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Goodbye, My Princess
The only thing more dangerous than a king is his heir in this first English translation of the “beautifully heartbreaking” (Kirkus Reviews) historical novel inspired the popular TV series from one of China’s best-known authors of romantic tragedy.
There is no room for love in an empire.
Qu Xiaofeng has been living in Shangjing for three years now. A naïve, happy-go-lucky treaty bride from the desert kingdom of Xiliang, she has everything she could ever want as the crown princess of the Li Empire—everything except the crown prince’s heart.
Because Li Chengyin is a heartless boy. Cruel, jealous, and ruthless, he has given his adolescence to the cutthroat contention for the throne and, now that he is the heir presumptive, largely ignores his bride in favor of the girl he seems to really love.
Xiaofeng doesn’t mind…much. It leaves her more time to sneak out of the manor to go drinking and riding in the streets, living just the way she wants to. But one day another boy shows up, claiming to be a sweetheart from a life she can’t remember having lived. As Xiaofeng puzzles out the tangled threads of her past and her complicated feelings about the enigmatic, distant husband she loves and hates in equal measure, what she doesn’t realize is that she’s setting a course straight to tragedy.
Because the only place more dangerous than the palace is the crown prince’s court, the only thing harder to be than a king is his heir, and the path to the throne is paved with blood. Power will always have its price—the only question is if Xiaofeng will survive long enough to pay.
There is no room for love in an empire.
Qu Xiaofeng has been living in Shangjing for three years now. A naïve, happy-go-lucky treaty bride from the desert kingdom of Xiliang, she has everything she could ever want as the crown princess of the Li Empire—everything except the crown prince’s heart.
Because Li Chengyin is a heartless boy. Cruel, jealous, and ruthless, he has given his adolescence to the cutthroat contention for the throne and, now that he is the heir presumptive, largely ignores his bride in favor of the girl he seems to really love.
Xiaofeng doesn’t mind…much. It leaves her more time to sneak out of the manor to go drinking and riding in the streets, living just the way she wants to. But one day another boy shows up, claiming to be a sweetheart from a life she can’t remember having lived. As Xiaofeng puzzles out the tangled threads of her past and her complicated feelings about the enigmatic, distant husband she loves and hates in equal measure, what she doesn’t realize is that she’s setting a course straight to tragedy.
Because the only place more dangerous than the palace is the crown prince’s court, the only thing harder to be than a king is his heir, and the path to the throne is paved with blood. Power will always have its price—the only question is if Xiaofeng will survive long enough to pay.
560 pages, Hardcover
First published June 17, 2025
24 people are currently reading
911 people want to read
About the author
Fei Wo Si Cun
46 books43 followersAssociated Names:
* 匪我思存
* Fei Wo Si Cun
* เฝยหว่อซือฉุน (Thai Profile)
Fei Wo Si Cun (Chinese: 匪我思存; born 1978) is the pen name of the Chinese writer Ai Jingjing (Chinese: 艾晶晶). She was born in Wuhan, Hubei Province. She has published 18 novels, 10 of which have been adapted into TV series. She once used names Si Cun and Fei Xiaocun. Her representatives are Too Late to Say I Love You (Chinese: 来不及说我爱你; pinyin: Láibùjí Shuō Wǒ Aì Nǐ), Romantic Holidays Like Dreams (Chinese: 佳期如梦; pinyin: Jiāqī Rú Mèng) and Siege in Fog (Chinese: 迷雾围城; pinyin: Míwù Wéichéng).
(Source: wikipedia)
* 匪我思存
* Fei Wo Si Cun
* เฝยหว่อซือฉุน (Thai Profile)
Fei Wo Si Cun (Chinese: 匪我思存; born 1978) is the pen name of the Chinese writer Ai Jingjing (Chinese: 艾晶晶). She was born in Wuhan, Hubei Province. She has published 18 novels, 10 of which have been adapted into TV series. She once used names Si Cun and Fei Xiaocun. Her representatives are Too Late to Say I Love You (Chinese: 来不及说我爱你; pinyin: Láibùjí Shuō Wǒ Aì Nǐ), Romantic Holidays Like Dreams (Chinese: 佳期如梦; pinyin: Jiāqī Rú Mèng) and Siege in Fog (Chinese: 迷雾围城; pinyin: Míwù Wéichéng).
(Source: wikipedia)
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October 23, 2025Do I know what I'm getting into? No.
But I'm ready to have my heart ripped out and stomped on. So, I suppose I do know what I'm getting into with this book, and it's been a long while since I've read something as tragic as this book (which they say is a bestseller in China) promises.
But I'm ready to have my heart ripped out and stomped on. So, I suppose I do know what I'm getting into with this book, and it's been a long while since I've read something as tragic as this book (which they say is a bestseller in China) promises.
June 27, 2025
All hail the Queen of writing the most toxic male leads known to literature to c-drama adaptations. Fei Wo Si Cun, you did not come to play. Who hurt you??? Because the way every single one of her male leads is the walking, talking embodiment of the reddest flags I’ve ever seen?? Li Chengyin is no exception.
It’s been years since I first watched the TV adaptation, and I’ve never truly recovered. Goodbye, My Princess remains one of the most soul-crushing C-dramas I’ve ever seen. It’s the story of two lovers drawn together by fate but doomed by the harsh realities of duty, deception, and politics. This is not just a romance. This is pain and trauma with a side of heartbreak and poetic injustice. It’s a “stabbed in the chest then the knife twisted for good measure” kind of experience.
I’ve never read the original novel cause I’m basically bye-lingual in my own native language. But I’ve checked with authentic sources (my parents lmaoo) and have confirmed that the translations are very accurate and respectful to the original prose which is a nice bonus!
Reading the novel after having seen the drama gave me a whole new layer of appreciation for the story. The book expands on the characters’ inner dialogue, especially side characters who didn’t get as much development in the adaptation. Certain events hit way harder when you realize the hidden motivations behind them.
I wasn’t the biggest fan of the way the book began. It throws you right in with no warning, and you’re just as disoriented as Qu Xiaofeng. Also, the chapter lengths??? Wild. Some of them went on for over 90 pages, and there were long stretches where not much happened. A bit of better pacing or formatting would’ve helped a lot.
