Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Ex-Husband’s Call
"Ex-Husband's Call" promised a fluffy, humorous romance, and for the most part, it delivered. The premise alone – a divorced couple rediscovering each other – was enough to pique my interest. While it wasn't without its flaws, I found myself charmed by the central relationship and the overall lighthearted tone.
First Impressions
The initial setup is intriguing: Tong Qiu, a teacher, and Huo Zhixing, a policeman, divorce after a year of marriage, citing incompatibility. However, the real issue is their failure to communicate and show their true selves. Tong Qiu feels suffocated by the facade of being the "perfect" husband, while Huo Zhixing, initially attracted to Tong Qiu's polished image, doesn't realize the strain it puts on him. The story kicks off as they navigate life post-divorce, and the sparks begin to fly as they drop the pretense.
What Works Well
The best part of "Ex-Husband's Call" is the dynamic between the main characters after their divorce. It felt like a fresh start, allowing them to explore their personalities and desires without the pressure of maintaining an image. I particularly enjoyed the humor, especially the contrast between Tong Qiu's refined "teacher" persona and his more mischievous, even slightly perverse, true self. Huo Zhixing's character development was also well done. He sheds his reserved demeanor and embraces a more playful and seductive side, making their interactions much more engaging. The side characters added to the overall charm, with their own quirks and contributions to the comedic atmosphere.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed the story, some aspects did bother me. The lack of initial communication between Tong Qiu and Huo Zhixing felt contrived at times, especially given Tong Qiu's profession as a teacher, where communication is key. It was a common criticism that Tong Qiu should have tried to communicate more instead of opting for divorce. I also found some of the plot points, like the wedding suit/dress scene, to be a bit cringey and reliant on stereotypes. The insertion of a criminal investigation subplot felt unnecessary and detracted from the central romance.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers may dislike that Tong Qiu is attracted to ML mainly to his uniform fetish and ML's sexual prowess.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "Ex-Husband's Call" is a fun and heartwarming read. It's a story about second chances, embracing your true self, and the importance of communication in a relationship. If you're looking for a lighthearted romance with mature characters and a touch of humor, this novel is worth checking out. I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
