Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Love Is Like Being Drunk
"Love Is Like Being Drunk" promised a calming slice-of-life romance, and I'm happy to say it largely delivered. This novel follows a rich young master who finds himself drawn to a hardworking individual in a small town. The premise felt refreshing, and I was eager to see how their relationship would unfold.
First Impressions
Initially, I anticipated a heavier, more melancholic story, but I was pleasantly surprised by the warm and healing atmosphere. The setting, with its mountains and inn, was incredibly vivid in my imagination, adding to the immersive experience. The story excels at creating a tender and lovely journey as the main characters grow closer.
What Works Well
The strength of this novel lies in its mature characters and the natural progression of their relationship. Many readers, myself included, praised the healthy communication and mutual support between the leads. Their dynamic felt realistic, avoiding the exaggerated tropes often found in similar stories. I especially appreciated that the characters had equal standing in the relationship, with the shou taking initiative. The way the author handled potential sources of drama, such as the MC's ex-girlfriend and step-siblings, was also a pleasant surprise. Instead of relying on tired clichés, these characters were portrayed as sensible and good people.
Areas of Concern
While I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, there were a couple of minor points that could have been improved. I would have liked a bit more closure regarding the ML's past feelings for another character. While it didn't significantly detract from my enjoyment, it left me feeling slightly uneasy. Also, those looking for detailed smut scenes might be disappointed, as the story only alludes to them.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several reviews mentioned specific plot points, so be warned! Some readers were surprised by the gong/shou reveal, finding it cleverly done. Others appreciated the lack of blame placed on the MC's ex-girlfriend, instead focusing on the friend's actions. Finally, some were relieved by the supportive nature of the MC's family, a departure from the typical dysfunctional dynamics in similar novels.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Love Is Like Being Drunk" is a heartwarming and refreshing slice-of-life romance. If you're looking for a calming, low-drama story with mature characters and a healthy relationship dynamic, I highly recommend giving this novel a try. It's a feel-good read that left me wanting more, and I'm already considering checking out the author's other work.
