Sigh, I didn't anticipate how much of a letdown this novel would be, and unfortunately, the last 20 chapters completely ruined it for me. I'd rate it a 3.5 out of 5. Despite my overall score, most of the story was enjoyable, thanks to the author's prowess, which was evident.
The omegaverse setting was creatively handled, with a crucial distinction between alphas and omegas, reflecting a stark power imbalance. The idea that alphas, particularly S-classes, wield immense influence through pheromone manipulation and can oppress others, especially weaker omegas, is chilling, making the protagonist's struggle for survival all the more intense.
The writing style was commendable, and the first half delivered well, with plenty of angst and emotional depth. Shen Dai's character, his unrequited love, and the struggles he faced in his fake marriage resonated with readers. He was a strong, caring, and intelligent protagonist, and his interactions with QiuQiu were heartwarming.
However, the main issue lies with Qu Moyu. Despite being familiar with this type of character from other books by the same author and within the Asian BL genre, Qu Moyu's unlikability and lack of genuine redemption stood out. While some novels can pull off a non-preferred resolution, this one felt rushed, particularly after Chapter 100. Shen Dai's sudden change of heart towards Qu Moyu, including forgetting about his child, was implausible and frustrating, undermining the emotional journey.
The ending was another disappointment, as it failed to provide the dynamic shift I usually seek in SQC pairings. Shen Dai didn't seem to have gained any power or agency, but rather remained submissive throughout. The repetition of Shen Dai getting pregnant again, despite his clear objections, was infuriating, given his consistent concerns about the issue.
In summary, while the author has a talent for eliciting strong emotions, the disappointing ending, especially with its focus on Qu Moyu's negative actions and Shen Dai's lack of agency, led to my lower rating. If the story had taken a slower pace and avoided those key plot points, I might have given it a higher score.