Best of the Best BL/Danmei!! (long review+ratings)

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Best of the Best BL/Danmei!! (long review+ratings)

[Actively being updated.] Long reviews and personal ratings of some of the best BL novels here. Well-written stories, great plots, characters, etc. I have relatively high standards for these to be my favorites, so these are all really high quality, IMO. All of them also have very high ratings (4.3-4.8)

I haven't finished writing reviews/ratings for all of them yet, but I will in time. Meant to be ordered by highest personal ratings -> lowest personal ratings, but haven't had time to fix it yet. These are also my own opinions and feelings regarding each novel, so they won't be particularly eloquent, and you can definitely disagree. It's just me rambling.

Also added some ones I haven't read but will read and I know i will love. Feel free to recommend any danmei too!

...somehow, this also turned into a list of danmei I also want to read, not just a review of the ones I've read. I really can't control myself from looking for good danmei. Though, I'm sure I'll get to reviewing all of these someday

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pointoverture

Created: Mar 5th, 2024, Updated: May 20th, 2024

Created Mar 5th, 2024

Updated May 20th, 2024

CN (4.6)

#1Kaleidoscope of Death

156 Chapters Every 100 Day(s) 15661 Readers 319 Reviews 07-18-2021

Completed Comedy Horror Mystery Psychological Romance Shounen Ai Supernatural

~11/10 amazing must-read and probably my favorite unlimited flow horror, right next to nightmare live. If you're looking for a realistic, serious, occasionally sad horror UF, this is THE ONE. ... more>>

One of my favorite elements of this book is just realistic it feels. This story is not just about our MC, it's about the side characters too. While our MC is certainly very intelligent and capable, the world does not revolve around him. This story follows him, yes, but it also allows for sneak peeks at the lives of *other* characters. Just miniscule touches and hints to show that our MC is not the only person trying to survive, and that the others are the main characters of their own stories too. Somehow, this goes such a long way in establishing this story in my mind. I love this danmei so much. Even so long after I finished reading it, it really makes me feel a lot of complicated emotions.

On the aspect of realism, this isn't like other unlimited flow novels where MCs have special abilities. The extent goes to props which have very limited usage and existence. Our MC and side characters get by through pure determination, intelligence, and quick thinking.

I feel sad when I think about the side character deaths. This novel is too abusive to my heart T_T

This danmei just has a *remarkable* horror ambience.

It's so stunning. This danmei does an amazing job of keeping all the tension and fear for their lives within each instance. It's like the ambience is very scary and fitting for horror, and neither MC or ML are too OP in each instance so I also feel scared for their lives and in general reading it. I love it and this sets it apart from lots of other unlimited flow danmei. This just has such a visceral realism to it.

MC is also not OP or immediately better than side characters. he has his own strengths and weaknesses. More importantly, our MC is NOT some all-knowing god, and the POVs aren't either. in some cases, MC an outsider looking in, with barely any knowledge of the proceedings, and he acknowledges that. Some strong side character deaths are offscreen, but author does not shy away from showing the *visceral* impact it has on the storyline and our characters. Idk why, but that stood out to me so much bc of how realistic it was. One moment, they're alive and visiting your apartment, and the next, you hear that they died (because of a betrayal of some sort, you don't know the details) and a struggle is going on from the power vacuum.

As we go through things, other people do too. Someone's happiest moment can be another person's worst. A footnote in someone's life could be a life-changing event in another's. We, as readers, can only see from MC's POV (most of the time), so we are left with only educated guesses and assumptions through the few impacts that we can see from MC's observations. That is real life. Idk how to explain it, but this is so well-done and stood out to me so much.

Honestly could name a LOT of side characters who I feel could be the main character of their own story. it just feels so fleshed out like that. each snippet that we see, no matter how small, makes them seem like real people with dreams, desperations, emotions. (shoutout to Li dongyuan, Zhuang Rujiao, Tan Zaozao, the Li twins, and Zhuo Feiquan). Author also does not shy away from giving female characters their moments/abilities.

MC and ML are such a cute and unique duo too. The ML's personality is sooo rare in BL novels. He's such an interesting mix of playful and serious and I love seeing all his sides. (i also love the crossdressing snippets in the novel. they were glorious). MC is calm and collected, but not too much so. He has his moments of confusion, nervousness, and mental breakdowns. He grows and gains experience throughout the entire novel and it's such a joy to see. their relationship and the way it develops is amazing too.

God, their relationship...ahhh couple goals. The lengths they would go for each other and their reactions when the other is in danger just have me awestruck. I could feel their emotions through the writing so well. and the emotional development with how they go from strangers to trusting each other to wholeheartedly loving each other... damn, i need tissues.

just finished the ending+extras, and they leave me...conflicted. I love this novel, and I was so ready to love the ending too, but I just can't. Despite that, this is still one of my favorites. the stunning side characters, each fascinating world, our amazing MC and ML--everything here is so breathtaking and realistic. it's just sooo good. it's just that the ending upended everything, left some strings untied, and has me so confused. some of the extras are just painfully bittersweet. in a way, i wish i hadn't even read them, even if they're really good.

Each world is extremely fascinating. Very unique, with twists and turns and unexpected factors. and it's plenty scary. definitely horror. so, overall, despite the ending, i highly recommend this amazing danmei. It will always have a special place in my heart. <<less

CN (4.7)

#2Don’t Pick Up Boyfriends From the T*ash Bin

245 Chapters Every 56.3 Day(s) 17022 Readers 208 Reviews 12-11-2023

Adventure Comedy Drama Mature Psychological Romance Sci-fi Shounen Ai

~11/10 must-read quick transmigration danmei with stunning plot and characters... more>>

I would go as far as to say that this is the best quick transmigration novel here. It's definitely the BEST I've read. It's also one of my first introductions to BL and quick transmigration, but that doesn't take away from how good it is. Just looking back on when I first found this, I'm pretty envious of my past self for reading this without even realizing just how top-tier it is in comparison to others. Like seriously, this novel raised my expectations so high that I don't think I'll find a quick transmigration novel ever as good as this one. I can't even understand why anyone could conceivably give this danmei a low rating. Though, their reviews are generally inaccurate and s*upidly unreliable.

