Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Agreement of Being Gay for 30 Days
"Agreement of Being Gay for 30 Days" is a completed novel that I dove into with a mix of curiosity and trepidation, given the range of opinions surrounding it. It promises a comedic and romantic journey, but does it deliver? Here's my take.
First Impressions
The premise itself – two straight guys enacting a fake gay relationship for revenge – is undeniably quirky. I was immediately intrigued by the potential for humorous situations and the classic enemies-to-lovers trope. I found the initial chapters amusing, particularly the rivalry and bickering between the main characters. I could see the seeds of something heartwarming being planted, but I also sensed the potential for things to go off the rails.
What Works Well
The novel shines in its lightheartedness and overall fluff. Many readers, like myself, found the comedic banter genuinely funny, and the gradual development of the main characters' relationship enjoyable. There's a certain sweetness to their interactions as they navigate the complexities of their fake relationship, slowly realizing their feelings for each other. I appreciated the focus on their burgeoning chemistry and the "happenstance" moments that drew them closer. The plot is light and easy to follow, making it a great choice for a casual read or a palate cleanser between heavier stories. I also liked that the characters weren't weak and they were able to face the problems that they encountered.
Areas of Concern
Despite its strengths, the novel has some notable weaknesses. The most prominent issue I noticed was the reliance on stereotypes and tropes, particularly the "gong/shou" dynamic. While some might find this amusing, I felt it was overdone and occasionally uncomfortable. The constant use of "shou shou" as a nickname felt disrespectful and grating, and I felt like the ML's personality was lost as his character became a stereotypical gong. I also found the central conceit of two straight guys falling in love within a month to be a bit rushed and unnatural, even within the context of a lighthearted story. I can see how the plot is quite cliché with its misunderstandings, jealousy, and the MC going away to Taiwan to forget.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some reviewers mentioned a four-year time skip that felt abrupt and jarring. There's also a scene where the ML goes out with another girl, which understandably angered some readers.
Final Verdict
"Agreement of Being Gay for 30 Days" is a mixed bag. If you're looking for a fluffy, comedic read with a light plot and aren't too bothered by clichés, you might enjoy it. However, if you're sensitive to stereotypes or prefer more nuanced character development, this novel might not be for you. Ultimately, I'd recommend approaching it with tempered expectations and a willingness to overlook its flaws in favor of its lighter moments. I think I would give it a 3.5 out of 5.
