The Laid-back Life of a Stepmother

My Thoughts on The Laid-back Life of a Stepmother

This novel is definitely a unique reading experience, and whether you'll enjoy it seems to hinge entirely on your tolerance for a protagonist whose primary goal is… well, doing as little as possible. "The Laid-back Life of a Stepmother" promises exactly what it delivers, and that can be both its greatest strength and its biggest weakness.

First Impressions

Going in, I was intrigued by the premise. A modern woman reborn into ancient China, determined to live a life of leisure? Sign me up! The initial chapters introduce us to our female lead (FL), who quickly marries a widowed nobleman with a young son, primarily to secure a comfortable, responsibility-free existence. The male lead (ML) seemed interesting enough, but the slice-of-life focus was immediately apparent.

What Works Well

The novel shines in its depiction of familial relationships. Many readers praised the heartwarming interactions between the FL and her birth family, as well as her surprisingly positive dynamic with her in-laws. The author seems to excel at crafting genuine connections between the characters. There's also a certain charm to the FL's pragmatic approach to life. She's not necessarily seeking grand romance or power, but rather a peaceful and enjoyable existence, and she's willing to "scheme" (in a lighthearted way) to achieve it. I also appreciated the novel's deviation from typical tropes, particularly the FL's consistent stance on not wanting to have children.

Areas of Concern

The biggest point of contention for many, including myself, is the FL's… extreme laziness. While some found her dedication to the "salted fish" life amusing, others found her selfishness infuriating, especially when it came to her stepson. There's a fine line between a relatable desire for relaxation and a protagonist who actively shirks responsibility, and I think this novel sometimes crosses it. The romance, or lack thereof, was also a common complaint. While some appreciated the subtle, slow-burn development, others found it lacking in depth and emotional connection.

Final Verdict

"The Laid-back Life of a Stepmother" is a light, fluffy read that's best enjoyed when you're in the mood for something low-stakes and relaxing. If you're looking for complex plots, dramatic conflicts, or passionate romance, this isn't it. However, if you appreciate well-developed family dynamics, a unique protagonist, and a hefty dose of slice-of-life shenanigans, you might find this novel surprisingly enjoyable. Just be prepared to embrace the "salted fish" lifestyle, for better or worse.