After Dressing Up As a Little Fulang

My Thoughts on After Dressing Up As a Little Fulang

"After Dressing Up As a Little Fulang" is a danmei novel that took me on a bit of a rollercoaster. It's definitely not a fluffy romance, and the tags – particularly "depictions of cruelty" and "cruel characters" – are there for a reason. This story dives into some dark places, but ultimately, I found it a worthwhile, albeit sometimes uncomfortable, read.

First Impressions

Going in, I was a little wary. The premise, involving a transmigrated MC and a young ML, felt potentially problematic. The initial chapters definitely require a suspension of disbelief, especially concerning the age gap. However, I was intrigued by the world-building and the realistic portrayal of social class differences. The MC's resourcefulness and determination to survive in this harsh new environment immediately grabbed my attention.

What Works Well

The strength of this novel lies in its character development. The MC's transformation from a somewhat naive student to a more hardened individual is compelling. He adapts to his circumstances, making choices that, while sometimes morally gray, are understandable given his situation. The ML, despite his troubled background and early age, also undergoes significant growth. I appreciated that their relationship, while initially transactional, evolved organically over time. The author does a good job of showing how they come to understand and care for each other, even if their dynamic remains somewhat unconventional. Many readers praised the story's realism, and I agree. The novel doesn't shy away from depicting the harsh realities of ancient China, including the casual cruelty and power imbalances.

Areas of Concern

The age gap between the MC and ML at the beginning is definitely a hurdle. While the story doesn't immediately jump into a romantic or sexual relationship, it's still something that readers need to be aware of and comfortable with. Also, the pacing can feel uneven at times. There are moments when the story moves slowly, dwelling on details, and then suddenly jumps forward in time. I sometimes found it difficult to keep track of the characters' ages and the timeline of events.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws and potentially triggering content, I ultimately enjoyed "After Dressing Up As a Little Fulang." It's a complex and nuanced story with well-developed characters and a compelling plot. If you're looking for a lighthearted romance, this isn't it. But if you're willing to delve into a darker, more realistic portrayal of love and survival in ancient China, I think you'll find it a rewarding read. I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.