3.75/5

Read in Mandarin. I wouldn’t have interpret the story via a political lens without reading the translator’s notes. So grateful for the background. The storyline is very soap operas-y and dramatic (based on the notes it’s inspired by Thai TV dramas). While the writing style is quite elegant and engaging. I love the juxtaposition of the plot vs writing, that makes the story compelling without making it overly sensational

I feel the interpretation of this tumultuous love story and its connection to Thailand’s politics and history would vary quite a bit depending on each reader. But if you’re up to a bit of a challenge (not reading wise but doing more research and background reading), this would be quite an original story!