Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on I Made The Top Star
"I Made The Top Star" promised a wild ride through the entertainment industry, and while it delivered on some fronts, it also took a few unexpected turns that left me with mixed feelings. Overall, I found it to be an enjoyable read, but not without its flaws.
First Impressions
Initially, I was drawn in by the premise of a protagonist navigating the cutthroat world of showbiz with a second chance. The tags – black belly, calm protagonist, power couple – painted a picture of a clever and strategic MC paired with a strong ML. The early chapters hooked me with the promise of industry intrigue and a blossoming romance.
What Works Well
What I appreciated most was the focus on the business side of the entertainment industry. The maneuvering and scheming were genuinely fun to follow. I also enjoyed the dynamic between the MC and ML. Their relationship felt natural and sweet, with a lot of tolerance and understanding. The MC's role as a "guardian figure" for his artists was also compelling, portraying him as someone genuinely invested in their success and well-being.
The plot, especially after the MC takes over the company, is well-written, and the author makes the characters feel genuinely real and refreshing. Many readers noted that the story seriously tackles the dark side of the entertainment industry, which adds a layer of depth and realism that I appreciated.
Areas of Concern
However, I did find some aspects of the story less satisfying. The portrayal of the MC's achievements sometimes felt underwhelming. While he was supposed to be a top agent, it wasn't always showcased effectively. The ML's rapid descent into "lovestruck fool" also felt a bit jarring and detracted from his initial cool and calculated persona.
I also wished there was more development of the MC using his top manager skills on a wider range of entertainers. The focus on a single boy band for a significant portion of the story felt limiting. Some of the villains also felt a bit cartoonish and self-imploding, which reduced the tension and stakes.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers expressed disappointment with the extras, particularly one involving the ML threatening the MC. This created a "blood dog drama" scenario that they disliked. Additionally, some noted that the ML's background and family connections made things a little too easy for the couple, diminishing the sense of struggle and achievement.
Final Verdict
Despite these drawbacks, "I Made The Top Star" remains a decent read with a sweet romance and interesting character growth. If you're looking for a story that delves into the business side of showbiz with a focus on character relationships, this might be right up your alley. Just be prepared for some inconsistencies and a few plot points that might not fully live up to their potential.