Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Online Dating Boyfriend Is Actually An Alien
"Online Dating Boyfriend Is Actually An Alien" is a web novel that took me on a wild ride. It blends genres like sci-fi, romance, and school life in a way that's both charming and, at times, a little perplexing. Overall, I found it to be an enjoyable, though imperfect, read.
First Impressions
The premise immediately grabbed me: a teenager recovering from a serious illness connects with an alien prince through a mysterious phone. It felt fresh and unique, promising a blend of slice-of-life and interstellar adventure. The initial chapters, focusing on their budding friendship and mutual support, were definitely the strongest.
What Works Well
The core of the story, the relationship between Jian Mei (the MC) and Lu Xingwang (the ML), is undeniably sweet. I appreciated the slow-burn romance and the emphasis on trust and respect. Many readers, including myself, found the characters endearing, especially Jian Mei with his kind heart and unwavering optimism. He's not perfect, but his genuine desire to help others is truly inspiring. I also enjoyed the family dynamics presented, especially Jian Mei's relationships with his family. The author does a good job of portraying the ups and downs of familial relationships.
Areas of Concern
However, the novel does have its flaws. As the story progresses, particularly after Jian Mei's transmigration, the plot becomes more convoluted. Some world-building elements, especially the ML's planet, felt underdeveloped and relied too heavily on ancient Chinese tropes, which made the advanced technology feel strangely out of place. Several inconsistencies and plot holes started to appear, which did detract from my overall enjoyment. The last arc, dealing with a pandemic, felt rushed and relied on some questionable logic. While I admired the author's attempt to tackle serious issues, the execution wasn't always seamless.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several readers have pointed out that after the MC transmigrates to the ML's world, he appears to go into "Gary Sue" mode and becomes a bit too perfect, while the ML becomes the typical cold CEO type. In addition, the ending is rushed with the explanation of how the MC's family knows he's in another world being unclear.
Final Verdict
Despite its imperfections, "Online Dating Boyfriend Is Actually An Alien" is a worthwhile read if you're looking for a sweet and heartwarming romance with a unique sci-fi twist. Just be prepared to suspend your disbelief and overlook some plot inconsistencies along the way. I'd rate it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
