Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Flickering
"Flickering" is a short but sweet yaoi novel that I found to be quite engaging, despite some minor issues. It's a coming-of-age story centered around a popular, outgoing MC and a quiet, introverted ML navigating the complexities of school life, bullying, and ultimately, love.
First Impressions
From the start, I was drawn in by the dynamic between the two main characters. The MC is the typical sunny, popular guy who takes the initiative in their relationship, showering the ML with attention and care. The ML, on the other hand, is more reserved, almost numb to the world around him due to the constant bullying he faces. This contrast immediately sets the stage for a heartwarming, albeit potentially unbalanced, romance.
What Works Well
I particularly enjoyed how the author explored the nuances of their relationship. It's not just a simple case of "popular guy falls for quiet guy." The story delves into how their personalities, while seemingly opposite, complement each other. The MC's warmth gradually melts the ML's icy exterior, while the ML's stoicism provides a grounding force for the sometimes-naive MC. I also appreciated the author's writing style, which manages to showcase both the good and bad traits of each character.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, let's dive into some potentially spoilery territory. One thing that really struck me was the incident involving the MC's friend and the ML's subsequent revenge. It's a dark turn that adds a layer of complexity to the story, forcing the MC to confront the darker side of the ML. The MC's reaction to this event, while understandable, also highlights his naivety and inability to fully grasp the extent of the ML's pain. This leads to some interesting conflicts and misunderstandings that ultimately shape their relationship.
Areas of Concern
I did find the ML's rapid transformation into a domineering CEO a bit hard to swallow. While I understand the need for him to become stronger and more assertive after his experiences, the speed at which he takes over his family's company felt a bit unrealistic. Additionally, the ending felt somewhat open-ended, leaving me wanting more in terms of their fully established relationship dynamics.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Flickering" is a worthwhile read if you're looking for a short, sweet, and slightly angsty yaoi novel. While it has its flaws, the engaging characters, heartwarming romance, and exploration of complex themes make it a memorable story. I'd give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.