The MC is such a star in this one, and the ML is just amazing. 0 toxicity in their relationship too, only fluff and some angst lol. I love how considerate the MC is to the original owners of the bodies he inhabits. He doesn't get revenge for himself, the system, or the ML--he gets revenge for the original bodies' owners, and it's just remarkable. It's honestly such a rare thing to see IMO. But this guy would specifically keep away from alcohol and smoking when he was in the body of a singer who valued his own voice greatly. He would consider the original owners' own wants and needs and personalities, and then plan purely based on what the OG owners want. It's so f*cking stunning just how considerate and human this MC of ours is. I love it. ML too. He's the kind of guy that you'd also want to date irl (no yandere or toxicity lol).

This is quick transmigration DONE RIGHT. In each world, it touches upon very realistic and serious themes, and does so properly. Moreover, each world is so well-built and new and different. It has different, cultures, people, etc. with new motives, completely new situations, and so much more. Each world is f*cking stunning and we actually relate to and get attached to the characters. And we usually see another chapter right after when MC and ML leaves that gives really satisfying closure. It always makes me so happy seeing our hosts live on their lives happily.

Side characters are done beautifully as well. Each of them has their own life and motives and I love just how MC and ML is able to interact and bond with them. I'd go as far as to say that practically every single character here is 3D.

Amazing character development and romance. It's just sooo good. Need I say more?

The entire plot, too, is extremely fascinating. I'm constantly looking forward to seeing MC's next move, or even more about MC's past. Add this to the stellar writing, and you have one glorious danmei right here.

Again, a stunning must-read. I love it so much. <<less

CN (4.7)

#3First-Class Lawyer

220 Chapters Every 68.1 Day(s) 8102 Readers 72 Reviews 01-25-2023

Completed Mature Mystery Romance Sci-fi Shounen Ai

~11/10 an absolutely stunning sci-fi interstellar danmei full of lawyering, mysteries, conspiracies, tension and more. ... more>>

I love the main CP's dynamic here, as well as the slow build up of their relationship. There is so much mystery in the plot, and it's very well-done and full of suspense. There the characters are so well-fleshed out, and the story is just splendid. I have no complaints. And my god, is the prose just amazing.

The author's writing and prose, IMO is just out of this world. Musuli has very much shot up to some of my most favorite authors. I personally just enjoy the writing so much, from the hilarious methods the author uses to add some comedic moments, to the truly compelling snippets of melancholy towards the past that certain characters experience or the barest hints of foreshadowing integrated perfectly into the writing. There's such a wide range of emotions we can experience while reading this danmei, and the author is just fantastic at making us readers *feel* things. This danmei certainly encouraged a wide range of emotions from me in a good way. I'm in *love*

Honestly, this danmei not only has great plot and characters, but also excellent writing. The foreshadowing is some of the best I've read--just looking back and realizing that some action that once seemed so inconsequential actually had so much meaning was really impactful. It was also sad at times too. I was honestly really shocked at just how really simple things (like a painting on a wall) could eventually make so much sense and hold so much significance.

The plot is fantastic. The mystery is so intricate and deep that it has my head spinning in circles in a good way. I love how MC and ML slowly work their way through discovering everything, and just how amazing it was so see all the mysteries unravel. MC's backstory reveal, the relationships between certain characters, the culprits behind certain crimes--was so f*cking amazingly revealed. Author is just great and pacing and revealing them right at the best and most climactic moments. love love love.

The romance main pairing is an absolute delight. by absolute delight, I mean ABSOLUTE DELIGHT. I f*cking love our ML and MC so much and their banter and their interaction and their relationship. Author is just sooo good at infusing life into them, such as making MC snippy with hilarious quips which always sound *so realistic* or the funny reactions people have to MC's identity reveal. I don't know how else to explain it, but author's writing is completely to my taste--and I noticed this within the first few chapters, and from then on until the end, this fact has only been reinforced further into my mind. I'm honestly willing to kneel down to this danmei and its author with how good it is. They have such amazing chemistry!

MC is the composed, always-smiling-no-matter-what-happens, sassy, and kind of distant in a way where nobody he interacts with can tell if his statements are sarcasm, a joke, an insult, etc. He's always "nice" and "polite" and smiling, which I love. I honestly find his character very amusing and fun, and I love him so much. He feels like the adult he is. ML, on the other hand, is a very stoic and cold guy who is always composed and serious. But MC loves nagging ML and it's always so fun seeing ML's reactions, Despite his generally cold personality, our ML is still very layered and fun to read.

Author not only has skill in infusing life in the main characters, but also the side characters! Ke Jin, Joe, even Laura. Every single one of these people had such unique and personable personalities. The sibling banter was so lifelike, the teasing was so realistic, the little and big interactions between friends. Really, I'm just blown away. They have their own histories, their own conflicting emotions, their own reactions to terrible or amazing things.

I'm not a person who knows much about law, so be warned, but I honestly loved how this danmei portrayed the justice system and law. Reading through and learning everything was just thrilling. I really like how this novel *did* address the grey areas in the justice system, especially those relating to justice, morals, and similar topics. It's was honestly very thought-provoking and also encouraged me to think a lot about it myself. And unlike the usual more action/fantasy danmei I usually read, this danmei also touches upon some other nostalgic topics like the act of growing from a kid to an adult, no longer being able to connect with old friends, etc. It was very well-done. Honestly loved Joe and Fitz and practically all the characters here. They're so human, and the absolutely beautiful prose makes sure to convey that.

In fact, one of the notable statements to me that our MC makes was that he would ensure that his client got "the sentence he deserved--no more and no less." It made me think/realize a lot about the justice system and the job of a lawyer.

