beta
Hmm so far it’s ok
What I like is that they don’t lose sight of the revenge plot. Revenge is at forefront which is great. I also like that the kids of the bad people aren’t bad themselves. It’s a cliche I dislike so I do enjoy that the kids are their own people (especially the adult ones) and they are not a mini me.
What I find the biggest letdown are the villains. They’re actually stupid. Not smart at all. Like, how did the empress manage to overthrow the emperor and convince him into genocide of those who are practically saints??? I thought she was conniving and intelligent and plays 3D chess which is how. But so far, boring, stupid with one brain cell swimming around in her head. Her ‘big ideas’ are actually a joke.
Same goes for the mother in law. She helped the empress but also daft.
The wife is probably the most ok. She isn’t that brainy, but at least she isn’t dumb.
MC is ok. She at least does think for herself. Male lead is mediocre in my opinion. They tried to give him depth but it feels lacklustre.
Overall, it’s an ok read. Easy to read and interesting enough to keep going but unless you are having a night of ‘dunno what to read’, I would just move on.
Don’t let the comments keep you from reading if you like a bit of a slow burn with complex character.
It is a frustrating read, but it is intended to be that way. Angst, but not so much that you’re bored and over it.
Real trauma and anxiety isn’t something you can just simply brush off. It is reoccurring. Even if you are in a wonderful and safe environment, you never truly feel safe while suffering trauma from crazy terrible events spanning over years during your developing childhood.
The characters have depth and and quite likeable (or properly dislikable if intended to be).
I think the author has done an amazing job reflecting this themes while keeping it interesting. Yes I am also super keen to see the king get his just desserts, but I like that they are not rushing there because I always find it unsatisfying as it’s unrealistic.
It’s not that easy to overthrow the royal family, especially if you are not a Royal yourself.