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Golden Stage
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Rating(4.6 / 5.0, 998 votes)
5    75% (753 votes)
4    15% (154 votes)
3    6% (58 votes)
2    1% (11 votes)
1    2% (22 votes)
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2018
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Status in Country of Origin. One entry per line
79 Chapters + 4 Extras (Completed)
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Yes
Completely Translated
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Release Frequency
Every 2356 Day(s)
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Weekly Rank: #3542
Monthly Rank: #3012
All Time Rank: #1071
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On 13899 Reading Lists
Monthly Rank: #1652
All Time Rank: #122

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The notorious imperial court lackey and the meritorious military general were well-known for their mutual dislike, a pair of arch-enemies set in stone. Who could have foreseen the unexpected change in the winds of heaven: the general injured on the battlefield, both legs disabled, and even forced by the emperor to marry his nemesis.

With one marriage edict, two people with mutual hostility are forced to marry and live under the same roof. Yet after these long days together, they come to the realization that this fellow is not truly devoid of any saving grace/unattainable and high out of reach.

Associated Names
One entry per line
Golden Terrace
Hoàng Kim Đài/Đài Hoàng Kim
Huáng Jīn Tái
หวงจินไถ ปรปักษ์เร้นรัก
黄金台
Related Series
Devoted To The Stand-In (Spin-Off)
Recommendations
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Qiang Jin Jiu (11)
Peerless (9)
The Powerful Eunuch (5)
Thousand Autumns (5)
The Fourteenth Year of Chenghua (5)
Recommendation Lists
  1. Want to read
  2. My fav
  3. finished pt. 3
  4. Politics go crazy
  5. Historical/Fantasy Danmei Reading List

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Write a Review
195 Reviews sorted by


CrunchyAsphalt
CrunchyAsphalt rated it
July 28, 2020
Status: Completed
I'll tell it honestly, this book has a lot of history dumps, but it's really good. I have nothing bad to say about it at all.

READ TO THE THIRD CHAPTER, THE FIRST TWO ARE NOT WHAT THE BOOK REALLY CONTAINS!!!

The disability addition was really lovely as well. Coming from someone in a wheelchair themselves, this made my little heart feel warm and cozy.

... more>> The book is very plot heavy which I love cause I love palace politics in my historical drama/novels.

The romance is excellent as well, and since it's shounen-ai don't be leaving comments saying "There wasn't enough romance" cause there was actually a lot of it, and it was very enjoyable. Plus both ML's being strong and capable made it that much better, rather than one being weak and pathetic for the sake of the other character appearing strong.

Being honest, the ending did feel a little rushed, but after reading over it more than once I don't find any faults with it.

It obviously won't be for everyone, but give it a go if you love strong ML's, and actual romance with substance, that contains understanding and genuine love. <<less
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BillionJellyfish
BillionJellyfish rated it
July 15, 2020
Status: Completed
This is a beautifully written historical bl story!

MC: a famed and loyal general coming from a family of generals and military achievements

ML: a famed court lackey and schemer that is favored by the Emperor

... more>> Summary:

This is an unusual story between a general and a court official living in tumultuous times. From court intrigue to warring lands, the general and the court official struggle to bring peace and stability to a country on the brink of collapse. Not to mention, the general and the court official have different beliefs and values they abide by. The general is a loyalist down to his very bones while the court official is a schemer that plays by ear. This story depicts the journey of this unlikely pair finding love amidst major upheavals.

Overall:

This is one of the first historical bl novels that I've read and I am very satisfied with the characters and plot developments of the story. Both the MC and ML are mature characters with their own thoughts and considerations. Most importantly, they know how to properly communicate with each other! The author balances both romantic aspects and the court intrigue/schemes very well, building suspense throughout the story. <<less
4 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
ShezyKNowall
ShezyKNowall rated it
June 14, 2020
Status: c76
The other reviewers have already reviewed the story, so you know it's amazing, and is definitely a must read. What I want to appreciate here, is the wonderful work of the translator! It's clean and concise, with minimal errors (which you have to be super nit picky to notice). And the best part? They have managed to beautifully preserve the poetic flow of the story, often lost during translations! You can easily count chichi as one of the top translators around, if not THE top translator.
4 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
Peachzixe
Peachzixe rated it
June 12, 2020
Status: c53
Very beautiful! I love the relationships between the ML and MC.

It's very satisfying, the storyline actually has an interesting plot filled with mysteries, conspiracies and plots.

