The storyline became overwhelming. The main character (MC) is portrayed as excessively passive, with minimal support from others aside from his childhood friend, who ultimately betrayed him due to the machinations of the main antagonist (ML). Even the doctor, despite having good intentions, couldn't help much. The MC's existence seems to revolve around eliciting sympathy, a quality I find unappealing. Though he is mentally vulnerable, the trials he endures, particularly in pursuit of marriage and avoiding humiliation, are excessive.
At times, I can't help but wonder how different his life might have been if he had actually wed [Redacted/Spoiler]. Unfortunately, the ML consistently ruins any potential for happiness for MC.
VERY RECOMMENDED It's sweet made my toothache.It's sad made me bawling until my head dizzy.The ML and MC really likeable, not pretentious, and depend on each other.Truly a ride that i will remember. Thank you author and translator
Wow, I've never encountered such a spineless, emotionally-unstable character who constantly cries in response to any situation. No matter how harshly the self-centered, abusive main lead (ML) treats him, he blindly obeys, which is utterly ridiculous. The plot is so absurd that it's nauseating. At least the author could have made the misunderstandings somewhat bearable, instead of resorting to全员醉酒 scenarios. Frankly, I'm hoping for a change in the ML; a despicable one might be acceptable, but this one is just too愚蠢 to bear.
I truly enjoyed this narrative and I'm eager to explore more. However, I must caution that some scenes might be sensitive for some readers, as there are no explicit romantic interactions between the main characters at present. It's delightful to see the Ninth Prince finally acknowledging and understanding his emotions. I'm very curious about their journey towards love – will he be vulnerable again, or will his feelings be returned? Will he turn to his childhood friend in case of rejection? The possibilities for the next chapter are intriguing. You can find this story on various platforms, but I recommend checking MangaFox for the latest updates!
Hello, I'm the translator for this novel. Initially, I wrote a review some time ago, but unfortunately, my computer crashed, wiping out my work. Here's a revised version after reading through the main story and peeking at a few extras. My opinion on the novel has significantly changed. Initially, I found the first arc decent, but as time went on, my view of the story declined.
This novel shares similarities with "Paper Flower" in terms of its themes. There's a particular scene where the protagonist attempts suicide by jumping off a cliff, which might be a trigger for those who didn't enjoy that novel.
The main character is quite pitiful, portrayed as obedient, small, and weak. His frequent association with a milk-like scent raises concerns. The author seems to infantalize him for an endearing effect, which can border on creepy. Despite the time skip, he maintains a childlike demeanor, often justified by his past trauma. However, this becomes less endearing as it progresses. Most of his character revolves around being a victim.
The male lead is abusive and has a tragic backstory, but it doesn't justify his actions. He eventually undergoes some character development late in the story, but his forgiveness comes too easily. In the beginning, he subjects the protagonist to harsh treatment, exploiting their age gap and the protagonist's mental state. He confines him, forces tattoos, and tries to force a marriage alliance.
Side characters, though aware of the abuse, lack genuine efforts to help. For instance, when the protagonist's childhood friend rescues him, they ultimately succumb to the male lead's presence. Additionally, the novel's villains receive minimal consequences despite their extreme wickedness.
I also have issues with the secondary relationships. The doctor and the male lead's bodyguard had potential, but they don't get enough screen time. The second side couple involving the childhood friend and a later character feels forced, as the childhood friend ends up with a clone-like character who is even more pitiful.
Lastly, the pacing is problematic, with major plot points rushed or underdeveloped. Characters are introduced and dismissed abruptly, like disposable elements in the repetitive narrative. For example, the crown prince, initially portrayed as a significant antagonist, disappears quickly within a few chapters.
Overall, this novel is frustrating, especially for fans of the genre. It's not one I would recommend, especially for those sensitive to certain themes. The constant annoyance and frustration might make it suitable for a drinking game challenge, but I wouldn't encourage it.
All the reviews are accurate, yet I deducted one star because the first part of the book was exceptional. It showcased cleverness, political intrigue, and I must admit, I found Pei Zheng (the male lead, ML) intriguing despite his flaws. He can be possessive, selfish, and even abusive towards the main character (MC), while being cold and distant with others. His redeeming qualities are scarce (though more are present in the manga adaptation).
The MC's childhood brain injury contributes to his perceived slowness, but it doesn't justify his passive behavior. However, I chose to overlook this aspect since Pei Zheng's character ultimately piqued my interest.
Unfortunately, the story begins to decline when Shen Huan enters the scene, despite her initial appeal as a non-horrible female character. While Shen Huan herself is decent, the plot loses its momentum and becomes repetitive, which spoils the overall experience.
If you're considering reading this novel, I suggest starting with the Manhua. From my personal experience, the story evokes strong emotions, particularly anger, towards the main character (MC). The male lead (ML) consistently disregards the MC's feelings, assuming the worst and causing him continuous pain. It's disheartening and frustrating to watch the MC repeatedly suffer at the hands of the one he loves. The ML exploits the MC for his own benefit, intentionally putting him in harmful situations without explanation, only to express affection and then hurt him anew. When the MC is hurt, the ML simply returns, and the MC forgives him, which adds to the emotional turmoil.
Popular Reviews
At times, I can't help but wonder how different his life might have been if he had actually wed [Redacted/Spoiler]. Unfortunately, the ML consistently ruins any potential for happiness for MC.
This novel shares similarities with "Paper Flower" in terms of its themes. There's a particular scene where the protagonist attempts suicide by jumping off a cliff, which might be a trigger for those who didn't enjoy that novel.
The main character is quite pitiful, portrayed as obedient, small, and weak. His frequent association with a milk-like scent raises concerns. The author seems to infantalize him for an endearing effect, which can border on creepy. Despite the time skip, he maintains a childlike demeanor, often justified by his past trauma. However, this becomes less endearing as it progresses. Most of his character revolves around being a victim.
The male lead is abusive and has a tragic backstory, but it doesn't justify his actions. He eventually undergoes some character development late in the story, but his forgiveness comes too easily. In the beginning, he subjects the protagonist to harsh treatment, exploiting their age gap and the protagonist's mental state. He confines him, forces tattoos, and tries to force a marriage alliance.
Side characters, though aware of the abuse, lack genuine efforts to help. For instance, when the protagonist's childhood friend rescues him, they ultimately succumb to the male lead's presence. Additionally, the novel's villains receive minimal consequences despite their extreme wickedness.
I also have issues with the secondary relationships. The doctor and the male lead's bodyguard had potential, but they don't get enough screen time. The second side couple involving the childhood friend and a later character feels forced, as the childhood friend ends up with a clone-like character who is even more pitiful.
Lastly, the pacing is problematic, with major plot points rushed or underdeveloped. Characters are introduced and dismissed abruptly, like disposable elements in the repetitive narrative. For example, the crown prince, initially portrayed as a significant antagonist, disappears quickly within a few chapters.
Overall, this novel is frustrating, especially for fans of the genre. It's not one I would recommend, especially for those sensitive to certain themes. The constant annoyance and frustration might make it suitable for a drinking game challenge, but I wouldn't encourage it.
The MC's childhood brain injury contributes to his perceived slowness, but it doesn't justify his passive behavior. However, I chose to overlook this aspect since Pei Zheng's character ultimately piqued my interest.
Unfortunately, the story begins to decline when Shen Huan enters the scene, despite her initial appeal as a non-horrible female character. While Shen Huan herself is decent, the plot loses its momentum and becomes repetitive, which spoils the overall experience.