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After Being Forced to Marry the Evil Star General
Zhao Yelan was born as a criminal s*ave and was rescued by the Third Prince. After years of painstaking efforts to put him on the throne, Zhao Yelan became a sycophantic minister whom everyone detested, but he was actually given a marriage by that person to general Yan Mingting, the lone star of Tiansha.
The general caused the death of his own father, his mother, his wife, and his dog. Everyone hoped that the curse would also kill Zhao Yelan as soon as possible.
On the wedding night, Zhao Yelan, who was dressed in red, took out a dagger, his eyes sharp: “What do you want?”
Yan Mingting held his hand tightly, and borrowed his dagger to carve a large character on the head of the bed – – Early.
“You’re weak and frail, get up early every day and practice horse stance with me!”
“?”
The common people thought this marriage was truly wonderful!
They heard that this big minister was beaten every day. He had to repair the roof tiles when the house leaked and also work in the kitchen. He served his husband and was very obedient, and from then on, he didn’t dare condemn people.
Hey, the general was truly mighty!
Zhao Yelan sat lazily by the bed, playing with the dagger, and raised the ends of his eyes slightly: “Where did these rumors come from?”
“From my dog mouth.” Yan Mingting, who was in horse stance, patted his thigh. “Madam, please take the seat of honor. You don’t have to get up early tomorrow.”
The general caused the death of his own father, his mother, his wife, and his dog. Everyone hoped that the curse would also kill Zhao Yelan as soon as possible.
On the wedding night, Zhao Yelan, who was dressed in red, took out a dagger, his eyes sharp: “What do you want?”
Yan Mingting held his hand tightly, and borrowed his dagger to carve a large character on the head of the bed – – Early.
“You’re weak and frail, get up early every day and practice horse stance with me!”
“?”
The common people thought this marriage was truly wonderful!
They heard that this big minister was beaten every day. He had to repair the roof tiles when the house leaked and also work in the kitchen. He served his husband and was very obedient, and from then on, he didn’t dare condemn people.
Hey, the general was truly mighty!
Zhao Yelan sat lazily by the bed, playing with the dagger, and raised the ends of his eyes slightly: “Where did these rumors come from?”
“From my dog mouth.” Yan Mingting, who was in horse stance, patted his thigh. “Madam, please take the seat of honor. You don’t have to get up early tomorrow.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
December 29, 2024
If “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion was a novel, this would be it. This is a historical romance novel with the main focus on Zhao Yelan and Yan Mingting’s relationship development. The plot is simple and easy to follow which as a mood reader, was exactly what I wanted. This is a love story with light plot and might be one of the most romance heavy danmei I’ve read.
Characters
Zhao Yelan: cold beauty, frail, smart, conniving, angry, cranky, needs to be coaxed, irritable and unlikable initially, troublesome with a temper, eventually turns in to a tease. He is a rose with *a lot* of thorns
Yan Mingting: easy going general, well liked by everyone, teases ZY to provoke him, protector, SO MUCH patience, pure, loyal, greenest of green flags
🔵 Historical fiction/court intrigue
🔵Arranged marriage
🔵Strong dislike/annoyance to adoringly sweet relationship
🔵 Scholar/Political Official x Military General
🔵Black Cat Bottom x Golden Retriever Top
🔵 Multiple strong females- and all fujoshi and so supportive of them as a couple. An even a cute lesbian couple🥰. For once the females aren’t written just to cause trouble for the MC/ML, be saved, and/or just be prostitutes or concubines 🙄
🔵There is some 🌶️ but it’s in the background and IMO well done.
Some of the things I loved about this book:
❤️ZY finally finding love, a home, and friends who care about him
❤️The confidence and comfort ZY starts to feel with YM
❤️ The cute banter and bickering between them
❤️ Watching them care more and more about each other through their actions
❤️YM’s absolute obsession with ZY
This book might have been a teeny bit longer than it should have been but that didn’t bother me because enjoying every second of their relationship.
Characters
Zhao Yelan: cold beauty, frail, smart, conniving, angry, cranky, needs to be coaxed, irritable and unlikable initially, troublesome with a temper, eventually turns in to a tease. He is a rose with *a lot* of thorns
Yan Mingting: easy going general, well liked by everyone, teases ZY to provoke him, protector, SO MUCH patience, pure, loyal, greenest of green flags
🔵 Historical fiction/court intrigue
🔵Arranged marriage
🔵Strong dislike/annoyance to adoringly sweet relationship
🔵 Scholar/Political Official x Military General
🔵Black Cat Bottom x Golden Retriever Top
🔵 Multiple strong females- and all fujoshi and so supportive of them as a couple. An even a cute lesbian couple🥰. For once the females aren’t written just to cause trouble for the MC/ML, be saved, and/or just be prostitutes or concubines 🙄
🔵There is some 🌶️ but it’s in the background and IMO well done.
Some of the things I loved about this book:
❤️ZY finally finding love, a home, and friends who care about him
❤️The confidence and comfort ZY starts to feel with YM
❤️ The cute banter and bickering between them
❤️ Watching them care more and more about each other through their actions
❤️YM’s absolute obsession with ZY
This book might have been a teeny bit longer than it should have been but that didn’t bother me because enjoying every second of their relationship.
