The Twelve Years: Song of the Unsung Friends Novel Review
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By mo bao fei bao, 墨宝非宝
19 chapters
Description
A century and more ago, China was embroiled in turmoil and instability. Opium usage was rampant in the country. Foreign powers carved up China’s land into foreign-controlled concessions and leased out lands. The Qing Dynasty was on its last legs. Military warlords and cliques fought for power. People rose up to fight for change, some wanting reform and to institute a constitutional monarchy, some wanting a revolution, to completely change the political situation. This is the backdrop of our story, which opens in the year 1911. It is truly a historical romance, with many references to historical events and people. Shen Xi is a wanted criminal of the Qing Dynasty, not for any crime that she committed but because her father was charged as a reformist and punishment was doled out to the entire clan. She has been living hidden away in the dirtiest of places, until one day something happens and she is rescued by the Third Master of the House of Fu, Fu Tongwen. Third Master Fu, the romantic, suave young master known for his love of women and frivolity, whose wealth is countless, sends her abroad to study and guarantees the safety and well-being of the rest of her life. She thinks that the ties between the two of them are merely the letters she regularly posts to him and the replies he sends back, but one day he appears in the parlour of her townhouse in New York. During this time, her interaction with him increases until one day she abruptly makes the decision to return to China. In her travels and interaction with him, she learns that this man who on the outside appears to be (by a modern-day terms), a playboy in reality holds a heart for his country and its people and carries a longing to bring change—to see a China restored to splendour and prosperity. The Third Master Fu of her first encounter with him was a rich, frivolous young lord who would reserve half of an entire venue for only the purpose of increasing the popularity of the entertainer he was fond of, a man who liked to sit with one ankle resting on the thigh of the other leg, his head tilted to the side to quietly converse with the wealthy young masters around him. In the glow of lamplight, the side view of his face exuded an air of dissolute suaveness. It was only later that she saw the real him: In the dim illumination, what he sat upon were actually piles of white skeletons and what he guarded were the vast, magnificent lands of the nation.
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Publication Information
- Original Publisher
- Original Language
- chinese
- Type
- Web Novel
The Twelve Years: Song of the Unsung Friends Review & Spoilers - Novel Translator
My Thoughts on The Twelve Years: Song of the Unsung Friends
"The Twelve Years: Song of the Unsung Friends" is a historical romance that completely pulled me in. Set against the backdrop of ancient China, this josei novel promises a journey filled with complex relationships, hard work, and, of course, love. Having finished it recently, I can safely say it delivers on that promise, and then some.
First Impressions
Right from the start, I was struck by the unique setting and the promise of a plot that veers away from well-trodden paths. The novel introduces us to a world rich in detail, focusing on the lives of ordinary people navigating extraordinary circumstances. I was immediately drawn to the female lead, whose calm and caring nature made her incredibly relatable.
What Works Well
One of the strongest aspects of this novel is its ability to create a truly immersive experience. The author masterfully paints a picture of the era, bringing to life the sights, sounds, and emotions of the time. The romance, while smooth and beautifully described, never feels forced. It grows organically, intertwined with the characters' personal growth and the challenges they face. The complex family relationships add another layer of depth, making the story all the more engaging. The author's attention to detail truly shines, and I found myself completely invested in the characters' lives. The protagonist's journey as a doctor and her dedication to her work is inspiring, providing a refreshing take on the typical romance narrative. I especially appreciated that the story avoids stereotypical plot lines, offering a unique and refreshing reading experience.
Final Verdict
Overall, "The Twelve Years: Song of the Unsung Friends" is a must-read for fans of historical romance. Its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and unique setting make it a truly unforgettable read. I highly recommend diving into this world and experiencing the beautiful, and sometimes heart-wrenching, story of love and friendship.