The characters are fleshed out and well-rounded, there's character growth and development.
4 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
Sasanz
Sasanz rated it
March 6, 2020
Status: c40
Strong characters from both MC & ML. Even the slightest gestures between them two shows the deep respect and love they have for each other. Should really thank the Emperor for the force marriage! Personally love this story for the great plot and steady developments of the different individuals. A MUST read!
4 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
lanyons
lanyons rated it
December 4, 2019
Status: c13
a really underrated novel about a general and official forced into marriage by a corrupt emperor. But joke's on the emperor because these two develop such respect & tenderness & love for each other & they become a power couple & take down their enemies. Similar to 'nirvana in fire' in terms of politics/court dynamics/loyalty & devotion/the villains getting their comeuppances
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MangaNoob1995
MangaNoob1995 rated it
March 9, 2024
Status: Completed
Nothing but love for this story! I personally detest stories with political tropes. However this story which I thought will have heavy politics became one filled with romance and fluff.

The couple became close real fast, it was a given since they knew each other for a long time. I loved Fu Shen, the sassy general with a cold exterior and Yan Xiaohan, the loving royal inspector envoy who is extremely devoted to Fu Shen.

The story does have politics but in my opinion it's not heavily plot based. It's a story... more>> where the couple communicates, put each other above everything and gives you butterflies throughout the whole story. They are one of the perfect couples! <<less
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buuble
buuble rated it
September 5, 2023
Status: Completed
I love I love and I love Yan Xiaohan and Fu Shen! Perfect couple that compliments each other and listens and understands. They trust each other with their lives and you can feel that trust between the pages. Their healthy relationship was such a fresh take <3

The book itself is relatively heavy in plot and schemes. There were a couple of times where I lost track of some character names but taking a few notes helped. However, the CP and their relationship felt as important as the plot, so I... more>> think the author created a perfect balance. Would def recommend to everyone!! <<less
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donnaelvira
donnaelvira rated it
June 16, 2023
Status: --
I think this is more solidly a romance novel than certain other danmei I've read-- the focus is pretty strongly on the main couple vs. The side characters, so it's not a novel that comes off as "complex political plot with a gay romance thrown in on the side". Sometimes events do serve more to connect the romance scenes than anything. Still, the political elements of the plot, although straightforward to follow, were well-thought-out enough that they didn't come off purely as set-dressing for the romance.

Since that's the case, though,... more>> I would have preferred if the romance between the two leads would have taken a bit longer to develop-- any doubts they have about each other get resolved quickly close to the beginning of the novel. Their feelings don't seem to deepen a ton throughout the novel. There was initially some sense that their different political roles might make their relationship difficult (in the sense of having to pretend to be more at odds than they actually were), so I wished at times that that would have been a more prominent part of the plot than it turned out to be.

I was glad that the MC's disability wasn't milked for cheap melodrama. It seems more realistic as well as accurate to his character as a military man that he's able to adapt and take it stride rather than believing that his life is simply over. He isn't portrayed as pitiful for needing assistance from the ML. Later in the novel, some of the ways he's able to get around his physical impairments do seem like a deus ex machina, though.

This novel has a ton of hurt/comfort scenes, and not only involving the ML as caregiver either. I liked how eager they both were to accept comfort from each other, and since I love caretaking between a couple it was like it was written to go straight to my id. The author isn't afraid of stopping the action for some indulgent romance scenes, if that kind of thing's your cup of tea. I found their easy banter with one another cute, too. The "calling each other 'wife'" part was also really cute-- we get the sense that being a "male wife" is seen as humiliating by people in power, so the fact that they turn it into an endearment/bit of gentle teasing is sweet.

Overall, there were some flaws that prevented this from becoming an all-time favorite, but it was a fun read that hit many of the things I personally like in a romance. <<less
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ulf6503
ulf6503 rated it
March 22, 2023
Status: Completed
I read ChiChi’s translation when it was available, and the novel was amazing and read it twice. I bought the printed version to support the author, but the translated print is not as well written. However the story and plot are amazing. It’s really heart wrenching. Must read.
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amy97
amy97 rated it
October 11, 2022
Status: c43
Okay... I picked up this novel out of boredom as I didn't had anything else to read. It was already a long time since I avoided reading it but I couldn't one afternoon of October'22.

Current status: chapter 43.

Mc: Fu Shen (Shou) He is (was) a general who is strong, independent, and at times, a bit childish.

... more>> Ml: YXH (Gong) He is court lackey who is strong, fox-like, and also, very childish.

Also note, they don't switch. The author made it very clear. Apparently, there is some misunderstanding. Although that doesn't change the fact that the story is really intriguing and full of fluff.

But, yes there is a but.

The story does feel like a slow burn not in terms of the fluff because there is plenty of it but in regards to the plot line itself. There is just too much politics going on. So, ultimately, it's not a novel that is an easy-read.

My personal opinion: for now, I am dropping it cause of my own personal preferences. So far, I liked the novel, no doubt about that. But I would have liked it more if Fu Shen could've been the top. You see, ultimately, it seemed that even though the author didn't want to follow the stereotypes yet, ended up making the characters a bit stereotypical.

