on the characters' part, and I felt that accidental nature brought the plot back down to reality. Life happens when we least expect it after all, and the author nailed that pretty well: the chaos and shock of the moment, Chi Nan's helplessness, Salinger's surprising show of care and concern, the sorrowful aftermath -- I felt it all vividly. This drama I appreciated, because it struck quickly but quietly and left a larger impact. While I'm still not greatly invested in this book, I'm actually pretty curious to see what happens next.
July 29, 2024
Definitely enjoyed this volume a lot more than the first one!
Since Chi Nan is our sole narrator with a very limited (and oblivious) perspective, you really have to read between the lines a lot to figure out Salinger's intentions and why he acts the way he does. If you feel like Salinger is acting a bit childish and petty out of jealousy, that's because he probably is!
The yearning and the angst get ramped up in this volume, and the lack of proper verbal communication between Chi Nan and Lin Sai transitions from humorous (because of their collective obliviousness) to actually angsty. Flirting via making music for each other and via other acts of service can only get you so far, after all. Use your actual words for once.
All in all, though, I don't mind the slow burn. In fact, I savor it. It'll make the ending all the sweeter.
Since Chi Nan is our sole narrator with a very limited (and oblivious) perspective, you really have to read between the lines a lot to figure out Salinger's intentions and why he acts the way he does. If you feel like Salinger is acting a bit childish and petty out of jealousy, that's because he probably is!
The yearning and the angst get ramped up in this volume, and the lack of proper verbal communication between Chi Nan and Lin Sai transitions from humorous (because of their collective obliviousness) to actually angsty. Flirting via making music for each other and via other acts of service can only get you so far, after all. Use your actual words for once.
All in all, though, I don't mind the slow burn. In fact, I savor it. It'll make the ending all the sweeter.
June 24, 2025
Good. Not Great.
There was a lot of information that was on a need to know basis and we did not need to know.
Did we really need to know all 20 messages that were received on Weibo? 🤷
There was a lot of information that was on a need to know basis and we did not need to know.
Did we really need to know all 20 messages that were received on Weibo? 🤷
January 21, 2023
Before I start with my review for volume 2, I just want to say this volume has the worst quality out of all the three volumes. Despite that, I will still give the ratings the author deserves for the story, but I do think readers deserve to know the quality that you should be expecting.
Reading volume 2 made you want to analyze the way Salinger thinks. He’s so hard to read! This is where the push and pull occur. My heart was pushed and pulled along with it. I did feel a bit frustrated in some parts because of how dense and indifferent the main characters are. But by the end of the volume, their relationship had some improvement. The terrible quality of the texts made me miss out on the enjoyment of reading their development and that was a real bummer. :/
PS. I read the first version. I emailed them regarding the errors and they replied saying there will a be revision. Mind you, the first version wasn't edited at all because even the characters' names were spelled wrong.
Reading volume 2 made you want to analyze the way Salinger thinks. He’s so hard to read! This is where the push and pull occur. My heart was pushed and pulled along with it. I did feel a bit frustrated in some parts because of how dense and indifferent the main characters are. But by the end of the volume, their relationship had some improvement. The terrible quality of the texts made me miss out on the enjoyment of reading their development and that was a real bummer. :/
PS. I read the first version. I emailed them regarding the errors and they replied saying there will a be revision. Mind you, the first version wasn't edited at all because even the characters' names were spelled wrong.
September 30, 2025
Rating: ★★★★☆ (3.5–4/5)
Summary:
Chi Nan has always kept his distance — from people, from expectations, from the growing damage to his hearing. But being part of LOTUS’s crew has made distance impossible, especially when it comes to Salinger. In Volume 2, that space between them tightens. Slowly. Tenderly. Agonizingly.
As rehearsals intensify and fan pressure mounts, the emotional weight of their dynamic becomes more difficult to ignore. But while their relationship deepens in unspoken ways, complications begin to surface: a jealous ex, a chaotic friend group, and the creeping anxiety of permanence. Can love grow in silence — and will either of them be brave enough to name it?