September 9, 2025
“what nonsense are you talking about!” zhao yelan covered his mouth, kissed his eyes, and took his lips again. the two people’s tears mixed together, and they couldn’t tell whose was whose. they only hoped that this night would pause forever, and that tomorrow would never come.
this was really sweet and a lovely read. i’m not the hugest fan of this trope but it was done quite well and even though it was technically a slowburn? (at least for them to kiss or have… or whatever) it didn’t feel like one and them before they got together (confessing their feelings to each other!) was really good.
the characters are alright - nothing really special, the main character was more interesting than the male lead, but i still don’t think he’s anything that will stick with me. the character dynamics other than the main romance weren’t that noteworthy or good - but, there was a found family aspect of this that was really, really sweet.
there’s technically a plot to this… but it’s not done very well. there was this huge overarching plot/mystery that i was intrigued to know the answer to but, it became really underwhelming and lame at the end (in my opinion).
this dragged on way too much after the halfway point. i was bored with their romance, really bored, after they got together. some of that domestic love/fluff would be fine, actually it would be fine if the actual plot was good as well even if it dragged on, but this was way too much. it dragging on is what ruined this webnovel for me (and its rating).
this was really sweet and a lovely read. i’m not the hugest fan of this trope but it was done quite well and even though it was technically a slowburn? (at least for them to kiss or have… or whatever) it didn’t feel like one and them before they got together (confessing their feelings to each other!) was really good.
the characters are alright - nothing really special, the main character was more interesting than the male lead, but i still don’t think he’s anything that will stick with me. the character dynamics other than the main romance weren’t that noteworthy or good - but, there was a found family aspect of this that was really, really sweet.
there’s technically a plot to this… but it’s not done very well. there was this huge overarching plot/mystery that i was intrigued to know the answer to but, it became really underwhelming and lame at the end (in my opinion).
this dragged on way too much after the halfway point. i was bored with their romance, really bored, after they got together. some of that domestic love/fluff would be fine, actually it would be fine if the actual plot was good as well even if it dragged on, but this was way too much. it dragging on is what ruined this webnovel for me (and its rating).
January 4, 2024
I deeply loved this novel.
First of all, this could be considered a slice of life historical novel with an interesting plot and beautiful relationships between the main character and the ML+other supporting characters. I got attached to the main characters and their relationship so much so that I would like to hug them.
I can’t even describe how I got fond of these characters: they were so realistic and loveable. We manage to understand the motivation behind Zhao Yelan’s initial behaviour and his growth together with Yan Mingting. Furthermore, I felt like I was growing up beside the main characters. The development of their relationship felt so positively natural and spontaneous and there was so much mutual understanding and communication.
I also liked many side characters such as Xiao Gao and Kan Chuan, but also Zhong Yuehong and the two sweet girls Yin Pinglu and Zuo Ran.
The plot was well-written, the final acts quite interesting and I gradually wanted to know more.
Honorable mention to the extras: the first ones were really comforting, whereas the last ones more angsty but satisfying at the end; i didn’t imagine to say it but these ones were really a great way to end this novel, I was really moved.
The author’s style is really suggestive, especially in the emotional scenes and in the descriptions of emotions, state of mind and feelings+it’s really delicate and recognizable. I loved their way of describing the most important scenes and characters’ development as well.
To sum up, I really find this not-so-known novel too underestimated and I would be so glad to see people loving it as it deserves (i hope one day this novel will have more and more fans!). I suggest it to almost everyone, especially who loves historical, slice of life interesting (and I also dare say characters-driven story the most) novels but anyone should do it and get excited reading it!
First of all, this could be considered a slice of life historical novel with an interesting plot and beautiful relationships between the main character and the ML+other supporting characters. I got attached to the main characters and their relationship so much so that I would like to hug them.
I can’t even describe how I got fond of these characters: they were so realistic and loveable. We manage to understand the motivation behind Zhao Yelan’s initial behaviour and his growth together with Yan Mingting. Furthermore, I felt like I was growing up beside the main characters. The development of their relationship felt so positively natural and spontaneous and there was so much mutual understanding and communication.
I also liked many side characters such as Xiao Gao and Kan Chuan, but also Zhong Yuehong and the two sweet girls Yin Pinglu and Zuo Ran.
The plot was well-written, the final acts quite interesting and I gradually wanted to know more.
Honorable mention to the extras: the first ones were really comforting, whereas the last ones more angsty but satisfying at the end; i didn’t imagine to say it but these ones were really a great way to end this novel, I was really moved.
The author’s style is really suggestive, especially in the emotional scenes and in the descriptions of emotions, state of mind and feelings+it’s really delicate and recognizable. I loved their way of describing the most important scenes and characters’ development as well.
To sum up, I really find this not-so-known novel too underestimated and I would be so glad to see people loving it as it deserves (i hope one day this novel will have more and more fans!). I suggest it to almost everyone, especially who loves historical, slice of life interesting (and I also dare say characters-driven story the most) novels but anyone should do it and get excited reading it!
December 1, 2025
4.5 stars
This was a fun story. I really enjoyed our MC and ML’s journey of being married first and falling in love later. Zhao Yelang was an intriguing and wonderfully smart man and Yan Mingting was such a poised sunshine person. One could see from the start how well they fit together even though it took them much longer to realise the same.
