White Blood
There is a reason that this story is rated (currently mid 2023) at 9.8/10. It’s a great showcase of fantastic characters, clever plot, beautiful artwork, save the world action, unpredictable interactions, bad guys who make sense given their backstory, and a touch of romance. No need for spoilers, just read and enjoy.
Black Lotus
CW: Abuse, cheating, toxic partner.
There is such a thing as too much angst. Not only was Gu Yansheng horrendously abusive and cruel, going so far as to violently beating up Wen Nian’nan and dragging him to the basement, but Wen Nian’nan seemed so pathetically weak to keep yearning for such a horrid man. And also, just speak up and let the family speak of the truth. So on one side was a ML who was toxic and the other was a whipping post (and not in a ‘ooh more’ masochistic way..). I even found the redemption arc underwhelming, but it was nice to see Gu chasing what his cruelty lost. But they both seemed to change personalities at the same time. Suddenly, Wen was strongly independent and reclaiming his independence (yay about time) and Gu was floundering and pining for someone who couldn’t stand him.
There comes a point that things become unforgivable. This story has such an arc. The author left the ending open here for the reader to decide, then goes on to reveal that in the story they end up together happy and successful after Gu Yancheng learned some anger management. But, for me, a happy ending would be for Wen Nian’nan to leave and never look back, finding his future success away from that abuser and looking towards a different, caring partner in the future. Gu Yancheng needs to go his own way and I don’t see him as being someone Wen Niannan could ever fully trust with his vulnerabilities again. And seriously? That last bit… Pop some fireworks and it’s all ok? Nope. Since we can decide for ourselves, my Wen is going to continue finding his independence, pursue his music, be successful and eventually fall for a kind partner who adores him. Gu idc.
The Justice of Villainous Woman