If you want to give Danmei (a genre in Chinese literature that focuses on romantic and/or sexual relationships between men) a try and start with an official translation, here is a list of the licensed Danmei novels that I’ve compiled for you.
Mo Dao Zu Shi / The Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Mo Xiang Tong Xiu
- Genre: Adventure, Drama, Mystery, Romance, Supernatural, Xianxia, Yaoi
- Volumes: 5
Mo Dao Zu Shi / The Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation Synopsis
Wei Wuxian, a once-powerful cultivator who delved into demonic cultivation seeking more power, leading to fear and his eventual death. Years later, he is reincarnated into the body of a young man seeking revenge.
With the help of Lan Wangji, another powerful cultivator, Wei Wuxian confronts the mysteries of his past and faces the dark truths surrounding them.
The Scum Villain’s Self-Saving System
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Mo Xiang Tong Xiu
- Genre: Action, Adult, Comedy, Drama, Mature, Romance, Xuanhuan, Yaoi
- Volumes: 4
The Scum Villain’s Self-Saving System Synopsis
This passage describes the story of Shen Yuan, who, after his death, finds himself reincarnated into the world of a trashy web novel called Proud Immortal Demon Way.
He inhabits the body of Shen Qingqiu, a character destined for a cruel fate due to his mistreatment of Luo Binghe, a half-demon protagonist.
Knowing his destiny, Shen Yuan seeks to change his character’s path by gaining the favor of Luo Binghe before his rise to power, thus avoiding the fate of being labeled as a scum villain.
Tian Guan Ci Fu / Heaven Official’s Blessing
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Mo Xiang Tong Xiu
- Genre: Drama, Mystery, Romance, Shounen Ai, Xianxia
- Volumes: 8
Tian Guan Ci Fu / Heaven Official’s Blessing Synopsis
Born the crown prince of a prosperous kingdom, Xie Lian was renowned for his beauty, strength, and purity. His years of dedication and noble deeds allowed him to ascend to godhood.
But those who rise, can also fall…and fall he does, cast from the Heavens again and again and banished to the mortal realm.
Eight hundred years after his mortal life, Xie Lian has ascended to godhood for the third time. Now only a lowly scrap collector, he is dispatched to wander the earthly realm to take on tasks appointed by the heavens to pay back debts and maintain his divinity.
Aided by old friends and foes alike, and graced with the company of a mysterious young man with whom he feels an instant connection, Xie Lian must confront the horrors of his past in order to dispel the curse of his present.
Stars of Chaos: Sha Po Lang
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Priest
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Historical, Martial Arts, Mature, Mecha, Mystery, Romance, Shounen Ai, Xuanhuan
- Volumes: 5
Sha Po Lang Synopsis
The discovery of violet gold, a crucial fuel for steam-powered machines, ushered Great Liang into an era of prosperity. However, for Chang Geng, a young man from the impoverished northern frontier, the empire’s fortunes seem irrelevant. When northern raiders attack his village, Chang Geng learns that his entire life has been a lie.
His mother, teacher, and even his beloved godfather are not who they appeared to be. As the empire’s enemies draw closer, Chang Geng must journey to the capital with his godfather to confront his destiny.
Guardian / Zhen Hun
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Priest
- Genre: Action, Drama, Fantasy, Horror, Mystery, Romance, Shounen Ai, Supernatural
- Volumes: 3
Guardian / Zhen Hun Synopsis
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) operates covertly within the city, its existence unknown to the general populace. Tasked with delving into mysterious and inexplicable events, the unit’s mandate covers occurrences that defy the understanding of the living.
At the helm of the SIU is Chief Zhao Yunlan, a man of remarkable complexity. As the inheritor of the Guardian Order, Zhao Yunlan embodies righteousness and a strict adherence to duty. His exceptional abilities allow him to navigate seamlessly between the realms of the living and the dead, making him uniquely suited for his role.
During an investigation into a seemingly routine school suicide, Zhao Yunlan’s attention is drawn to Professor Shen Wei. Shen Wei, with his calm demeanor and reserved nature, intrigues Zhao. However, despite Zhao’s interest, Shen Wei remains elusive and unpredictable in his responses, adding another layer of mystery to the case and their budding interaction.
