Ask This Spring

My Thoughts on Ask This Spring

"Ask This Spring" promised a unique blend of historical drama, romance, and fantasy centered around the art of winemaking in ancient China. While the premise intrigued me, my experience with the novel was somewhat mixed.

First Impressions

The initial chapters drew me in with the promise of a strong female lead navigating the complexities of family business and ancient court intrigue. The focus on winemaking as a central theme was a refreshing change from the usual cultivation or political dramas. I was eager to see how the author would weave these elements together.

What Works Well

The author's writing style is undeniably decent. The prose flows smoothly, making it easy to get lost in the world. The descriptions, especially those related to the winemaking process, are vivid and engaging. I also appreciated the emphasis on familial love and the complexities of family dynamics, which added depth to the narrative.

Areas of Concern

However, I encountered some issues that ultimately dampened my enjoyment. One major concern was the portrayal of the male lead. His intense and broody nature, while potentially appealing to some, felt overwhelming and even frightening at times, making it difficult for me to buy into the romantic aspect of the story. The female lead's constant wariness around him created an uncomfortable dynamic that I couldn't quite reconcile.

Another point of contention was the female lead's passivity and naiveté. Despite being reborn with knowledge of her past life and the schemes that led to her downfall, she seemed slow to learn from her mistakes. Her nonchalant attitude towards potential threats felt inconsistent with her previous experiences and made it hard to root for her survival in a world rife with plots and conspiracies.

Final Verdict

While "Ask This Spring" offers a unique premise and a focus on winemaking, the problematic portrayal of the male lead, the female lead's naiveté, and the disturbing plot elements ultimately detracted from my enjoyment. While the writing style is competent and the familial relationships are well-developed, the overall execution fell short of my expectations. I'd recommend proceeding with caution and being aware of the potential issues before diving in.