Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on CEO Above, Me Below
"CEO Above, Me Below" is... a lot. Going in, I knew it would be a rollercoaster, but I wasn't quite prepared for the loops and drops. This novel definitely isn't for the faint of heart, and I feel the need to preface my review with that warning.
First Impressions
My first impression, based on the early chapters, was pretty jarring. The male lead's actions are… questionable, to put it mildly. He's forceful, controlling, and his behavior definitely crosses lines. I immediately understood the initial low ratings from some readers who understandably dropped the story early on. The premise itself, with the CEO's obsessive pursuit of the female lead, is a bit of a red flag, and the execution in the beginning is definitely rough.
What Works Well
Despite the initial shock, I can see why some readers stick with it. The plot, though twisted, is undeniably engaging. There's a dark, almost gothic, allure to the story. The mystery surrounding the female lead's past and the CEO's motivations definitely kept me turning the page, even when I wanted to look away. Some readers have compared it to a dark "Beauty and the Beast" retelling, and I can see that. The male lead is definitely a "beast," and the female lead's ability to see something beyond his rough exterior is a key part of the story's appeal for some.
Areas of Concern
The biggest issue, and one that I can't ignore, is the male lead's abusive behavior. While some readers find his "yandere" tendencies appealing, many others (myself included) found his actions disturbing and difficult to stomach. The question of whether the female lead's eventual feelings for him are genuine or a result of Stockholm syndrome is a valid one, and it's something that readers will need to grapple with as they read. This is a mature story, and it deals with some very dark themes.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, here be dragons! Several reviewers mentioned plot points that could be considered spoilers. Apparently, there are some pretty wild developments later in the story, including a four-year time skip, a bizarre training arc for the male lead, and some truly strange plot twists. I won't go into detail, but be warned that things get even more complicated (and potentially more problematic) as the story progresses.
Final Verdict
"CEO Above, Me Below" is a controversial novel that will likely elicit strong reactions. It's not a light or fluffy read, and it deals with some very dark and potentially triggering themes. If you're looking for a sweet romance, this isn't it. However, if you're drawn to morally ambiguous characters, complex plots, and a story that pushes boundaries, you might find something to appreciate here. Just proceed with caution and be prepared for a bumpy ride. For me, it's a tentative 3/5. It's not a story I can wholeheartedly recommend, but I can acknowledge its unique (and often disturbing) appeal.