Thousand Autumns / Qian Qiu
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Meng Xi Shi
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Historical, Martial Arts, Mature, Romance, Shounen Ai, Wuxia
- Volumes: 5
THOUSAND AUTUMNS: QIAN QIU Synopsis
Yan Wushi, a cynical and ruthless man, did not believe in the inherent goodness of humanity or selfless kindness. One day, he came across Shen Qiao, the leader of the prestigious Mount Xuandu sect, who had been gravely injured in a duel and fallen off a cliff. Seizing the opportunity, Yan Wushi devised a plan, pondering the nature of enduring legacy.
The Husky and His White Cat Shizun
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Rou Bao Bu Chi Rou or “Meatbun Doesn’t Eat Meat”
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Mature, Romance, Smut, Tragedy, Xianxia, Yaoi
- Volumes: 7+
The Husky and His White Cat Shizun Synopsis
Mo Ran initially regretted becoming the disciple of Chu Wanning, whom he found too aloof and cat-like, while he saw himself as a loyal but simple dog. He thought he would be better suited to someone like his fellow disciple, who was gentle and beautiful like a Japanese Spitz. However, after experiencing life, death, and rebirth, Mo Ran realized that the one he always returned to and truly cherished was his shizun, the very person he initially couldn’t stand: the snow-white, cat-like Chu Wanning.
Remnants of Filth: Yuwu
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Rou Bao Bu Chi Rou or “Meatbun Doesn’t Eat Meat”
- Genre: Action, Adult, Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Smut, Xianxia, Yaoi
- Volumes: 5+
Remnants of Filth: Yuwu Synopsis
In the empire of Chonghua, two young generals, Mo Xi and Gu Mang, became prominent by fighting together. Mo Xi was reserved and ruthless, while Gu Mang was charming and beloved by many. Their bond shattered when Gu Mang betrayed the empire to serve an enemy nation.
Years later, Gu Mang returns, mentally broken, and the public demands his execution, expecting Mo Xi to seek vengeance. However, Mo Xi spares him, raising questions about their true relationship and the hidden secrets in Mo Xi’s cold demeanor and Gu Mang’s damaged mind.
Case File Compendium: Bing An Ben
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Rou Bao Bu Chi Rou or “Meatbun Doesn’t Eat Meat”
- Genre: Mature, Mystery, Psychological, Romance, Smut, Supernatural, Yaoi
- Volumes: 3+
Case File Compendium Synopsis
He Yu, wealthy and handsome but mentally unstable, returns home from overseas determined to win the heart of Xie Xue, his dream girl. However, he must also face his deep-seated grudge against her overprotective brother, Xie Qingcheng, who doubts He Yu’s capacity for love.
As He Yu’s former doctor, Xie Qingcheng uniquely understands his mental illness. An explosive incident reveals a dark secret, confirming Xie Qingcheng’s suspicions about He Yu. Now, He Yu must confront his inner demons, including his disturbing obsession with Xie Qingcheng.
You’ve Got Mail: The Perils of Pigeon Post
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Meng Xi Shi
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Historical, Martial Arts, Mature, Romance, Shounen Ai, Wuxia
- Volumes: 2
You’ve Got Mail: The Perils of Pigeon Post Synopsis
In ancient China’s Xia dynasty, the Peng Society for Gentlemen was a secret club for gay men seeking lifelong partners. Members could submit a self-portrait, personal details, and a mailing address to be listed in the discreet monthly publication, The Pengornisseur, delivered via pigeon post.
Wu Xingzi, a destitute and hopeless 40-year-old government official, decides to end his life but first wants to lose his virginity. He invests his life savings in a subscription to the Peng Society, hoping to find a lover before he dies. However, joining the club leads to unexpected outcomes. The Seven Seas English edition of this mature-rated novel will include uncensored text and exclusive new art.
Peerless: Wu Shuang
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Meng Xi Shi
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Historical, Martial Arts, Mature, Romance, Shounen Ai, Wuxia
- Volumes: 2+
Peerless: Wu Shuang Synopsis
On a snowy night, an envoy from the Kingdom of Khotan is ambushed, his escort massacred, and a precious jade tribute for the Emperor of Sui stolen. Feng Xiao, the formidable deputy chief of the Jiejian Bureau, investigates and follows the trail to Liugong City, where top martial artists gather for a mysterious auction. Meanwhile, the rival Zuoyue Bureau sends Cui Buqu, a brilliant but ailing man with many secrets, to the same city.
Despite their immediate clash and mutual pride, Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu must collaborate to solve the mystery before the trail goes cold. This historical fiction mystery, set in the wuxia universe of Thousand Autumns: Qian Qiu, centers on the tension and desire between the two men.