The middle part of the story dragged a bit - the parts with the drought. I also found it a bit exhausting how long it took them to have sex. Not that I need sex scenes at all to be happy with a book but if they are going to happen just let them happen and not stall them. I think it was supposed to be funny but it missed the mark for me.
All in all I enjoyed their story though and I especially found the supporting characters well written. They weren’t just there to move the plot forward and I highly appreciated that. This is one of the historical danmei books I can see myself reading again in the future.
This was a fun story. I really enjoyed our MC and ML’s journey of being married first and falling in love later. Zhao Yelang was an intriguing and wonderfully smart man and Yan Mingting was such a poised sunshine person. One could see from the start how well they fit together even though it took them much longer to realise the same.
The middle part of the story dragged a bit - the parts with the drought. I also found it a bit exhausting how long it took them to have sex. Not that I need sex scenes at all to be happy with a book but if they are going to happen just let them happen and not stall them. I think it was supposed to be funny but it missed the mark for me.
All in all I enjoyed their story though and I especially found the supporting characters well written. They weren’t just there to move the plot forward and I highly appreciated that. This is one of the historical danmei books I can see myself reading again in the future.
September 26, 2024
➺
4.5/5 🌟
Another danmei couple with a really good and hilarious banter. The MC and ML are such a mismatched couple, but they undoubtedly have a great chemistry, with their relationship progression so subtle and natural.
It started with a capable and famous 'evil star' general and a sycophantic and ruthless minister being forced by the new emperor with an arranged marriage. They are not actually enemies, since their lives only intersected twice a few years back and they actually benefited from each other with those few interactions. But that's just it, they're basically strangers and even though they couldn't be considered enemies, that arranged marriage made them unsatisfied and they ended up 'hating' each other.
The other reviews I read said that the ML is such a bully, but I don't think it can be seen as something negative. MC is always fierce and snapped at him all the time and often acted as the superior one in the household, but ML always teased him every single chance he gets until MC got red in anger. It's a harmless teasing and I actually think their back and forth helped to diffuse the tension and ended up as a great entertainment as a reader. In my opinion, ML is actually very patient with MC and accepted every single unreasonable demands. I don't even remember the ML getting mad at MC and he's the one who's good and flexible at adjusting their relationship. I actually loved ML's energy so much. His vibe actually reminded me of Yan Xie from Po Yun, in a sense that they're both strong and capable with their field of expertise but definitely have a brain hole. They both loved to brag about their relationship with their MC in an exaggerated manner, but they're also very much madly in love with them.
The MC is a flamboyant peacock who cares about his appearance so much. He was often criticized with how extravagant he dressed, how luxurious he lives his life and how 'a man like him' even used fragrances like a woman (weird connotation, I know, but what can you do with a setting like this). But these way of living has a deeper reason than simple vanity. He's also feared and hated by most people as a ruthless minister who put the current emperor on the throne. But the ML is not among those people who judged him.
The ML once mentioned that he wished they got to know each other much earlier, but the MC didn't agree with that. MC said that they met at the perfect time, when his revenge with the people in his past is almost finished and the war on the ML's side is also done. That even if they met earlier, they would have grown apart with both of them having different focuses in life. That's why the plot is mostly focused on the MC and ML's relationship growth. There might be some other conflicts outside of their relationship, but it's either the aftermath of a big event that happened in the past or it's a passing predicament that served as good tool to highlight the relationship of the MC and ML more.
I had an absolute blast reading this one. Definitely recommended. The couple became one of my favorite danmei couples and this novel entered my favorite list. For those who loved historical setting with a hate to love trope, you'll definitely loved this one.
Another danmei couple with a really good and hilarious banter. The MC and ML are such a mismatched couple, but they undoubtedly have a great chemistry, with their relationship progression so subtle and natural.
It started with a capable and famous 'evil star' general and a sycophantic and ruthless minister being forced by the new emperor with an arranged marriage. They are not actually enemies, since their lives only intersected twice a few years back and they actually benefited from each other with those few interactions. But that's just it, they're basically strangers and even though they couldn't be considered enemies, that arranged marriage made them unsatisfied and they ended up 'hating' each other.
The other reviews I read said that the ML is such a bully, but I don't think it can be seen as something negative. MC is always fierce and snapped at him all the time and often acted as the superior one in the household, but ML always teased him every single chance he gets until MC got red in anger. It's a harmless teasing and I actually think their back and forth helped to diffuse the tension and ended up as a great entertainment as a reader. In my opinion, ML is actually very patient with MC and accepted every single unreasonable demands. I don't even remember the ML getting mad at MC and he's the one who's good and flexible at adjusting their relationship. I actually loved ML's energy so much. His vibe actually reminded me of Yan Xie from Po Yun, in a sense that they're both strong and capable with their field of expertise but definitely have a brain hole. They both loved to brag about their relationship with their MC in an exaggerated manner, but they're also very much madly in love with them.
The MC is a flamboyant peacock who cares about his appearance so much. He was often criticized with how extravagant he dressed, how luxurious he lives his life and how 'a man like him' even used fragrances like a woman (weird connotation, I know, but what can you do with a setting like this). But these way of living has a deeper reason than simple vanity. He's also feared and hated by most people as a ruthless minister who put the current emperor on the throne. But the ML is not among those people who judged him.
