Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on There Will Come a Day When You’ll Like Me
"There Will Come a Day When You'll Like Me" is a completed web novel that I dove into with a mix of curiosity and trepidation, given the rather lukewarm reception it seems to have garnered. The premise, blending fantasy and romance in a modern-day livestreaming setting, initially piqued my interest, but the reviews painted a more complicated picture.
First Impressions
I started this novel hoping for a compelling romance with a strong female lead. The initial chapters introduce us to the protagonist and her long-standing, unrequited feelings for the male lead. It’s a familiar trope, but I was willing to see where the author took it. However, the dynamics between the characters quickly became…problematic, at least for me.
What Works Well
It's clear the author has a knack for creating interesting character backgrounds. The initial setup had potential, and I could see glimpses of why some readers might be drawn to the story. The livestreaming element also felt fresh and could have been a unique way to explore the characters' relationships.
Areas of Concern
Unfortunately, my reservations quickly outweighed the positives. The male lead's behavior is a major sticking point for me. His actions often contradict his words, leaving the female lead (and me, the reader) in a constant state of confusion. He's engaged to someone else, yet he continues to give her mixed signals. This push-and-pull dynamic felt more manipulative than romantic, and I found myself increasingly frustrated with both characters.
The female lead's unwavering devotion to the male lead, despite his questionable actions, also became difficult to stomach. Her primary goal seemed to revolve around gaining his affection, which overshadowed any other aspirations she might have had. The drama felt excessive, and the constant back-and-forth became tiresome.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several key plot points contributed to my growing disappointment. For example, the male lead's engagement to another woman, coupled with his continued involvement with the protagonist, created a messy and uncomfortable situation. The revelation of certain actions, such as the male lead kissing the female lead as a "warning" to his brother, only solidified my negative opinion of his character.
Final Verdict
Ultimately, "There Will Come a Day When You’ll Like Me" didn't resonate with me. While the initial premise and character backgrounds held promise, the problematic relationship dynamics and frustrating character choices overshadowed any potential enjoyment. The male lead's behavior and the female lead's lack of agency made it difficult for me to invest in their story. While I can appreciate the author's attempt at crafting a complex romance, the execution fell short of my expectations. I would say proceed with caution.