I appreciated the references to Chinese poetry, idioms and the explanation in the footnotes. As well as the translator’s note on Chinese history, culture and the inner workings of the royal family relating to the crowning of an heir to king. That was well done!
Li Chengyin. I want to hate him. I really do. Then I remember Chen Xingxu’s amazing heart wrenching performance and suddenly I’m at a crossroad with my feelings. Li Chengyin is the product of his environment; he’s had to be cunning and manipulating every day in the palace just to stay alive. Conspiracies and plots around every corner, with a life like that, it’s no wonder he’s become a cold-hearted person. But in a place where having a weakness can place everyone close to him in danger especially the one person he loves. His attempts to protect Xiaofeng ends up being the very thing that destroys her and ultimately himself in the end.
Qu Xiaofeng, on the other hand, is a light in the tunnel for him. A brave, headstrong girl with a heart that sees the good in everyone. She comes from a land of warmth and love, and to see her caught in the web of palace schemes is devastating. If only in a lifetime where he was just a tea merchant and she a free-spirited princess.
Please, I beg of you watch the drama first, then come back to read this book. Peng Xiaoran and Chen Xingxu FULL ON embodied Qu Xiaofeng and Li Chengyin. Their performances tore me apart INSIDE AND OUT. And don’t even get me started on the OST and the fact that the leads sang their own songs?? God-tier T_T
This story is a wound that won’t heal for me but in the best, most haunting way possible.
Thank you to Simon Teen for this ARC!
It’s been years since I first watched the TV adaptation, and I’ve never truly recovered. Goodbye, My Princess remains one of the most soul-crushing C-dramas I’ve ever seen. It’s the story of two lovers drawn together by fate but doomed by the harsh realities of duty, deception, and politics. This is not just a romance. This is pain and trauma with a side of heartbreak and poetic injustice. It’s a “stabbed in the chest then the knife twisted for good measure” kind of experience.
I’ve never read the original novel cause I’m basically bye-lingual in my own native language. But I’ve checked with authentic sources (my parents lmaoo) and have confirmed that the translations are very accurate and respectful to the original prose which is a nice bonus!
Reading the novel after having seen the drama gave me a whole new layer of appreciation for the story. The book expands on the characters’ inner dialogue, especially side characters who didn’t get as much development in the adaptation. Certain events hit way harder when you realize the hidden motivations behind them.
I wasn’t the biggest fan of the way the book began. It throws you right in with no warning, and you’re just as disoriented as Qu Xiaofeng. Also, the chapter lengths??? Wild. Some of them went on for over 90 pages, and there were long stretches where not much happened. A bit of better pacing or formatting would’ve helped a lot.
I appreciated the references to Chinese poetry, idioms and the explanation in the footnotes. As well as the translator’s note on Chinese history, culture and the inner workings of the royal family relating to the crowning of an heir to king. That was well done!
Li Chengyin. I want to hate him. I really do. Then I remember Chen Xingxu’s amazing heart wrenching performance and suddenly I’m at a crossroad with my feelings. Li Chengyin is the product of his environment; he’s had to be cunning and manipulating every day in the palace just to stay alive. Conspiracies and plots around every corner, with a life like that, it’s no wonder he’s become a cold-hearted person. But in a place where having a weakness can place everyone close to him in danger especially the one person he loves. His attempts to protect Xiaofeng ends up being the very thing that destroys her and ultimately himself in the end.
Qu Xiaofeng, on the other hand, is a light in the tunnel for him. A brave, headstrong girl with a heart that sees the good in everyone. She comes from a land of warmth and love, and to see her caught in the web of palace schemes is devastating. If only in a lifetime where he was just a tea merchant and she a free-spirited princess.
Please, I beg of you watch the drama first, then come back to read this book. Peng Xiaoran and Chen Xingxu FULL ON embodied Qu Xiaofeng and Li Chengyin. Their performances tore me apart INSIDE AND OUT. And don’t even get me started on the OST and the fact that the leads sang their own songs?? God-tier T_T
This story is a wound that won’t heal for me but in the best, most haunting way possible.
Thank you to Simon Teen for this ARC!
February 1, 2026
Goodbye, My Princess is a brilliant, albeit tragic, story. This book was riveting and compulsively readable.
In Goodbye, My Princess, Xiaofeng is a foreign princess living in the Li empire, wedded to the crown prince, Li Chengyin. Xiaofeng and Li Changyin fight bitterly, while Li Changyin carries a torrid affair with another woman. When a former sweetheart she doesn't remember reappears in her life she becomes set on a course for tragedy as she starts to piece together her past.
Xiaofeng is a sweet but naive princess with a childlike sense of wonder. I found her infectious and was glued to the pages of her story. The book is 60 percent Xiaofengs story and 40 percent short stories from the perspectives of other characters. Each story was equally engrossing.
This book reads like a melodramatic c-drama full of depth, compelling scenes, and a great love tragedy. That being said, there are a lot of animal deaths so if that's a trigger for you, you may want to pass on this, though I myself have a hard time reading those parts, it was worth it. This book is simply addictive, and I can't recommend it enough. If you like sad love stories, tragic heroines, c-dramas, asian fantasy, and historical fiction then you will devour this book.
In Goodbye, My Princess, Xiaofeng is a foreign princess living in the Li empire, wedded to the crown prince, Li Chengyin. Xiaofeng and Li Changyin fight bitterly, while Li Changyin carries a torrid affair with another woman. When a former sweetheart she doesn't remember reappears in her life she becomes set on a course for tragedy as she starts to piece together her past.
Xiaofeng is a sweet but naive princess with a childlike sense of wonder. I found her infectious and was glued to the pages of her story. The book is 60 percent Xiaofengs story and 40 percent short stories from the perspectives of other characters. Each story was equally engrossing.
This book reads like a melodramatic c-drama full of depth, compelling scenes, and a great love tragedy. That being said, there are a lot of animal deaths so if that's a trigger for you, you may want to pass on this, though I myself have a hard time reading those parts, it was worth it. This book is simply addictive, and I can't recommend it enough. If you like sad love stories, tragic heroines, c-dramas, asian fantasy, and historical fiction then you will devour this book.