The ML once mentioned that he wished they got to know each other much earlier, but the MC didn't agree with that. MC said that they met at the perfect time, when his revenge with the people in his past is almost finished and the war on the ML's side is also done. That even if they met earlier, they would have grown apart with both of them having different focuses in life. That's why the plot is mostly focused on the MC and ML's relationship growth. There might be some other conflicts outside of their relationship, but it's either the aftermath of a big event that happened in the past or it's a passing predicament that served as good tool to highlight the relationship of the MC and ML more.
I had an absolute blast reading this one. Definitely recommended. The couple became one of my favorite danmei couples and this novel entered my favorite list. For those who loved historical setting with a hate to love trope, you'll definitely loved this one.
September 22, 2024
Length- 92 chapters + 13 extras
3rd Person POV
This was an ok read for me.
I agree with the other reviews that this was boring at times and went on for too long. I only carried on reading it for the characters who are likeable.
I liked the character development of Zhao Yelan (MC). I thought he was a brat at first but the more I read on I actually grew to like him. Yan Mingting (ML) has the patience of a saint. They deserved their happy ending.
Ngl I couldn't help compare this to 'Married Thrice to Salted Fish' and wished I was reading that instead at times.
So yeah, the premise is great but the execution could've been better.
3rd Person POV
This was an ok read for me.
I agree with the other reviews that this was boring at times and went on for too long. I only carried on reading it for the characters who are likeable.
I liked the character development of Zhao Yelan (MC). I thought he was a brat at first but the more I read on I actually grew to like him. Yan Mingting (ML) has the patience of a saint. They deserved their happy ending.
Ngl I couldn't help compare this to 'Married Thrice to Salted Fish' and wished I was reading that instead at times.
So yeah, the premise is great but the execution could've been better.
December 8, 2023
This was a winning bet for me. I didn't expect it to be so good! Probably one of the best-written danmei ever!
Historical with an arranged marriage, a well-paced slow burn, an achingly sweet couple, and a good plot! What else can I ask for?
Every character was interesting enough to snag my attention. Most of them matured, repented, or changed their views through the story. They acted according to their personalities and their life stories. There were no villains, just humans being selfish and making mistakes. I really loved that.
Oh, and let's not forget about the happy lesbian side couple. Hello? That was a surprise for sure.
Historical with an arranged marriage, a well-paced slow burn, an achingly sweet couple, and a good plot! What else can I ask for?
Every character was interesting enough to snag my attention. Most of them matured, repented, or changed their views through the story. They acted according to their personalities and their life stories. There were no villains, just humans being selfish and making mistakes. I really loved that.
Oh, and let's not forget about the happy lesbian side couple. Hello? That was a surprise for sure.
February 19, 2024
Ngl many times I was quite bored reading this. The plot is just so-so, the conflicts are shallow & the solutions deliver themselves to the door. And while I do like the characters, I feel like they’re not utilized to their full potentials.
February 23, 2024
Cuteee 3'70/5
August 12, 2024
4.5 stars.
This series was heartwarming. Although Yan Mingting and Zhao Yelan started off on bitter terms from being put into a humiliating marriage essentially designed to diminish their power, they quickly formed a wary ally ship, then friendship, and finally learned to place their trust in the other in a way Zhao Yelan never truly had before. Yan Mingting also was able to assuage his own fears that he was an evil star because no matter what, even if everyone else left, Zhao Yelan would always stand at his side. Where Yan Mingting was strong of body and character, Zhao Yelan was shrewd, and they made each other better.
The side characters were also very enjoyable, and I liked Yan Mingting’s relationships with his military staff as well as Zhao Yelan’s bond with Gu Niaoniao.
It was a sweet series.
This series was heartwarming. Although Yan Mingting and Zhao Yelan started off on bitter terms from being put into a humiliating marriage essentially designed to diminish their power, they quickly formed a wary ally ship, then friendship, and finally learned to place their trust in the other in a way Zhao Yelan never truly had before. Yan Mingting also was able to assuage his own fears that he was an evil star because no matter what, even if everyone else left, Zhao Yelan would always stand at his side. Where Yan Mingting was strong of body and character, Zhao Yelan was shrewd, and they made each other better.
The side characters were also very enjoyable, and I liked Yan Mingting’s relationships with his military staff as well as Zhao Yelan’s bond with Gu Niaoniao.
It was a sweet series.
Read
March 11, 2024trigger warnings (sorry if I missed any!): depictions of torture, murder, enslaved children, drought, and prostitution.
I don’t rate books without official translations on goodreads, but this was very fun, especially because I love marriage-before-love/forced proximity tropes. The main couple’s dynamic was also cute and I loved all the side characters, especially Li Yucheng and how his character grew. I feel like sometimes in other books the characters enact vengeance in a way that is way too extreme on people who are just annoying and shitty and not like…mass murderers, so I’m glad that didn’t happen here. I also loved all the women we got! Though i wished Zuo Ran/Yin Pinglu were an explicit couple and not just gal pals.
My main complaint is that I thought the end wrapped up a little too neatly and that the final Yan Mingting poisoning plot should have been scrapped—both him and the emperor surviving the stuff that went down at the end seems way too far fetched with ye olde medicine (even with Zhao Xuan’s postscript fate).
