Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Xiao Jiu
"Xiao Jiu" was a surprisingly emotional rollercoaster for such a short novel. I went in expecting a light and fluffy read, and while there are definitely sweet moments, I was also reaching for the tissues more than once. It's a testament to the author's skill that they managed to pack so much depth into just 25 chapters.
First Impressions
Initially, I was drawn in by the promise of a cute and devoted protagonist. Xiao Jiu is undeniably lovable – innocent, honest, and completely smitten with his elder brother's bodyguard. The unrequited love aspect definitely tugged at my heartstrings from the beginning. I was immediately invested in seeing how their relationship would unfold.
What Works Well
The biggest strength of "Xiao Jiu" is its ability to evoke strong emotions. The author does a fantastic job of portraying Xiao Jiu's feelings, making you truly feel his longing and devotion. The pacing is also well-managed, with the story unfolding at a rate that feels both satisfying and never rushed. The smut scenes, when they arrive, feel organic to the story and well-written. I also appreciated the palace intrigue that added another layer to the romance.
Areas of Concern
My main issue lies with the ending. I felt a strong sense of injustice that the Emperor, who is portrayed as a complete jerk, never truly faced any consequences for his actions. It left me feeling unsatisfied and wanting more resolution. Also, the character development felt a little rushed. I wish the author had spent more time exploring the characters.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Don't read further if you don't want spoilers!
Several readers have pointed out the Emperor's lack of comeuppance, and I wholeheartedly agree. It's frustrating that he gets away with his terrible behavior. Also, I noticed some readers were initially suspicious of Yan Heng (the ML), fearing he might betray Xiao Jiu. While that wasn't the case, the potential for betrayal definitely adds to the story's tension.
Final Verdict
Despite my reservations about the ending, "Xiao Jiu" is a worthwhile read, especially if you enjoy stories with unrequited love, palace intrigue, and a healthy dose of sweetness. The translation is excellent, making it easy to get lost in the story. Just be prepared for some angst along the way, and maybe keep a box of tissues handy! Overall, I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