So. This danmei is top-tier in practically every way and also very thought-provoking. Plot. Characters. Romance. Mystery. Writing. I'm in love with it all. The ending too. Was very satisfying. My heart feels so whole and happy. <<less

CN (4.6)

#4The Fourteenth Year of Chenghua

239 Chapters Every 85.7 Day(s) 5871 Readers 44 Reviews 01-14-2022

Completed Action Adventure Historical Mature Mystery Shounen Ai

~11/10 must-read ancient china political intrigue/case cracking danmei with fantastic political intrigue, characters, and plot. An amazing mystery novel with long detective mysteries and very complex politics.... more>>

CN (4.7)

#5Silent Reading

82 Chapters Every 119.9 Day(s) 11175 Readers 110 Reviews 09-16-2020

Completed Action Mature Mystery Psychological Romance Shounen Ai

~11/10 stunning must-read modern-day detective mystery danmei with a great plot, mysteries, and characters... more>>

CN (4.7)

#6The Founder of Diabolism

28 Chapters Every 81.4 Day(s) 27824 Readers 563 Reviews 06-23-2025

Completed Adventure Drama Mystery Romance Supernatural Xianxia Yaoi

~11/10 must-read xianxia mystery danmei with just breathtaking characters, feels, and plot... more>>

CN (4.7)

#7Heaven Official’s Blessing

28 Chapters Every 16.6 Day(s) 23244 Readers 511 Reviews 11-29-2020

Completed Drama Mystery Romance Shounen Ai Xianxia

~11/10 must-read xianxia mystery danmei also with amazing characters, feels, and plot... more>>

KR (4.7)

#8Debut or Die

211 Chapters Every 50.5 Day(s) 9899 Readers 89 Reviews 06-12-2023

Comedy Drama Mystery Psychological Supernatural

~11/10 (Full-disclosure, this is NOT BL. but this is an amazing must-read idol/showbiz novel w/ no romance)... more>>

CN (4.2)

#9I Have Medicine

1 Chapters Every 2704 Day(s) 7911 Readers 102 Reviews 01-30-2018

Action Adult Adventure Mature Romance Shounen Ai Xianxia

~11/10 must-read absolutely amazing slowburn transmigration xianxia danmei that deserves a way higher rating. emphasis on the slowburn, with lots of plot, excellent worldbuilding, a romance that i love and over 1000 chapters. If you can't stick with a 1000-chapter novel and don't have patience, probably don't read. Otherwise, this is wonderful. ... more>>

over 500+ chapters available on chrysanthemum garden

I can't believe I was actually hesitating a while about whether or not to read this novel. I only started it bc I heard some good things about the ML and was absolutely f*cking blown away by how good this was. I binge read like 500+ chapters in a bit more than a week because this danmei was THAT GOOD.

This is a *slowburn* danmei with over 1000 chapters completed. Translations are ongoing. I honestly love almost every part of this danmei. The worldbuilding (as xianxia commonly have) is some of the best I've read. It's genuinely so fascinating just reading about how our MC and ML climb up the ladder of strength and power and how they do so. I love learning more about the world they're in, its power systems, and his hierarchical systems. It's just so stunning and interesting. Author does a really great job of showing what the martial world is like. It has a *crazy* amount of depth in its characters and world, holy shit.

MC transmigrates as a 15 year old kid into this world (which some people forget about or smth and complain when he acts his age), which makes him a pretty naive and innocent guy, but never to the point where is annoying. I honestly found MC really, really endearing and cute all throughout this danmei. This is also a great set-up for our MC's fantastic character development. I really wanna sigh in admiration and happiness when I think about how far our MC has gotten.

ML is SUCH A CHARACTER. genuinely. He's so well developed and fleshed out and is now probably one of my favorite MLs ever now. ML just has so much depth, treats the MC sooo damn well, and is extremely smart. And his intelligence isn't just some contrived sh*t made up by the author--we can SEE just how smart he is through his decision making. I can just recall reading through some of his plans and being very impressed bc they were like killing 4 birds with one stone. He's just *stunning.* He's also possessive, but not to the point where is takes over and restricts MC's freedom, and I love that about him. He might have possessive tendencies, but he refuses to ever subject MC to less freedom and more restrictions. He's just amazing like that.

Romance is, of course, a slow burn. I think they actually get together ~400s chapters, which is a while. But they're really cute together and when they finally confess their feelings it's just really satisfying. Moreover, the MC and ML's development into getting closer and then into a relationship is sooo f*cking stunning. The way they change from strangers to lovers is really well developed and written. What's more, the ML isn't some unreasonable guy who controls MC or forces him to do anything. Their relationship is, surprisingly enough, like *equals* to me. Yes, equals. They have both saved each others' lives over the years and become each others' biggest benefactors, and ML 100% sees MC as his equal too. He doesn't degrade him, take away his freedom, or take advantage of MC (which some people seem to not realize). If you continue to read through all the chapters, you'll completely understand what I mean. The amount they've helped each other is both immense and can't be compared with one another. MC is absolutely not degraded to "ML's cheerleader" as others might say. ML is not forceful nor r*pey. They have an amazingly natural growth and just a great bond that comes from living together, trusting each other, protecting each other, growing together, etc. If you have the patience to read a 1000 chapter novel, the romance is truly top tier.

The plotline and side characters are *beautiful.* really. There's great side characters with their own feelings and skills, who aren't made to just toot MC or ML's horn. There are capable female characters and unique people with their own stories and personalities. What's more, the author DOESN'T just toss them aside and forget about them a few hundred chapters later. She makes sure that the MC and ML remember and continues on the lives of these side characters. Huang Li is just *that guy* lol. His personality and situation is really fascinating, and so are many others. I also don't find this novel very against female characters--in fact, one of the strongest people in history is a widely-respected woman.

Plotline is extremely well-developed. MC and ML's road to gaining power is extremely sensible and well-explained. I LOVE reading about how they pass their own hurdles and gain their own experience. It's never boring and it's always new and different situations where MC and ML gain new skills and develop even more to cross them. I never skipped anything in this 500 chapter binge read. It was just that good. love love love.

