Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Don’t be So Proud
"Don't be So Proud" is a fun, fluffy read that I found myself enjoying despite some of its flaws. It’s a gender-bender romance with a touch of the supernatural, set against the backdrop of school life, and it definitely delivers on the cute and comedic aspects.
First Impressions
The initial chapters can be a bit overwhelming, throwing a bunch of characters at you at once. It took me a little while to sort everyone out, but once I did, the story flowed much more smoothly. The body swap premise is executed well, leading to plenty of hilarious situations as the leads navigate life in each other's shoes.
What Works Well
The core of the story, the relationship between the leads after the body swap, is where it really shines. I loved watching them learn about each other and compromise as they dealt with the consequences of their situation. The female lead, while a bit impulsive, is ultimately lovable and apologetic for her mistakes. The male lead, initially cold and aloof, gradually softens as he realizes his feelings for her. I appreciated that their romance developed at a believable pace, and I found their dynamic genuinely engaging. The author does a good job of making their interactions feel natural, even amidst the supernatural circumstances.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed the overall story, I can see why some readers might find certain aspects frustrating. The female lead can be a bit selfish at times, acting without considering the consequences for the male lead when she's in his body. This can lead to some cringeworthy moments where she jeopardizes his reputation. Additionally, the second male lead and his ambiguous relationship with the female lead were a bit of a drag for me. I found myself wanting her to move on already.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers might be invested in the female lead's initial crush on her childhood friend. However, I felt that the story handled his realization of his feelings well, without resorting to excessive guilt-tripping or desperation.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Don't be So Proud" is a lighthearted and enjoyable read if you're looking for a fluffy romance with a unique twist. While the female lead's occasional selfishness and the second male lead's arc can be frustrating, the engaging dynamic between the main couple and the comedic situations arising from the body swap make it a worthwhile read. I'd recommend it if you're in the mood for something cute and not too serious.
