Qin Dai, a workaholic who worked herself to death, transmigrates into the most honored woman in the Great Yong Dynasty: the old lady of the Duke of Anguo’s household.
With no father, no husband, and no children, and an adopted son who is the emperor, she’s the ancient equivalent of having the ultimate retirement.
In this life, she swears she’ll do only three things: eat, sleep, and enjoy her retirement.
Until she sees:
Her legitimate granddaughter being manipulated and still thanking her tormentor? Her eldest legitimate grandson being scolded and bowing in apology? Her illegitimate grandsons fighting like a pair of black-eyed roosters?
Qin Dai’s fists clench. The younger generation of this marquis’s household has absolutely no self-respect!
Since she has nothing better to do, she might as well start a class.
Later:
Her rigid eldest grandson becomes a rising star in the judiciary. “Grandmother says the rules are dead, but people are alive!”
Her insecure illegitimate grandson becomes the richest man in the land. “Grandmother taught me what she calls a ‘blue ocean strategy.’”
Her timid cousin’s daughter writes novels that take the whole country by storm. “The old lady told me to love myself first.”
Even the young emperor on the throne sneaks over to ask, “Madam, how do I set up performance reviews?”
The capital’s powerful families go mad. “What kind of crooked tricks has the old lady of the Qin family been teaching them?!”
Qin Dai cradles her teacup, modestly concealing her achievements.
“Nothing much. Just teaching them how to live without caring what anyone thinks.”
And, while she’s at it, punching a hole through this rotten world.
Reading guide:
1. No romance, a strong female lead, focused on career and personal growth. A love story? The old lady says, “Get away from me.”
2. A lighthearted power fantasy: watch a retired powerhouse use modern thinking to “reform” the ancient workplace (and family).
3. An ensemble coming-of-age story. Every child has a bright future ahead (and a talent for stirring up trouble).