Overall, a stunning must-read of a glorious transmigration xianxia novel. It's cultivation done right. I have nothing but praise. But if you don't like slowburns and don't have the patience for them, strike this off your list immediately <<less

CN (4.6)

#10Welcome to the Nightmare Live

438 Chapters Every 1.6 Day(s) 7438 Readers 50 Reviews 06-24-2025

Action Comedy Drama Horror Mystery Supernatural Yaoi

~11/10 fantastic must-read unlimited flow horror/mystery danmei w/ some gamer elements. Has crazy good worldbuilding and plot within each instance, as well as an intelligent scammer MC who can act well. Has some of the most satisfying reveals of MC's power (acting and planning) and skills. ... more>>

I'm loving every second of this danmei. Honestly, I should just nail this with the title of "best instances (and UF) ever." This is some unlimited flow and horror done fantastically well. Each arc and plot has me at the literal edge of my seat and is actually very scary. Everything is really, really complex and I love that in my horror/mystery plots. Each arc/instance MC enters is long, unique af and just wonderfully done. out of the ones I've read, this novel probably has the best worldbuilding/twists in each arc/instance. And by twists, I mean that there are *twists*. There are layers behind layers, mysteries behind mysteries, and the moment you think an instance might be solved is the moment you get tricked. This is also probably is my favorite unlimited flow so far. The amusement park, the ping an asylum, the hospital, the apartment building, etc. are just crazy amazing. Especially the amusement park and the mental asylum. This is a remarkable unlimited flow in that I sincerely enjoyed every single arc. I had absolutely *no* complaints for any of them, which is pretty unusual for me because chances are I at least find some kind of thing I'm not a fan of. But nope, that just doesn't happen in this danmei.

This is also certainly horror. I can name plenty of memorable moments where I get just absolute chills up my spine with how each situation develops. People die, rules can't always be trusted, the nightmare system itself obviously isn't good, etc. etc. The ambience of horror his so prevalent and I f*cking love it. The writing depicts the situation so wonderfully and I feel the need to visit author's other works.

Even the MC is very, very unique. He's the cold/controlled-on-the-outside-but-screaming-on-the-inside type of person, but with an added ability to act and scam others and some crazy. He's so enjoyable to read and unique, and I love that in my MCs, and he gets scared too! so relatable when lots of the MCs I read are the epitome of calm. He also faces certain consequences to his actions, which is great. Even better, MC is not too OP, but his ability to plan and act is amazing. This makes for some *extremely satisfying* scenes where he outwits, outsmarts, and/or outacts everyone there. By satisfying, I mean that it's very, very, very satisfying. especially when its all revealed. This is probably one of my favorite parts of this danmei. I don't know how to explain, but the writing+setting+MC acting and thinking+eventual reveal is some of the greatest and most memorable I've read. It makes for some amazing moments where MC just *shines*.

The ML is very fascinating to me too, IMO. no spoilers, but their interactions were very hot lol. Romance is very slow though. And by slow, I mean *slow*. 200 chapters in and the MC and ML are nowhere close to having a romantic relationship with one another. But I honestly don't even care--the plot is wonderful enough that I would read this even if it had no romance pairing. The romance is just a nice bonus.

So, hands-down amazing novel. Highly recommend, especially for horror and mystery lovers! <<less

CN (4.6)

#11Mistakenly Saving the Villain

140 Chapters Every 63.4 Day(s) 15712 Readers 287 Reviews 09-23-2023

Completed Drama Mature Psychological Romance Tragedy Xianxia Yaoi

~11/10 stunning xianxia danmei. Has very human and very well fleshed out characters, including MC, ML, and side characters. A great showcase of mental problems and trauma, and how it can always affect one's psyche and life. Touches upon pretty dark themes. ... more>>

ML is a victim of s*xual s*avery here. And in one of the most heinous ways bc xianxia always manages to create a contraption that takes away one's free will and ability to control their body too. This danmei doesn't shy away from just how *brutal* experiencing something like that would feel like. It portrays ML's disgust, his conflict, his hate, his suffering just so well. ML is very flawed--he thinks of himself as dirty and doesn't want to "dirty" MC, but he's also crazy possessive over MC and hates himself for the fact that he wants to do it with MC. He has innumerable difficulties getting over the past, and it really furthers his story.

MC is very endearing too. He's not OP, and is just a really sweet and studious guy with social anxiety and difficulties communicating, and it's very endearing. He can be called dense at times, but in reality he's still very observant and aware. He makes some kind of interesting balance between his "denseness" and his intelligent thinking. He's layered and complicated, and should definitely *not* ever just be considered some kind of naive idiot. Those who call him that have certainly not read much of this story.

I feel like a good part of this story is centered on healing. There's many mysteries and conflicts, but this is also ML's road to healing from his past and his trauma--the way he becomes fine with s*xual interc**rse, the way he no longer thinks of himself as "dirty", the way he no longer lets his past define him. I hold a lot of respect towards his path of healing. It's difficult. It takes a *lot* of time and a lot of effort. Romance certainly isn't portrayed as some heal all cure all. But this story is a very enjoyable (spoiler).

Side characters are amazing too. An Long honestly holds a lot of my respect, and I love how he softens towards our ML and their friendship (I hate tropes where 2 guys who would've otherwise been friends become enemies bc they fight over a love interest). An Long is also a very developed and real character. In fact, all of the side characters have their quirks, backgrounds, personalities, and differences. the OG "protagonist shou" was just such a delight to read about and I wish the best for him. Ning Ning was very funny and obviously capable in her own right, same with Qing Luan. Strong female side characters exist and aren't talked down.

