Description
Inspired by the timeless charm of Pride and Prejudice, this captivating historical romance unfolds in Korea during an era of strict censorship, forbidden literature, and unexpected love.
Haewon, the second daughter of a struggling family, has always understood what society expects of her: secure a good marriage and improve her circumstances. Yet her true passion lies elsewhere. To help support her family, she secretly earns money copying banned books by hand, risking severe punishment in a time when literature is heavily controlled. The work is dangerous, but it allows her to immerse herself in stories she loves—especially those written by the mysterious author known only as Black Lotus.
When her older sister begins a courtship with a wealthy young man, Haewon reluctantly agrees to accompany the pair during their meetings. Unfortunately, this also means spending time with the gentleman’s reserved and frustratingly proper friend, a man who immediately gets under her skin.
Seojun, heir to a respected noble family, lives under the weight of expectations. He is supposed to embody honor, prestige, and responsibility—not indulge in activities considered frivolous or inappropriate for someone of his status. Yet Seojun harbors a secret passion: he writes fiction. Hidden from his family and friends, his stories provide an escape from the pressures surrounding him. The encouragement he receives from an anonymous transcriber known as Magpie has become one of the few bright spots in his life.
When Seojun finds himself serving as chaperone to his lovestruck friend, he is less than thrilled to discover that he must spend time with Haewon, whose sharp opinions and quick judgments constantly challenge him. But as circumstances continue to bring them together, both begin to realize that first impressions can be deceiving.
Against a backdrop of forbidden books, hidden identities, and social expectations, Haewon and Seojun must navigate growing feelings that neither anticipated. What begins as mutual irritation gradually develops into something far more meaningful, forcing them to question everything they thought they knew about each other—and themselves.
Filled with romance, wit, and heartfelt emotion, this enchanting novel celebrates the power of stories, the courage to defy expectations, and the possibility of finding love where you least expect it.
Behind Five Willows
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