Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on My Darling
"My Darling" promised a sweet josei romance with a touch of slice-of-life, and having finished it, I can say it mostly delivered. The story centers around a popular male celebrity pursuing his childhood friend, who, for a long time, only sees him as family. This dynamic definitely created some interesting friction, making for a compelling read.
First Impressions
Initially, I found the dynamic between the leads a little awkward. Seeing the female lead consistently reject the male lead was difficult at times, but the story does a good job of establishing the reasons behind her hesitations. It's not just simple denial; there's a history there that needs to be unpacked.
What Works Well
The slow-burn romance is definitely a highlight. The author really fleshes out the female lead's internal struggles as she transitions from seeing the male lead as just a friend to something more. I appreciated that she didn't just suddenly fall for him; she actively tried to be a good girlfriend once she committed, which ultimately solidified her feelings. The male lead's unwavering devotion is also a strong point. His patience and dedication are admirable, even if he makes a few missteps along the way. The translation is also excellent. It's clear that the translator put a lot of love and care into the novel, providing helpful notes and references that enhance the reading experience. The writing is detailed and flows like a professionally published novel.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed the novel overall, I do have some slight reservations. The male lead's actions in the past, particularly his handling of the female lead's high school boyfriend, left a bad taste in my mouth. While his love for her is undeniable, some of his actions veer into manipulative territory, which is a bit of a red flag. The ending felt a little rushed, and I would have liked to see more of their relationship after the female lead fully realized her feelings. The pacing was slow and steady and the build-up was long, so the resolution felt too short.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers found the incident where the male lead physically assaulted the female lead's boyfriend to be a major turnoff. It's definitely a controversial moment that shapes their relationship and contributes to the female lead's initial reluctance. Also, some may find the male lead to be emotionally manipulative, especially when he uses his health issues to guilt the female lead into dating him.
Final Verdict
Despite some flaws, "My Darling" is a heartwarming and engaging romance. If you enjoy stories about childhood friends, slow-burn relationships, and devoted love interests, then I would recommend giving this novel a try. Just be prepared for a bit of angst and some questionable behavior from the male lead along the way. I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
