“Materialistic Princess” is one of the most intriguing and polarizing manhwas to grace the fantasy romance genre. From its bold title to its unapologetic protagonist, the story dares to tread where others don’t—into the glittering, dangerous world of royal power, luxury, manipulation, and emotional rebirth. What makes it even more addictive is the unpredictable plot, where love doesn’t follow tradition, and every character has something to hide.
If you’re the kind of reader who loves spoilers or wants to know whether it’s worth diving in, this is your ultimate guide. Buckle up — because things in “Materialistic Princess” are anything but simple.
The Premise: More Than Just Gold and Gowns
At first glance, the story might seem like your standard historical romance. A beautiful noblewoman, known for her obsession with wealth and luxury, seeks a good marriage, preferably one that comes with gold-plated everything. But there’s more to her than what meets the eye.
Princess Elizabeth, the titular “Materialistic Princess,” is no shallow heiress. Her obsession with riches is more of a survival mechanism — a clever mask she wears in a ruthless court full of betrayal, misogyny, and manipulation. After a traumatic past life (yes, there’s reincarnation!), Elizabeth decides that love is a lie and power is everything. And what better way to wield power than through wealth?
Spoiler Alert: The Reincarnation Plot Twist
In a major early twist, we learn that Elizabeth was reincarnated. In her previous life, she was a modest noblewoman who believed in love. Tragically, she was used and discarded by the very people she trusted most — a cruel fiancé, a toxic “best friend,” and a backstabbing family.
Now reborn as a high-ranking royal with beauty, intelligence, and access to the imperial treasury, Elizabeth vows to never be poor, powerless, or in love again. Her new mantra? Use the world before it uses you.
Spoiler #1: The Real Reason She’s After Wealth
One of the most emotional twists is the reveal that Elizabeth’s desire for money isn’t greed — it’s protection. In her past life, she was left to rot in poverty after being framed for treason. With no resources or allies, she died a lonely, painful death.
In this life, every coin she collects, every luxurious dress she wears, and every extravagant request she makes is part of a calculated plan: to build her safety net. She’s buying her independence, not just indulging.
This realization flips the narrative on its head. The “materialistic” label is more of a critique of societal expectations than a flaw of the character herself.
Spoiler #2: Her Cold Persona Is an Act
Though Elizabeth seems like a ruthless social climber, we start to see cracks in her icy facade. Small moments — comforting a servant, defending another woman from being mistreated, or secretly helping a struggling family — show us that she hasn’t lost her empathy. She’s just terrified of being vulnerable.
This duality makes her one of the most compelling female leads in modern fantasy manhwa. She’s layered, morally gray, and utterly fascinating.
Spoiler #3: The Prince Who Falls for Her
Enter Crown Prince Lionel — your classic tall, dark, and emotionally complicated male lead. At first, he dismisses Elizabeth as a shallow gold-digger. But slowly, her sharp wit, unwavering confidence, and inner strength start to get under his skin.
What makes their romance unique is that she doesn’t want it, at least not at first. Elizabeth sees love as a trap, and Lionel, despite being a powerful prince, is still a man who could ruin her plans. But the more she resists, the more he pursues her—not out of dominance, but out of genuine admiration.
The slow burn between them is both deliciously frustrating and incredibly rewarding.
Spoiler #4: The Other Suitors — and Their Dark Secrets
It wouldn’t be a royal drama without a few more suitors in the mix. Elizabeth, being politically savvy, uses them to her advantage. But don’t be fooled — some of them aren’t just noble dandies with flowers. They have agendas.
Duke Rowan, for instance, appears gallant and charming, but his interest in Elizabeth is tied to her financial assets and royal blood. He hides a sinister motive, and his eventual betrayal is one of the most heart-wrenching moments in the story.
Meanwhile, Sir Adrien, a knight from a fallen noble house, actually falls for Elizabeth’s true self. He sees her for who she is, not what she’s pretending to be. Their bond is tender, but she’s hesitant to trust anyone — and for good reason.
Spoiler #5: The Court Politics Get Deadly
One of the strongest parts of “Materialistic Princess” is its court intrigue. The palace isn’t just about pretty dresses and suitors — it’s a chessboard, and everyone is playing a long game.
Elizabeth’s rise in the palace earns her enemies. Nobles who see her as a threat spread vicious rumors, while the queen dowager views her as a rival. At one point, Elizabeth is even framed for attempting to poison the crown prince — a move that nearly gets her executed.
Thankfully, her cunning and a few loyal allies help her prove her innocence. But this moment changes everything. She realizes she can’t simply buy safety — she needs to control the board.
Spoiler #6: A Secret Sister?
In a mid-arc bombshell, it’s revealed that Elizabeth might not be the only daughter of her royal house. An illegitimate sister, raised in secret by a mistress, enters the political scene. And she’s got a chip on her shoulder.
This twist introduces another layer of drama — sibling rivalry, hidden inheritance rights, and a possible succession war. Elizabeth, who already has trust issues, must decide whether to embrace her half-sister or treat her as a threat.
Let’s just say the sister has her skeletons in the closet.
Spoiler #7: The Past Comes Back — Literally
In a surprising fantasy twist, Elizabeth’s memories of her past life begin to change. As the story progresses, she starts recalling new details — including the fact that someone in this life was also present in her previous one.
The man who betrayed her in her past life may have been reincarnated, too — and he’s closer than she thinks. This sends her spiraling into paranoia. Who can she trust?
This mystery subplot adds tension and forces Elizabeth to confront her deepest wounds. Closure won’t come easily — and revenge may not be as satisfying as she hoped.
Spoiler #8: She Chooses Herself First
Unlike many romance-driven stories, “Materialistic Princess” makes a bold move: Elizabeth doesn’t immediately end up with anyone. Even when the prince confesses, even when her knight offers to run away with her, she hesitates.
Why? Because for once, she’s choosing herself. After lifetimes of manipulation, heartbreak, and survival, Elizabeth wants to breathe — to be her person before belonging to someone else.
This decision shocked many fans but was widely praised for its feminist undertones. It’s a reminder that love isn’t the only prize a woman can win.
Spoiler #9: The Ending (So Far…)
As of the latest chapters, Elizabeth has solidified her power in court. She’s not yet queen, but she has undeniable influence over policy, the economy, and even military decisions. Her enemies are wary, her suitors more desperate than ever, and her people beginning to admire her strength.
However, the story hints that bigger threats are on the horizon — foreign invaders, an ancient prophecy involving the royal bloodline, and a magical artifact tied to her reincarnation.
The final arc may reveal not only the mystery of her second life but also test everything she’s built. Will she hold on to her power — or fall again, this time with even more at stake?
Final Thoughts
“Materialistic Princess” is more than just a pretty face in the fantasy genre. It’s a gritty, emotional, and surprisingly deep story about resilience, self-worth, and female empowerment. Elizabeth may chase luxury, but she does so for reasons that resonate with anyone who’s ever been burned and learned to protect themselves.
The plot twists are layered, the characters are morally complex, and the romance, when it does bloom, feels earned. If you love stories where the heroine fights the world on her terms, with a touch of diamonds and danger, this one’s for you.
So yes, call her materialistic. But don’t forget — she’s also a queen in the making.
