Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on First Love × First Love
I finally dove into "First Love × First Love," a josei romance that's been on my radar for a while, especially since its sequel seems to be making waves. Being a sucker for a good first love story, I was eager to see what this one had to offer.
First Impressions
The premise is simple: a first love story set against a modern backdrop, with the added spice of some mature content. I was immediately drawn in by the promise of a heartfelt romance, and the "bookworm" tag definitely piqued my interest, as I always enjoy characters who are passionate about literature.
What Works Well
What I appreciated most about "First Love × First Love" was its focus on the emotional ramifications of the characters' actions. The story explores the consequences of being distant or cold to someone you care about, which is a refreshing take on the usual josei romance tropes. The author manages to create a realistic portrayal of how misunderstandings and unspoken feelings can impact a relationship. The R-18 tag is there, but the story is more than just that - it actually delves into the characters' emotions.
Areas of Concern
One aspect that felt a bit off was the sudden revelation of Shion's feelings. The way he was told, rather than realizing it himself, felt somewhat inorganic and lacked the build-up that would have made it more impactful. It would have been nice to see his understanding of his feelings develop more naturally through his interactions and experiences.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, here's where things get a bit spoilery, so tread carefully! From what I gather, the story has an open ending that connects to a sequel where the characters are possibly reborn or transmigrated into an otome game. This connection adds an extra layer of emotional depth, especially knowing the potential fate of Sakura.
Final Verdict
Overall, "First Love × First Love" is a worthwhile read if you're looking for a josei romance that explores the complexities of first love and the consequences of unspoken feelings. While it has a few minor hiccups, the emotional depth and realistic portrayal of relationships make it a memorable story. I'd recommend giving it a try, especially if you're intrigued by the connection to its sequel and the potential reincarnation element.
