It is a Straight Road

My Thoughts on It is a Straight Road

It is a Straight Road certainly took me on an interesting journey through ancient China, blending drama, mystery, and romance in a way I hadn't quite encountered before. With an overall rating leaning towards positive, I was eager to delve into this tale of a dense female lead and a persistent male lead.

First Impressions

The initial chapters definitely piqued my interest. The premise of a brilliant, scholarly woman, Xu Zhi, navigating the intricacies of court while remaining utterly oblivious to romantic advances was certainly a unique setup. The story, which appears to start with the characters already in their thirties, with flashbacks to add depth, hooked me into wanting to know how they got there.

What Works Well

What really stands out in It is a Straight Road is the character of Xu Zhi. Her dedication to learning and her almost childlike curiosity about the world, even unconventional subjects like folklore and talismans, are endearing. The humor derived from her interactions with the Second Prince, who misinterprets her scholarly pursuits as political maneuvering, is cleverly done. I found myself chuckling at the Prince's increasingly desperate attempts to win her over, while she remained blissfully unaware. The plot is straightforward and doesn't drag, which is a refreshing change from some of the more convoluted web novels I've read. The translator also appears to have done a commendable job, providing necessary context and explanations that enhanced my reading experience.

Areas of Concern

While I appreciated the unique premise, I can see why some readers might struggle with the romance aspect. Xu Zhi's extreme lack of emotional intelligence can be frustrating at times, making it difficult to feel a strong connection between the leads. I also noticed some readers felt that the story, while enjoyable, lacked a certain spark and left them feeling detached. I can definitely understand that perspective.

Final Verdict

Overall, It is a Straight Road is a worthwhile read, especially if you're looking for something different from the typical romance novel. The intelligent plot, the unique characters, and the touches of humor make it a memorable experience. While the dense female lead might not appeal to everyone, I found her obliviousness to be more amusing than irritating. I'd recommend giving it a try, especially if you enjoy stories set in ancient China with a focus on character development and intellectual pursuits.