Reviews for How to Win My Husband Over
Back to MangaI recommend this to those who have the patience to witness characters evolve, for this narrative reflects the most human of traits—mistakes, learning, and the passage of time are all painstakingly portrayed. Within this work, nothing is different. The romance is poignant; the protagonist endures significant trials but also experiences moments of pure joy and deeply moving emotions that are truly rewarding. But... I fail to comprehend! Truly, I cannot fathom those who do not recommend this Manwha! It stands as one of the finest, if not the very first masterpiece I encountered upon delving into the Manwha genre. The artistry is exceptional, the strokes sublime, leaving onespeechless; the characters are stunningly portrayed.
If you didn't like Izek, here's a message for you:
Patience is key with this man. I understand those who judge him, but let's remember that each character harbors personal motives and ideals that have shaped them into who they are today. Whether they evolve, change, or become better people, we can only discern through reading. Not every story begins with the protagonist being virtuous.
I really appreciate how this story deals with trauma. it feels rare to find a isekai romance story where the character has a past trauma that is still actively affecting them throughout the storyline. The fact that it comes up multiple times throughout the story instead of just a one-off scene to make it feel dramatic is something I think is really cool. Ruby's struggles don't go over looked and help build up her character to make her feel fully developed. Maybe I'v just read to many bad isekai storys, but I think its pretty good and feels unique in its delivery.
I felt the other review didn't really do this story much justice so wanted to add some thoughts. Keep in mind, I've only read what is translated of the manhwa so far, and it's based on a novel that is still being translated as well, I enjoyed this story enough I would read the novel - and honestly would probably enjoy it more. I do agree that the story is pretty mid at face value, though I loved all the repressed anger from the FL. Seeing her hold everything in and struggle to keep from boiling over at points kept me reading! Obviously, this is anisekai romance, so it has your pretty typical isekai characteristics; doesn't pay much attention to settings, world building, side plots etc. It focuses pretty heavily on the main characters. This may be different in the novel - as this manhwa has stock backgrounds and whatnot.
The characters are fairly decent. You are meant to dislike the male lead initially due to his very cold-duke-of-the-north type persona, but give him time. FL is pretty average, though she has some inner demons that I have yet to come across in similar stories. I really liked her backstory and felt for her a lot, I found myself cheering her on whenever she broke her innocent girl façade. As far as the other characters, I think the male lead's sister is pretty well done and interesting, as well as the antagonist (though you don't know too much about them yet in the manhwa)
The one thing I will say about the FL is she is always getting into trouble/hurt/needing rescuing, which is something I've grown particularly tired of, but it's sort of to be expected with these stories. If that's something that really bothers you, you may not like this one.
The art is very nice! It's pretty typical of the genre, and the backgrounds don't get too much love, but I found the main characters to be pleasing to look at.
I can't say much else until it finishes, but I'd say it does stand out above some others in the genre - but not quite super unique thus the 7 "good" rating from me. Overall I would recommend to those that love the genre!
I have read a lot of historical Isekai manhwa and this started off the same as your average Isekai/villainess combo. What's different about this one is probably how the characters where written. I know there are some people who despised the FL for being "weak" but I would like to debunk this. Ruby has been through a lot. Imagine getting abused by her family both in her real world and the novel that she's in right now, do you think it's easy for her to feel fine after that? I think the way she reacts to things is how a human who has been through alot of trauma would react. It's not weakness, she's just human.
Idk this isn't really a review but just me defending Ruby from those comments. I was really forcing myself not to cry while reading the panels on how she was abused and how she was slowly starting to open herself up thanks to her heaven sent husband who was kinda a jerk at first but totally redeemed himself at the latest chapters.
Honestly instead of directing such comments to Ruby just curse the hell out of that fricking Caesar. Might've spelt his name wrong, but do I look like I care? Anywayssss, I thought no one could surpass my hatred with Trashta but then here come that abuser taking her throne.
I think the author is trying to tell us that "Don't let looks deceive you" because that guy is an ABSOLUTE HORRENDOUS MONSTER THAT NEEDS TO BE BANISHED FROM THIS WORLD.
Okay that's it, in summary... Artstyle is a 10. Characters is a 10. Plot is good. I recommend it. I gave it a 9 because of Caesar.
It's a good manhwa, but some things bother me. Overall, it's a great read so far! TL;DR at the end. (Contains spoilers) I saw another reader point this out in the comment section of this manhwa, where they said that she continuously goes through the same things, etc. and is saved by the male lead, Iske, in the end. This is true, but it has made the characters in the manhwa realise many things, as as include opportunities for a romantic moment and a dilemma. Secondly, she trips way too often. I know it's normal to stumble or be clumsy now and then, but the author usesthis way too often. There are multiple illustrations of her tripping often, which would probably be over ten times (no exaggeration at all). I feel like the writer could've used something else to build a closer bond between the FL and the ML, but I can tell that these moments were only meant to slightly contribute to their relationship and intend for them to build their way up.