Romance was glorious. The way MC helped ML start along his road of healing, steadfastly staying by his side through all the difficulties. The way in which ML learns to actually *trust* MC. The way they express their love for each other. This was an amazing romance and I love this danmei so much.

obviously 11/10. Romance, characters, and the road to healing are its stand-out points. I love Yue Wuhuan and Song Qingshi. <<less

CN (4.4)

#12Criminal Psychology

334 Chapters Every 44.5 Day(s) 4787 Readers 21 Reviews 09-01-2023

Completed Adult Drama Mature Mystery Psychological Romance Yaoi

~11/10 well, another beautiful psychological mystery crime/case-cracking danmei right here, centering around people's psychology. Has amazing MC, ML, side characters, plot, mysteries, and romance.... more>>

I just love the mysteries, suspense, and cases in this novel. The author seems to have done a LOT of research and has a lot of knowledge about psychology, so we get to see how our MC, Lin Chen, solves criminal cases using his expertise, which is written very well. This novel also not only focuses on the criminals, but on the *victims* themselves, which I absolutely love. Arc 4 with Song Shengsheng was my absolute favorite, and the author's storytelling from MC's perspective was just stunning. Arc 5 with the Doctors was just as good. I could feel what MC felt, I could understand his thoughts, and I felt absolutely crushed with him at what happened.

I will say that this danmei, like most crime danmei, focuses on heavy topics, such as r*pe, prostitution, etc. Even life and death. The victims and good people in this story don't always get the ending they deserve, and sometimes our leads are too late (T_T). I f*cking hated what happened to that side-couple (not actual hate, I just wanna cry). So just beware of side character deaths. It's very...real in that sense. In fact, this danmei itself felt very real. I really enjoyed how author conveyed MC's thoughts and line of reasoning. It always made sense and I loved following along with it and understanding his deductions. Each characters' emotions felt so vividly conveyed over these words. There's also a *lot* about morality. ie. the trolly problem, humanity's sides. I honestly loved how author touched upon these sensitive topics and portrayed them--ie. prostit**es can still be r*ped, etc. Honestly a very emotional read, esp. arc 4 and 5.

I loved our MC throughout this. It's always been difficult for me to nail his character, but I love his ability to keep his cool and sympathize with victims and such. He's also a good actor and has lots of amazing moments in Arc 4, which I loved. I f*cking love how he still has struggles with himself but still keeps faith, and just how elaborate his thinking is. ML is just fantastic too. I'll admit that I wasn't first a big fan of ML but then author gradually showed more of ML's sides and personality, and I really, really liked him after that. He's a very layered person and you need to keep on reading to understand more about him. Lots of respect for both of them here.

And damn do I love the chemistry and romance. Author is great at showing the slowly-developing romance between MC and ML, and it feels like they're made for each other. The ways they comfort each other, support each other, interact, etc. really showcase how they care for and understand each other and fit so well. I loved it. The way ML comforted MC too was just so good.

I know like nothing about psychology, so idk whether or not the scenes that happened are actually possible, but I personally feel like the scenes are realistic and plausible. MC using psychology to his advantage was portrayed very well.

The lessons this story imparts--the belief it conveys through its flawed but compelling characters--Lin Chen, Xing Conglian, Duan Wanshan, Duan Yang, Song Shengsheng, etc.--is just stunningly beautiful. Author truly has a remarkable ability to convey emotions and feelings from second-hand accounts of people long gone, from people who've died before the story even started, from people silenced and unable to speak, from people who died too early.

11/10 just amazing case-cracking danmei. But warning: it's very long and is a slow-burn. More focused on plot than romance, but the romance and chemistry is delicious anyway. The lessons and ideas imparted through this story and its characters are truly beautiful and one-of-a-kind. I respect this so much. <<less

CN (4.6)

#13After the Global Evolution, I Stand at the Top of the Food Chain

289 Chapters Every 11.7 Day(s) 6078 Readers 34 Reviews 06-15-2025

Fantasy Horror Mystery Psychological Sci-fi Shounen Ai

~11/10 favorite ever apocalypse novel right here. Great worldbuilding and there are interesting superpowers and concepts behind how people get stronger. Both MC and ML are such fantastic and entertaining characters with great development. A great plot where everything happens for a reason, and side characters also have their own emotions. Also with a look into morality and humans, and humanity itself (not just a single person) plays a big part in slowing down pollution. ... more>>

Unlike what the summary suggests, this is a serious novel that touches upon serious themes very well. An amazing read.

Our MC is certainly a layered character who develops across the story. He starts off as a guy who doesn't really know how to live or feel and slowly learns how to do so throughout the course of this danmei. The way he slowly began to have feelings for ML (and ML to him)--and the way he immediately worked to get what he wanted was fantastic. He also lets go of past obsessions and sees more to life in a way that makes me happy.

Our ML is one hell of a guy. sometimes I feel like it's the MC who's taking advantage of him and eating his tofu lol. ML is very endearing and cute too. His romance with MC is great and I love their development!

The side characters surprised me. Author does a great job in showing the numerous kinds of people who exist in the world, the extent of their humanity, their reactions to what happened to them, and more. We get the short side of humanity--human experimentation, greed, corruption--and the good parts too. We have conflicted characters, and we see how they've changed from the past to the present. We see the relationships between side characters and their struggles, and it really stands out to me.

One respect about this danmei that stands out to me is its inclusion of what *humanity* has done. While this is an apocalyptic scenario, it isn't the kind where all cities fall immediately and governments are broken. This "apocalypse" moves slower--giving humanity time to study *all* of it to slow it down even further. I was extremely impressed by the worldbuilding in this aspect--the systems put in place to strengthen one's power, to keep all these superpowered characters contained, to train superpowered individuals, and to keep the pollution from spreading. There are valuable research institutes, superpowered fighters around the world, rampant problems around the world, etc.

