Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Grocery Store No.514
"Grocery Store No.514" promised a blend of genres I couldn't resist: comedy, fantasy, horror, supernatural, and yaoi. After diving in, I found it a mixed bag, with some elements shining while others left me wanting more.
First Impressions
The initial setup, with a blind protagonist running a grocery store and a police officer, definitely hooked me. The case-based approach in the early arcs was intriguing, and I appreciated the author's attempt to blend the mundane with the supernatural. I was eager to see how the relationship between the leads would develop amidst the eerie mysteries.
What Works Well
I really enjoyed the supernatural elements woven into the crime-solving. The cases themselves, while sometimes brutal, often explored complex themes of karma and resentment. The dynamic between the two main characters is also a high point. It's refreshing to see a strong, capable police officer turn into a bit of a lovesick puppy around his partner. I appreciated the moments of fluff and the lack of major misunderstandings between the leads. The story has enough unique points to stand out in the BL genre, and the romance aspects are well-balanced with the mystery elements.
Areas of Concern
However, some aspects of the story didn't quite land for me. The handling of the blind protagonist felt somewhat superficial at times. I questioned why the main character seemed to resist assistance so often, even from close friends and family, and the world-building, particularly concerning the rules of the underworld and karma, raised some serious questions. The later plot developments, especially those involving the origins of the main characters, seemed unnecessary and even a bit disturbing. The cases, while interesting in concept, sometimes lacked depth and the romance, at times, felt rushed or unconvincing.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers might find the ending controversial. The backstory of the main characters involves elements of manipulation and non-consensual acts, which could be triggering or leave a sour taste. It's worth noting that the story contains potentially triggering content such as suicide, infanticide, and child abuse.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Grocery Store No.514" is a unique and engaging read, but it's not without its flaws. The blend of genres is ambitious, and while it doesn't always succeed, it offers a refreshing take on the crime-solving BL genre. If you're willing to overlook some inconsistencies and potentially triggering content, you might find yourself enjoying the quirky characters and intriguing mysteries of Grocery Store No.514. I'd give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.
