Miss Cousin Wants to Become a Monk

My Thoughts on Miss Cousin Wants to Become a Monk

"Miss Cousin Wants to Become a Monk" promised a unique premise, and while it delivered on some fronts, it stumbled in others. Overall, I found it to be a mixed bag with moments of brilliance overshadowed by frustrating tropes.

First Impressions

The initial chapters were definitely intriguing. The idea of a reborn protagonist, Xie Miao, determined to renounce worldly desires and become a nun after a disappointing marriage hooked me immediately. Her past life with her cousin, Cui Mu Li, was filled with unrequited love and indifference, so her desire for a peaceful, solitary life felt justified and compelling. I was ready to root for her on her spiritual journey.

What Works Well

The character development, at least initially, was a strong point. Xie Miao's resolve to leave secular life was admirable, and her interactions with the two male leads – her stoic cousin Cui Mu Li and the initially rude Zhou Nian Nan – were often hilarious. The political backdrop added depth, and I appreciated the absence of typical backstabbing concubines and scheming relatives. The author created a world that felt grounded and engaging, with a compelling female lead that had agency over her life, even if she ended up not making the choices I wanted.

Areas of Concern

However, the novel falters as it progresses. Xie Miao's unwavering determination to become a nun slowly eroded, replaced by a frustrating back-and-forth with the male leads. The "wife-chasing crematorium" trope, where Cui Mu Li suddenly becomes infatuated with her after she rejects him, felt contrived. Many readers, including myself, were disappointed that Xie Miao's initial goal was ultimately abandoned, and the way she ended up in a relationship she didn't actively choose felt like a betrayal of her character. The ending felt rushed and unearned, leaving a sour taste in my mouth.

⚠️ Spoiler Warning

Several reviewers express disappointment with the ending, where Xie Miao is essentially forced into marriage with Cui Mu Li despite her repeated desire to become a nun. Some felt that the love triangle was resolved poorly, and that the second male lead, Zhou Nian Nan, was more deserving of her affections. Others felt that the main male lead, Cui Mu Li, only started to care for her once she stopped fawning over him, making his affections feel shallow and ego-driven.

Final Verdict

"Miss Cousin Wants to Become a Monk" is a flawed but ultimately engaging read. While the premise is unique and the initial character development strong, the novel succumbs to frustrating tropes and a disappointing resolution. If you enjoy historical romance with a determined female lead and a love triangle, you might find something to enjoy here. However, be prepared for the possibility that the "monk" in the title is more of a suggestion than a promise. I'd give it a tentative 3 out of 5 stars.