Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on The Star Around The Sun
"The Star Around The Sun" promised a captivating dive into the entertainment industry with a healthy dose of romance, and for the most part, it delivered. It's a story that pulled me in with its detailed descriptions of movie-making and kept me hooked with the evolving relationship between the main characters.
First Impressions
Initially, I was drawn in by the novel's premise: a B-tier actor, Xia Xingcheng, landing a role alongside his idol, the established film emperor Yang Youming, in an LGBTQ+ film. The blurring lines between reality and fiction, as the characters immersed themselves in their roles, was an intriguing concept. I was ready for a story about ambition, self-discovery, and, of course, love.
What Works Well
What I particularly enjoyed was the detailed portrayal of the movie-making process. The author painted a vivid picture of the sets, the directors' styles, and the actors' dedication to their craft. This added a layer of depth that kept me engaged beyond just the romantic plot. I also appreciated the focus on the MC's growth as an actor, from his initial confusion to his eventual confidence. The progression felt realistic and earned. The romance, for the most part, was well-developed. I liked how the story explored the characters' feelings as they grappled with their growing attraction and the complexities of their situation. Many readers seem to love the ML and MC's interactions, they are very affectionate and know what each other needs.
Areas of Concern
However, I did find some aspects of the story troubling. Certain characterizations felt stereotypical, and the plot relied a little too heavily on certain BL tropes like characters getting drunk or sick, and the dynamic between the ML and MC sometimes leaned towards a "daddy/little" dynamic which may not appeal to everyone.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have raised concerns about potentially homophobic elements in the story, particularly regarding the portrayal of gay side characters and the MC's initial insistence on his heterosexuality. While some interpret this as internalized homophobia, others found it to be problematic and even triggering. There's also the issue of the ML's acceptance of the MC after initial rejection feeling abrupt and unnatural.
Final Verdict
Despite some flaws, "The Star Around The Sun" is a compelling read, especially if you're a fan of entertainment industry novels with a mature romance. While the story might not be perfect, it offers an engaging narrative with well-developed characters and a satisfying resolution. Just be aware of the potential pitfalls before diving in.
