Curious about the why are you obsessed with your fake wife manga? You’re likely intrigued by the title and wondering what drives the story’s central obsession. Many readers struggle to grasp the complex motivations behind the characters’ actions from just a summary.
‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’ is a fantasy romance manhwa where the protagonist, Nadia Valajit, is betrayed by her family and fiancé, leading to her death. She is then thrust back in time, where she decides to seek revenge by entering a contractual marriage with Marquis Glenn Winterpel, her family’s rival. The story explores her intricate revenge plot and Glenn’s developing obsession with his “fake” wife.
Based on a detailed analysis of the source material, this guide breaks down the core plot, character dynamics, and the psychological drivers of the obsession. You’ll discover exactly why this series masterfully combines strategic revenge with dark romance, covering the plot setup, character introductions, and thematic analysis systematically.
Key Facts
- Regression Fantasy Core: The story’s premise is built on “regression,” a popular trope where the protagonist travels back in time with future knowledge, getting a second chance at life and revenge.
- Strategic Contract Marriage: The central plot device is a “contract marriage,” which Nadia initiates not for love, but as a calculated move to gain power and a shield against her enemies.
- Obsessive Male Lead Archetype: The male lead, Glenn, perfectly embodies the “obsessive male lead” archetype, a significant draw for fans of the dark romance genre, as his feelings shift from cold indifference to intense possessiveness.
- Official English Publication: The official, legal English translation of the manhwa is published on the Tapas Media platform, providing a direct way for readers to support the original creators.
- Mature Content Warning: The series is consistently tagged as mature or NSFW (Not Safe For Work) due to its themes of psychological obsession, dark romance, and potential for explicit scenes, which is crucial information for reader discretion.
Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife? The Core Plot Explained
The manhwa ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’ is a fantasy romance story about a woman named Nadia, who travels back in time to get revenge on her family. To achieve her revenge, Nadia enters a contract marriage with Marquis Glenn Winterpel, an enemy of her family. The plot revolves around Nadia’s quest for revenge and Glenn’s unexpected and growing obsession with her.

The narrative begins with the ultimate betrayal. Nadia Valajit, our protagonist, has lost everything. Her own family and fiancé have conspired against her, leading to her unjust execution. Just as her life ends, she is given a second chance—an event known in the genre as “regression.” She wakes up in her own past, with all her memories of the future intact. This knowledge becomes her greatest weapon. Armed with the foreknowledge of her family’s treachery, Nadia crafts a meticulous plan for payback.
The core elements of the plot are:
* Betrayal and Regression: Nadia is executed after being betrayed by her loved ones, only to wake up in the past.
* A Quest for Revenge: Her primary motivation in this new life is to systematically dismantle the power of her corrupt family.
* The Contract Marriage: To gain the power and protection she needs, she proposes a marriage of convenience to her family’s rival, the powerful Marquis Glenn Winterpel.
* Developing Obsession: Glenn, who agrees to the marriage for his own reasons, finds himself unexpectedly and intensely drawn to his brilliant and cunning “fake” wife.
This setup creates a tense and engaging dynamic. Nadia must navigate a dangerous political landscape while hiding her true motives, all while dealing with a “husband” whose feelings are becoming dangerously real. But what happens when a marriage of convenience turns into a genuine, dangerous obsession?
What Is the “Regression” and “Revenge” Premise?
The story begins with Nadia Valajit being betrayed by her family and executed, after which she experiences “regression,” waking up in the past with her memories intact. This second chance allows her to use her knowledge of the future to orchestrate a revenge plan against those who wronged her. After being framed and killed by her fiancé and family in her first life, her “regression” isn’t just a magical plot device; it is the inciting incident that transforms her from a naive noblewoman into a determined strategist. This second chance at life fuels her singular goal: ensuring those who destroyed her face absolute ruin.
Why Does Nadia Marry Glenn Winterpel?
