It’s no secret (because I’ve been screaming it from the rooftops) that I’ve been in my danmei era. And not only have I been in my danmei era, I’m specifically on a mission to read all licensed works by Fei Tian Ye Xiang, who is the author behind Riverbay Road Men’s Dormitory and Legend of Exorcism.
Joyful Reunion is the most recent release from Fei Tian Ye Xiang, published by Seven Seas Entertainment, and already it’s going on my favorites list. (To be fair, all his works are on my favorites list.) While I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect, I knew that with Fei Tian at the helm, it was going to be a good time.
About Joyful Reunion
At the center of Joyful Reunion, we have Duan Ling. He is an orphan living with his deceased mother’s family, facing terrible abuse. One wintry day, an unknown man arrives to take him away and take him to this new life. This mysterious man is Lang Junxia, and while he doesn’t say much, he completely changes Duan Ling’s life. He promises Duan Ling that his father is an incredible man, who will soon arrive to take care of him.
Throughout this first book, we have a front-row seat to Duan Ling growing up. He begins the story as a scared and hurt little 8-year-old and ends it as a strong, compassionate, and brave teen on the cusp of adulthood. We witness Duan Ling make enemies, make friends, and develop deep familial bonds. Woven throughout Duan Ling’s story is the power struggle the country is facing. With multiple factions at war, a fragile political climate, and multiple assassins hiding in the shadows, there is a lot on the horizon for Duan Ling to come.
My Thoughts
This book had me in a chokehold. It quickly absorbs you into the story, making it easy to binge it in a few sittings. As the first book, it lays the foundation for Duan Ling’s journey with so much love, affection, and growth. Some moments had me laughing out loud, and other moments had me in a puddle of tears. It’s thrilling the entire way through and sets up many questions on who and what will become important later on.
The benefit of a story written by Fei Tian is that while it is historical, the story feels fresh and modern. Even if you don’t have a lot of experience with historical works, Joyful Reunion is easy to follow and get lost in. On top of that, Fei Tian sets up friendship and familial bonds in a way that is realistic and heartwarming. There’s a big emphasis on platonic male relationships that is always refreshing to read.
Book one of Joyful Reunion is a great start to the series, and I cannot wait for book two, which will be released in September.
Where to Buy Joyful Reunion Book One
Joyful Reunion, Book One
Written by Fei Rian Ye Xiang
Cover illustration by Porridge
Interior illustrations by Qiangtou (墙头)
Translation by Mimi, Suika, yunyun
Publisher: Seven Seas Entertainment
Joyful Reunion Book One is available now.
Thank you, Seven Seas Entertainment, for an advanced reviewer copy.
