Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Sweet, Although Short
"Sweet, Although Short" is an apt title, but maybe a little misleading. This collection of three short BL stories delivers exactly what it promises in terms of length, making it a quick and easy read. However, if you're expecting pure, unadulterated sweetness, you might be in for a surprise.
First Impressions
Going in, I was anticipating a light and fluffy experience. The cover and synopsis hinted at heartwarming romance, and while that's present, it's often interwoven with angst and misunderstandings. Each story follows a similar pattern: initial conflict, a dive into the backstory, a moment of realization, resolution, and finally, a happy ending.
What Works Well
What I appreciated most was the author's commitment to exploring both characters' perspectives. This really deepened my understanding of the conflicts and made the resolutions more satisfying. The second story, in particular, stood out for me. It's about a married couple navigating the "seven-year itch," and it really tugged at my heartstrings. The angst felt earned, and the eventual reconciliation was incredibly rewarding. The author also does an excellent job in writing a range of different relationships, from college students to career men, to childhood friends.
Areas of Concern
The biggest issue I found was the reliance on misunderstandings as a plot device. While I enjoy a bit of drama, it sometimes felt overdone, especially in the second story. I wanted to shake the characters and tell them to communicate! I also had some issues with how one of the stories deals with sensitive themes like implied sexual assault and child abuse, which I felt was handled with a bit too much leniency. Depending on your preferences, you may find some plots to be a little cliché, but the brevity of the stories makes it easy to overlook.
Final Verdict
Despite some reservations, I enjoyed "Sweet, Although Short." It's a quick and engaging read, perfect for when you need a break from longer novels. Just be prepared for a bit more angst than the title suggests! I'd rate it 4 out of 5 stars.
