Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on It’s Actually Not Easy Wanting to be a Supporting Male Lead
This novel is a bit of a rollercoaster. I went in expecting a lighthearted comedy, and while there are definitely moments that made me laugh, I also found myself questioning some of the core relationship dynamics. It's a story with a unique premise, but the execution is, at times, questionable.
First Impressions
The initial setup is quite engaging. We have a protagonist, Sui Yuan, tasked with being a supporting male lead in various worlds, and he's determined to stick to the script. However, a certain male lead has other ideas, following Sui Yuan across worlds and derailing his plans at every turn. The first arc is promising, filled with humor and a surprising twist that definitely caught my attention.
What Works Well
The comedic elements are a major strength. Sui Yuan's obliviousness and dedication to the script, even when it makes no logical sense, lead to some genuinely hilarious situations. I also appreciated the female leads in many of the arcs; they're often supportive and well-developed characters, a refreshing change from the stereotypical villainous female characters often found in these types of novels. The premise itself is intriguing, and when the story focuses on Sui Yuan's struggles to fulfill his role amidst the chaos caused by the male lead, it shines.
Areas of Concern
My biggest issue lies with the male lead's behavior. While some might find his possessiveness endearing, I found it bordering on problematic. The constant disruption of Sui Yuan's tasks, coupled with instances of coercion and a general disregard for Sui Yuan's desires, made it difficult for me to root for their relationship. I can understand why some readers felt the romance felt forced and even creepy at times. Also, the lack of depth in the background characters and world-building left me wanting more. I found it hard to become invested in the individual arcs beyond the central romance, which, as I mentioned, was already a point of contention for me.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several reviewers mentioned that the male lead is also a transmigrator, which adds another layer to their dynamic. Knowing this does provide some context for his actions, but it doesn't entirely excuse his behavior. There are also mentions of potentially triggering content, including non-con elements and even zoophilia in certain arcs. If these are sensitive topics for you, proceed with caution.
Final Verdict
It’s Actually Not Easy Wanting to be a Supporting Male Lead is a mixed bag. While the comedic elements and unique premise offer some enjoyment, the problematic relationship dynamics and lack of depth ultimately detract from the overall experience. I'd give it a tentative 3/5 stars. It has potential, but it's not for everyone. If you're looking for a lighthearted comedy with a morally ambiguous romance, you might enjoy it. But if you prefer healthier relationship dynamics and more robust world-building, you might want to skip this one.
