By Eu
Hiii! I’m trying a new format. So basically I’m just writing the short version of the review first, then there’s a bit longer version if you want or have more time to read.
Now, for the blurb.
SOMETHING TO FIGHT FOR, SOMEONE TO LIVE FOR
Gods should never meddle in the affairs of mortals, but Xie Lian is not one to follow the rules when lives are at risk. He spits in the face of heaven and its laws and descends in a fury to save his country from drought and civil war. Yet this golden child gets a harsh dose of reality when he discovers just how little one individual—even a god—can do to save a crumbling nation. As the people reject and betray him, one young soldier stands by Xie Lian—a boy with a face wrapped in bandages and a fierce loyalty in his heart. In this chaotic past, can an unshakable bond grow from the ashes of unimaginable destruction?
🍀The Short Read
- Like in volume 2, there are two parts in this volume. First part is Xie Lian’s past, and the second part is back to the present timeline.
- I find the First Part, The Past, hard to read, mainly because of Xie Lian.
- The second half is just chef’s kiss, mainly because of HuaLian.
- New characters finally appear on page, and I feel like they are going to be important in the future volumes.
- There’s a new case that involves the Wind Master. I’m slowly recollecting the pieces of this part and I have a feeling that things are about to get messy…
🍀The Longer Read
Following the ending of volume 2, this volume continues after Xie Lian’s (XL) ascension. The blurb called him as the golden child, and that’s perfect for him. The sheltered golden child who has a savior complex — just a bad, terribad combination.
There are also scenes with the young soldier, and let’s face it, if you’ve read the previous volumes (which I assume you had since the books are not standalone), we all know who that person is. In a way, their earlier relationship reminds me of Scum Villain with the whole idolizing the “mentor.”
Thankfully, midway through the book, we’re leaving behind the past. For now.
The second half is more lighthearted than the first. It feels like getting out of the woods if I’m being honest. We get treated to the festivities of the Heavenly Realm which seems fun at first, but it actually highlights the political and personal relationships of the officials . The other gods such as Shi Wudu and Quan Yizhen are also introduced. They seem fun but rather eccentric.
Let’s talk about a bit of HuaLian. Because OMG the HuaLian scenes make this is a must-read. To be fair, the two have been flirting since day 1. But their moments here are next level — like going to the not friends but not quite as lovers territory.
Plot wise, there is a new investigative case involving the Wind Master. It already feels ominous right off the bat.
Some favorite moments and lines:
Also, there seemed to be too many litle gestures: the actors were always hooking arms, hugging shoulders, and embracing each other. Somehow, something wasn’t right about it. — the mortals doing a play depicting HC and XL during the Banyue pass event. XL was getting embarrassed about it. Lol
“What if you encounter someone with wicked intent who’s strong in spiritual power, like General Pei?” — Shi Wudu to Shi Qingxuan in female form. Aaah. The good times.
“Thousand Lights Temple, the Palace of the Crown Prince, three… Three.. Three thousand lanterns!”
“DEAR GOD! PLEASE MAKE THIS PERSON TRIP TO HIS DEATH, RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW!” -Qi Rong. A ghost calling for a god lol
Series: Heaven Official’s Blessing (Tian Guan Ci Fu)
Written by: Mo Xiang Tong Xiu (墨香铜臭)
Translation: Suika and Pengie
Cover Art: 日出的小太陽 (tai3_3)
Interior Art: ZeldaCW
Available at: JJWXC (Chinese), Seven Seas Danmei (English)
Volumes (English): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8