Zhao Yunlan runs the Special Investigations Department in the Ministry of Public Security. His subordinates include several ghosts, a talking cat, a monk, a half human half snake, and a newbie who has no idea what he’s gotten himself into amongst others. The cases they deal with the supernatural, and while they can capture those involved, they can’t pass judgement on them. That duty belongs to the Soul-Executing Emissary. A case causes Zhao Yunlan’s path to cross with Shen Wei, a professor at Dragon City University, and Yunlan finds himself immediately attracted to the man even as Shen Wei does his best to keep his distance. But circumstances keep throwing the two of them together, and Yunlan is determined to figure out Shen Wei’s secrets as well as win him over.
This is such a great combination of mystery, paranormal romance, and horror. I picked up this book after discovering a Chinese drama that was based on it and getting hooked, and I think the book is even better than the TV show. The worldbuilding is fascinating and makes me wish I knew more about Chinese folklore and mythology. The characters are great, and you can’t help but be fond of them even when they are a little ridiculous. There’s a clear attraction between Zhao Yunlan and Shen Wei, and I’m very invested in seeing how it plays out. I also have so many questions, and even the answers that the reader does get in this volume leads to more questions. I’m really looking forward to seeing what happens next in the next volume of the story. Four out of five stars.
CBR15 Passport: Different Genres/Subgenres – Paranormal Romance
CBR15 Bingo: Strange Worlds – The worldbuilding draws heavily on Chinese mythology and folklore which is fascinating but I know little about.