⸻
“Did you fear that I’m going to stop you? … Your right ear is the most precious thing in the world right now, but that belongs to YOU. … I shall help you fulfill its final values.”
— Track 28
This moment absolutely wrecked me. Salinger knows. He’s known about Chi Nan’s hearing loss all along. But instead of trying to control or stop him, he respects Chi Nan’s autonomy while offering unconditional support. It’s respectful, tender, and emotionally adult — the kind of love that honors, rather than claims.
Which brings me to the real heart of this volume: the slow burn. And I mean glacial. We’re two books in and the most physical intimacy they’ve had is an accidental hand brush. And yet? I’m squealing every time it happens. This is the first slow-burn that’s genuinely had me clutching my pearls and screaming into my pillow. The tension is earned. Every micro-expression and passing touch is weighted with emotion — it’s a masterclass in restraint.
Of course, not everything lands as smoothly.
The Jia arc brought the messy vibes I expected — and dreaded — after she was teased at the end of Vol. 1. Her behavior was immature from the start, and the fact that she was throwing away the handwritten messages Salinger left for Nan? No recovery from that. But credit to the author: the emotional fallout from that arc was powerful. The confusion Nan feels, the heartbreak he doesn’t quite understand — it hurts in the right way.
The Stone/Lancelot subplot, on the other hand? Frustrating. Stone turned into one of my least favorite characters thanks to his pushy, boundary-disrespecting behavior — especially around drinking. Even after the misunderstanding is cleared up (on his side), I couldn’t move past how easily he trusted gossip over the person he claimed to love and respect. You don’t abandon your “heart brother” like that, bro. 💀
That said, the rest of the volume moves at a quiet, steady rhythm. Some sections — especially those focused on music production and technical rehearsal — can drag if you’re not musically inclined. But those scenes also do something subtle: they give space for Nan and Salinger’s dynamic to evolve without ever directly addressing their feelings.
Which leads us to Track 16. Chi Nan finally admits to himself that he’s in love with Salinger — but honestly, we knew long before he did. Back in that chapter, he was already describing Salinger like a divine relic:
“Your soul is so beautiful that its vessel is doubly as important, like the Holy Grail to me…”
Like, be serious. That’s not admiration. That’s worship.
The volume ends with the appearance of Nan’s ex, who — surprise — has a crush on Salinger. Honestly, I’m hoping Volume 3 gives us a more visibly jealous Salinger for once (I need it), but I’m not getting my hopes up too high. Chi Nan has been unknowingly shutting down every romantic advance from anyone not named Salinger (looking at you, Lisa) with the precision of a man who doesn’t even realize his heart is already occupied.
⸻
Final Verdict:
A beautifully written continuation that leans fully into the slow-burn, emotional-silence dynamic. It’s patient — sometimes too patient — but it gives space for tenderness to grow in the gaps. There are moments of frustration and a few pacing issues, but the depth of emotion and care between Nan and Salinger makes it all worthwhile.
3.5 to 4/5 stars — still simmering, and I can’t wait to watch it boil.
Summary:
Chi Nan has always kept his distance — from people, from expectations, from the growing damage to his hearing. But being part of LOTUS’s crew has made distance impossible, especially when it comes to Salinger. In Volume 2, that space between them tightens. Slowly. Tenderly. Agonizingly.
As rehearsals intensify and fan pressure mounts, the emotional weight of their dynamic becomes more difficult to ignore. But while their relationship deepens in unspoken ways, complications begin to surface: a jealous ex, a chaotic friend group, and the creeping anxiety of permanence. Can love grow in silence — and will either of them be brave enough to name it?
⸻
“Did you fear that I’m going to stop you? … Your right ear is the most precious thing in the world right now, but that belongs to YOU. … I shall help you fulfill its final values.”
— Track 28
This moment absolutely wrecked me. Salinger knows. He’s known about Chi Nan’s hearing loss all along. But instead of trying to control or stop him, he respects Chi Nan’s autonomy while offering unconditional support. It’s respectful, tender, and emotionally adult — the kind of love that honors, rather than claims.