I really loved every single part of the plot, as well as all our characters! This author made a fascinating world that I love to read about and I was really desperate to find another danmei similar to this to read. Unfortunately, I have not yet been successful. <<less

CN (4.6)

#14Royal Road

386 Chapters Every 36 Day(s) 6059 Readers 47 Reviews 01-04-2024

Completed Action Adult Drama Fantasy Historical Mature Romance Yaoi

~11/10 amazing modern man in ancient china kingdom-building danmei... more>>

Our MC finds himself in the body of a kind of noble in ancient china, set in a dynasty full of turmoil. In order to survive, he essentially improves his land (kingdom building) through numerous ways. It's so interesting because he dabbles in so many things, from making a militia for defending his land step by step and finding ppl to helping create new inventions for trade/quality of life improvements. Later on in the novel, there's wars, politics, epidemics, and more. It's so damn fascinating and new and I learn so many details through just reading.

It might sound boring when I explain it, but trust me: the kingdom building is done amazingly well. I love all the different things he dabbles in and how the novel make sure to show how he develops his land and interacts with his people. Especially the military building. It was extremely fascinating. And then there was so much politics and history and war and development going on.

This is *such* a good read concerning ancient china politics. From what I know, a lot of the background of this danmei is based on IRL people, and it's clear that author puts a lot of work in painting the historical background and infusing life into the characters. I honestly found the side characters *so fascinating*.

This is a very serious work, I'd say. It really reflects a lot of historical aspects of ancient china, and ancient china really was something. This isn't just about our MC, it's also about a country-wide conflict, politics, and struggle for power that spans far and wide. So much is going on with everyone in the background (and that's what makes this so good/accurate).

There's also a lot of development. I'd say that the MC's development from a modern man to a nobleman to (spoiler) is really really well-written and remarkable. As is ML's development. The plot progression is really satisfying too. Our MC is not unreasonably OP or intelligent. He experiences setbacks and has his own ups and downs. It's portrayed so wonderfully too.

Lots of angst and pining too. Not too much romance, so this is just a warning to those who read purely for romance, because you'll probably be disappointed. But the MC and ML do meet early and interact a lot and ML pines for him for a while... A torturous slow burn too. They only got together in like the late 200s chapters. But...it's really satisfying when they finally do. ahhhh it really was so f*cking fufilling!!

Unfortunately, this wasn't finished translating when I read it, so I haven't gotten to the end. but so far, the ML is a really interesting character to me. I was really excited to see him and MC's relationship develop bc I found it such an interesting dynamic. I gotta finish reading this sometime.

so, really really stunning must-read "kingdom building" in ancient china novel that has an entire history and world of wars, politics, etc. going on. In all honesty, this is the *best* ever modern man in ancient china I've ever read! I doubt anything can top this. <<less

CN (4.7)

#15Global Examination

8 Chapters Every 80.6 Day(s) 14916 Readers 292 Reviews 02-24-2025

Completed Action Comedy Horror Mystery Romance Sci-fi Shounen Ai Yaoi

~11/10 a highly enjoyed unlimited flow mystery danmei. The top-notch romance is a big selling point, and the MC and ML's dynamics are unlike anything I've ever read before. Past plays a big part in this, and the flashbacks and gradual reveal of the past was just amazing to read. Has a green flag power couple with crazy s*xual tension, great comedy, fascinating instances, and more.... more>>

The plot, romance, backstory, and characters here are one of the best. Our MC and ML are probably one of my most favorite bickering couples. Honestly, I don't think I've ever read a danmei where the main CP has a dynamic like this, and I'm loving it. The tension between them, the mystery of their past, and their relationship development was delicious. Top-tier. We have a stoic, cold, and "ruthless" MC and a living-life-on-the-edge, teasing, capable ML, but they're also so much more than that. Their chemistry is off the charts.

I was living off the little crumbs of backstories author gave us like a dying man for water in the Sahara. Sometimes I would reread certain sections because I loved them so much, especially with the MC and ML together. I was so absorbed and dedicated to them and their sad backstories, which were written *so well*. Author is really, really good at adding hints at the beginning of the novel, then revealing the histories behind them so the readers realize and understand the characters better. Her reveals and foreshadowing are really good. It's like you finally get to a part and are told that this little thing in the earlier chapters once had a big cause behind it and you're like screaming inside because it was cute/sad.

I, too, sincerely enjoyed the side characters. I felt like they honestly carried their own weight, with their little interactions and big contributions to the plot. They were massive fun and unique in their own right, and I love that about them. There's also some great female side characters!

Each instance here was really impressive! some more than others. the mirror zombie one was probably my favorite here. It was definitely unique and complicated and fascinating to read. Author is great at tying in the comedy with the action/horror too! There were plenty of times when I was laughing hard at MC and ML's antics just stunning their friends. There is one specific funny part of this story that I don't think I will ever be able to forget. It was really hilarious.

This danmei's selling point is its tension, romance, mystery, and build-up. Reading everything slowly unravel and reveal itself was an amazing experience. The comedic parts were also plenty entertaining! <<less

KR (4.7)

#16Turning

870 Chapters Every 2.3 Day(s) 14110 Readers 125 Reviews 06-25-2025

Action Adult Adventure Fantasy Mature Mystery Romance Smut Tragedy Yaoi

~11/10 must-read fantasy/medieval europe mystery+action novel... more>>

CN (4.6)

#17The Days I Clear Escape Games Pretending to be an NPC

0 Chapters Every 1273 Day(s) 4093 Readers 40 Reviews N/A

Completed Adventure Horror Mystery Psychological Romance Supernatural Yaoi

~11/10 fantastically developed + amazing unlimited flow acting danmei... more>>

CN (4.7)

#18Mist

71 Chapters Every 27.3 Day(s) 12496 Readers 280 Reviews 09-04-2024

Completed Action Adventure Mature Mystery Romance Sci-fi Yaoi

~11/10 genuinely mind-blowing sci-fi "unlimited flow" danmei

CN (4.6)

#19Death Progress Bar

136 Chapters Every 6.5 Day(s) 14370 Readers 145 Reviews 06-26-2025

Action Comedy Drama Mature Mystery Romance Shounen Ai Supernatural

~11/10 amazing must-read modern day mystery/action transmigration danmei... more>>

CN (4.6)

