Ep #11 - Setting the bar.

September 2025

A meme depicting a comedic contrast between Shen Qiao's attempt to repress his affections for Yan Wushi and then casting those hesitations aside when he is reminded that the core of Daoism is to do as your heart wishes.

#11 - Setting the bar.

This month, we read the fifth volume of Thousand Autumns.

Book cover of Thousand Autumns Vol. 5 with 5-star rating.

Pa Ying’s Book Review

The final volume of Meng Xi Shi’s Thousand Autumns expertly concluded the journey of Shen Qiao and Yan Wushi. We get a conclusive enemies-to-lovers story that demonstrates how two opposites can genuinely love one another without sacrificing their principles. Neither Shen Qiao nor Yan Wushi abandons their morals for the sake of romance. Instead, their individual growth makes way for their relationship to bloom amidst their independence and distinct cultivation paths.

Illustrated portraits of Yan Wushi and Shen Qiao done by Arlo.

The Allure of Opposites

Despite facing devastating betrayals and conflicting ideologies, Yan Wushi and Shen Qiao form a deeply passionate and loving union. Their vast differences are bridged by mutual understanding and respect, without the expectation of compromise. In this way, they achieve a perfect balance and complement each other.

The clear contrast in their characters makes Yan Wushi and Shen Qiao a prime example of the "opposites attract" trope. This dynamic is intensified by their conflicting views, with one being a demonic cultivator and the other a Daoist. The pairing of a demonic character with a pure lover is a common theme in Danmei literature. What makes this pairing particularly compelling is how it embodies the essence of this trope, making it emotionally stirring and successful. It transcends the notion of two men from different perspectives joining together; instead, it reflects the "forbidden romance" that resonates with the lived experiences of queer individuals who often grapple with social or religious guilt. Shen Qiao’s journey of overcoming the limitations he placed on himself, driven by concern for his cultivation, exemplifies this idea clearly. Rather than struggling with emotions tied to past betrayals, he is burdened instead by religious guilt.

As we delve deeper into this genre and explore more novels, we will discover multiple examples that allow us to examine this topic further.

UP NEXT, we’re reading Peerless Vol.1

In this historical wuxia tale, two rival investigators confront a mysterious murder and their complicated feelings.

On a snowy night, an envoy from the Kingdom of Khotan is ambushed, with a precious jade tribute stolen. Deputy Chief Feng Xiao of the Jiejian Bureau leads the investigation in Liugong City, where martial artists gather for a mysterious auction. Competing agency Zuoyue sends the ailing but brilliant Cui Buqu, who has his own secrets. The two clash in a battle of wits, but must reluctantly collaborate to solve the case before it goes cold.

This story takes place in the same universe as Thousand Autumns.

We’ve updated the release schedule! Check it out here.

Are you reading along with us? Check out our reading list to see what’s coming up next.