Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on If It’s Wrong, Then It’s Wrong
"If It’s Wrong, Then It’s Wrong" is a delightful rom-com that turned out to be quite the refreshing read. With its flipped gender roles and a healthy dose of humor, it's a story that kept me entertained from beginning to end. The premise alone is enough to grab your attention, and the characters are engaging enough to keep you invested.
First Impressions
The initial setup is undeniably hilarious. A workaholic CEO, the female lead (FL), mistakes a cold, aloof perfumer (the male lead or ML) for her actual boyfriend, leading to a series of increasingly absurd misunderstandings. This mistaken identity trope is definitely a driving force in the story's initial appeal, and I found myself chuckling at the sheer ridiculousness of it all. I can see why so many readers were immediately hooked.
What Works Well
The role reversal is the true star of this novel. Instead of the typical overbearing CEO male lead, we have a confident, ambitious businesswoman who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to pursue it. Meanwhile, the male lead is more reserved and even a bit angsty, giving off those classic shojo FL vibes. This dynamic creates a unique and entertaining power balance within the relationship. I particularly enjoyed the FL's internal monologues and her attempts to apply business strategies to wooing the ML – a truly comedic touch. The supporting characters also add to the fun, especially the FL's older, gossipy colleagues who offer hilariously bad dating advice. The author incorporates scent (ML's job) to be sensual yet not cross any boundaries. The factor of smell is definitely underrated and well done in this novel.
Areas of Concern
While I found the initial misunderstanding funny, I can understand how some readers might find it dragged on a bit too long. Also, the FL's persistent pursuit of the ML could be seen as crossing boundaries for some. I was also left wanting a bit more depth when it came to the ML's family background and his personal struggles.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several reviewers mentioned specific plot points, including the FL's "research" into adult materials and her strategic placement of family planning supplies, as well as the ML and FL's social media one-upmanship. These scenes are definitely a highlight for those seeking a bit of spice and humor, but be aware they are present.
Final Verdict
Overall, "If It’s Wrong, Then It’s Wrong" is a fun and lighthearted read that I would recommend, especially if you're looking for a rom-com with a fresh twist. While it may not be perfect, its humor, engaging characters, and role-reversal dynamic make it a worthwhile and entertaining experience.