Which brings me to the real heart of this volume: the slow burn. And I mean glacial. We’re two books in and the most physical intimacy they’ve had is an accidental hand brush. And yet? I’m squealing every time it happens. This is the first slow-burn that’s genuinely had me clutching my pearls and screaming into my pillow. The tension is earned. Every micro-expression and passing touch is weighted with emotion — it’s a masterclass in restraint.
Of course, not everything lands as smoothly.
The Jia arc brought the messy vibes I expected — and dreaded — after she was teased at the end of Vol. 1. Her behavior was immature from the start, and the fact that she was throwing away the handwritten messages Salinger left for Nan? No recovery from that. But credit to the author: the emotional fallout from that arc was powerful. The confusion Nan feels, the heartbreak he doesn’t quite understand — it hurts in the right way.
The Stone/Lancelot subplot, on the other hand? Frustrating. Stone turned into one of my least favorite characters thanks to his pushy, boundary-disrespecting behavior — especially around drinking. Even after the misunderstanding is cleared up (on his side), I couldn’t move past how easily he trusted gossip over the person he claimed to love and respect. You don’t abandon your “heart brother” like that, bro. 💀
That said, the rest of the volume moves at a quiet, steady rhythm. Some sections — especially those focused on music production and technical rehearsal — can drag if you’re not musically inclined. But those scenes also do something subtle: they give space for Nan and Salinger’s dynamic to evolve without ever directly addressing their feelings.
Which leads us to Track 16. Chi Nan finally admits to himself that he’s in love with Salinger — but honestly, we knew long before he did. Back in that chapter, he was already describing Salinger like a divine relic:
“Your soul is so beautiful that its vessel is doubly as important, like the Holy Grail to me…”
Like, be serious. That’s not admiration. That’s worship.
The volume ends with the appearance of Nan’s ex, who — surprise — has a crush on Salinger. Honestly, I’m hoping Volume 3 gives us a more visibly jealous Salinger for once (I need it), but I’m not getting my hopes up too high. Chi Nan has been unknowingly shutting down every romantic advance from anyone not named Salinger (looking at you, Lisa) with the precision of a man who doesn’t even realize his heart is already occupied.
⸻
Final Verdict:
A beautifully written continuation that leans fully into the slow-burn, emotional-silence dynamic. It’s patient — sometimes too patient — but it gives space for tenderness to grow in the gaps. There are moments of frustration and a few pacing issues, but the depth of emotion and care between Nan and Salinger makes it all worthwhile.
3.5 to 4/5 stars — still simmering, and I can’t wait to watch it boil.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2024
Still doesn't has romance in it but there are so many hints and a lot of pinning. I kind of like it more than getting to read actual couple scenes. The story continues right where Vol 1 ended and this one takes a deeper dive in the band and their bond. It's a little different than the idea I usually get through social media about boy bands and idol groups but this feels a lot real if I am being honest. I also think the whole fanboy × idol thing has been done right. There are times you won't know where the fanboy ends and the assistant who is falling in love begins.
My only complaint was the detail description about everything that made the book a little slow.
My only complaint was the detail description about everything that made the book a little slow.
December 28, 2023
Dropped halfway through it, story is way too frustrating!
March 8, 2025
i really like how chi nan is given his own life outside of salinger. he's interesting to read on his own. but i neeeeeed development between them 😭
June 23, 2025
kinda annoyed by the typos and awkward translations, where was the proofreader....
September 19, 2025
the slow burn was really burning slowly, but i didnt want to look away
March 16, 2024
Angst! Intense romance moments! Surprisingly good song lyrics!
The story really gets only better as it progresses. Absolutely awesome.
The story really gets only better as it progresses. Absolutely awesome.
November 24, 2023
SIGUEN SIN ESTAR JUNTOS LOS ODIO
chicos update me olvide de todo lo que pasó en el libro y lo terminé hace tres días
chicos update me olvide de todo lo que pasó en el libro y lo terminé hace tres días
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2024
Cada vez vemos son másconscientes de sus sentimientos. Chi Nan, juega a contrarreloj. Aunque su relación no se de de golpe me gusta los plots que añade. Tiene sus momentos pesados, pero a la vez tiene esos que te atrapan.
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