January 19, 2025
I wish to thank Edelweiss and the publisher for allowing me a chance at reading this book.
In 2021, a tv show debuted on Chinese television. In 2023, I discovered it and cried. I had gotten into CDramas and everyone was like 'you have to watch Goodbye, My Princess'. Originally Angelbaby was to be the female lead along with someone else, but they backed out and the role went to two newbies. Those two newbies are now in countless CDramas since then. The power of the show catapulted them.
In English tales we have Romeo and Juliet, Tristan and Isolde. While Goodbye, My Princess isn't quite like those two tales, it would be the best to say - this is a tragedy, 100%. If you pick up this book thinking for a romance, you will be shocked when finishing the story. While it IS about love, it is also about how nobility, fear, and inheritance can make monsters for some.
In 2021, a tv show debuted on Chinese television. In 2023, I discovered it and cried. I had gotten into CDramas and everyone was like 'you have to watch Goodbye, My Princess'. Originally Angelbaby was to be the female lead along with someone else, but they backed out and the role went to two newbies. Those two newbies are now in countless CDramas since then. The power of the show catapulted them.
In English tales we have Romeo and Juliet, Tristan and Isolde. While Goodbye, My Princess isn't quite like those two tales, it would be the best to say - this is a tragedy, 100%. If you pick up this book thinking for a romance, you will be shocked when finishing the story. While it IS about love, it is also about how nobility, fear, and inheritance can make monsters for some.
October 18, 2024
This make me so sad. I wish i’ve never read this
June 15, 2025
4.25 stars
rep: Chinese world and characters
cw: death, blood, violence
I’ve never watched the drama adaption of this book so I didn’t really know what I was getting myself into, but the summary was just SO enticing that I had to read it. And I’m so glad I did! Goodbye, My Princess brings us on a heart-wrenching tale of a princess who’s bound to the crown prince and thus destined for tragedy.
Xiaofeng has been in Shangjing for three years now as the crown prince Chengyin‘s bride. She somewhat enjoys her life, as she’s largely ignored and gets to roam around the city wild with her guard. Chengyin is cruel to her but for the most part avoids her in favor of the girl he seems to actually love. When a stranger claiming to be Xiaofeng’s lost love stops her in the street, her life begins to unravel, setting her on a road to tragedy.
The translator’s note at the beginning sheds a lot of light onto the setting and the historical context. Being crown prince is more dangerous than being the king since there are many heirs who will do whatever it takes to become heir presumptive. The crown prince cannot show weakness—and therefore cannot really afford to favor people lest they be used against him. In that way, Chengyin ignoring and being cruel to Xiaofeng can almost be seen as a kindness: if she’s not favored then she won’t be targeted to get to him.
However, at the same time, when she’s spent so much time being unloved and subject to his cruelties, how can she see this life as a kindness? I feel like this explanation makes very clear what this book sets up—the very intricate dynamic of being married to the crown prince; how you can love and hate someone at the same time; and how you can almost overlook Chengyin’s cruelties knowing that it borders on kindness.
I really enjoyed the translations! I’m only very loosely acquainted with Chinese traditions, but the translator did a good job of word choices for distinctions that aren’t usually made in English, like court positions, royalty hierarchy, palace settings, and so on.
The beginning of the book is a bit slower as we are introduced to Xiaofeng’s life, feeling stifled in the palace and mad at Chengyin for ignoring and being cruel to her. Once we get to the middle part, I did unfortunately get very confused at the abrupt story shift. Was it a past life (even though they have the same names)? Is this a prolonged dream? As time goes on, you better understand how this part fits into the larger story and how this led up to where we were at the beginning of the book.
And the romance…when I knew going into this that this was a romantic tragedy…and yet I was still shocked that this ends as a romantic tragedy…What’s that tumblr post, about knowing how the story ends but spending every page thinking you can can change fate? Yeah, that was me for the last quarter of the book.
Xiaofeng and Chengyin’s dynamic was just sooo delicious. They’re married but they hate each other but she’s always seeking something kind from him but he favors his mistress. They fight and they bicker and they have a weird intense chemistry. Dysfunctional marriage bound for tragedy, everyone! How can you not enjoy that? Like sorry to say it, but I was bamboozled into liking Chengyin. I did in fact fall for his small kindnesses (but Xiaofeng does too, okay, so I’m just following her point-of-view and feeling what she feels). There’s so much more I want to get into about their backstory but I can’t because of spoilers, but like…the emotional consequences of it all…
The last quarter or so of the book are bonus chapters, some of which have been released before and some new ones (I think). And here’s where we really get into the meat of the emotional implications! There are different chapters from different points-of-view and take place during differing parts of the story or even after the original story ends. Each of these slowly but surely change your perspective on the original story, now that you get details from someone else other than Xiaofeng. Reading these actually bumped up my rating a quarter star, like they gave me much to think about!
Anyways, Goodbye, My Princess was a wild ride and I’m so excited to reread this because I feel like there are so many little details that I missed. I enjoyed the characters and the plot, and the bonus chapters had me gasping. If you’re in the mood for a romantic tragedy, I can’t recommend Goodbye, My Princess enough!
when this is marketed as a romantic tragedy…and I knew going in it was a romantic tragedy…and yet I was still surprised that this was a romantic tragedy…
honestly more like a 4-star but I am bumping my rating up bc of the emotional implications of the bonus chapters like,,,bro.
read on my blog
rep: Chinese world and characters
cw: death, blood, violence
**I received an ARC from the publisher (thank you, Simon Teen!). These are my honest opinions, and in no way was I compensated for this review.**
I’ve never watched the drama adaption of this book so I didn’t really know what I was getting myself into, but the summary was just SO enticing that I had to read it. And I’m so glad I did! Goodbye, My Princess brings us on a heart-wrenching tale of a princess who’s bound to the crown prince and thus destined for tragedy.
