HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
First thing first, this manga may read as a superficial and easy comic/romantical read after the first chapters. Just want to say, that is far from the case. Secondly, I want to warn readers that it is a slow burn (don't expect a romantic relationship early on from the main couple).
Now, the story gets more complex, detailed and exciting as the story progresses. There are heartfelt moments, action, comedy and romance. It's a story that has most of the elements beautifully mixed. Character and plot development is certainly paid attention to as well. It's so rare to read BL mangas where the author takes time to develop the characters and their personal relationship without throwing in forceful advancements (such as questionable flirty/sexual scenes). I cannot begin to express how thrilled I am to see these men develop their relationship slowly, in a believable manner. Currently, I'm at chapter 115 and I do not have anything but praise for this manga.
The art in this comic is amazingly detailed. I can't help to fall in love with the drawings in itself. It is a real gem and I highly recommend it.
To be completely honest, I started and dropped this one on the first chapter. A couple months later I came across it on this site and the glowing reviews convinced me to try it again. Holy crap am I glad I did. This manwah (manhua? Not sure) is almost criminally underrated.
The comedy in the beginning is pretty absurd but it slowly begins to get more serious. I almost miss it now that I'm over a hundred chapters in and the story is becoming really tense, but it’s good. There's lots of characters but they're all given distinct designs and proper introductions and arcs, so it’s not overwhelming.
The storyline is pretty complex too, there’s multiple battles and wars and court politics, but it handles complicated issues much better than a lot of other mangas i’ve seen, it doesn’t overload you with tons of dialogue
And the romance. Like the other reviews, this is slow burn to the max. Honestly though? I don't mind because the relationship is one of the most well developed that I’ve seen. They really do become friends, and then closer and closer in a believable buildout. It’s clear they really do deeply care for each other but I'm unsure if it'll ever become a traditional romance due to chinese censorship.
There was a kiss scene at the end of chapter 153 that didn't make it into the official released comic because of censorship, but the author posted it on weibo, heres the link if anyone wants it: https://m.weibo.cn/detail/4506475903119445
Also I adore the empress dowager, she’s super cool and hilarious.
One of the best reads for BL-Historical-romance lovers out there!
It is a complete package of: gripping polictical intrigue, sensual (super slow burn) romance and well placed comic relief.
The main character is one of the most beautiful male charaters ever drawn. Famous for his beauty and wit, ChengFeng disguises as his sister - a concubine of the Emperor - and enters the palace to win the love of the Emperor for his sister.
The first few chapters were so light and entertaining, I was not prepared for the wholesomeness of the story at all. We really get to see that ChengFeng as a brilliant strategist. The author has made sure to fill in gaps in the story, sometimes with flashbacks & sometimes with side characters revealing the past chaotic life of ChengFeng.
All the side characters are interesting so it is pretty nice getting to know them. I feel that the author plans to weave even more intrigue. I am not sure how long is this story but I have compeletd season 1 and would really love to have more seasons line up. It will be good to see the Emperor growing to become a wise and aspiring head of the nation.
We also have hilarious moments with an adorable sidekick (the uncle) who sparks the jealousy of the Emperor.
Some spoilers:
While the affection betwen the leads is evident, so far no explicit/physical scene or confession has happened. However, the blushing moments, jealousy and the recurrent physical touches and desire for proximity seem to prepare us for the protagonists eventually gettting together at some point.
At the same time, the story seem to be developing a side story, with the possible romance between the uncle and the right hand man of ChengFeng, Du Gu Xing...
Totally recommended!
This Story is the best slow burn BL you'll read!!
Why the story may sound like a tyipical story but it's actually pretty smart and deep, and the 'romance' is just a few small momments that are just soooo adorable!!
The story is also really really fun, like the MC is smart but has those stupid moments that you can't help but appreciate lol
I already read up to ch 143 twice and I really can't wait for chpater updates :( :(
This is def one of my fav top 5 stories, super recommend
I need a second season here. It's too beautifull with an opening ending.