Scum Man Cannot Redeem Himself

My Thoughts on Scum Man Cannot Redeem Himself

"Scum Man Cannot Redeem Himself" is a novel that left me with a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. It's a story that starts strong, promising a tale of a woman's journey to independence after escaping a disastrous marriage in ancient China, but ultimately stumbles in its final act.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the premise. A female lead, Ning Qing, bravely divorcing her husband and striking out on her own in a historical setting? That's a narrative I can get behind! The early chapters had me hooked, eager to see how she would navigate the challenges of building a new life. I appreciated her determination and the budding romance with the "Flower Boss," a local businessman who seemed like the perfect antidote to her previous marital woes.

What Works Well

Ning Qing's character is a definite highlight. She's portrayed as brash, stubborn, and perhaps a bit naive, but also incredibly resilient. Her courage to leave a painful situation and forge her own path is admirable. The initial interactions between her and the Flower Boss are genuinely funny and sweet, making their potential relationship a compelling draw. I also found the exploration of societal constraints placed upon women in ancient China to be well-executed, highlighting the FL's modern outlook on life.

Areas of Concern

Unfortunately, the ending is where this novel truly falters. The author's attempt to "redeem" the ex-husband feels forced and unearned. He spends a significant portion of the story ignoring Ning Qing's boundaries, even resorting to questionable actions. The ending, where she stays with him out of a sense of responsibility after he's injured saving her, feels unsatisfying and undermines her journey of self-discovery. It's as if the author couldn't fully commit to the "scum man" label and tried to shoehorn in a redemption arc that didn't quite fit. The addition of a bizarre plot twist involving a fairy/god in the last chapter only adds to the confusion.

Final Verdict

"Scum Man Cannot Redeem Himself" is a frustrating read. It has moments of brilliance, particularly in its portrayal of a woman striving for independence in a restrictive society. However, the unsatisfying ending and forced redemption arc ultimately detract from the overall experience. I'd recommend approaching this novel with caution, knowing that the journey may be more rewarding than the destination.