Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on He Is Constantly Jealous Of Himself
"He Is Constantly Jealous Of Himself" is definitely a unique read, and I can see why it's garnered such a varied response. The premise alone is intriguing, if a little confusing at first glance – a main character with amnesia believing he's in a parallel universe, deeply in love with his husband, and constantly battling the perceived actions of his "original self." It's a recipe for either comedic gold or a tangled mess, and I think this story manages to ride that line quite skillfully, though not without a few stumbles.
First Impressions
My initial reaction mirrored some of the early comments I saw: intrigued, but slightly bewildered. The setup is undeniably complex, and I was curious to see how the author would navigate the layers of misunderstanding and jealousy. The first few chapters definitely hooked me with the promise of a lighthearted, if slightly absurd, romance.
What Works Well
The core of the story, the relationship between Gu Yuanting and Su Yiran, is undeniably charming. Gu Yuanting's over-the-top jealousy, fueled by his amnesia-induced paranoia, is often hilarious. The author does a great job of portraying him as both a doting and slightly unhinged husband. Su Yiran, on the other hand, is the perfect counterpoint – a sweet, kind, and hardworking character who manages to ground Gu Yuanting's craziness, at least to some extent.
I also appreciated the slice-of-life aspects of the story, particularly Su Yiran's journey to build his own dessert business. It added a layer of depth beyond the central romance and made him feel like a well-rounded character.
Areas of Concern
I can understand why some readers might find the story a bit slow-paced. It definitely focuses more on character interactions and daily life than on high-stakes plot developments. Also, Gu Yuanting's obsessive behavior might not be for everyone. While it's often played for laughs, it does border on problematic at times, and I can see how some readers might find it uncomfortable.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers pointed out specific instances of Gu Yuanting's behavior, such as tearing apart clothes made by his "original self" or throwing away wedding rings. These actions, while intended to showcase his jealousy, could be interpreted as controlling or even abusive, depending on your personal sensitivities.
Final Verdict
Overall, I found "He Is Constantly Jealous Of Himself" to be an enjoyable and entertaining read. It's a lighthearted romance with a unique premise and a healthy dose of humor. However, it's not without its flaws. The slow pace and potentially problematic elements might not appeal to all readers. If you're looking for a fun, low-stakes story with a slightly unhinged but ultimately lovable male lead, this might be right up your alley. Just be aware of the potential triggers and go in expecting a healthy dose of absurdity.
