Yaoi for Newbies

Are you just starting out in the world of Yaoi (Boys' Love) novels? Whether you’re curious about the genre or looking for a place to begin, Yaoi offers a mix of heartwarming romance, emotional drama, and even thrilling suspense. From historical fantasy to modern-day love stories, these novels have captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Here are ten must-read Yaoi novels that will introduce you to the genre’s most popular and beloved stories.

Mo Dao Zu Shi (Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation) – by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu
A historical fantasy BL novel about a mischievous cultivator, Wei Wuxian, who is resurrected years after his downfall. He reunites with his stoic former rival, Lan Wangji, and together, they uncover hidden conspiracies and rekindle their deep bond.

1. Heaven Official’s Blessing – by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu
   A beautifully written xianxia (immortal cultivation) novel about Xie Lian, a fallen prince-turned-heavenly official, who encounters the Ghost King, Hua Cheng. Despite their vastly different statuses, their fates are intertwined in a love story spanning centuries.

2. The Scum Villain’s Self-Saving System – by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu
   A humorous and meta novel where a modern man is reincarnated into a villainous character in a fantasy novel. Determined to survive, he tries to change the plot, only to attract the dangerous affections of the protagonist he was meant to bully.

3. Koisuru Boukun (The Tyrant Falls in Love) – by Hinako Takanaga
   A classic BL romance about a stubborn, homophobic university student who unwillingly falls for his openly gay junior. Their push-and-pull dynamic creates a compelling, emotional romance full of misunderstandings and slow-burn love.

4. Antidote (Dinghai Fusheng Records) – by Priest
   A contemporary romance about a delinquent and a calm, collected university student. Their contrasting personalities create an intense relationship as they navigate past traumas and find comfort in each other.

5. Killing Stalking – by Koogi
   A dark psychological thriller featuring an obsessive, unhealthy relationship between a stalker and the serial killer he admires. This one is intense and not for the faint of heart, but it’s a gripping, twisted story that stands out in the genre.

6. Given – by Natsuki Kizu
   A touching coming-of-age BL novel about a quiet guitarist and a boy with a tragic past who has an incredible voice. Their relationship unfolds through music, emotions, and healing from past pain.

7. Hua Hua You Long (Flower, Flower, You Long) – by Xing Bao Ni
   A historical romance about a proud, arrogant official who ends up in the hands of a powerful warlord. A mix of love, power struggles, and intense emotions makes this novel a must-read for fans of angsty relationships.

8. 19 Days – by Old Xian
   A mix of slice-of-life and BL, this story follows two childhood friends as their deep bond gradually turns into something more. It balances humor, friendship, and romance beautifully.

9. Sae-Koi (Saezuru Tori wa Habatakanai) – by Yoneda Kou
   A gripping mafia-themed BL novel about a cold and detached Yakuza boss who has no interest in love—until a new bodyguard enters his life. A mature, intense, and well-crafted story with deep emotional layers.