Xiaofeng has been in Shangjing for three years now as the crown prince Chengyin‘s bride. She somewhat enjoys her life, as she’s largely ignored and gets to roam around the city wild with her guard. Chengyin is cruel to her but for the most part avoids her in favor of the girl he seems to actually love. When a stranger claiming to be Xiaofeng’s lost love stops her in the street, her life begins to unravel, setting her on a road to tragedy.
The translator’s note at the beginning sheds a lot of light onto the setting and the historical context. Being crown prince is more dangerous than being the king since there are many heirs who will do whatever it takes to become heir presumptive. The crown prince cannot show weakness—and therefore cannot really afford to favor people lest they be used against him. In that way, Chengyin ignoring and being cruel to Xiaofeng can almost be seen as a kindness: if she’s not favored then she won’t be targeted to get to him.
However, at the same time, when she’s spent so much time being unloved and subject to his cruelties, how can she see this life as a kindness? I feel like this explanation makes very clear what this book sets up—the very intricate dynamic of being married to the crown prince; how you can love and hate someone at the same time; and how you can almost overlook Chengyin’s cruelties knowing that it borders on kindness.
I really enjoyed the translations! I’m only very loosely acquainted with Chinese traditions, but the translator did a good job of word choices for distinctions that aren’t usually made in English, like court positions, royalty hierarchy, palace settings, and so on.
The beginning of the book is a bit slower as we are introduced to Xiaofeng’s life, feeling stifled in the palace and mad at Chengyin for ignoring and being cruel to her. Once we get to the middle part, I did unfortunately get very confused at the abrupt story shift. Was it a past life (even though they have the same names)? Is this a prolonged dream? As time goes on, you better understand how this part fits into the larger story and how this led up to where we were at the beginning of the book.
And the romance…when I knew going into this that this was a romantic tragedy…and yet I was still shocked that this ends as a romantic tragedy…What’s that tumblr post, about knowing how the story ends but spending every page thinking you can can change fate? Yeah, that was me for the last quarter of the book.
Xiaofeng and Chengyin’s dynamic was just sooo delicious. They’re married but they hate each other but she’s always seeking something kind from him but he favors his mistress. They fight and they bicker and they have a weird intense chemistry. Dysfunctional marriage bound for tragedy, everyone! How can you not enjoy that? Like sorry to say it, but I was bamboozled into liking Chengyin. I did in fact fall for his small kindnesses (but Xiaofeng does too, okay, so I’m just following her point-of-view and feeling what she feels). There’s so much more I want to get into about their backstory but I can’t because of spoilers, but like…the emotional consequences of it all…
The last quarter or so of the book are bonus chapters, some of which have been released before and some new ones (I think). And here’s where we really get into the meat of the emotional implications! There are different chapters from different points-of-view and take place during differing parts of the story or even after the original story ends. Each of these slowly but surely change your perspective on the original story, now that you get details from someone else other than Xiaofeng. Reading these actually bumped up my rating a quarter star, like they gave me much to think about!
Anyways, Goodbye, My Princess was a wild ride and I’m so excited to reread this because I feel like there are so many little details that I missed. I enjoyed the characters and the plot, and the bonus chapters had me gasping. If you’re in the mood for a romantic tragedy, I can’t recommend Goodbye, My Princess enough!
original review:
when this is marketed as a romantic tragedy…and I knew going in it was a romantic tragedy…and yet I was still surprised that this was a romantic tragedy…
honestly more like a 4-star but I am bumping my rating up bc of the emotional implications of the bonus chapters like,,,bro.
January 2, 2026
This book was far more devastating than the show—and that’s saying something, because the show absolutely wrecked me. Still, credit where it’s due: the actors did an incredible job bringing the characters to life and getting them right. Reading this felt like dipping my toes into a familiar pool after years away. As a swimmer, that first touch of water brings an instant sense of home. That nostalgia hit hard.
Now, the characters. My god. Xiaofeng irritated me simply by existing. Truly. I found myself skipping large portions of the book solely because of her. She was unbearably childish, which really drove home the fact that this is a YA novel. Thank goodness the adaptation toned her down—she’s far more tolerable on screen. Li Chengyin, on the other hand, remains a tragic figure through and through. Caught between palace politics and the love of his life, watching him unravel was torturous. His portrayal in the book mirrors the show perfectly: conflicted, heartbreaking, and doomed.
The ending was exactly what we expected, and honestly, I would’ve given this book a 2-star rating if not for the bonus stories, which added some much-needed depth. Pei Zhao remains my favorite character in both the book and the show, with A’du a close second. Would I ever read this again? Never. Just like I’ll never rewatch the show. Some stories are unforgettable—not because you want to return to them, but because surviving them once is more than enough.
Now, the characters. My god. Xiaofeng irritated me simply by existing. Truly. I found myself skipping large portions of the book solely because of her. She was unbearably childish, which really drove home the fact that this is a YA novel. Thank goodness the adaptation toned her down—she’s far more tolerable on screen. Li Chengyin, on the other hand, remains a tragic figure through and through. Caught between palace politics and the love of his life, watching him unravel was torturous. His portrayal in the book mirrors the show perfectly: conflicted, heartbreaking, and doomed.
The ending was exactly what we expected, and honestly, I would’ve given this book a 2-star rating if not for the bonus stories, which added some much-needed depth. Pei Zhao remains my favorite character in both the book and the show, with A’du a close second. Would I ever read this again? Never. Just like I’ll never rewatch the show. Some stories are unforgettable—not because you want to return to them, but because surviving them once is more than enough.
