Who Stole The Empress

"Who Stole The Empress" by Lee Jihye tells the story of Empress Roselyn, abandoned by the Emperor in the snow due to her perceived ugliness stemming from her wounds. With no family, friends, or desires left, she resigns herself to death. However, her fate takes a turn when Tamon Krasis, an enemy general, discovers her and, struck by her willingness to die, claims her as his own. He rescues her from certain death, declaring, "You are mine now, Empress." The narrative explores themes of betrayal, past trauma, and the complex relationship that develops between the abandoned Empress and the enemy general who steals her away, leading to an enemies-to-lovers dynamic. The novel features an apathetic protagonist, aristocratic settings, and touches on themes of cruelty and disabilities. While acknowledging frequent intimate scenes early on that transition to plot development, the story offers character growth for the main couple and a revenge-driven plot.