Nevertheless, that doesn't mean that story itself is bad. It had so many moments where I couldn't keep myself from smiling. The story itself is quite wholesome, like the interactions between the main couple.

It's just that it's a bit too brainy. <<less
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The_Crimson_Moon
The_Crimson_Moon rated it
August 1, 2022
Status: Completed
What a ride! I am sooo soooo glad I read this novel. I was initially a bit hesitant looking at the 5 star reviews because I'm paranoid (like is it really THAT good???) and it felt almost too good to be true, but no. This was that good. It was SOOO GOOD. Golden Stage is god-tier writing (characters, world-building, plot, pacing, etc.) and oh my dear god the translation is 50895 million/10. Thank you so much Chichi-sama! Your translations were absolutely gorgeous, it was like reading a book and you... more>> really captured the poetic nature and the essence of the og work!!! Thank you so so much :)

I fell in love with Fu Shen and Yan Xiaohan and I promise that if you haven't read this, you will also fall in love with these adorable characters and the vivid and engrossing plot. Strongly, strongly recommend this!!! <<less
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terri5fication
terri5fication rated it
June 16, 2021
Status: Completed
Beautiful story and amazing translation by ChiChi.

MC and ML has the healthiest relationship I have ever read about. They talked out their feelings like actual adults !

I wish there was even more because I definitely cannot get enough of it.
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Misa07
Misa07 rated it
May 25, 2021
Status: Completed
This is one of those novels which make you feel so utterly happy and full of love that you see the world in a new light.

The Plot:

Pretty good for an easy read. It is engaging enough to not make me want to skip the politics part, and not heavy enough that I focus on it more than the CP. A very well balanced ratio of angst and victories and politics and fluff, honestly I did not expect it to be so good.

... more>> The Characters and the CP:

GORGEOUS. One of the best things about this novel (and a lot of my favs) is that the MC and ML aren't dependent on the other in any way.
Spoiler

At least, like, they can manage on their own. The fact that the MC lets the ML take care of him in his house is more of a if-he-is-willing-why-should-I-say-no-to-free-service kind of thing

[collapse]
They are completely functional adults and they stay together because they want to, not that they need to (except, well, the arranged marriage part but I mean emotionally). Also they spoil each other so bad oh my god...

Spoiler

Also, they actually aren't enemies. Like sure they "disliked" each other (it's one sided anyways) but it ends up being mutual co-operation in like five chapters anyways

[collapse]

The Translations:

A wonderful job. They're one of my favourite translators anyways, and they never fail to do a spectacular job

TL;DR:

Cute CP who spoil each other rotten, with a good mix of politics and court drama and a wholesome arranged marriage trope. Go read it. <<less
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AmeTG4
AmeTG4 rated it
September 3, 2020
Status: --
I love this novel with my whole heart.

Okay but can we talk about how this novel literally has the " #friends to enemies to lovers #power couple #forced marriage #childhood sweethearts " hashtags and the writing is so good it doesn't feel cliche at all? Also lol those enemies to lovers narratives are something I've always enjoyed, but this is like the superior version.

I don't want to spoil anything, so I won't go in depth about why I love the MC and ML, but I totally appreciate that both of... more>> them have really powerful characters and their past is tasteful.

The first chapters are a little slow, but get past 5 and you'll be unable to stop until you finish. I hope everyone will give this novel a shot.

The plot is good, the characters are very good and it's not really a hard read in my opinion. It has a narrative, but it's not a very difficult one if you don't take really long breaks between reading so you forget details.

All in all I'm really grateful I was able to read this novel❤️ <<less
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chiakiss
chiakiss rated it
August 9, 2020
Status: Completed
i legit LOVED this story I don't even feel sad its over because it was such a perfect book, from beggining to end. I don't even feel that I can do a pros and cons review because it would just be a pros and pros

Both the ML and the MC are strong and defined characters, which is rare to happen to the extent that it does in this novel. More often than not, one of the leads suck, or is okay but lacks shine and one of the parties is... more>> the really developed character. In these one, both fell like real people, truly amazed me.

basically they are opposites to each other, but not in a shallow "x is weak and shy and y is bold and strong". They both have high positions in the government, and are strong in their own aspects, but their differences lie in their morals, their personalities, the way the present each other to society and the position they have. From just that, they really wouldnt get along, but the author explored the nuances in their personalities so well, their getting together was not forced at all. Their interactions explore those details in full, and despite all of those obstacles in writing this couple, they are in harmony.

The way their insecurities, flaws and even the fluff moments are written are never OOC and that really makes you respect the author for writing two great characters that fit so well. My favourite moment was especially when there was a flashback to the past, and I could tell it was a flashback just from how the behaviour of Fu shen had changed. When you compare his teenage and adult self, you can see the similarities, and that they are the same person, but you can clearly see how he matured because of the war and got wiser, less impulsive, and more understanding of politics, but still bold and stubborn like he used to be lmao. I just thought it was genious, that consolitated that this is great writing from me

Other than that, the overall development of romance was smooth and the pacing was nice, and things never got stale because of the (also amazing and well developed) story. On itself, it was interesting, but it also kept their intereactions fresh and ever- changing.

