Young Master and I

My Thoughts on Young Master and I

"Young Master and I" promised a quick dip into ancient China, filled with romance and political intrigue. Having finished it, I can say it delivers on some fronts, but not all. It's a short and sweet read, perfect if you're looking for something that won't take up too much of your time.

First Impressions

The premise is intriguing: a clever maid, Ling Duo, finds herself serving the unfavored young master, Yue Duo. Thrown into exile, they must rely on each other to survive and rise above their circumstances. This setup immediately grabbed my attention, and I was eager to see how their relationship would develop against the backdrop of ancient China.

What Works Well

What I enjoyed most was the intelligence of the main characters. Neither Ling Duo nor Yue Duo are overpowered, and they face real struggles. They use their wits and work together to overcome obstacles, which I found refreshing. I also appreciated that Ling Duo wasn't just a sidekick to Yue Duo; she carved her own path and achieved individual success, something I always look for in a strong female lead. The story moves at a brisk pace, packing a lot into a relatively short space. I particularly liked the exploration of Yue Duo's mother's history, which added depth to his character and motivations.

Areas of Concern

The main drawback, for me, was the pacing. While the story is efficient, it sometimes felt rushed. I felt like I was reading a summary of events rather than fully fleshed-out scenes. Another point of concern is the romance, or lack thereof. While the synopsis might lead you to expect a central romance, it takes a backseat to the political intrigue and survival aspects of the story. I also found the chemistry between the leads to be somewhat lacking. If you're looking for a fluffy, romance-heavy story, this might not be it.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Young Master and I" is a worthwhile read if you're looking for a quick, plot-driven story with intelligent characters and a touch of political intrigue. Just be aware that the romance is understated, and the pacing can feel rushed at times. I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.