#20Epiphanies of Rebirth

217 Chapters Every 25.7 Day(s) 9147 Readers 96 Reviews 07-25-2024

Completed Comedy Drama Mature Romance School Life Slice of Life Yaoi

~11/10 must-read modern-day business danmei... more>>

CN (4.6)

#21Little Madman’s Guide to Acting Good

207 Chapters Every 37.8 Day(s) 6472 Readers 95 Reviews 01-13-2024

Completed Drama Mature Psychological Romance Yaoi

~11/10 must-read modern-day revenge novel. Great depiction of mental health and trauma, with a realistic portrayal of familial relationships and such. Great MC-ML dynamic and romance. ... more>>

it's a common formula done remarkably well. I love just how realistic this novel feels--our MC, having time traveled into the past to when he was a dumb little kid with no worries, has infinite difficulties settling in. despite having all the knowledge of his future, he can't "click" immediately with his (now alive) family. both he and his brother still have communication problems. he can no longer understand his friends and can't reconcile his experiences of his past life with his memories of being a dandy. and, well, considering the absolute shitshow of a past life he has, he is not at all mentally well. He's has depression and honestly lacks the will to live, which is really well depicted in terms of how his experiences have impacted him. We see how his experiences affect his mental wellbeing, his decisions, and his feelings. We see how he struggles to communicate with his family, how his self-destructive tendencies emerge, and just how tired he feels. We can practically feel the weight he was carrying on his shoulders in his past life that continued on into his new one. There is no instant cure of love or something--MC does *not* suddenly get better after entering a new life.

A lot of this danmei is also about healing. About how terrible experiences can and will impact your actions, decisions, and mental wellness. About working from mental scars, trauma, anxiety, depression, etc. About MC actually *working* to get better from his self-destructive tendencies and learning how to communicate. Moreover, mental illness is actually depicted ACURRATELY. There is no instant cure, no easy way to just suddenly get better, etc. He goes to a doctor, takes meds, writes in a journal, and actively dedicates his efforts to getting better. His addictions towards smoking and drinking a lot (as a result of his previous experiences) take time for him to work through. The entire healing process is months, if not years, long. His relationship with his family is very well shown. His mother's worry, his father's endeavors to communicate more, his brother's efforts to help, etc. They're all so real. And that is what I love about this story.

And it all makes sense. This story has a kind of melancholic and sad tone, which is perfect given the setting. As we experience and see the things our MC does, we also learn more about his past. The POV is done amazingly well, showcasing exactly how this once-dumb little kid turned into the cold, tired MC we have now. It highlights the big disparity between our MC with just a few years difference and just how much he's changed. It encourages a kind of sadness and mixed feelings upon seeing our MC reminisce about the past (esp on the topic of his brother and our ML--the feels were particularly strong there) and just how these his drive for revenge had warped him into becoming so... emotionally stunted, in a way? and then we see how our MC comes to terms with his "new life" and what he does to ensure that those he cares for live happily.

And I honestly love the MC and ML and their relationship. Seeing the snippets of our ML and his personality from his actions, interactions, and MC's recount of their relationship in his "past life" was just amazing. I felt like I could feel just how much MC cared for ML in the past, but also with the lens of showing just how sad and tired our MC was. it was really melancholic, to say the least. And I love their dynamic--when MC first interacts with ML, he thinks that ML likes good students and actively tries to make himself seem more like some kind of "studious, well-behaved" student and it's so funny bc it just bites him back in the ass bc our perceptive ML notices it anyway. ML and MC love each other and are willing to do anything for each other and it shows. Love how ML helps MC along his path of healing. Even better, there's also plenty of s*xual tension (later on). They've got a stellar, realistic relationship and I love that.

And, of course, the revenge is done very well. this does cover business, so MC slowly and intricately moves and sets up his proper and satisfying revenge as the plot continues.

all in all, an amazing must-read revenge novel. <<less

CN (4.3)

#22The Villain Has Something to Say

76 Chapters Every 51.7 Day(s) 9879 Readers 67 Reviews 12-23-2024

Drama Mature Romance Tragedy Xianxia Yaoi

~10.5/10 stunning xianxia novel. deserves a way higher rating IMO... more>>

CN (4.5)

#23Thriller Tour Group

0 Chapters Every 1275 Day(s) 2826 Readers 18 Reviews 12-30-2021

Action Adventure Horror Mystery Supernatural Yaoi

~10.5/10 really, really unique unlimited flow with fascinating worldbuilding... more>>

Haven't finished reading (ongoing Chrysanthemum Garden translations), but I'm absolutely loving what I've read so far.

My favorite part is probably the stellar worldbuilding and life in all the characters. It's some of the best I've read, far, far better than several on this list. For some reason, the concept of the tours, tour guides, all the parties and ranking systems and methods has me so engrossed. The author has created such a unique developed world and system, and the characters shown are also very fascinating/compelling (especially the ones at the top). Author sometimes uses dialogue to drop scraps of our ML's personality and I'm just scavenging for it like a starved person bc it's so fascinating. Everything just makes me so interested and looking forward to discovering more about the entire thriller tour system.

Also each tour/instance is crazy detailed and developed. there's unique scenic routes, and some of it is even rooted in more "historical" origins. There's a LOT going on in each chapter and instance but it's up to the reader to decide if they like it or not, because it can be a LOT. (I'll get to more about this later)

Our MC is both crazy and masochistic. His personality is really fun to read and I love seeing the way he solves all the fascinating mysteries and horrors going on. However, I'm 100 chapters in, and while I technically have seen the ML in a lot of chapters, he's in a certain state where the reader really can't learn anything about him and his personality T_T. He seems really, really interesting from what I've interpreted, but it's gonna be a LONG slowburn ig.

Even the side characters have me obsessed. It might just be a personal thing but I love reading the Homeward Party's dialogue and the stuff going on behind the scenes with our powerful characters. I love complicated plots with so many variables and powerful characters invovled.