Run Wild: Sa Ye
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Wu Zhe
- Genre: Drama, Mature, Psychological, Romance, School Life, Slice of Life, Yaoi
- Volumes: 6
Run Wild: Sa Ye Synopsis
Unwanted by his adoptive parents, Jiang Cheng moves to a cold city to live with his gambling-addicted father. Alone and rebellious, he arrives at the train station, ready to face his bleak new life.
There, he meets Gu Miao and her brother Gu Fei, a boy his age rumored to be trouble. Despite the rumors, Jiang Cheng is drawn to Gu Fei. Their unlikely friendship reveals hidden depths in both boys and sparks unexpected feelings in Jiang Cheng. This romantic drama’s Seven Seas English edition will feature exclusive new art.
Little Mushroom: Judgment Day
- Publisher: Peach Flower House
- Author: Shisi
- Genre: Drama, Romance, Sci-fi, Shounen Ai
- Volumes: 2
Silver Award Winner of 2021’s Xingyun Awards for Global Chinese Science Fiction for Best Original Novel
Little Mushroom: Judgment Day Synopsis
In 2020, Earth’s magnetic poles vanished, nearly exterminating humanity with cosmic radiation. Over a century, survivors struggled in bases while mutated creatures roamed outside.
A sentient mushroom named An Zhe, nourished by human remains, took on a human form. To retrieve his stolen spore, he infiltrates a human base, risking detection by Judges who kill xenogenics. Colonel Lu Feng, the most vigilant Judge, fails to detect An Zhe’s true nature, leading to a tense tale of survival and identity.
Peach Blossom Debt
- Publisher: Peach Flower House
- Author: Da Feng Gua Guo
- Genre: Drama, Romance, Xianxia, Yaoi
- Volumes: 1
Peach Blossom Debt Synopsis
The prime minister’s son, Song Yao, loved the courtesan Yao Xiang, who chose a poor scholar instead. Heartbroken, Song Yao accidentally became immortal.
In heaven, Tian Shu Xingjun and Nan Ming Dijun were punished and sent to the human realm. Song Yao Yuanjun was tasked to break them up, with his friend Heng Wen Qingjun joining him.
Reincarnated as a vassal king’s son, Song Yao took Tian Shu Xingjun into his residence. Entangled in the lovers’ fates due to past lives, Song Yao believed he was destined to be alone forever.
Golden Terrace
- Publisher: Peach Flower House
- Author: Cang Wu Bin Bai
- Genre: Drama, Historical, Romance, Yaoi
- Volumes: 2
Golden Terrace Synopsis
The notorious imperial court lackey and the esteemed military general were known for their intense mutual dislike. However, after the general is injured in battle and loses the use of his legs, the emperor forces them to marry.
Initially hostile, the two are compelled to live together. Over time, they begin to see each other’s redeeming qualities, realizing their initial perceptions were wrong.
The Imperial Uncle
- Publisher: Peach Flower House
- Author: Da Feng Gua Guo
- Genre: Drama, Mystery, Shounen Ai, Slice of Life
- Volumes: 1
The Imperial Uncle Synopsis
I am Prince Huai, Chengjun, His Majesty’s uncle. A survey once identified the three major problems of our dynasty: Wang Qin’s corruption draining the treasury, Yun Tang’s favoritism causing political corruption, and my own alleged manipulation of power, destabilizing the throne. I’m often seen as the most dangerous, the “biggest cancer” of the court. However, despite these accusations, I’ve always been loyal and without any ambition to seize power or the throne. Unfortunately, few believe in my loyalty.
Ballad of Sword and Wine: Qiang Jin Jiu
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Tang Jiu Qing
- Genre: Action, Adult, Drama, Historical, Mature, Mystery, Romance, Yaoi
- Volumes: 3+
Qiang Jin Jiu Synopsis
Shen Zechuan, the last surviving son of the traitorous Prince of Jianxing, is brought to the capital in chains, bearing the nation’s hatred. Xiao Chiye, the youngest son of the powerful Prince of Libei, despises him and wishes for his death. However,
Shen Zechuan defies his family’s disgrace and becomes a significant player in the capital’s political scene, consistently clashing with Xiao Chiye. Despite their initial enmity, they gradually become unlikely allies and potentially more. The Seven Seas English-language edition will include uncensored text and new illustrations.
