I've read the webtoon previously and so when I heard there were plans of releasing a novel, I knew I had to read it. As it is a webtoon-adaptation, the plot wasn't really that different but the structure and pacing don't really follow the format of a traditional novel. This can be a bit jarring for those who are used to the typical fantasy books. The world building is detailed and engaging. Though this time around, I didn't really connect with the heroine. Ultimately, I feel that the story is better suited as a webtoon than a novel.

I’ve heard SO many great things about this webtoon, I was so excited to read and receive the ARC for this book! (I don’t have the patience to wait for each webtoon episode.)
I do enjoy the tropes in this book and did enjoy the overall story line. The pacing is a bit off for a book. At the same time, I know this is an adaptation of the webtoon so that’s most likely the reason why. This book was more of Lady Maximilian’s life after Riftan returns as a celebrated hero and her learning to push herself to try and do more things. There isn’t one huge overarching conflict, more of a slice of life storytelling.

Book: 3.5
Spice: 2.5
romance, forced proximity, adult, chick lit

I have read this story both in novel and in graphic novel form. The story is a great one. I enjoyed watching Maxi grow into her own and build her power from the meek timid girl she is to the true ruler she deserves to be. Her and Riftan's relationship might not be perfect but it is sweet and beautiful to watch them unfold into each other as they get to really know each other.

I grabbed this up because I loved the Manta version. This adaption was good but it felt like it left things out.
Also remember to check your triggers because this isn't a fluff romance.

Lady Maximillian has been spent most of her life hidden away because of her stutter. Her father Duke Croyso believes her speech impediment could tarnish their noble name. So he marries her off to the low-born knight Sir Riftan. They meet on their wedding day, his gruff manner makes her nervous and when he leaves without a word the next morning, she wonders what it all means for their marriage.

Three years later, her husband is returning home as a war hero. She's heard rumors that he's been offered marriage to Princess Agnes, but he still wants Maxi. When he arrives to claim her, she is overwhelmed by the desire she feels for her husband.

As she settles into her new life, she is overcome by her new duties, learning to run a household as she goes.

Thanks so much to the author and the publishers for this ARC to review.

This was so different from anything I've ever read. It started out rough, and didn't seem to get any better. The cover is beautiful and very misleading.

I absolutely adored this!!! I couldn't help but relate a little to Max. For the way she felt. Always questioning herself and things happening around her. I just couldn't put this down!

As someone who read the webtoon version of Under the Oak Tree, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of reading the story as a novel. I feel that the novel was a better match for providing richer, more in-depth characters and plot. I do think it could have benefited from having some tip-in art from the webtoon.

Although this was a novel, this book did not follow the typical novel format, specifically having an overarching climax. The story rhythm was steady and lacked the traditional story structure that had one big plot twist at the end. It fits with the story’s original format, which was the webtoon so I did not mind.

I would say fans of webtoons would enjoy this book, however if you are coming in from a fantasy novel background, there are some adjustments that you might need to get through. The romance is a little insta-lovey and if you are not a fan of miscommunication, you would not enjoy this book. However, if you are looking for a tender romance where the main couple is devoted to each other, I would definitely give this one a try.

I loved this Webtoon so obviously I was going to love the book version. I did miss seeing the characters visibly but I was able to use my imagination

Under the Oak Tree: Volume 1 by Suji Kim is a beautifully written and emotionally rich fantasy novel that immediately drew me in. This first volume of the series has everything I love—magic, complex characters, and an intriguing plot with plenty of twists and turns.

The story follows the main character, Max, who is forced to confront her fears and grow in a world filled with danger and magic. The way Suji Kim develops her character is incredible. Max starts as someone who's vulnerable and hesitant, but through her journey, she becomes much stronger, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way. The way the author delves into her inner turmoil and growth made her journey feel very personal and relatable, despite the fantastical setting.

The romance in this book is also wonderfully done. It's slow-burning and filled with tension, and I loved how it developed naturally alongside the plot. The interactions between Max and the other key characters had me both frustrated and hopeful, which made their chemistry feel real and engaging. I appreciated how the romantic relationship wasn't rushed, allowing it to unfold gradually and without feeling forced.

The world-building is another highlight. The setting is vivid and full of magic, and the author does a great job of describing the landscapes and intricate details of the world. It’s a magical world that feels rich with history, and I can’t wait to learn more as the series progresses.

Overall, Under the Oak Tree: Volume 1 is a fantastic read for fans of fantasy and romance. The book had a perfect blend of heart and adventure, with a touch of mystery that left me wanting more. I’m definitely excited to continue the series and see where the characters go next.

Absolutely loved this, I’m a fan of the webcomic series so when I saw this I knew I had to read the source material for one of my favourites. I loved every page and was sad when it ended as I need more, can’t wait to read the next book and will be buying this in a physical copy to keep and preordering the next

Unfortunately, this book was not for me and I really struggled through it. I had seen the art for the webcomic off and on which is stunning. That and the premise of the story made me really want to pick this book up. Strangely and VERY unfortunately, this book opens with a rape scene (at the very best it's on the line between noncon and dubcon) and I had no idea that would be the case. I am not someone who believes that's something that can be redeemed later in the story if those are the characters that are meant to be happy and in love by the end. Even if that was the case, the MMC is nothing but rude and assuming throughout the entire book and never thinks his wife who doesn't know him and is a virgin and 1/3 of his size might be scared??? Or have some trauma from her terrible family. He doesn't try to get to know her at all and it made this book SUCH a hard read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC.

