After Dressing Up As An Outside Room, I Just Want To Farm

My Thoughts on After Dressing Up As An Outside Room, I Just Want To Farm

"After Dressing Up As An Outside Room, I Just Want To Farm" initially grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise: a time-traveling protagonist focused on slice-of-life farming and cooking in ancient China. I dove in eager for a relaxing read filled with delicious descriptions, and while I found moments to enjoy, the experience was somewhat uneven.

First Impressions

My first impression mirrored that of many others: the story has potential. The female lead isn't an overbearing "modern genius," which I appreciated. Instead, she adapts realistically to her new environment. The male lead is also a refreshing change of pace, lacking the arrogance often associated with aristocratic characters. The premise of the FL being placed in an "outside room" to deflect rumors about the ML's sexuality is also interesting. I was definitely hooked on the premise.

What Works Well

The novel truly shines when it comes to the food. The detailed descriptions are mouthwatering, and the translator's effort to include images and even links to recipes is a huge bonus. It really enhances the reading experience, especially for those unfamiliar with Chinese cuisine. It's clear the author has a passion for food, and that enthusiasm is infectious. I also found the slice-of-life aspects enjoyable. It's a relatively chill story, and the pacing feels realistic, avoiding the pitfalls of an overpowered protagonist. The main character is pragmatic, capable, and not your typical transmigrator.

Areas of Concern

Unfortunately, the translation quality is a recurring issue. While I commend the translator for taking on the project and providing food-related content, the translation can feel wonky at times. Some phrasing is awkward, and the repetition of adjectives can be distracting. The choice to refer to the female lead as "the girl" by her servants also felt odd, given her position. I hope the translator will consider refining the translation to improve the overall reading experience.

Final Verdict

"After Dressing Up As An Outside Room, I Just Want To Farm" is a mixed bag. The engaging story, especially the focus on food, is a definite draw. However, the translation quality holds it back from reaching its full potential. If you're a foodie and willing to overlook some translation quirks, you might find this novel a delightful, relaxing read.