The Plough

My Thoughts on The Plough

"The Plough" is a novel that's left me with a lot to consider. Set in 1930s Shanghai, it blends action, adventure, mystery, and a touch of shounen ai into a compelling story. While it has its flaws, the overall experience was definitely worth the read.

First Impressions

Initially, I wasn't entirely hooked. The opening case, while intriguing, didn't immediately grab my attention. The protagonist, Ling Shu, initially came across as a bit too lazy and unambitious for my taste. However, as the story progressed and I learned more about his past, my perspective shifted. The re-introduction of Yue Dingtang, the ML, definitely helped to pull me further into the story.

What Works Well

What truly shines in "The Plough" are the well-crafted cases and the dynamic between the two leads. The mysteries are suspenseful, keeping me on edge as I tried to piece together the clues. The author does a great job of creating a world filled with power struggles, corruption, and complex characters.

Ling Shu and Yue Dingtang's relationship is a slow burn, but it's incredibly rewarding. Their bickering is entertaining, and their gradual development from distrust to genuine affection is beautifully portrayed. The side characters are also well-developed, adding depth and richness to the story. The strong female characters were a notable highlight for me, as they felt impactful and three-dimensional.

Areas of Concern

I do have a few reservations. Some of the transitions between scenes and cases felt abrupt, and certain details were left unexplained. This made the pacing feel rushed at times, especially towards the end. I also craved more romantic moments between Ling Shu and Yue Dingtang. While their relationship development was satisfying, I would have loved to see more of their interactions after they became a couple.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, "The Plough" is a captivating novel that I would recommend. The well-developed characters, suspenseful mysteries, and engaging plot make for a memorable reading experience. If you enjoy detective stories with a historical setting and a slow-burn romance, this novel is definitely worth checking out. I'm giving it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.