Going back into this world honestly felt really good. I always get a little nervous with sequels because I don’t want that magic to disappear, but this one builds on the first book in a way that feels bigger without losing what made it work.If you loved Shanghai Immortal, this sequel definitely expands everything, but it still keeps that sharp, clever tone that made the first book stand out.
Lady Jing is still such a compelling character to follow. She’s powerful and confident, but also restless in a way that makes her feel human. I liked seeing how her role has evolved and how that impacts the choices she makes here. There’s always this underlying tension between duty and what she actually wants, and that keeps things interesting.
The shift to Paris and the wider celestial politics makes the story feel bigger without losing the personal stakes. The Immortal Express and the Vampire Republic plotline add some unpredictability, and I liked that the book doesn’t stop to over-explain everything. It assumes you’re paying attention, which I appreciate.
The dynamic between Jing and Tony continues to develop in subtle ways, and I liked that their relationship isn’t rushed or overdone. It feels consistent with who they are and the world they’re in.
Overall, this felt like a strong continuation that builds naturally on the first book while raising the stakes in a way that makes sense.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. - Freya, arc & monthly book box pick reviewer (on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/athenafreyareads/ )

Initial thoughts: Oh how I loved this world and these characters!! I missed them a lot so I was ecstatic that I got approved of this earc!

About the book: Little Jing is a Minister of Hell and is quite responsible in this book. She cares about her duty and does her best to control her temper and not cause a diplomatic disaster. However, a guest, Lord Aengus, is found drained of yin qi and they end up putting him in a vase. (haha) Little Jing is tasked with taking him to his healer in Paris. Her friends and Tony are to escort her, and well, they end up meeting lots of vampires in Paris, and since Little Jing is half vampire, things get very interesting.

What I liked 🤩: I love this world and these characters so much! I would read ten books set in this universe following Little Jing's adventures and others'. I love how the author chose an almost whimsical, quirky narrating style. It reminded me of the irreverent style of some danmei novels. I think that is why some people have had a hard time with it because it breaks the norms and is different from almost all fantasy books I've read. If you have read danmei novels like A Thousand Autumns and any MXTX novel, you will LOVE this book! This quirky book is perfect for us!!

What a character development Little Jing has shown us here! She was unable and unwilling to control her temper, taking risks without thinking of consequences much, but here, she embraces her role as a Minister of Hell, is responsible, and thinks a lot before acting. She really grows and I loved it.

The rest of the cast was fabulous, as usual. I feel like I've known these characters for a long time, and like I would be able to have full conversations with them. The plot had both unexpected twists and predictable twists, and featured many tropes found in danmei novels, which only made this book even more authentic and true to its nature. I love and respect the author's choice to utilize storytelling tropes and narrative devices found in Chinese storytelling and not adhere to Western storytelling norms.

What I didn’t like 🙃: Nothing. I had a great time with this book and made me love this story (books 1+2) even more.

Overall: This story is perfect for fans of c-dramas and danmei novels. The characterization, the worldbuilding, the almost whimsical vibes have all made this series a strong favourite of mine. I already miss them!! I will def keep my eye on this author. It feels like her books and taste match mine perfectly.

SE info: Goldsboro and Fairyloot have a SE of this to match Shanghai Immortal. I own the Goldsboro editions as I find them prettier.

We meet up once again with Lady Jing and Tony Lee as they travel from Shanghai to Paris. As expected nothing involving Lady Jing is straight forward and choas ensues.

Paris Celestial was a roller coaster of emotions and had me laughing, crying, and shouting out loud on several occasions.

If you loved Shanghai Immortal then you have to read this. Absolutely loved it and can't wait for more books from A.Y. Chao (hopefully involving Lady Jing).