Unfriendly Stepmother
By 비나랑
275 chapters
Description
Belladonna, the Magpie Duchess. Having sacrificed everything to repay the Duke’s favor for saving her, she was no longer as kind as before after her return.ㅡㅡㅡShe wanted recognition in everything related to the Duke, desiring to be embraced as part of his family. With one life to give, she had done her best for the Duke’s house and had died doing so. So, she did everything she could. “Good.”What needed to be unraveled would be unraveled, and what needed to be kept would be kept. Following the Duke’s last wishes, she would protect the Duke’s estate until Kaelan came of age. And in three years, she would leave this place without any regrets. So, my dear children.For you, this should be good news.You will no longer have the attention that you have always rejected. ㅡㅡㅡ “…Why aren’t you scolding me?”I smiled gently at the wicked child who asked me with a trembling voice. “I already told you. Reina.”“…”“I don’t plan on scolding you.”“Why?” I don’t want to do anything that would relieve your burden, and I don’t want to help you anymore. “Just because.” I no longer want to help you. ㅡㅡㅡ “I want to be happy.”“Is that all?”“I’m not sure. What makes people happy?”“Family, delicious food, loved ones, and… things you want to have? You can be happy even with small things.”“What do you want then?”“I… well. I just… want a pretty hairpin.” The child, momentarily distracted by a bright smile that didn’t match the current situation, suddenly spoke with determination in her voice. “A hairpin. I’ll give you one.” And the long-forgotten connection from the distant past slowly approached like flowing water.
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Publication Information
- Original Publisher
- Original Language
- korean
- Type
- Web Novel
Unfriendly Stepmother Review & Spoilers - Novel Translator
My Thoughts on Unfriendly Stepmother
"Unfriendly Stepmother" is a web novel that initially lured me in with the promise of a familiar trope – a second chance at motherhood. However, it quickly became clear that this story aimed for something far more complex than a simple redemption arc. It's a story that subverts expectations and dives deep into the messy realities of family, identity, and political intrigue.
First Impressions
My initial reaction was a mix of intrigue and a touch of frustration. The early chapters establish the premise of a woman thrust into the role of stepmother after an unusual age regression and memory loss. I found myself wanting to see her connect with her stepchildren and form a bond. But the narrative takes a different path, focusing instead on the MC's internal struggles and the unraveling of a larger mystery.
What Works Well
What truly captivated me was the depth of the characters and the intricate plot. The stepmother is far from perfect, which makes her relatable. I found myself invested in her journey of self-discovery and her efforts to navigate a world filled with secrets and political maneuvering. The author does a great job of creating uncertainty, making it difficult to discern who is truly good or evil. The slow pacing allows for a gradual unveiling of the mystery and the MC's growth. The childhood connection between the MC and the male lead adds an interesting layer to the story, even though their interactions are limited.
Areas of Concern
The pacing could be a sticking point for some readers. It's not a fast-paced romance, and the development of relationships, particularly with the stepchildren, takes a backseat to the overarching plot. If you're expecting a heartwarming tale of a stepmother transforming her family, you might be disappointed. Also, the MC's emotional responses can be frustrating at times. Her immaturity, stemming from the age regression, can lead to some questionable decisions.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "Unfriendly Stepmother" offers a refreshing take on a familiar trope. If you're looking for a story with complex characters, political intrigue, and a strong female lead who is far from flawless, this novel is worth a read. Just be prepared for a slower pace and a focus on mystery and self-discovery over immediate familial harmony. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
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