Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on My Black-Bellied Boyfriend
"My Black-Bellied Boyfriend" promised a cute and funny yaoi romance, and for the most part, it delivered. It's a short, light read, perfect for when you need a quick dose of fluff. While the unique format took some getting used to, the story ultimately won me over with its charming characters and sweet, if slightly unconventional, romance.
First Impressions
Initially, I was a little thrown off by the novel's format. The story unfolds primarily through forum posts, with the MC, Ji Yan, recounting his experiences with his childhood friend, He Ming. It’s definitely a unique approach, and I can see how it might not appeal to everyone. It felt a bit one-sided at times, and I did miss out on some of the deeper, more meaningful interactions I typically crave. However, the amusing commentary from the "netizens" added a layer of humor that I found surprisingly enjoyable.
What Works Well
The characters are definitely a highlight. Ji Yan, the initially oblivious and endearingly tsundere MC, is easy to root for, even when he's stubbornly denying his feelings. He Ming, the "black-bellied" love interest, is shamelessly devoted and patient, waiting for the perfect moment to "ambush his prey," as one might say. I especially appreciated the last few chapters, particularly the extra from He Ming's perspective. Seeing Ji Yan through his eyes, especially their childhood interactions, added a lot of depth and context to their relationship. The humor throughout the story is also a major plus. The MC's internal struggles and the banter with the forum commenters kept me entertained from beginning to end.
Areas of Concern
While I ultimately enjoyed the story, there were a few things that gave me pause. The beginning, where He Ming takes advantage of Ji Yan while he's drunk, is definitely a problematic trope that might make some readers uncomfortable. While the ending adds context and doesn't necessarily "justify" the action, it's still something to be aware of going in. I also felt like Ji Yan could have been more proactive in the relationship. He Ming definitely took the lead, and I would have liked to see Ji Yan express his feelings more openly.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some may find the initial encounter between the MC and ML in the beginning problematic, as it involves questionable consent.
Final Verdict
Overall, I'd give "My Black-Bellied Boyfriend" a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It's a cute, funny, and relatively quick read with charming characters and a unique format. While the initial encounter between the MC and ML may be off-putting for some, if you can look past it, you'll find a sweet and satisfying romance with a healthy dose of humor. The last few chapters, especially the final extra, are definitely worth the read.