The Disabled Tyrant’s Beloved Pet Fish
- Publisher: Seven Seas
- Author: Xue Shan Fei Hu
- Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Historical, Romance, Shounen Ai
- Volumes: 4
The Disabled Tyrant’s Beloved Pet Fish Synopsis
Li Yu falls asleep reading a webnovel about a ruthless, mute tyrant who falls in love with a delicate male concubine, only to wake up within the novel’s world—as a fish! Adopted as Prince Jing’s pet carp, Li Yu is assigned by a troublesome Magic System to prevent the prince from becoming a cruel tyrant. If successful, Li Yu will regain his human form.
However, achieving this goal from inside a fish bowl proves challenging. The Seven Seas English-language edition of this fantasy transmigration comedy will include uncensored text and new, exclusive art.
Salad Days
- Publisher: Via Lactea Ltd.
- Author: Jing Shui Bian
- Genre: Romance, Shounen Ai, Slice of Life, Sports
- Volumes: 2
Salad Days Synopsis
This is the story of a young, innocent ballet boy and a passionate, determined boxing boy. Meeting at the children’s palace, they grow up supporting each other through hardships and obstacles, never wavering in their pursuit of their dreams. The beauty of their salad days lies in the sweat from hard work and the strength of their friendship. Despite their completely different paths, their beautiful friendship remains unchanged.
The Missing Piece
- Publisher: Via Lactea Ltd.
- Author: Kun Yi Wei Lou
- Genre: Romance, Drama, Smut, Yaoi
- Volumes: 1
The Missing Piece Synopsis
Shen Mo, an art school graduate who can’t paint due to an incident three years ago, works at the Ji family’s company. Secretly, he’s the fake lover of the young CEO, Ji Mingxuan. Their charade intensifies when Ji Mingxuan’s sister returns with her fiancé—Shen Mo’s ex. As the pretense deepens, Shen Mo uncovers hidden truths about Ji Mingxuan and his past, forcing him to confront his nightmares. The central question remains: can a love based on deception endure?
This is an unflinching, melodramatic story that portrays how people endure the harshest fates, only to discover that they are each other’s ‘missing piece.
Limerence
- Publisher: Via Lactea Ltd.
- Author: Jiang Zi Bei
- Genre: Romance, School Life, Slice of Life, Yaoi
- Volumes: 1
Limerence Synopsis
Pei Ran discovered two things recently:
1. His boyfriend of 3 years seems to be cheating on him.
2. The way his boyfriend’s roommate looks at him isn’t quite right.
Rose and Renaissance
- Publisher: Via Lactea Ltd.
- Author: Zhichu
- Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Romance, Yaoi
- Volumes: 4
Rose and Renaissance Synopsis
Xia Xiqing, a playboy with an angelic face, reveals his true colors in front of his idol, Zhou Ziheng, ruining his first encounter. Despite this setback, Xia’s brief appearance at a press conference catapults him to fame as Zhou’s top fan, leading to their pairing on a reality show. Initially thinking he’s seduced the industry’s top alpha, Xia discovers Zhou is actually a naive tsundere. Their relationship evolves as they compete in an escape room reality show, revealing their true selves and navigating a game of wits. The story delves into their contrasting public personas, family backgrounds, and the dynamics of savior and saved. It combines elements of STEM and fine arts, creating a unique romance from the intersection of science and art.
Lip and Sword
- Publisher: Via Lactea Ltd.
- Author: Jin Shi Si Chai
- Genre: Drama, Romance, Yaoi
- Volumes: 3
Lip and Sword Synopsis
Xing Ming, the dedicated host of Pearl Line, wins a top award but faces backlash from Director Chen Linan, who prefers former host Zhuang Lei. At a party, a drunk Chen Linan insults Xing Ming’s deceased father, leading to a violent outburst from Xing Ming. To save his job, Xing Ming spends the night with station chairman Yu Zhongye, but still faces dismissal. In desperation, he proposes to create his own show and gets six months to prove its success. As setbacks force him to seek more favors from Yu Zhongye, Xing Ming questions his sexuality and whether his feelings for the chairman go beyond admiration.
Dawning
- Publisher: Via Lactea Ltd.
- Author: Bing Kuai’er
- Genre: Drama, Romance, Smut, Yaoi
- Volumes: 3
Dawning Synopsis
At a business acquisition party, Li Luo reunites with his former lover Duan Mingyang, who had betrayed him, imprisoned his father, and destroyed his family business five years ago. Despite their past, Duan Mingyang still tries to drive Li Luo out of the entertainment industry. Li Luo proposes a temporary truce to tackle a common enemy, and Duan Mingyang agrees, leading to a reluctant partnership.