July 11, 2025
2025 reads: 165/300
i received a complimentary finished copy from the publisher as part of their influencer program. this did not affect my rating.
qu xiaofeng, a treaty bride from xiliang, has been living in shangjing for the past three years. she has everything she could ever want, except for her husband, the crown prince’s, heart. as a cruel, jealous, and ruthless crown prince, though, it’s debatable whether li chengyin has a heart to give. xiaofeng is content living this way, until another boy shows up and claims he’s her sweetheart from a life she can’t remember. as she unravels her past, she unknowingly sets a course to tragedy.
i was so excited to read this because 1. i love court intrigue, and 2. i’m a sucker for a nice and tragic story. this was such an interesting book, primarily because of the two characters at the forefront (plus some others who became more relevant later on). xiaofeng was as independent as possible, and i loved seeing her make such bold choices for her own life. chengyin, on the other hand…i don’t even know where to start with him. he was puzzling to me, which i mean in a good way as this made him that much more intriguing. most of the time, i wanted to reach into the pages and strangle him myself, but there were times when his softer side slipped through the cracks. these two made an interesting pair, to say the least.
there were also some short stories in the back, told through various viewpoints at different parts of the story. i enjoyed this extra insight into many different side characters!
overall, this was a lovely book. i’d recommend this to anyone who likes their romantic stories with some tragedy. i will be on the lookout for more books by fei wo si cun translated into english!
i received a complimentary finished copy from the publisher as part of their influencer program. this did not affect my rating.
qu xiaofeng, a treaty bride from xiliang, has been living in shangjing for the past three years. she has everything she could ever want, except for her husband, the crown prince’s, heart. as a cruel, jealous, and ruthless crown prince, though, it’s debatable whether li chengyin has a heart to give. xiaofeng is content living this way, until another boy shows up and claims he’s her sweetheart from a life she can’t remember. as she unravels her past, she unknowingly sets a course to tragedy.
i was so excited to read this because 1. i love court intrigue, and 2. i’m a sucker for a nice and tragic story. this was such an interesting book, primarily because of the two characters at the forefront (plus some others who became more relevant later on). xiaofeng was as independent as possible, and i loved seeing her make such bold choices for her own life. chengyin, on the other hand…i don’t even know where to start with him. he was puzzling to me, which i mean in a good way as this made him that much more intriguing. most of the time, i wanted to reach into the pages and strangle him myself, but there were times when his softer side slipped through the cracks. these two made an interesting pair, to say the least.
there were also some short stories in the back, told through various viewpoints at different parts of the story. i enjoyed this extra insight into many different side characters!
overall, this was a lovely book. i’d recommend this to anyone who likes their romantic stories with some tragedy. i will be on the lookout for more books by fei wo si cun translated into english!
June 17, 2025
This was a heartbreaking book. The book started off slow for me and there were some parts that confused me as it is not told in chronological order. I still enjoyed this book and found it interesting though.
I need to go watch the cdrama now!!
Rating: 3.5⭐️ rounded up
Thank you Simon Teen for the arc!
I need to go watch the cdrama now!!
Rating: 3.5⭐️ rounded up
Thank you Simon Teen for the arc!
June 21, 2025
⋆.˚✮ 3.25 stars ✮˚.⋆
September 16, 2025
3 stars. This has got to be one of the most depressing books I've ever read.
June 18, 2025
This book was beautiful and I went in knowing nothing about it. Just a warning - it's a romantic tragedy so there will be tears. Like. A lot of tears.
I have a love hate relationship with all of the characters. They're so complex that I can't just feel one emotion for them. There's so much going on in the background that you might not find out until you're like 75% of the way through and then it's gonna change the way you feel about them again.
The politics were crazy. There were so many things in play and it's a very trust me keep reading situation. Not me being constantly shocked when something else comes up.
I do wish some of the chapters were a bit shorter. A few of them reached 50+ pages and it made me feel like it was dragging in just a few places.
I can't wait to watch the show adaptation??
thank you to the publisher for the gifted arc
I have a love hate relationship with all of the characters. They're so complex that I can't just feel one emotion for them. There's so much going on in the background that you might not find out until you're like 75% of the way through and then it's gonna change the way you feel about them again.
The politics were crazy. There were so many things in play and it's a very trust me keep reading situation. Not me being constantly shocked when something else comes up.
I do wish some of the chapters were a bit shorter. A few of them reached 50+ pages and it made me feel like it was dragging in just a few places.
I can't wait to watch the show adaptation??
thank you to the publisher for the gifted arc
July 13, 2025
I would like to thank Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review
Oh my gosh. Ohh my goodness. I have so many feelings. I knew this was a Romantic Tragedy but I didn’t realize that it would actually be a tragedy. I wasn’t expecting my heart to get broken like this. While I spent much of this book really confused (I wish I watched the drama first like everyone else), I also spent a large portion rooting for the male and female lead. I didn’t think things would actually end the way they did. And the short stories at the end too? ONG they added so much to the story every opinion I’ve had about these characters has changed a gazillion times because as you find out more everything changes. I literally started watching the drama today I can’t get enough.
Oh my gosh. Ohh my goodness. I have so many feelings. I knew this was a Romantic Tragedy but I didn’t realize that it would actually be a tragedy. I wasn’t expecting my heart to get broken like this. While I spent much of this book really confused (I wish I watched the drama first like everyone else), I also spent a large portion rooting for the male and female lead. I didn’t think things would actually end the way they did. And the short stories at the end too? ONG they added so much to the story every opinion I’ve had about these characters has changed a gazillion times because as you find out more everything changes. I literally started watching the drama today I can’t get enough.
May 25, 2025
Thank you to Simon Teen for the eARC. I knew nothing about this book when I requested it. I have been trying to explore translated books and thought this would be an interesting one. I enjoyed this book but man did it cause my stress. Themes of loss and romance, a must read.
October 1, 2025
This is a heartbreaking story. Our sweet Fmc did not deserve all the pain and betrayal she endured. I think you have to go into this knowing it won’t have a traditional happy ending in order to accept it for what it is.
March 24, 2025
Although I am no stranger to ARCs or book reviews, Goodbye, My Princess by Fei Wo Si Cun is the first ARC that I completed for my new account on NetGalley. I had no idea what to expect from this one. It is an English translation of a Chinese story, so I was hoping for some fun Chinese mythology revolving around immortals and spirits in the vein of Ashes of Love or Love Between Fairy and Devil. This book contained very little of that lore, and the characters are quite human. There was one supernatural element, but it was more dark and depressing than fantastical. For those of you who enjoy Chinese dramas, it looks like there was a 2019 TV series inspired by the book. Overall, this book is a cautionary tale about trust and sacrifice.
