Daughter of the emperor vol 1 by YunSul

Adapted and illustrated by RINO

Ariadna was murdered in her previous life and awakens as the daughter of a tyrannical emperor in another world. She still retains all of her memories but can’t speak. Her father means to kill her just like he has all his other children, but because she doesn’t cry out when he seizes her throat, he spares her life out of curiosity. Over time, Ari learns more about her father, how he became emperor at a young age and systematically began conquering other kingdoms; how he keeps princesses and other noble ladies in a harem but disposed of them easily; and how ruthless he can be to everyone except Ari. She also finds another person with supernatural abilities who can read her mind and hear the adult thoughts she has as she’s trapped inside a baby’s body.

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At first glance, it's really hard to find anything redeeming about the Emperor, but as he warms up to Ari in later chapters, he starts to expose a softer side to himself. He puts up a brave front and constantly vocalizes how he doesn't like her, but he's very protective and visits Ari every day to make sure she is healthy and has everything she needs. In this first volume, his softness doesn't affect his rule at all, but it will be interesting to see how he changes as a ruler because of his love for his daughter - will he start to appreciate human life outside of his own family, or will he become more tyrannical in an effort to keep her as safe as possible?

The character design and costume illustration in this volume are a high point. Everything is beautifully detailed and the coloring is vibrant and luxurious. I can't wait until some of that exquisite detail is used on Ari's dresses when she gets older.

Ari often fights with her adult self in her mind because her father is an attractive person, so that kind of tension makes this better suited for older readers.

Sara's Rating: 8/10
Suitability Level: Grades 9-12

Publisher: Yen Press
Publication Date: July 12, 2022
ISBN: 9781975340926 (Paperback)

​Tags: Rating: 8/10, ​Suitability: High School, Manhwa, Family, Fantasy, Romance, Yen Press