A review by revengelyne
Under the Oak Tree: Volume 1 (The Novel) by Suji Kim

adventurous
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 
"The first moment I saw you, I knew you would ruin me."


Oh my! I did not realize that the webtoon had a light novel. I love these type of novels because a lot of the webtoons. while great if they don't have a light novel. seem to be missing something or something has changed within it. This is why I am happy when I can find the ones I love the most.

Set during the Medieval Age when the Roemian Empire had fallen, Lady Maxillian is the eldest daughter of the Duke of Croyso and is seen as less than perfect in her father's eyes. Her stammering makes her so disgusting to her father that he often, not only compares her to her younger sister but uses the excuse to verbally and physically abuse her.

Because of this, Maxi's self-esteem is often at its low. She has even asked why Riftan agree to her as his wife, rather than her darling sister.

There is a lot of miscommunication between them. For example: when he arrives to take her back to his fortress, he believes that she rather have lived here in the house with her father than go to a home she didn't want. This is far, far from the truth. She had no idea that her duty to her husband would include her going to his home.

Some moments led me to believe that Riftan fell first. At the wedding or sometime during the consummation of their marriage. He dotes on her when they go home, but Maxi's esteem is so low that she believes he was meant to marry the princess.

Again, there is a lack of communication. I am pretty sure that there are probably more but I am going to have to restart reading the manhwa again.

As for their character development, it is slow and I am okay with that. I want to see Maxi grow into her role as Riftan's wife and the lady of the fortress. She has proven herself once in this book. So, I am hoping to see more later.