I don’t rate books without official translations on goodreads, but this was very fun, especially because I love marriage-before-love/forced proximity tropes. The main couple’s dynamic was also cute and I loved all the side characters, especially Li Yucheng and how his character grew. I feel like sometimes in other books the characters enact vengeance in a way that is way too extreme on people who are just annoying and shitty and not like…mass murderers, so I’m glad that didn’t happen here. I also loved all the women we got! Though i wished Zuo Ran/Yin Pinglu were an explicit couple and not just gal pals.
My main complaint is that I thought the end wrapped up a little too neatly and that the final Yan Mingting poisoning plot should have been scrapped—both him and the emperor surviving the stuff that went down at the end seems way too far fetched with ye olde medicine (even with Zhao Xuan’s postscript fate).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2025
The start/first arc was good but in the later parts it just felt like reading a bunch of boring extras. The plot got boringly simple, any thought of court intrigues and character complexity got abandoned and the CP just walked around being carefree. No patience left for reading the extras.
Overall it started with premise comparable to works like, let's say JYJF or maybe even QJJ, but dropped down to the level of GT or TWF. Disappointment of the year.
Overall it started with premise comparable to works like, let's say JYJF or maybe even QJJ, but dropped down to the level of GT or TWF. Disappointment of the year.
March 30, 2024
my closure is not reading the extras
i think it was good, but at the time, I was looking for more harsh themed reads rather than light-hearted
(i like how the title says evil star general but the evil star barely has any importance other than Yan Mingting constantly being like "Zhao Yelan... do you think im actually a evil star?? :(((((")
i think it was good, but at the time, I was looking for more harsh themed reads rather than light-hearted
(i like how the title says evil star general but the evil star barely has any importance other than Yan Mingting constantly being like "Zhao Yelan... do you think im actually a evil star?? :(((((")
October 15, 2024
10/10. A bit slow and tedious at the start but it gets so much better later on. Their relationship forms in a very natural and sweet way and their character developments are cute too.
Only 4 stars because of how I wanted to give up at the start haha.
Only 4 stars because of how I wanted to give up at the start haha.
November 27, 2025
Very enjoyable. Politics not too complicated, comedic undertone, love and devotion, power couple. A few unexpected tears.
February 9, 2024
₊˚ପ⊹ • ➵ 4.5/5 ✧
“apart from zhao yelan's legendary official career, the aspect most discussed by later generations was his love affair with general yan mingting.
although the two were both men, one civil and one military, they helped run the country and suppressed rebellions. marrying because of an imperial decree, they got to know each other and fell in love, never abandoning each other, and this became a good story passed down from generation to generation.
according to unofficial history, after zhao yelan retired, he went with yan mingting to travel the mountains and rivers.
someone once saw them making tea and food in the countryside, laughing and cursing, so very happy; it was also seen that they drank fine wine and tasted delicacies high in tea houses, sharing worldly experiences.
no matter what sort of record, time constantly passed, and places constantly changed.
in this long life, it was truly difficult to find an intimate and understanding friend.
the only constant was that zhao yelan would always have yan mingting by his side.”
i didn’t expect to love this story as much as i did <3
i loved that the author gave us a cute lil wlw storyline and lovable character all throughout the story. gu niaoniao’s ending made me cry so bad. this novel was amazing.
“apart from zhao yelan's legendary official career, the aspect most discussed by later generations was his love affair with general yan mingting.
although the two were both men, one civil and one military, they helped run the country and suppressed rebellions. marrying because of an imperial decree, they got to know each other and fell in love, never abandoning each other, and this became a good story passed down from generation to generation.
according to unofficial history, after zhao yelan retired, he went with yan mingting to travel the mountains and rivers.
someone once saw them making tea and food in the countryside, laughing and cursing, so very happy; it was also seen that they drank fine wine and tasted delicacies high in tea houses, sharing worldly experiences.
no matter what sort of record, time constantly passed, and places constantly changed.
in this long life, it was truly difficult to find an intimate and understanding friend.
the only constant was that zhao yelan would always have yan mingting by his side.”
i didn’t expect to love this story as much as i did <3
i loved that the author gave us a cute lil wlw storyline and lovable character all throughout the story. gu niaoniao’s ending made me cry so bad. this novel was amazing.
November 23, 2025
a solid 3!!! i think it drags on at some points, but this was SUCH a sweet and fun read i rlly didnt mind!!! howeverrrrr, i've also been permanently scarred by how much i love golden terrace and qjj, n that affected my enjoyment of this a tad bit bc of some similarities in the dynamics n plots according to my sources (none btw, i made it up in my head). i loved every minute of zhao yelan being a little shit tho lol mad respect he's my hero 🫡✊️
March 29, 2024
Binged this in the span of a day
November 17, 2024
I love how the author build the character slowly and their relationship not rushed
November 1, 2025
This is a quick danmei at only 90 chapters, and very well translated. Zhao Yelan is an amazing character — I’d put him up there with Jing Beiyuan and Shen Zechuan for cunning and ruthlessness — who has endured a great deal during his life, from the loss of his parents to the loss of his status; from serving the Emperor to being cast off as a “bride” to a cursed general. But none of this stopped Zhao Yelan from his chosen path of vengeance.
