My Sickly Wife

My Thoughts on My Sickly Wife

"My Sickly Wife" promised a blend of political intrigue, martial arts, and romance in an ancient Chinese setting, and after diving in, I can definitely see why it has garnered a dedicated following. It's a story that balances the delicate dance of an arranged marriage with the brutal realities of war and courtly schemes.

First Impressions

Right off the bat, I was intrigued by the dynamic between our main characters (MC and ML). The premise of a marriage of convenience blossoming into genuine affection is a trope I often enjoy, and this novel seemed to deliver it with a unique ABO twist. I was also drawn to the fact that it's an original complete story, so no waiting for updates!

What Works Well

The strength of this novel lies in its characters and their relationships. Many readers, myself included, have praised the gradual development of the MC and ML's bond. It's not an instant love affair, but a slow burn built on mutual respect and understanding. I particularly appreciated that the ML, despite his initial unhappiness with the arrangement, never publicly humiliated the MC. Both characters are well-developed, with the MC being a cunning strategist despite his frail health, and the ML a resourceful businessman with hidden depths. The plot, while politically heavy, serves to naturally progress the relationship between the two leads. The author also does a good job of portraying the side characters and antagonists as more than just plot devices. They have their own motivations and backstories, making them feel believable and adding depth to the overall narrative.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the novel overall, I did find a few minor aspects that could be improved. The resolution of the emperor conflict felt somewhat rushed. Additionally, some readers may be uncomfortable with the side couple included in the extras, due to its in*estuous nature.

Final Verdict

Despite a few minor shortcomings, "My Sickly Wife" is a well-written and engaging novel that I would recommend to fans of historical romance, political intrigue, and ABO stories. The strong character development, compelling plot, and satisfying romance make it a worthwhile read. Just be aware of the potential triggers and plot points mentioned above before diving in. Overall, I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.