The story is great: backgroung is well built, pacing is nice, chain of events make sense, and is entertaining. I Couldn't ask for more. It does, however, have a lot of info ou have to pay attention to. So, this is not a light read at all, but there wasn't excessive infodump; its just that you'll have to read the footnotes, especially on the first chapters that set the stage of the novel

Not problematic in the slightest, which makes me think "see, bl authors??? its so easy to not write problematic sh*t in our story. Its much better to read when ou dont have to excuse weird behaviour of the ML, or other f*cked up shit"

Translator was Amazing. I dare say its one of the best translations i've read. The vocab and language in this story are hard, but they nailed the translation, and kept the pacing good, and even went above and beyond and linked every reference to poem, joke, and saying. Also did footnotes for historical events... I stan

Anyways, a perfect 5 out of 5. Even though secondary characters don't have much of a presence, it's not like names are thrown around and then forgotten, or like it affects the flow of the story in any way. this story doesnt focus on them, and I feel like thats fine bc its not a must have and it did not affect anthing. So here's my love letter to this novel, I really hope you'll give it a chance if you're considering reading this, you wont be disappointed <<less
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toohappyforyou
toohappyforyou rated it
March 10, 2020
Status: Completed
ITS SO GOOD!!! The main couple actually communicates and they equally expressed their love to each other so it doesnt feel like a one sided love. The pacing is just right and you just grow to love both of the characters. The protaganists are really cunning and it really shows how it is like in the palace in ancient china. 10/10 qould recommend!!
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sfarraday
sfarraday rated it
December 30, 2019
Status: c20
From what I read so far (which is just a bit), this is a novel that deals with the values in life (what do we live for? Can the MC and ML find a common ground with their opposing values, or will their love for each other rise higher and surpass everyting?) . Also we have a bigger mistery, which I love. The author gives valuable clues moving an exciting story forward.

I like the caracters, they are strong and caring and are constructed though story and not just inner thoughts.

What... more>> I wish most is for the translated chapters to come sooner, I tried to mlt, but it is very hard to understand. So I will be good and wait. <<less
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Winterrz
Winterrz rated it
September 13, 2022
Status: Completed
It's alright. The MC and ML are likeable and influencial people. Fu Shen is such a big sweetheart and I don't think Yan Xiohan is as evil as he thinks of himself

Anyways 9/10. Would recommend 👍🏾
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cleocries
cleocries rated it
July 22, 2022
Status: Completed
finally finished this! I binged read it in a little less than 2 days, because it was just that good! this is a crippled general x emperor's envoy / imperial official story. now for the review:

firstly, I picked this up as I read a review that mentioned the story's similarity to that of Sha Po Lang (another wonderful novel btw) and I knew I had to give this a go. this book has that intense war-plot and politics like SPL, but that being said it is a completely original work;... more>> both titles are so equally good in it's own ways. Golden Stage is more mild, PG rated and has less gore descriptions than Sha Po Lang.

mc: I love him! he has a weak physique from having lost the use of his legs, but that has never stopped jingyuan from doing what he wants. he has a very strong mentality, continuously upholds the virtues he believes in. this form of righteousness that stay rigid even after going through so much in his life, is very admirable. he reminds me much of Zi Xi in SPL, a strong protagonist who values honour and always wants to see the good in others. that being said, he is not a pushover in any way, as he is still an intelligent and cunning general who would no hesitate to kill when needed. in the words of jingyuan: " A nobleman's place in this world was defined by what he did and did not do. "

ml: a doting, caring and protective man who loves and adores our MC so much. his feelings for jingyuan runs so deep, and is something that perhaps no other could ever truly understand but the couple themselves.
Spoiler

when I read the reveal that he had loved jing yuan ever since the beginning, and waited 7 years to finally reunite in one place together... cue the tears : (and he was completely content with watching our MC from afar, as long as he was safe.

[collapse]
xiao han is very sentimental, but that side of him will only ever be shown to jingyuan, and I think that is very beautiful. in the words of xiao han: " it isn't that he cannot be apart from me, it's that I can't be separated from him. "

the two of them are a matchmade in heaven, nothing can change that fact. the romance in this novel was so nice to read, the way their relationship blossomed as time went by, affection still so everlasting and eternal. " I hope to become the Southwestern Wind, so that I may remain in your arms always. " instant heart-melting moment gahhh~

the power play in this was great, and the plot is exciting because of the many twists and unexpected turns. there are many characters that get introduced throughout the novel, so it might take some time to adjust and remember. but it is so worth reading! 10/10 :) <<less
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