Yan Mingting is an accomplished general, confident in his own masculinity and his own abilities. While he’s a bit nonplussed to be rewarded with a male “wife,” he’s determined to live with honor. And that honor says he must be a good husband, so … he washes his hands when told to, takes a bath, keeps his temper and tries to figure out what sort of person he’s been married two.
There are only two issues I have with this book; one is that Zhao Yelan is in his early twenties for much of the book and I think it’s a bit unrealistic that he’s such a mastermind, such a scheming politician and so respected and feared at such a young age. The second is that Yan Mingting is just … too perfect. Zhao Yelan is flawed, complicated, broken and hurt and in need of support and healing. Yan Mingting is … well, perfect. And kind. And good and nice and rich and concerned and obedient. It leaves all the growing to Zhao Yelan and leaves Yan Mingting with no real character arc.
However, I think this is a very good danmei for those looking for scheming, politicking, and romance. The revenge angle is there, but it’s not as much of a focus as the growing relationship between the two men. The side characters are entertaining, and the plotting is nice and tight though the pacing wobbles a bit. It’s good for much of the book with each arc tidily wrapped up before the next one starts, but towards the end there are some lulls that are just family shenanigans and the growing sexual tension and relationship between the two men.
Still, I liked it, and do recommend it. Especially if you like Lord Seventh, but want something lighter; like Ballad of Sword and Wine but want something less dense and plot heavy.
Yan Mingting is an accomplished general, confident in his own masculinity and his own abilities. While he’s a bit nonplussed to be rewarded with a male “wife,” he’s determined to live with honor. And that honor says he must be a good husband, so … he washes his hands when told to, takes a bath, keeps his temper and tries to figure out what sort of person he’s been married two.
There are only two issues I have with this book; one is that Zhao Yelan is in his early twenties for much of the book and I think it’s a bit unrealistic that he’s such a mastermind, such a scheming politician and so respected and feared at such a young age. The second is that Yan Mingting is just … too perfect. Zhao Yelan is flawed, complicated, broken and hurt and in need of support and healing. Yan Mingting is … well, perfect. And kind. And good and nice and rich and concerned and obedient. It leaves all the growing to Zhao Yelan and leaves Yan Mingting with no real character arc.
However, I think this is a very good danmei for those looking for scheming, politicking, and romance. The revenge angle is there, but it’s not as much of a focus as the growing relationship between the two men. The side characters are entertaining, and the plotting is nice and tight though the pacing wobbles a bit. It’s good for much of the book with each arc tidily wrapped up before the next one starts, but towards the end there are some lulls that are just family shenanigans and the growing sexual tension and relationship between the two men.
Still, I liked it, and do recommend it. Especially if you like Lord Seventh, but want something lighter; like Ballad of Sword and Wine but want something less dense and plot heavy.
July 9, 2025
Someone recommended this for readers who wanted a MC similar to Thrice Married to Salted Fish or SVSSS's original Shen Jiu. I can only say they were severely misinformed about those characters if they thought this MC was anything like them. There's no poisonings, very little scheming unless constantly playing white lotus counts, and a complete lack of intelligence on display especially when it comes to dealing with his forced-husband.
Speaking of, I couldn't stand the relationship, either. This is not a respectful relationship dynamic. Yes, both of them are forced into the marriage with no choice, and both have misunderstandings about the other. But the husband (the titular general born under an evil star) is a musclebound moron incapable of intelligent thought, consideration for others, or even just asking for more information. He constantly uses brute physical force to overpower the MC and get his way -- including making the deathly-ill MC exercise like one of the general's subordinate soldiers because apparently he knows better than any actual doctors that MC's illness (which was caused by deadly injury he took to save the life of the current Emperor) would surely go away if MC just exercised. Yes, the lifelong war general isn't smart enough to know that physical wounds and their ongoing symptoms need rest and treatment, rather than running laps and "toughening up".
There are so many reviews on NU talking about a sweet romance but there's no hint of it almost 40 chapters in, and I can't stand the dynamic of one character constantly physically forcing the other. DNFed, and I regret the wasted time reading that far.
Speaking of, I couldn't stand the relationship, either. This is not a respectful relationship dynamic. Yes, both of them are forced into the marriage with no choice, and both have misunderstandings about the other. But the husband (the titular general born under an evil star) is a musclebound moron incapable of intelligent thought, consideration for others, or even just asking for more information. He constantly uses brute physical force to overpower the MC and get his way -- including making the deathly-ill MC exercise like one of the general's subordinate soldiers because apparently he knows better than any actual doctors that MC's illness (which was caused by deadly injury he took to save the life of the current Emperor) would surely go away if MC just exercised. Yes, the lifelong war general isn't smart enough to know that physical wounds and their ongoing symptoms need rest and treatment, rather than running laps and "toughening up".
There are so many reviews on NU talking about a sweet romance but there's no hint of it almost 40 chapters in, and I can't stand the dynamic of one character constantly physically forcing the other. DNFed, and I regret the wasted time reading that far.
November 5, 2025
Me entretuvo y me gustó mucho la pareja protagonista, muy dulces, con mucha química, a pesar de que, ciertamente, tardan bastante en llegar a eso.
