Ancient Cnovel Appreciation

↳ Aren’t these illustrations gorgeous? Over the last two years the cnovel translation community has really grown in scope and vibrancy. Many thanks to 书声Bar and our dedicated group of translator for this.

If you’re considering taking a plunge (dip is okay too =p) here are some recs:

Sansheng, Death Exists Not at the River of Oblivion by Jiu Lu Fei Xiang

Good for those who enjoy lighthearted and sweet fare. The writing is so simple, there’s this sudden jolt as you come to the realization the author has been deftly tugging at your heartstrings. Also a great intro to the concept of reincarnation and Chinese mythology.

Heavy Sweetness, Ash-like Frost by Dian Xian

The love story between a grape & a phoenix. The emotional maturity fits right in with those angsty high school years, but there’s an irresistible charm about this world of gods, fairies and their creatures.

To Be A Virtuous Wife by Yue Xia Die Ying

A personal fave, mostly because I dig stories set in the Imperial Harem. There are similarities to Zhen Huan, however the ladies are fighting over His Yummy Devoted Hotness instead of His Philandering Majesty.

Ballad of the Desert by Tong Hua

Come for the desert adventure, stay for the passionate romance and weep as you find yourself as torn between the two outstanding men as our heroine. [There’s a drama version starring Liu Shi Shi & Eddie Peng HERE]

A Lonesome Fragrance Waiting to be Appreciated  by Feng Nong

This is a favorite of many, however, I have mixed feelings about it. An advisor loses her heart to a royal general of the enemy state. Sounds yummy right? If only there wasn’t stretches of pure stupid pride. [The drama version will be filming soon starring Wallace Chung (yes!) & Angelababy (eh)]

Meow Meow Meow by Ju Hua San Li

AHHHH! This one is still being translated, Vol. 1 is complete, Vol. 2 is pending. However, the zany cuteness when a pampered house cat finds herself traveling back in time, advanced to a demon cat (cultivated enough to be able to take human form / can shift between the two) and is slowly humanized is to die for. If the cheeky humor doesn’t hook you, something wrong with those funny bones.

For the full list of completed and new translations for both ancient and modern Chinese novels, click HERE.

Heart palpitations courtesy of Wallace Huo & Hu Ge