Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on But I Fell in Love With You
"But I Fell in Love With You" is definitely a web novel that leaves a lasting impression, though whether that impression is positive or negative seems to depend heavily on individual taste and tolerance for dark themes. Overall, I found myself conflicted, drawn in by certain aspects while simultaneously repelled by others.
First Impressions
Initially, the story seemed like it might be a fairly standard, albeit steamy, romance with a bit of a yandere twist. However, it quickly became apparent that this was a much darker and more psychologically complex narrative than I anticipated. The tags are accurate: this is a mature story with abusive elements, so going in prepared is essential.
What Works Well
I have to commend the translator, Mari, for their excellent work and thoughtful inclusion of content warnings. This level of care greatly enhances the reading experience, especially given the sensitive nature of some scenes. I also appreciated that the female lead, despite the circumstances, has agency and a voice, which is a big plus in stories like these. Some readers found the plot engaging, beyond just the smut, and I can see the appeal in the story development. It's definitely not a cookie-cutter romance.
Areas of Concern
The biggest issue, for me, is the male lead's character. He's manipulative, obsessive, and at times, downright abusive. While the "yandere" tag prepares you for some of this, the extent of his actions and the lack of genuine remorse made it difficult to root for him, or even understand the relationship. I also found myself questioning some of the plot inconsistencies and character motivations, which detracted from my overall enjoyment. The ending, for some, felt rushed and unsatisfying, not providing enough resolution given the intense journey.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several readers have pointed out that the male lead orchestrates events that lead to a gang rape of the female lead. This is a major trigger and something to be aware of before diving in. Furthermore, the story involves elements of kidnapping, imprisonment, and non-consensual acts, which may be disturbing for some readers. The revelation of the ML's initial revenge plot and the extent of his control over the FL's life are also significant spoilers.
Final Verdict
"But I Fell in Love With You" is a challenging read that delves into dark themes and explores the complexities of obsession and manipulation. While some readers may find the intensity and mature content appealing, others may be put off by the abusive elements and lack of character growth. Proceed with caution, and be sure to check the content warnings before diving in. Ultimately, whether or not you'll enjoy this novel depends on your personal preferences and tolerance for morally grey characters and disturbing situations. I'd give it a tentative 3/5 stars – interesting, but definitely not for everyone.