Zhou Yelan, hasta casi la mitad me pareció, a pesar de su belleza física e inteligencia, una persona difícil para enamorarse de ella, porque tiene una personalidad desabrida, malhumorada, que todo el tiempo hace desplantes, especialmente con el General, al que lo trata durante casi toda la mitad del libro, a la patá, a pesar de la amabilidad extrema de aquel. El General tuvo una paciencia de Santo, que tuvo su recompensa, pero para llegar a eso, tuvo que soportar mucho.
La verdad es que no tiene un plot muy elaborado, durante la primera parte pareciera que sí que hay una historia con fondo, pero se desinfla para quedar en casi nada, parecía que era más y resultó ser que no.
Así que, aunque la primera parte del libro me tenía un tanto desenganchada, más adelante logré congeniar y lo disfruté.
Los protagonistas me recordaron a los de “Espada y vino”, uno un militar y el otro un intelectual, que esconde algo y que es súper inteligente, además de constitución débil, y que luego sabemos que él mismo se estaba envenenando. Sin embargo, hasta ahí las similitudes, este está muy por debajo en calidad y complejo de la trama respecto del otro.
Pero sí, lo recomiendo.
Zhou Yelan, hasta casi la mitad me pareció, a pesar de su belleza física e inteligencia, una persona difícil para enamorarse de ella, porque tiene una personalidad desabrida, malhumorada, que todo el tiempo hace desplantes, especialmente con el General, al que lo trata durante casi toda la mitad del libro, a la patá, a pesar de la amabilidad extrema de aquel. El General tuvo una paciencia de Santo, que tuvo su recompensa, pero para llegar a eso, tuvo que soportar mucho.
La verdad es que no tiene un plot muy elaborado, durante la primera parte pareciera que sí que hay una historia con fondo, pero se desinfla para quedar en casi nada, parecía que era más y resultó ser que no.
Así que, aunque la primera parte del libro me tenía un tanto desenganchada, más adelante logré congeniar y lo disfruté.
Los protagonistas me recordaron a los de “Espada y vino”, uno un militar y el otro un intelectual, que esconde algo y que es súper inteligente, además de constitución débil, y que luego sabemos que él mismo se estaba envenenando. Sin embargo, hasta ahí las similitudes, este está muy por debajo en calidad y complejo de la trama respecto del otro.
Pero sí, lo recomiendo.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2025
This book has a surprisingly strong emotional core, which really showed itself in the second half.
More than a romance, this book told the story of the MC’s healing, and his journey and acceptance towards finding love. MC is a cunning character, extremely intelligent, so and so. He is the protagonist, after all. I don’t think the story is perfect. I have a little bit of a thing with the way the plot resolution happens, but it was definitely a strong read.
The way the relationship develops between the main character is natural- it’s not a sudden “I am in love with you now,” as it comes more of as a gradual change.
I really enjoyed how some of the tropes commonly found in the genre was subverted by the Author, like how they handled the Emperor and all the other side characters. The MC’s past is there, and it haunts him, and there is a quest for revenge- but it is not at all the main attraction of the book, as it would have ordinarily been.
I hold the main couple strongly in my heart. Zhao Yelan and Yan Minting clearly complete each other in the story. They heal and slowly become better people, together, to the point where everyone sees it. Above all I really like Zhao Yelan as our MC. His progression and development through the story is great.
More than a romance, this book told the story of the MC’s healing, and his journey and acceptance towards finding love. MC is a cunning character, extremely intelligent, so and so. He is the protagonist, after all. I don’t think the story is perfect. I have a little bit of a thing with the way the plot resolution happens, but it was definitely a strong read.
The way the relationship develops between the main character is natural- it’s not a sudden “I am in love with you now,” as it comes more of as a gradual change.
I really enjoyed how some of the tropes commonly found in the genre was subverted by the Author, like how they handled the Emperor and all the other side characters. The MC’s past is there, and it haunts him, and there is a quest for revenge- but it is not at all the main attraction of the book, as it would have ordinarily been.
I hold the main couple strongly in my heart. Zhao Yelan and Yan Minting clearly complete each other in the story. They heal and slowly become better people, together, to the point where everyone sees it. Above all I really like Zhao Yelan as our MC. His progression and development through the story is great.
January 5, 2025
This book was so boring I almost cry I'm so sorry.
it follows the story of a guy who gets forcibly married to a war general but it's so.... cringy I guess, the dynamic is dry as stale bread, have you guys seen the weird ship on the tgcf fandom of the two friends of Xie Lian? I hate it so much because it's stale, boring and cringy, exactly how this one goes, it's supposed to be "enemies to lovers" but it's so... not romantic, what's the point of scheming against someone you live with, you are supposed to be a team with, are literally on the same boat and looking at the same fate lowkey...
also, the emperor... is weird with the MC, maybe I hated it mainly because it feels like there's a veeeery weird love triangle here and tbh? I am not 10 to be enjoying that, give me love or get out.
It's either healthy relationship with good communication, boundaries, respect, mutual understanding and a shit ton of respect or it's nothing.
look y'all, I loved Cruel prince trilogy, it's not that I hate enemies to lovers, but this one is ridiculous lmao
it follows the story of a guy who gets forcibly married to a war general but it's so.... cringy I guess, the dynamic is dry as stale bread, have you guys seen the weird ship on the tgcf fandom of the two friends of Xie Lian? I hate it so much because it's stale, boring and cringy, exactly how this one goes, it's supposed to be "enemies to lovers" but it's so... not romantic, what's the point of scheming against someone you live with, you are supposed to be a team with, are literally on the same boat and looking at the same fate lowkey...
also, the emperor... is weird with the MC, maybe I hated it mainly because it feels like there's a veeeery weird love triangle here and tbh? I am not 10 to be enjoying that, give me love or get out.
