My Happy Marriage

by Akumi Agitogi

Genres: Fantasy, Light Novels, Romance
Pages: 180
Series: My Happy Marriage #1
Rating:

Synopsis:

IS THIS MARRIAGE A BLESSING? OR A CURSE? Born talentless to a noble family famous for their supernatural abilities, Miyo Saimori is forced into an existence of servitude by her abusive stepmother. When Miyo finally comes of marriageable age, though, her hopes of being whisked away to a better life crumble after she discovers her fiancé’s identity: Kiyoka Kudou, a commander apparently so cold and cruel that his previous would-be brides all fled within three days of their engagements. With no home to return to, Miyo resigns herself to her fate-and soon finds that her pale and beautiful husband-to-be is anything but the monster she expected. As they slowly open their hearts to each other, both realize the other may be their chance at finding true love and happiness.

Akumi Agitogi’s My Happy Marriage basically begins as a Cinderella-type story: since her parents’ arranged marriage ended with her mother’s death, and her lack of magic powers was revealed, Miyo has become a servant in her own home, abused by her mother and sisters. It becomes convenient for her father to marry her off, so she’s sent to Kiyoka Kudou as a potential bride. Living with him, she slowly begins to wish she could stay, while knowing she’s not really a suitable bride.

Her shyness and anxiety is pretty well-done, as is Kiyoka’s slow realisation that he’s becoming fond of her — his coldness at first is revealed to be shyness, lack of understanding of how to handle other people (or at least women), and tiredness of being forced to play the marriage game. I think the pace is a little quick, but it’s lovely to see them both come out of their shells, and I did believe in Miyo’s quick attachment to one of the few people to ever treat her kindly.

The fantasy backdrop is interesting too, with gifts running in families which help to combat Grotesqueries, creatures made of human fears and superstitions. Kiyoka is a high-ranking soldier who handles Grotesqueries, and the hereditary nature of the powers provide some political/social motivation to Miyo’s family and other interested parties.

I’m interested to see where it goes, particularly as I think it’s being hinted that Miyo does have some kind of gift.

Rating: 3/5