The first thing that threw me off about this book is that it is published by Simon & Schuster's Children's Publishing, which led me to believe that it would be a quick and easy read. It is neither of those things. Although there are no explicit scenes, I do not think this book is appropriate for children due to the complexity and maturity of the content, which includes elements like forced abortion, innuendo, and assassination attempts. I even hesitate to say it's appropriate for a high school audience. Goodbye, My Princess is quite long and difficult to get through. Most of its chapters stretch over 50 pages, which makes it hard to find a stopping point or catch up across multiple devices. Although the translation is accurate, the story is told out of order, and it is not always clear what point in time is being narrated, which left me scratching my head trying to put the pieces together.
Qu Xiaofeng is a princess trapped in a loveless marriage alliance with a prince named Li Chengyin. The book does not follow the current fantasy trope of postmarital love and instead leans toward infidelity. The book references Chengyin's concubines and two potential love interests for Xiaofeng outside of her marriage, but neither of those relationships go in a romantic direction. The most interesting character in the book is A'du, Xiaofeng's mute bodyguard and best friend who would give up her life for the princess in a heartbeat. Xiaofeng is every bit as protective of A'du as A'du is of her. Their relationship was the strongest and most interesting in the book even though it was not based on romance.
Although this book is not poorly written, I had a hard time following it. There were so many isolated events that I kept scratching my head trying to determine the main plot. Maybe someone smarter than me would have an easier time enjoying it, or maybe it helps to watch the drama series it inspired before diving into the book. The main character is missing some of her memories, which contributes to some of the confusion and causes it to read a little like the movie Memento, which was also told out of order. Once I figured that out, it became easier to follow, but I still found it hard to grasp the main theme. It appears to be a dramatization of a toxic relationship between a prince and a princess along the lines of Frozen.
Goodbye, My Princess by Fei Wo Si Cun is a complex and challenging read that defies expectations. Despite its publication under a children's imprint, this book tackles mature themes and features a non-linear narrative that demands close attention. While the story's exploration of toxic relationships and the bond between Qu Xiaofeng and her bodyguard A'du are compelling, the book's convoluted structure and isolated events may deter some readers. Ultimately, Goodbye, My Princess is a book that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to piece together its fragmented narrative.
The first thing that threw me off about this book is that it is published by Simon & Schuster's Children's Publishing, which led me to believe that it would be a quick and easy read. It is neither of those things. Although there are no explicit scenes, I do not think this book is appropriate for children due to the complexity and maturity of the content, which includes elements like forced abortion, innuendo, and assassination attempts. I even hesitate to say it's appropriate for a high school audience. Goodbye, My Princess is quite long and difficult to get through. Most of its chapters stretch over 50 pages, which makes it hard to find a stopping point or catch up across multiple devices. Although the translation is accurate, the story is told out of order, and it is not always clear what point in time is being narrated, which left me scratching my head trying to put the pieces together.
Qu Xiaofeng is a princess trapped in a loveless marriage alliance with a prince named Li Chengyin. The book does not follow the current fantasy trope of postmarital love and instead leans toward infidelity. The book references Chengyin's concubines and two potential love interests for Xiaofeng outside of her marriage, but neither of those relationships go in a romantic direction. The most interesting character in the book is A'du, Xiaofeng's mute bodyguard and best friend who would give up her life for the princess in a heartbeat. Xiaofeng is every bit as protective of A'du as A'du is of her. Their relationship was the strongest and most interesting in the book even though it was not based on romance.
Although this book is not poorly written, I had a hard time following it. There were so many isolated events that I kept scratching my head trying to determine the main plot. Maybe someone smarter than me would have an easier time enjoying it, or maybe it helps to watch the drama series it inspired before diving into the book. The main character is missing some of her memories, which contributes to some of the confusion and causes it to read a little like the movie Memento, which was also told out of order. Once I figured that out, it became easier to follow, but I still found it hard to grasp the main theme. It appears to be a dramatization of a toxic relationship between a prince and a princess along the lines of Frozen.
Goodbye, My Princess by Fei Wo Si Cun is a complex and challenging read that defies expectations. Despite its publication under a children's imprint, this book tackles mature themes and features a non-linear narrative that demands close attention. While the story's exploration of toxic relationships and the bond between Qu Xiaofeng and her bodyguard A'du are compelling, the book's convoluted structure and isolated events may deter some readers. Ultimately, Goodbye, My Princess is a book that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to piece together its fragmented narrative.
August 3, 2025
inhaled this. once shoes begin to drop and the story begins moving it is RELENTLESS. so much melodrama and yearning, it’s devastating. empathized and pitied every single character, chinese autocracy is a SHAM let my characters embrace LOVE
March 5, 2025
[ 4.5/5 stars ]
Xiaofeng is a true-to-herself and naïve bride who once lived freely in the desert kingdom of Xiliang, until she encounters Li Chengyin, an ill-tempered and ruthless crown princess of the Li Empire. From then on, their lives are connected by an unbreakable fate.
Having watched the TV adaptation 東宮, I was curious to see how the 55-episode Chinese drama would be translated into the pages - firstly, the non-chronological plot becomes an enticing element that easily grabs one's attention. Told from a first person perspective (Xiaofeng), the reader follows the female character living amidst the game of power, a plethora of manipulation that dominates Chinese monarchy and leaves her with complicated feelings most of the time. Just like the translator's note that allows a deeper glimpse into the Chinese history, the position of the crown prince and his relationship with the crown is often doomed, which is accurately highlighted by the author, who is masterful at crafting a narrative laden with political intrigue and scheming, exposing a routine manifestation of the crown prince world.
"There are so many things I want to do but can't, and so many things I don't want to do but must."
This (love) story is devastating to say the least, the emotions heightened by a confident prose that feels cinematic. Through a fast-paced plot (I flew by the 500+ pages), Fei ultimately shows the way power takes away warmth and even humanity. The River Oblivion, which waters wash away memories of love, is both the magical and tragic element, one that will leave any heart scattered. The bonus episodes with different POVs (except from Xiaofeng) can mean a journey of hope and healing, and at the same time, it's a wishful thinking that buries one deeper into the sorrow.