Nadia Valajit marries Glenn Winterpel as a strategic part of her revenge plot. Because Glenn and his family are rivals to her own, the marriage provides her with the power, protection, and social standing needed to move against her enemies. Nadia makes this a calculated move; she identifies Glenn, the “icy marquess to the north,” as the perfect ally because he is her family’s despised enemy. By marrying him, she not only gains a powerful shield but also positions herself perfectly to strike at the heart of the Valajit household. Glenn initially warns her, “You’d better not dream of being acknowledged as my wife,” setting the stage for their purely transactional relationship.
Who Are The Main Characters in ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’
The main characters in ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’ are Nadia Valajit and Glenn Winterpel. Nadia is the intelligent and determined female lead who seeks revenge after being betrayed. Glenn is the powerful and cold-hearted Marquess she marries as part of her plan.
- Nadia Valajit: The protagonist who goes back in time. She is a cunning and strategic “strong female lead” who initiates a contract marriage to get revenge on her treacherous family.
- Glenn Winterpel: The male lead and an “obsessive male lead” archetype. He is an icy, powerful Marquess who is initially cold to Nadia but develops a powerful obsession with her.
Who is Nadia Valajit? (The Strategic Female Lead)
Nadia Valajit is the protagonist of ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’. After being betrayed and regressing in time, she becomes a highly intelligent and strategic character focused on revenge. She is known for her proactive nature, using her knowledge of the future to manipulate events and protect herself. Unlike passive heroines, Nadia actively drives the plot forward. She is the one who proposes the marriage contract to Glenn, using it as a tool for her master plan. Her character is defined by her agency and intellect.
Her key traits include:
* Strategic: Every action she takes is a calculated step in her larger plan for revenge.
* Determined: Fueled by the pain of her past life, her resolve to bring down her enemies is unbreakable.
* Cunning: She expertly manipulates those around her, using her future knowledge to stay one step ahead.
* Independent: Nadia relies on her own wit and resources, proving herself to be a formidable force.
Who is Glenn Winterpel? (The Obsessive Male Lead)
Glenn Winterpel is the male lead, an icy and powerful Marquess who agrees to a contract marriage with Nadia. Though initially cold and distrustful, he develops a strong, possessive obsession with her as he witnesses her intelligence and loyalty, fitting the “obsessive male lead” archetype common in romance manhwa. Initially, Glenn is dismissive of Nadia, viewing their marriage as a mere political transaction. However, her competence and unexpected actions begin to break through his cold exterior.
This character often aligns with the “yandere” archetype—a term for a character who is intensely loving and devoted, but this devotion can manifest as dangerous possessiveness. His key traits are:
* Icy: At the start, he is emotionally distant and distrustful of everyone, including Nadia.
* Powerful: As a Marquess, he holds significant military and political power, which Nadia needs for her plans.
* Possessive: As his feelings grow, he becomes intensely protective and jealous, viewing Nadia as his to guard.
* Ultimately Devoted: Beneath the obsession, his actions are driven by a fierce desire to protect Nadia from all threats.
What Is the Real Reason for Glenn’s Obsession with Nadia?
Glenn’s obsession with Nadia in ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’ develops for three main reasons: her proven competence, her unexpected loyalty, and his own emotional isolation. Unlike others who have used or betrayed him, Nadia consistently acts in his best interest, solving problems and protecting his family. This unique display of loyalty from his “fake wife” breaks through his icy exterior, fostering a powerful and possessive attachment.
Let’s break down the psychological and narrative drivers behind his growing obsession.
- She Is Uniquely Competent
Glenn lives in a world of deceit and incompetence. He is used to dealing with enemies and inept allies. Nadia enters his life and immediately proves her value. She uses her future knowledge to expose traitors within his ranks, solve financial crises, and strategically outmaneuver their shared enemies. For a man like Glenn, who values strength and utility, Nadia’s competence is incredibly attractive and makes her an irreplaceable asset. She Offers Unconditional Loyalty
Even more than her competence, it is Nadia’s loyalty that truly captures Glenn. He agrees to a contract marriage expecting betrayal or, at best, selfish ambition. Instead, Nadia consistently protects his interests and his family, often at great personal risk. In a world where Glenn trusts no one, Nadia becomes the only person whose loyalty seems absolute. This unwavering support in the face of danger is something he has never experienced, and it becomes the foundation of his possessive feelings.He Is Emotionally Isolated and Traumatized
Glenn’s icy demeanor is a shield built from a history of betrayal and emotional neglect. He keeps everyone at a distance to avoid being hurt. Nadia is the first person to break through that barrier, not with affection, but with tangible proof of her worth and loyalty. For someone so emotionally starved, this connection becomes an anchor. His feelings morph into obsession because he cannot bear the thought of losing the one person who has proven to be truly on his side. Her presence fills a void he didn’t know how to address, leading to a powerful, possessive need to keep her safe and by his side at all costs.