As they work together to gather evidence to clear his father’s name, Li Luo sees a different side of Duan Mingyang, one that seems to hold genuine affection for him. This revelation causes Li Luo to reconsider his feelings. Just as he decides to move forward and reconcile, the true events of the past come to light, reigniting old flames and unresolved issues.
Silent Hearts
- Publisher: Via Lactea Ltd.
- Author: Jing Shui Bian
- Genre: Romance, School Life, Shounen Ai, Slice of Life
- Volumes: 1
Silent Hearts Synopsis
Lin Mu and Lin Zhao, a fraternal pair of twins, shared a unique and unbreakable bond. Lin Zhao was born deaf, and one day she asked Lin Mu to take her place at a community meeting. With a sense of duty and love for his sister, Lin Mu donned her makeup and dress to attend the meeting in her stead.
At the meeting, Lin Mu encountered Lu Rong, a young man one year his junior. Lu Rong had come with his grandmother, who suffered from dementia, a responsibility he had taken on since the tender age of twelve.
In the Dark
- Publisher: Peach Flower House
- Author: Jin Shi Si Chai
- Genre: Action, Mystery, Psychological, Shounen Ai
- Volumes: 3
In the Dark Synopsis
This story follows Xie Lanshan, a young police officer grappling with his identity. Formerly an undercover drug enforcement officer, Xie infiltrated the Golden Triangle’s most feared armed organization as the right-hand man of drug lord Mu Kun. After returning to his post, a case of police misconduct triggers severe headaches and resurfaces hidden memories.
As Xie investigates his father’s long-ago death, he employs his sharp, unconventional thinking—reminiscent of a psychotic murderer—to solve complex cases. His mental health and personality become increasingly unstable.
In this turbulent period, Xie meets Shen Liufei, a mysterious forensic sketch artist. Their relationship oscillates between friendship and rivalry as they collaborate to crack enigmatic cases. However, Shen Liufei might have his own hidden agenda in seeking out Xie Lanshan.
The Legendary Master’s Wife
- Publisher: Monogatari Novels
- Author: Yin Ya
- Genre: Action, Adult, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Mature, Romance, Xuanhuan, Yaoi
- Volumes: N/A
The Legendary Master’s Wife Synopsis
After an explosion, You XiaoMo finds himself as a probationary disciple of the TianXin sect. With questionable potential, he faces a daunting challenge: if he fails to meet the required standards within six months, he will be expelled from the sect.
Determined to succeed, You XiaoMo dedicates himself to making medicines and earning money. During his efforts, he encounters Ling Xiao, who initially seems to be an ordinary person. However, You XiaoMo soon discovers that Ling Xiao is actually a being disguised in human form, adding an unexpected twist to his journey in the sect.
University of the Underworld
- Publisher: Peach Flower House
- Author: Ziloi
- Genre: Romance, Mystery, Comedy
- Volumes: 1
University of the Underworld Synopsis
In the Professional Malevolent Spirits and Creative Terrorizing Program, all ghosts strive to become top spirits of the underworld. Cui Yue, however, is there because of Bai Shaonan’s unrequited love for him, or so he thinks. Despite his initial reluctance, Cui Yue decides it won’t hurt to reciprocate Bai Shaonan’s feelings. However, since meeting Bai Shaonan, Cui Yue finds himself constantly being hunted or on the run. Bai Shaonan, convinced that Cui Yue’s dedication to his studies is due to his affection for him, believes that addressing these challenges is essential for a peaceful future.
Soul Vibration
- Publisher: Via Lactea
- Author: Dr Solo
- Genre: Romance
- Volumes: 3
Soul Vibration Synopsis
Welcome back my boss
Welcome back my dream
Welcome back my life
–The 26-Year-Old Boy in A Baseball Cap.
Talented Bassist X Indie Singer-songwriter,
Idol x Fanboy,
Rock Star x Assistant,
Straight x Straight
From admiration to love.
This novel describes the daily lives of a chart-topping rock band, LOTUS, told from the perspective of the bassist’s personal assistant.
Independent singer-songwriter Chi Nan had to give up on his music dream after finding out about his incurable hearing defect. At the depths of his despair, the bassist of his favourite band, LOTUS, bought the rights to all his songs and made him his personal assistant.
“Even if I become completely deaf, I can’t break free from myself. Even if half of me grows old, the other half will always remain within the dream named Rock and roll, the dream named Teenage Dream, named Salinger.”