'忘川之水，在於忘情' (The River Oblivion washes all love away)
GOODBYE, MY PRINCESS (tr. Tianshu) will make one miserable, even the most heartless. This book exposes the complex relationship between power, love and fate and it will find its way into one's heart. It doesn't disappoint however prepare your heart first.
[ I received an ARC from the publisher - Simon Teen . All opinions are my own ]
Xiaofeng is a true-to-herself and naïve bride who once lived freely in the desert kingdom of Xiliang, until she encounters Li Chengyin, an ill-tempered and ruthless crown princess of the Li Empire. From then on, their lives are connected by an unbreakable fate.
Having watched the TV adaptation 東宮, I was curious to see how the 55-episode Chinese drama would be translated into the pages - firstly, the non-chronological plot becomes an enticing element that easily grabs one's attention. Told from a first person perspective (Xiaofeng), the reader follows the female character living amidst the game of power, a plethora of manipulation that dominates Chinese monarchy and leaves her with complicated feelings most of the time. Just like the translator's note that allows a deeper glimpse into the Chinese history, the position of the crown prince and his relationship with the crown is often doomed, which is accurately highlighted by the author, who is masterful at crafting a narrative laden with political intrigue and scheming, exposing a routine manifestation of the crown prince world.
"There are so many things I want to do but can't, and so many things I don't want to do but must."
This (love) story is devastating to say the least, the emotions heightened by a confident prose that feels cinematic. Through a fast-paced plot (I flew by the 500+ pages), Fei ultimately shows the way power takes away warmth and even humanity. The River Oblivion, which waters wash away memories of love, is both the magical and tragic element, one that will leave any heart scattered. The bonus episodes with different POVs (except from Xiaofeng) can mean a journey of hope and healing, and at the same time, it's a wishful thinking that buries one deeper into the sorrow.
'忘川之水，在於忘情' (The River Oblivion washes all love away)
GOODBYE, MY PRINCESS (tr. Tianshu) will make one miserable, even the most heartless. This book exposes the complex relationship between power, love and fate and it will find its way into one's heart. It doesn't disappoint however prepare your heart first.
[ I received an ARC from the publisher - Simon Teen . All opinions are my own ]
June 18, 2025
This actually broke my heart because what do you mean!!!!
The male lead, Li Chengyin is genuinely so toxic and such a red flag but I was lowkey rooting for him? What’s wrong with me?? Whenever he gave Qu Xiaofeng the tiniest glance, I was hoping there’d be some chemistry and I was let down 99% of the time.
Also, it was kind of hard to follow considering it went back and forth between timelines. It would’ve been an easier read if it was a natural progression of Qu Xiaofeng’s life instead of starting at a point where she is married to Li Chengyin. However, starting randomly and going back and forth made it seem like we, the reader, were Qu Xiaofeng since she was just as disoriented and confused as we were. So I’ll give creativity points for that.
And Qu Xiaofeng, this poor girl!!! She went through so much trauma, so much heartbreak, and was still the kindest soul in the entire book. She deserved so much better.
I didn’t realize there was a C-Drama about this one so I started watching it in the middle of the book and started realizing more and understanding more. I would highly suggest watching the drama in order to navigate how the book is intended because more things started making sense after watching it.
The male lead, Li Chengyin is genuinely so toxic and such a red flag but I was lowkey rooting for him? What’s wrong with me?? Whenever he gave Qu Xiaofeng the tiniest glance, I was hoping there’d be some chemistry and I was let down 99% of the time.
Also, it was kind of hard to follow considering it went back and forth between timelines. It would’ve been an easier read if it was a natural progression of Qu Xiaofeng’s life instead of starting at a point where she is married to Li Chengyin. However, starting randomly and going back and forth made it seem like we, the reader, were Qu Xiaofeng since she was just as disoriented and confused as we were. So I’ll give creativity points for that.
And Qu Xiaofeng, this poor girl!!! She went through so much trauma, so much heartbreak, and was still the kindest soul in the entire book. She deserved so much better.
I didn’t realize there was a C-Drama about this one so I started watching it in the middle of the book and started realizing more and understanding more. I would highly suggest watching the drama in order to navigate how the book is intended because more things started making sense after watching it.
July 20, 2025
I’ve never seen the show inspired by this book but if it’s as devastating as this was, no thanks!!
Talk about a romantic tragedy, my chest HURTS
I received an arc of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Talk about a romantic tragedy, my chest HURTS
I received an arc of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2025
the concept reminded me of eternal sunshine of the spotless mind and that made it all the more tragic. the dialogue and tension between the characters was so well written and intriguing. loved and hated every second of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2025
i remember crying watching this drama several years ago, and i certainly did shed some more tears reading this book.
the translation was also done super well, so props to them
the translation was also done super well, so props to them
June 20, 2025
5
thank you to Simon Teen for the e-ARC and physical arc!
this book truly wrecked me. the mood is historical romance and mystery to start with, but it becomes more and more tragic with time. our FMC is upbeat and lively, which makes her situation seem less pitiable than it actually is, but there are moments where she really acknowledges her grief and loneliness. the background mystery is really intriguing, helping carry the story through when it’s otherwise just depressing.
the ending….. enormously satisfying but heartbreaking. in so many ways. and then the additional scenes add so much to the story.
the writing style is very lyrical and flowery, which really complements the tragic but mysterious plotline. I enjoyed reading the prose enormously, so compliments to the author and translator!
all in all, a wonderful read that left me distraught in the best way.
thank you to Simon Teen for the e-ARC and physical arc!
this book truly wrecked me. the mood is historical romance and mystery to start with, but it becomes more and more tragic with time. our FMC is upbeat and lively, which makes her situation seem less pitiable than it actually is, but there are moments where she really acknowledges her grief and loneliness. the background mystery is really intriguing, helping carry the story through when it’s otherwise just depressing.
the ending….. enormously satisfying but heartbreaking. in so many ways. and then the additional scenes add so much to the story.
the writing style is very lyrical and flowery, which really complements the tragic but mysterious plotline. I enjoyed reading the prose enormously, so compliments to the author and translator!
all in all, a wonderful read that left me distraught in the best way.
Read
January 3, 2026Devastating entrance to the new year
February 16, 2026
so silly but very enjoyable
November 29, 2025
Absolutely loved it even though it shattered my heart.