It's either healthy relationship with good communication, boundaries, respect, mutual understanding and a shit ton of respect or it's nothing.
look y'all, I loved Cruel prince trilogy, it's not that I hate enemies to lovers, but this one is ridiculous lmao
January 2, 2024
Oh my God, this book is really very good and underrated. The author really makes a good description or narration that is easy to understand and easy to follow. Plus the comedy is really funny. Not only talking about the empire or politics, but also focusing on how the couple's relationship develops. Zhao Yelan! He's a tsundere but really cute. I totally understand why Yan Mingting fell in love with him. Oh, and his partner, Yan Mingting, is really hilarious and unpredictable. You'll find yourself giggling every time you read about his ridiculous behavior, and then you'll find yourself missing him when you're done reading. This book is definitely one of my comfort books. There is no plot that is too angsty, but for the extra chapter where Zhao Yelan decided to leave, and he didn't undo it, well, that drove me a little crazy, I cried like crazy. I love them so much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2025
3.5/5
I rather liked it, the plot wasn't very elaborate but that didn't bother me, I was mainly there to read about the main couple. At first the general seemed a bit silly but as I read on I learned to appreciate him. The romance was cute, and the secondary characters very likeable.
I agree with the person who said that the emperor was weird with zhuo yelan, I don't know where the author wanted to go, I have the impression that the author intended to do something with him but finally gave up.
It remained a pleasant read, if you want to read something plot-heavy this isn't for you, if you want something light with few characters this is for you.
I rather liked it, the plot wasn't very elaborate but that didn't bother me, I was mainly there to read about the main couple. At first the general seemed a bit silly but as I read on I learned to appreciate him. The romance was cute, and the secondary characters very likeable.
I agree with the person who said that the emperor was weird with zhuo yelan, I don't know where the author wanted to go, I have the impression that the author intended to do something with him but finally gave up.
It remained a pleasant read, if you want to read something plot-heavy this isn't for you, if you want something light with few characters this is for you.
April 16, 2024
╰┈➤ [ 3/5★]
Estuvo bien, me entretuvo y lo leí relativamente rápido.
Lo que más me gusto fue el desarrollo que tuvo Zhao Yelan y como las relaciones que forma con otros personajes (no solo con Yan Mingting) lo influyen como persona. Y el ver como no solo ganó un esposo maravilloso, sino que también amigos hizo sentir calentito mi corazón.
Pero eso sería, no es una novela que me haya dejado una gran impresión y tampoco tengo mucho que decir al respecto. Aun así, para pasar el rato esta bien.
Estuvo bien, me entretuvo y lo leí relativamente rápido.
Lo que más me gusto fue el desarrollo que tuvo Zhao Yelan y como las relaciones que forma con otros personajes (no solo con Yan Mingting) lo influyen como persona. Y el ver como no solo ganó un esposo maravilloso, sino que también amigos hizo sentir calentito mi corazón.
Pero eso sería, no es una novela que me haya dejado una gran impresión y tampoco tengo mucho que decir al respecto. Aun así, para pasar el rato esta bien.
October 19, 2025
Best thing I have read this year! Very fluffy very wholesome, lovable characters and MCs to die for.
It is the kind of novel to read when you´re feeling down and need a pick-me-up. This really made me kick my feet and giggle like a teen girl. Very wholesome and loving romance which greatly boosted my mood.
Plot is not complicated and anxiety free - I really don´t have the right words to describe it - it just feels like a warm, comforting hug.
Now I am going to pray this is going to be picked by Seven Seas and published so I can buy physical copies. Please give it a read!
It is the kind of novel to read when you´re feeling down and need a pick-me-up. This really made me kick my feet and giggle like a teen girl. Very wholesome and loving romance which greatly boosted my mood.
Plot is not complicated and anxiety free - I really don´t have the right words to describe it - it just feels like a warm, comforting hug.
Now I am going to pray this is going to be picked by Seven Seas and published so I can buy physical copies. Please give it a read!
December 19, 2023
OHMYGOD MY ABSOLUTELY FAVOURITE DANMEI!! The dynamic between the characters is pure gold, I almost choked laughing the ML was so hilarious please. This is the perfect combination of politics, fluffy romance, caring hubby and domineering wife (haha). Also the characterization and story-telling was immaculate. I enjoyed every moment of this danmei, but the housekeeper definitely steals the show (my most favourite).
March 10, 2024
I enjoyed the first half of the book better than the second half (which dragged a bit) but I did enjoy the main characters, especially the general ML.
Summary: The MC has helped the current emperor to the throne and now the emperor is trying to keep him in check by marrying him to the general. The MC expects the general to be ugly and the general is under the mistaken impression that the MC is in love with him. It's a bit of a slow burn but love eventually ensues.
Summary: The MC has helped the current emperor to the throne and now the emperor is trying to keep him in check by marrying him to the general. The MC expects the general to be ugly and the general is under the mistaken impression that the MC is in love with him. It's a bit of a slow burn but love eventually ensues.
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