The main character of this book is nearly unbearable and yet I had so much sympathy for him? A well-paced and unexpected novel which traces the complicated nature of queer relationships in late-80s, early-90s Beijing. 

I excitedly grabbed this book for the cultural and sociopolitical issues it tackled from a queer book store – aka, I assumed it to be right up my alley. My mistake however, was not realising I was in the erotica section (LOL). 

In short, it wasn't the book I had anticipated, nor was it the book I hoped it'd become. BUT, I take that as a reflection of my expectations not of the author's intentions/inspirations for this book. 

It was challenging to read at times because toxic character traits were explored in depth without equal reflection or growth. Hence, in absence, the flaws appear unchallenged, normalised, and romanticised (my BIGGEST peeve). 

Nonetheless, it portrays the reality of being queer in an unwelcoming comphet society – affording the protagonist grace in their hindered development. 

It's heart breaking, sad, and does leave this sociopolitical reader wishing there was a bit more guts to this book.