The title of Betrothed to My Sister’s Ex may, at first, make it sound like a reality show. But the truth is far, far sweeter. This summer anime series is a royal romance based on the light novel of the same name. It’s a Cinderella story, but it’s also so much more. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet and uplifting this summer, this may just be the show for you.
Join us as we introduce you to the adorable couple that is Marie and Kyros. One is the put-upon daughter of a minor noble, and the other is a smitten count who would do anything to make her happy. Together, they’re brightening up the summer anime season.
An Adorable Couple
Naturally, the centerpiece of Betrothed to My Sister’s Ex is the couple themselves. Marie Shaderan is the the younger daughter of a poor baron, living in the shadow of her elder sister Anastasia. Anastasia herself is lovely, but their parents treat the red-headed Marie like a servant. She’s even elbowed out of the limelight at her own birthday party as the family seeks out suitors for Anastasia. But Count Kyros sees Marie despite all attempts to hide her.
This connection makes it all the more surprising when Kyros requests Anastasia’s hand in marriage. But when Anastasia tragically dies in a carriage crash on her way to palace, Marie must go in her place. Little do her parents know that Marie was always the one Kyros had his eye on!
Justice for Marie
Understandably, losing good free labor upsets Marie’s parents quite a bit. And while Betrothed to My Sister’s Ex puts plenty of focus on the burgeoning romance at its center, it also addresses other issues. Sadly, Marie’s parents aren’t the only ones who look down on her. Early on, a pair of maids make it their hobby to shame her every step of the way. But never fear: their time torturing her is short, and their fate demonstrates what happens to people who cross Kyros.
Sadly, Marie was made to believe she was unattractive, from her overall appearance to her behavior to her love of learning. Her new environment isn’t just about helping her realize she’s pretty or giving her nice things. (Though that’s definitely part of it.) Surrounded by people who value her, Marie has a chance to shine. Kyros’s mother gives Marie plenty of chances to expand and demonstrate her vast intelligence. She’s appreciated, not exploited: a new feeling for her.
Further Intrigue
Betrothed to My Sister’s Ex has a very full cast, including Kyros’s head maid Mio. This seemingly stoic servant has layers. She’s dedicated to ensuring Marie learns to value herself, and she keeps Kyros in line. But when she sniffs out strange goings-on in the Shaderan household, she goes full detective.
As the series progresses, the circumstances surrounding it become ever murkier. What’s really going on with the Shaderans? How did they treat Marie before she met Kyros? And, most surprising of all, is Anastasia really dead? As Kyros and Marie grow closer, the mysteries around the edges of their story grow deeper.
Betrothed to My Sister’s Ex is now streaming on Crunchyroll.
The title of Betrothed to My Sister’s Ex may, at first, make it sound like a reality show. But the truth is far, far sweeter. This summer anime series is a royal romance based on the light novel of the same name. It’s a Cinderella story, but it’s also so much more. And if you’re in… Otaku USA Magazine