Where Can You Read ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’ Online?
You can read the official English version of ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’ on the Tapas web comics platform. This is the legal and recommended way to read the series and support the creators. Unofficial translations are also available on various fan-run “scanlation” websites, but the quality and legality can vary.
To help you find it, here are the primary places to look as of 2026:
- Official Platform:
- Tapas Media: This is the home of the official English translation. Reading on Tapas ensures the author and artist are compensated for their work. New chapters are typically released on a weekly schedule.
- Unofficial Platforms:
- Scanlation Sites (e.g., Arenascans): Fan-run groups often translate chapters faster than official sources. Sites like Arenascans are popular for providing early access to new chapters. However, the translation quality can be inconsistent, and these sites operate in a legal gray area.
For new readers, it’s important to understand the difference. “Scanlations” are fan-made translations, while “official translations” are legally licensed and published. Supporting official releases helps ensure that more manhwa like this get translated in the future.
Is ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife’ Considered NSFW?
Yes, ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’ is typically considered a mature or NSFW (Not Safe For Work) manhwa. The series falls under the “dark romance” subgenre and explores themes of psychological obsession. While the level of explicit content can vary, readers should expect mature situations and themes not suitable for all ages.
The NSFW label is due to several factors inherent to the story’s genre and themes. Here is what to expect:
- Psychological Themes: The core of the story revolves around Glenn’s intense, possessive obsession, which is a mature psychological theme.
- Potential for Violence: Revenge plots and political intrigue often involve moments of violence.
- Romantic Scenes: As a romance, the relationship between Nadia and Glenn progresses into physically intimate territory. The explicitness of these scenes often warrants a mature rating.
The Bottom Line: Readers should approach this series with the expectation of adult themes. It is intended for a mature audience that enjoys darker, more complex romantic narratives.
What Are Some Manhwa Similar to ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’
If you like ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’, you should check out these similar manhwa:
* The Villainess Reverses the Hourglass: Features a strong female lead who travels back in time for revenge.
* Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion: A classic with a fake engagement and a cunning female lead.
* My In-Laws Are Obsessed With Me: Combines regression with marrying into a powerful, mysterious family.
* A Business Proposal: A modern take on the contract relationship trope with a focus on comedy.
For a more detailed comparison, here are some top recommendations based on the specific tropes you enjoy:
| Manhwa Title | Key Shared Trope | Why You’ll Like It |
|---|---|---|
| The Villainess Reverses the Hourglass | Regression, Revenge | Features a brilliant, calculating female lead executing a master plan for revenge. |
| Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion | Contract Relationship, Smart FL | A foundational series where the FL enters a fake engagement with a powerful Duke to survive. |
| My In-Laws Are Obsessed With Me | Regression, Marrying an Enemy | The FL regresses and marries into the family of her future killer to change her fate. |
| I Became the Wife of the Male Lead | Contract Marriage, Fantasy | A woman is transmigrated into a novel and enters a contract marriage with the obsessive male lead. |
FAQs About why are you obsessed with your fake wife manga
Is ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife’ completed?
As of early 2026, the manhwa adaptation is ongoing, with new chapters released weekly on platforms like Tapas. The original web novel that the manhwa is based on is completed. Readers who want to know the full story without waiting for the manhwa can seek out the novel version.
Is there a novel for ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife’?
