Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on I Am a Salted Fish in Ancient Times
I Am a Salted Fish in Ancient Times is a web novel that truly surprised me. Going in, I expected a typical transmigration story with palace intrigue. What I found was a cleverly written tale with well-developed characters and unexpected twists. It's a story about family, trust, and finding happiness on your own terms.
First Impressions
The title itself is a great hook. The premise of a protagonist trying to be a "salted fish," or an idler, in a historical setting immediately intrigued me. While the beginning is fairly slow-paced, it quickly establishes the complex relationships within the imperial family and the mysteries surrounding the protagonist, Xiao Shan. I was immediately drawn into the world and eager to see how Xiao Shan would navigate the treacherous waters of court politics.
What Works Well
The characters are definitely a highlight. Xiao Shan, in particular, is a refreshing protagonist. He's intelligent and cunning, but his primary goal is to avoid conflict and live a peaceful life. This contrasts nicely with the ambitious and often ruthless members of the royal family. The relationships between the brothers, especially Xiao Shan and the Crown Prince, are heartwarming and complex. Their unwavering trust in each other, even when others try to sow discord, is a recurring theme that I really appreciated.
The plot is also well-crafted, with several unexpected twists that kept me guessing. The author does a great job of balancing the comedic elements with the more serious political drama. The romance between Xiao Shan and Xie Zhui is sweet and supportive, and their relationship plays a significant role in the overall story. What is great is that the author has a great grasp on the characters and does not force-feed the reader any romance but instead lets it happen naturally. I found myself genuinely invested in their happiness.
Areas of Concern
While I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, I can see how some readers might find the slow pace frustrating, especially in the beginning. Also, some may not like that the MC does not use his previous knowledge to change history like some other novels. But I think that makes the story realistic because it shows that he does not have the "Google" ability to invent things.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, let's talk about some of the big reveals! The truth about Xiao Shan's parentage and the baby swap was a major plot twist that I didn't see coming. The reveal of who caused the MC and ML to be forced together in marriage. It added another layer of complexity to the already intricate family dynamics.
Final Verdict
Overall, I Am a Salted Fish in Ancient Times is a delightful and engaging read. The well-developed characters, intricate plot, and unexpected twists make it a standout in the historical romance genre. If you're looking for a story that balances humor, drama, and heartwarming relationships, I highly recommend giving this novel a try. I give it a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars.
