General Above I am Below

My Thoughts on General Above I am Below

"General Above I am Below" presents a refreshing twist on historical romance, flipping gender roles in a way that's both hilarious and thought-provoking. I dove into this novel expecting something different, and it largely delivered. While it has its flaws, the core concept and the reactions it elicits make it a memorable read.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the promise of a strong female general and a delicate, pampered male lead. The arranged marriage setup seemed ripe for comedic situations, and I wasn't disappointed. The early chapters are full of witty banter and awkward interactions as the two leads navigate their unusual dynamic. However, I can see why some readers might be put off initially by the male lead's personality.

What Works Well

The role reversal is undoubtedly the strongest aspect of this novel. The female lead, a battle-hardened general, is a force to be reckoned with, defying traditional expectations of women in historical settings. This subversion extends to the side characters as well, with many women vying for the general's attention and showering her with affection. The comedic undertones are well-executed, creating genuinely funny scenarios that kept me entertained. I also appreciated the gradual development of the characters, particularly the male lead.

Areas of Concern

One common concern I noticed is the male lead's initial behavior. He starts as spoiled, immature, and seemingly ungrateful, which frustrated some readers. While I understand this criticism, I also saw potential for growth, and I'm glad I stuck around to witness his character arc. The plot can also feel a bit slow-paced at times, lacking a central conflict to drive the narrative forward. It leans more towards a character-driven slice-of-life, which might not appeal to everyone.

Final Verdict

Despite some initial reservations about the male lead and the pacing, I found "General Above I am Below" to be a genuinely enjoyable and unique read. The reversed gender dynamics, coupled with the comedic elements, make it a refreshing departure from typical historical romances. If you're looking for a story that challenges traditional roles and offers a good laugh, I recommend giving this novel a try. Just be patient with the male lead's initial flaws; his development is worth the journey.