Yes, the manhwa is an adaptation of a completed Korean web novel of the same name. The novel provides the complete story from beginning to end, including the final conclusion of Nadia and Glenn’s relationship. Many readers finish the novel after catching up with the ongoing manhwa.
How many chapters does the manhwa have?
The chapter count is constantly increasing as it is an ongoing series. As of early 2026, the official English release on Tapas is past 90 chapters, while unofficial scanlation sites may be further ahead, often exceeding 100 chapters. It’s best to check the reading platform directly for the most up-to-date chapter count.
Does Nadia get her revenge?
Yes, a central part of the plot is Nadia successfully executing her revenge plans against her family. Using her knowledge from her past life, she systematically dismantles her family’s power and exposes their corruption. Her strategic mind and determination are key factors in her quest for vengeance.
Who is the main villain?
The primary antagonists are the members of Nadia’s own family, the Valajits, and her former fiancé. They are the ones who betrayed and orchestrated her death in her first life. Throughout the story, she works to expose their crimes and bring them to justice for their actions.
Is ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife’ based on an Otome game?
No, it is not directly based on an Otome game, but it is set within the ‘Otome Isekai’ subgenre. This genre borrows many themes from otome games, such as having a strong female protagonist, multiple potential love interests (though Glenn is the clear male lead here), and a fantasy aristocratic setting.
Does Glenn know the marriage is fake?
Initially, Glenn is unaware that Nadia’s confession of love is a fabrication for her revenge plot. He is suspicious of her motives but takes her actions at face value. A key point of tension in the story is him slowly realizing that her feelings might not have been genuine at first, even as his own obsession grows.
Will there be an anime adaptation?
Currently, there has been no official announcement of an anime adaptation for ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife?’. While popular manhwa in the genre sometimes receive anime adaptations (like ‘Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion’), there is no confirmed news for this series at this time.
What does “NSFW” mean in the context of this manhwa?
NSFW stands for “Not Safe For Work” and indicates that the manhwa contains mature content. For this series, it refers to themes of psychological obsession, potential violence, and explicit romantic scenes. It serves as a warning that the content may not be suitable for younger readers or for viewing in public.
What is the relationship between Nadia and her ex-fiancé?
In her first life, Nadia was deeply in love with her fiancé, who ultimately betrayed her, leading to her death. After her regression, her love has turned to hatred, and he is one of the primary targets of her revenge. Their dynamic in the new timeline is one of animosity and strategic maneuvering on Nadia’s part.
Key Takeaways: ‘Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife’ Summary
- A Story of Strategic Revenge: The core plot is driven by Nadia Valajit’s regression in time and her calculated plan to marry Glenn Winterpel to exact revenge on the family that betrayed her.
- Obsession Born from Competence: Glenn’s obsession is not random; it develops because Nadia is the first person to show him unwavering loyalty and strategic competence, making her invaluable and, therefore, an object of his possessiveness.
- A Mature, NSFW Romance: The series is intended for a mature audience, falling under the “dark romance” subgenre and featuring psychological obsession and potentially explicit scenes.
- Read Officially on Tapas: The best way to support the author and artist is by reading the official English translation, which is serialized on the Tapas platform.
- Strong Genre Tropes: The story is a prime example of the popular Otome Isekai genre, masterfully blending “regression,” “contract marriage,” and the “obsessive male lead” tropes.
- Ongoing Manhwa, Completed Novel: While the full-color manhwa is still being released weekly, the original web novel is complete, offering a way for eager readers to discover the story’s conclusion.
Final Thoughts on Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife
Ultimately, Why Are You Obsessed With Your Fake Wife? stands out by delivering exactly what its title promises: a deep dive into an obsession born from a fake relationship. It successfully merges the thrill of a well-executed revenge plot with the intensity of a dark romance. The story’s appeal lies in the dynamic between a brilliant, proactive heroine and a powerful male lead whose cold exterior crumbles into possessive devotion. If you are a fan of strategic protagonists and complex, mature relationships set against a fantasy backdrop, this manhwa is a compelling read that explores the fascinating line between loyalty, value, and obsession.