Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on It Became a Serious Thing
It Became a Serious Thing is a short, complete web novel that I dove into expecting some lighthearted fun, and for the most part, it delivered. With genres like comedy, josei, romance, and ahem smut, I knew I wasn't signing up for a deep, philosophical journey. What I got was a quick, fluffy read that, while flawed, had its charms.
First Impressions
The initial chapters definitely threw me for a loop. The female lead, a seemingly naive maid, felt a bit too passive for my liking. Her interactions with the male lead, a knight commander, were… interesting, to say the least. There's a certain "cringe" factor that some readers pointed out, especially in the early stages of their relationship. I can see how some might find the FL's actions bewildering, particularly her decisions that seem to lack common sense.
What Works Well
Despite my initial reservations, the story did manage to win me over in certain aspects. The male lead's POV chapters were a definite highlight. He had so much more personality than the female lead, and his inner thoughts were genuinely hilarious. I found myself looking forward to those chapters. The smut, while not the main focus for me, was well-written and added a certain spice to the story. The fast-paced nature of the plot also kept me engaged, even if it meant that some plot points felt rushed.
Areas of Concern
My biggest issue with the story was the female lead's character. Her lack of agency and tendency to be easily manipulated were frustrating at times. I also struggled to understand some of her motivations, particularly her choice to work as a maid despite having a comfortable background. The story's reliance on tropes and quick resolutions also detracted from its overall impact.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have noted issues with potential adultery due to the characters having fiancés. While the extent of their relationships with these fiancés is unclear, it's something to be aware of going in. Also, the female lead's sudden friendships with those who bullied her felt rushed and unconvincing.
Final Verdict
Overall, It Became a Serious Thing is a decent read if you're looking for a short, fluffy, and somewhat smutty story. It's not going to win any awards for its plot or character development, but it can be an enjoyable way to pass the time. I'd recommend going into it with low expectations and a willingness to embrace the silliness. The male lead's POV and the smut scenes are definitely the highlights, making it a worthwhile read despite its flaws.