I really enjoyed the premise of this story, at the end of volume one I felt like we are complete, but that there is still something unfinished so I can’t wait to get to Volume 2…

I’ve read the web comic of this so I was aware of the the events that went on in the book, but this gave so much more substance to what I was missing, and it made it so much better, I loved it!!!!

I thought this was very good and I will have to add this to the shop shelves. Thank you for the chance for us to review.

I went into this one blind, however I don’t think this story was for me. I didn’t realize it’s based off manga and I felt disconnected to the FMC and her motivations. Perhaps if I had a background with the comic I would have had more of a connection to the story.

This is a great story however the FMC is exceptionally naive and terrified of all men at the start of the story. This gives a great sexual awakening perspective but it also has a rough start. The explicit scenes are explicit and that includes the first scene that feels extremely grapey.

# Under the Oak Tree, Vol. 1
# 1/5/2025 ~ 1/7/2025
# 4.0 / 5.0

I received an advanced reader copy of this book quite a while ago and just got around to reading it). I can confidently say that I am definitely NOT the target audience for this book. I had heard of the manga before but manga generally is not something I am interested in either, though there seemed to be a large fan base for this one so I went in hoping to find perhaps a new genre I’d like, but unfortunately, did not.

The main reason I did not like this book was because I just did not resonate with the main character at all. She was extremely unlikable and very much “manic pixie dream girl” but without the quirky and eccentric personality traits that are often redeeming qualities so she did not even have that going for her. While I understand that a lot of her issues stem from her abusive childhood/father, it’s like she didn’t want to get better because losing her naive and innocent front would leave her with as much personality as a cardboard box.

Her husband was also just very middle of the road as we mostly saw him ravishing her any chance he got and only learned about his life and past from other characters sharing anecdotes.

I hope the fans of the original manga/webtoon enjoy this, but I do not think I will be containing with the rest of the volumes when they are released.

This book completely captivated me from start to finish. Under the Oak Tree is an emotional, slow-burn romance with rich world-building, complex characters, and just the right amount of angst. Maxi’s journey from an isolated, insecure noblewoman to someone learning to stand on her own is incredibly compelling. Her struggles, fears, and moments of quiet strength make her such a relatable protagonist.

And then there’s Riftan—intense, brooding, and utterly devoted. The tension between them is delicious, filled with misunderstandings, yearning, and some seriously swoon-worthy moments. (And yes, the smut? Absolutely top-tier.)

Beyond the romance, the novel offers a well-developed medieval fantasy setting with magic, politics, and monster-hunting. Some info-dumping occurs, but it never felt overwhelming. The story is immersive, and I was completely invested in Maxi and Riftan’s relationship, their growth, and the obstacles they face.

This is a must-read for fans of romantasy with deep emotional beats, passionate romance, and a heroine finding her own strength. I’ll be impatiently waiting for the next volume!

I went into this knowing absolutely nothing about it. Please, be aware of the content warnings if anything may trigger you. I enjoyed the ease of the writing and was surprised by how quickly I got through it. The most disappointing thing about this is that it ended. I want to find out what happens next. I had many tears throughout and it left me thinking at the end.

Non-Spoiler Review of Under The Oak Tree – The novel- volume One

Full disclosure, I read through the web comic on Manta before reading this novel. I was already madly in love with this story. I heard rumors the actual web novel was even better however I never got to reading it. When I saw, this was coming to a physical copy, my heart was so excited.
Under the oak tree is a Korean romantasy novel about Maximilian and Riftan.
Be ready for Riftan to become your new book boyfriend.
Maximillian is the daughter of a powerful duke in the kingdom. Her father is always sceaming for more control and more power than what he has. Maxi struggles with her speech and is shy and mild mannered. She is not what her father deems as a noble lady.
Riftan is a peasant born knight. He has a gruff exterior and is intimidating on the battle field.
Maxis father offers her up to the night in an arranged marriage for one of his latest schemes. They are married and the next day he goes off to fight in another war. Maxi does not see her husband for three years. Rumors went around the kingdom that marriage was talked about between Riftian and a beautiful sorceress, who is also a princess. To her surprise he returns to the kingdom to claim her as his wife.
The story really starts here where Riftan takes Maxi away from her family home to her new home with her husband she knows very little about.
Maxi meets new challenges along the way, ones she never thought she would be able to handle. She starts to find herself as well as grow in the most amazing ways.
What will become of the stuttering dukes daughter and the rugged monster fighting knight ? Ill leave you to find out.
Be aware that this is an adult novel and not suitable for children.

- Additional Note: The physical book is absolutely stunning! The art is worthy to hang on your walls and showcase, the sprayed edges are beautiful!

Thank you Net Galley and Random House Publishing Group for this copy read and give my honest review.