March 14, 2026
I wanted to get my heart crushed and this book delivered. 10/10 pain, do not read in public
July 2, 2025
"I fall into the water and sink.
The cold is like a knife, cutting my flesh from my bones, but I don’t struggle. I let myself fall into it, like an infant who longs to return to the womb, like a flower floating down to the earth it sprouted from. This, I know, is the most tranquil kind of return."
Hopefully, I shall write a proper review later.
The cold is like a knife, cutting my flesh from my bones, but I don’t struggle. I let myself fall into it, like an infant who longs to return to the womb, like a flower floating down to the earth it sprouted from. This, I know, is the most tranquil kind of return."
Hopefully, I shall write a proper review later.
December 14, 2025
God damn that was DEPRESSING . . . . I loved it!! Review to come! 👑
(FINAL REVIEW:)
[side note, I'm just now realizing that I never posted my review for this book and so I'm putting it here today, 6 months later to remedy it . . .]
Okay, I’ll go watch the C-drama now because god DAMN that was a tragedy of a book. I don’t like getting too personal on here, but I’ll admit that I never wanted to dive into C-dramas because it felt like I was feeding into the Western obsession with anything Eastern; and what I mean by this is “we like the aesthetics of the East, but don’t want to see the people as anything but glorified aesthetics.” Granted, this might have come from a rather terrified perspective of being instantly fetishized in New Mexico solely for my facial structure and being told that I was a disappointment as an Asian adoptee because of my “lack of interest” in my birth country/continent, and thus these non-Asian people felt like they needed to “educate” me on my Asian-ness. Because of all this, you’ll have to forgive me that I spent these last ten years approaching anything related to Asian media with a ten-foot pole and with a heavy dose of cynicism. So when I was told that this book inspired one of China’s most popular dramas, I felt the defensive-cynic-from-New-Mexico in me reemerge. Thankfully, it wasn’t out for very long because I loved this. 😮💨
The story follows Qu Xiaofeng, a happy and naive young woman in a hostile foreign court that wants nothing to do with her. I found her bubbly personality a wonderful contrast to the coldness that she was met with consistently in the Court of Spring. Her journey through the plot was filled with howling out loud laughter, gasps of disbelief, and utter astonishment from me because I couldn’t believe that someone like this could go through so much. And all of this revolves around her strained marriage with the crown prince, Li Chengyin. Their revealed history is as heartwarming as it is absolutely tragic in the sense that fate really does seem to have it out for them. I won’t reveal too much about their love and what happens in the story because the reader really should go through the whole rollercoaster with them to get the great sense of how utterly DEVASTATING their tale is. 😭
The added five short stories at the end of the story were little bonus thorns that were lovingly launched at the reader just for funsies. They go deeper into the story through the POVs of different characters from the plot and it just made Xiaofeng and Li Chengyin out to be an even more tragic pair than before. I liked that the author decided to add these into the English translation because they really helped set the tragedy up for even more pain. 🥲
In the end, while it took me a good 20% to get a grasp on what I was getting into and who was who, I still had a fantastic time reading this. I would definitely recommend this to those who don’t mind getting absolutely steamrolled by pain and suffering and love a good tragic tale. Thank you goes out to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for accepting my request to read this in exchange for an honest (and rather late) review; and to the author: thanks for making me laugh out loud all the while dying inside. ❤️
Publication Date: June 17!!
Overall: 4.75/5 ⭐️
(FINAL REVIEW:)
[side note, I'm just now realizing that I never posted my review for this book and so I'm putting it here today, 6 months later to remedy it . . .]
Okay, I’ll go watch the C-drama now because god DAMN that was a tragedy of a book. I don’t like getting too personal on here, but I’ll admit that I never wanted to dive into C-dramas because it felt like I was feeding into the Western obsession with anything Eastern; and what I mean by this is “we like the aesthetics of the East, but don’t want to see the people as anything but glorified aesthetics.” Granted, this might have come from a rather terrified perspective of being instantly fetishized in New Mexico solely for my facial structure and being told that I was a disappointment as an Asian adoptee because of my “lack of interest” in my birth country/continent, and thus these non-Asian people felt like they needed to “educate” me on my Asian-ness. Because of all this, you’ll have to forgive me that I spent these last ten years approaching anything related to Asian media with a ten-foot pole and with a heavy dose of cynicism. So when I was told that this book inspired one of China’s most popular dramas, I felt the defensive-cynic-from-New-Mexico in me reemerge. Thankfully, it wasn’t out for very long because I loved this. 😮💨
The story follows Qu Xiaofeng, a happy and naive young woman in a hostile foreign court that wants nothing to do with her. I found her bubbly personality a wonderful contrast to the coldness that she was met with consistently in the Court of Spring. Her journey through the plot was filled with howling out loud laughter, gasps of disbelief, and utter astonishment from me because I couldn’t believe that someone like this could go through so much. And all of this revolves around her strained marriage with the crown prince, Li Chengyin. Their revealed history is as heartwarming as it is absolutely tragic in the sense that fate really does seem to have it out for them. I won’t reveal too much about their love and what happens in the story because the reader really should go through the whole rollercoaster with them to get the great sense of how utterly DEVASTATING their tale is. 😭
The added five short stories at the end of the story were little bonus thorns that were lovingly launched at the reader just for funsies. They go deeper into the story through the POVs of different characters from the plot and it just made Xiaofeng and Li Chengyin out to be an even more tragic pair than before. I liked that the author decided to add these into the English translation because they really helped set the tragedy up for even more pain. 🥲
In the end, while it took me a good 20% to get a grasp on what I was getting into and who was who, I still had a fantastic time reading this. I would definitely recommend this to those who don’t mind getting absolutely steamrolled by pain and suffering and love a good tragic tale. Thank you goes out to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for accepting my request to read this in exchange for an honest (and rather late) review; and to the author: thanks for making me laugh out loud all the while dying inside. ❤️
Publication Date: June 17!!
Overall: 4.75/5 ⭐️
February 4, 2025
4.5 stars
I'm going to kill myself.
I'm going to kill myself.
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