So I saw the first few chapters of the manga and the plot seemed interesting so I just gave the LN a read. The plot is quite the typical one but it has an interesting hook so I gave it a read. To be fair though the romance progressed at light speed. From the first moment itself Hugo is head over heels for Melza. At least for Melza who has the ability to discern lies it kind of makes sense to find the honest Hugo attractive and all. Tbh I don't really hate it but it doesn't have much to offer. I liked the plot pointsof Hugo's scummy father using brainwashing magic to keep him in line cause otherwise Hugo's naive desire to to loved by his tr*sh family wouldn't make sense after receiving so much ab*se. Hugo's plans for revenge aren't much expanded upon or even mapped out. Most of the story is happening in the background while Hugo and Melza gush about each other. Honestly this is more of a romance fluffy than a political intrigue revenge.
Most antagonists are cardboard cutouts with barely two braincells to rub together. So yeah this is more of a popcorn read.
Overall 2.8/5 rounded to 3 cause the setting had potential