Our antagonist, Freya, is quite interesting. She is an antagonist who will hide herself from others. Usually, in romance manhwas, the antagonist will reveal herself quite early into the plot. However, this one was different. I'm pretty pleased with how the author created Freya as well as her personality, it's different from other manhwas that I've read.
Adding on to the dark side of the story, the author does not forget to include the De Borgia family. We see a chapter now and then including Cesare, Rudbeckia's elder brother. This reminds us of a number of events that will happen in the later chapters that will involve him, just like a warning. I would say the author's writing techniques are quite average, but this gives a nice addition to the story.
I would recommend this manhwa to anyone who enjoys a romantic plot! It includes a historical setting and sweet romantic moments, with a sprinkle of magic. A bit of everything for the readers!
TL;DR - The plot is quite repetitive at times, but slowly gets better. Would recommend it for romance lovers!
I can't possibly express how much I love this. It's by far my favorite read (not limited to this genre), the character development dumbfounds me, especially the main character's. Infinite/10 would recommend to everyone, just be careful with the trigger warnings (even though there's abuse and other topics here, not one of them is romanticized. They're all addressed respectfully and as bad as they are!) And I think what makes the story even more heartbreaking is that some of the main characters are based on real people! The Borgia family existed, and the worst of all, Cesare too. The mere thought of that makes my stomachhurt. I can only hope there was someone like Izek too...
Really, just go read it. Stop judging it by what people say, because the amount of people I've heard complaining about Ruby and calling her a weak MC is infuriating, she's literally one of the emotionally strongest MCs I know.
How to Win My Husband Over is one of those rare manhwa that sneaks up on you emotionally. What starts as a survival story set in a cold, calculated world slowly transforms into a powerful tale of healing, resilience, and love that’s earned, not given freely. The story follows Ruby de Borgia, a young woman who’s faced more cruelty than most people could bear. Branded by her past and married off to Izek, a powerful knight of the Holy Empire, her journey begins not with love, but with fear and the desire to simply survive. Watching Ruby navigate a new life where she’s seen as anoutsider, enduring emotional isolation and misunderstanding, is heart wrenching. And yet, her strength shines in the quiet moments, the times when she continues to try, despite everything.
What really makes this story special is the slow and deeply satisfying evolution of her relationship with Izek. He’s cold at first, distant, and emotionally unavailable, but never truly cruel. As the story progresses, you get to see how Ruby’s sincerity, courage, and vulnerability begin to chip away at his walls. Watching him soften, protect her, and slowly fall in love without even realizing it is such a rewarding experience. It’s not rushed, it takes time, and that’s what makes it feel real.
The writing is thoughtful, and the emotional pacing is masterful. There’s political intrigue, palace dynamics, and external threats, but the core of the story is always Ruby’s emotional growth and the way she reclaims her self worth.
The artwork is stunning, rich, elegant, and expressive, especially in moments of emotional tension or quiet affection. Every panel feels like it was crafted with care.
If you love stories where love grows from broken beginnings, where characters actually develop, and where romance feels earned through trust and time, How to Win My Husband Over is an unforgettable read. It’s a story of survival, yes, but more than that, it’s a story of hope.
Screaming, Crying, Throwing up!! I ADORED this manhwa!~ So, i'm typically a VERY impatient person...hehe... Anyways... because of that fact, i like to stay away from slow-burns since i really can't stand them (っ- ‸ - ς) BUT!! This was one of the only slow burns i've actually enjoyed and appreciated! I love how well-rounded the characters are too! They have a bit of everything which i love~ The art is BEAUTIFULL, unique way of dealing with PTSD, character development is CHEFF'S KISS, very heart-warming story, and i ADORE! Overall, i see it as a very enjoyable story for many types of readers! Also LOVEhow it brings out the hard times someone has as a mental patient! 1000% Recommend<𝟑✦︎
Read one chapter. Saw the name "Borgia" and references to the Pope. Flashbacks to theology class. I begin sobbing and reciting the Pater Noster. I will never escape the Catholic Church. Help me. The art is pretty good. The plot and characters and blatantly stolen from 15th century European politics. Which is fine. Retellings are fine. Maybe what the Papal States really needed was one isekaied mc to romance away generations of political strife. Maybe an Italo-Spanish noblewoman (daughter of the pope????) can marry an English knight and it helps ease tensions between noble families. Fine. Sure. But I can't enjoy it because I love Europeanhistory and every page there's some reference that breaks me and suddenly I'm reading a book on Pope Alexander VI and slavery.
I'm 35 chapters in now and it's really average. Good art, mid plot, it just doesn't feel like it's doing anything new with the historical isekai romance genre. The tropes feel kinda tired. The only exciting thing is the rage it inspires within me when I see the Pope commit nepotism. All the characters are heretics and sinners which is fine I just am weird about this.
I would recommend this if you're into the history of the Southern European Renaissance. Otherwise, yeah you can read it but it's the same as any other comics like it. Doesn't stick with you. I could not pick the characters out of a lineup of other characters. Generic. Maybe read as a time filler if you're bored, but no special enjoyment was gained from me.