And then come the negatives. Really, without this, I probably would've rated this a 11/10. The problem with this danmei is that it's TOO detailed at times. Each chapter and arc is long. Painfully long, at times. For example, the second arc/instance of this novel ends at around chapter 130. yes. CHAPTER 130 is when our second instance ends. and each chapter has high wordcounts. Sometimes, it feels like the author works so hard in creating an intricate instance/arc that they just extend and make things too long to the point where some people can't take it anymore. I could, but idk about others. If you know that you can't take this consistent high numbers of detailed chapters in each arc, then this isn't for you.

So, yeah, really, really fascinating and unique unlimited flow w/ good worldbuilding, though it can be too detailed at times. <<less

CN (4.3)

#24High Dimensional Invasion

253 Chapters Every 13.3 Day(s) 2612 Readers 7 Reviews 02-22-2025

Completed Adventure Fantasy Horror Mature Psychological Sci-fi Supernatural Yaoi

~10.5/10 just amazing sci-fi futuristic danmei (deserves a way higher rating)... more>>

I'm relatively new to the sci-fi genre, so I find this concept really fascinating. I love love love the worldbuilding here, with its concept of power scalings, methods to the staircase of heaven, and the overarching idea of high dimensional invasions. I find each dimension/instance MC finds himself in just really, really interesting and enjoyable to read. There's a very, very deep mystery and overarching plot that has very deep roots and I'm so interested. I really have no idea where this is going to go but I love learning more snippets and more about worlds, etc. There's all these different worlds and powers and it's so amazing to read about.

I also love the MC. He's not exactly the usual moral MC I read. In fact, he can be a pretty cruel and heartless guy at times, but it's completely understandable--and even makes sense--given his childhood and the world he grew up in. I can totally see how the MC became the cutthroat person he is and I love that. He's not a great person, but he's not needlessly cruel either. He strikes a good balance and it makes him a really compelling MC. I feel like I'm learning more and new things about his personality even 100 chapters in and about what he was like in our past.

I also find ML, ML's backstory, and ML's feelings for MC really really great. Our ML strikes such an interesting contrast to MC in terms of their background (position of power in world), personalities, etc. MC's the more indifferent one, while ML is just a generally generous, innocent, and polite guy. MC is also very low in society (poor orphan with no support) while ML is at the very top (heir of biggest company in the world, only son to one of the most powerful ppl in the world). ML realizes that he's interested in MC and kind of actively pursues him, but ML also isn't toxic and believes in consent, so he doesn't use his position to ever force MC into anything, which I like. It's great to see how MC lowers his walls around ML gradually as a result of ML's efforts.

Lowkey I didn't expect this but I can genuinely feel some great s*xual tension in some parts of this story. As in, MC isn't the sort of person to shy away or feel embarrassed about s*xual words or suggestive actions, so he can say some *interesting* stuff without batting an eye lol. And he can consider some interesting things without shying away.

MC also has a cute kid (not biological, but he considers the Little Abyss as his own and it's positively adorable). His teacher is...interesting. Interesting, but really sus and borderline (spoiler) so I have a bit of complicated feelings on that. But he's still a compelling character too.

So, a really stunning sci-fi danmei with a really fascinating world, a unique MC, an endearing ML, and a interesting plot! Highly reccommend. <<less

CN (4.3)

#25Fourth Perspective

111 Chapters Every 20.7 Day(s) 1520 Readers 13 Reviews 10-06-2024

Fantasy Romance Sci-fi Shounen Ai Supernatural

~10.5/10 fantastic sci-fi/supernatural detective danmei (idk why it's rated just 4.3--it's really good actually and deserves wayyy higher; same author as TEIO)... more>>

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Comments (12)

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cinnonym· Mar 23, 2024 10:42 AM
I think you would really enjoy "Who Says Old Two-Dimensional People Can’t get Married!". It's such a nice mature relationship, steady slow build up, and has an unconventional start for a BL novel.
The translation is completed, but behind a paywall. If you're interested, I can share the rest of the translation I unlocked with you!
Reply · 3 Likes · ·
- pointoverture· Author · Mar 27, 2024 02:11 AM
  It definitely sounds very interesting--thanks for the recommendation! I would be interested in having the rest of the translation if possible. Thank you :)
  Reply · Like · ·
- cinnonym· Mar 29, 2024 07:48 AM
  @pointoverture Hi! I've included you in a new conversation where I've shared the details.
  Reply · Like · ·
Diyasa· Apr 27, 2024 03:45 PM
Why I didn't find this list sooner !! This is so awesome. It really helped me for choosing a good read
Reply · 2 Likes · ·
- pointoverture· Author · Apr 28, 2024 10:27 PM
  I'm glad I could help! All these danmei really are so good and I always like recommending them to others :)
  Reply · 1 Like · ·
Ninz· Apr 3, 2024 04:37 PM
I was worrying about what to read and then saw your list! Love it! And hopefully you will add other novel as time goes by.
Reply · 1 Like · ·
- pointoverture· Author · Apr 5, 2024 02:03 PM
  happy to help. and yup, I am consistently updating and adding new novels/reviews to this :)
  Reply · 1 Like · ·
Voldevie· Apr 2, 2024 06:32 PM
Lol you have pretty much all my favorites here, and I will definitely check out the rest! I would like to recommend you The Disabled Tyrant’s Pet Palm Fish [Transmigration], it's such a wholesome and sweet novel. Great list!
Reply · 1 Like · ·
- pointoverture· Author · Apr 5, 2024 02:02 PM
  thank you. I'll definitely add Pet Palm Fish to my reading list and we'll see how it goes. it sounds interesting :)
  Reply · Like · ·
lilbunny· Mar 30, 2024 09:15 AM
tqq read all of MXTX novels and was looking for more danmei to read.. u shud check out the earth is online, I think u might like it. It leans on more towards shounen ai
Reply · 1 Like · ·
- pointoverture· Author · Apr 5, 2024 02:01 PM
  Yes, I've read TEIO and I love it. It's on my list, but I have yet to write an actual review for it here. I will when I can tho, ty for the rec!
  Reply · Like · ·

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