Appearance and Departure Novel Review
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By kun yi wei lou, 困倚危楼
10 chapters
2021
Description
Ever since an incident three years ago, art school graduate Shen Mo hasn’t been able to paint with his right hand. He’s currently working a desk job in a company owned by the Ji family, one of the wealthiest families in the city. Unbeknownst to his coworkers, however, he has a far more important role: the fake lover of the Ji family’s young CEO, Ji Mingxuan. Ever the perfectionist, Ji Mingxuan makes Shen Mo put on the full act, both in public and in the bedroom. Their fake relationship continues this way, until Ji Mingxuan’s sister returns from abroad with her boyfriend—Shen Mo’s ex. Once the four are reunited, the nightmares that Shen Mo has tried so desperately to escape catch up to him at last. As the lovers’ acting becomes more and more real, Shen Mo begins to learn about the things that Ji Mingxuan is keeping from him, as well as the truth of what really happened three years ago. Only one question left: What will become of a love founded on pretense?
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Publication Information
- Original Publisher
- English Publisher
- via lactea
- Original Language
- chinese
- Type
- Web Novel
Appearance and Departure Review & Spoilers - Novel Translator
My Thoughts on Appearance and Departure
"Appearance and Departure" (also known as "The Missing Piece") promised a rollercoaster of emotions, and it largely delivered. This novel dives deep into the complexities of relationships, trauma, and the long road to healing. While it wasn't without its flaws, I found myself surprisingly invested in Shen Mo and Ji Mingxuan's journey.
First Impressions
Initially, I was a little thrown off by the narrative structure. The story jumps between the present and the past, which can feel a bit disjointed. You're immediately dropped into a scenario where Ji Mingxuan is clearly infatuated with Shen Mo, then BAM! We're in a flashback. I can see why some readers found this confusing, as it somewhat dilutes the emotional impact of certain events. However, as I continued reading, I began to appreciate the author's intention. It felt like peeling back layers, gradually revealing the intricacies of Mingxuan's character and the history between him and Shen Mo.
What Works Well
The strength of this novel lies in its characters and the raw portrayal of their feelings. Shen Mo's struggles with PTSD felt genuine, and I appreciated how the story explored the complexities of his healing process. Ji Mingxuan, despite his initially cold exterior, proved to be a surprisingly tender and supportive partner. I also found myself drawn to the supporting characters, particularly Ji An'an. Her story, though bittersweet, added another layer of depth to the overall narrative. Despite the angst and heartbreak, the story maintains a 'fluffy' element that makes it an easier read. The spicy romance helped balance out the heavier themes, making it an enjoyable read overall.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed the novel, there were a few aspects that held it back. I do have to agree that the timeline felt disjointed and I wish that the flashbacks had been placed differently.
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Final Verdict
"Appearance and Departure" is a solid read if you're in the mood for angst, healing, and a touch of spice. While it might not be groundbreaking, it offers a compelling story with well-developed characters and a satisfying ending. I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy emotional dramas with a focus on character development and relationships.