Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Turns Out I’m Crazy
First Impressions
Okay, "Turns Out I’m Crazy" is definitely not your average fluffy romance. Diving into this novel was like stepping into a psychological thriller with yaoi elements. The premise is... intense. Lu Zhengfei, after a lifetime of obsessively and abusively "loving" Chen Qianqing, finds himself reborn as Chen Qianqing. Talk about a karmic twist! From the get-go, I knew this was going to be a wild ride.
What Works Well
The author masterfully explores themes of redemption, retribution, and the complexities of love. The psychological descriptions are genuinely gripping, and I found myself constantly questioning the characters' motives and sanity. The exploration of mental illness, though dramatized, felt surprisingly raw and honest. I appreciated how the narrative doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of human nature, presenting a complex and often disturbing portrayal of obsession and its consequences.
Many readers have praised the character development, particularly Lu Zhengfei's journey of self-discovery and atonement. Seeing him grapple with his past actions and the consequences of his choices was compelling, even when uncomfortable. The unique premise of selfcest, while potentially off-putting to some, is handled in a way that explores the nature of identity and whether a person can truly change. The ending, while not traditionally "happy," is fitting and thought-provoking.
Areas of Concern
The "dog blood" elements, as some readers have called them, can be a bit much at times. Some of the family dynamics felt exaggerated, and certain plot points stretched my suspension of disbelief. Also, I noticed several reviewers mentioned that the ending felt somewhat rushed, and I tend to agree. A few more chapters to flesh out the resolution would have been welcome.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, here's where things get spoilery, so skip ahead if you want to remain in the dark! Some readers have expressed confusion about the ending and the fates of certain characters. Specifically, questions arise about the ultimate fate of the original Lu Zhengfei and Chen Qianqing, as well as the nature of Lu Zhengfei's final relationship with his younger self. Also, some have asked why Zhou Mo was never mentioned again.
Final Verdict
Despite its dark themes and occasional flaws, "Turns Out I’m Crazy" is a captivating and thought-provoking read. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're looking for a novel that challenges your perceptions of love, identity, and redemption, I highly recommend giving it a try. Just be prepared for a potentially disturbing and emotionally intense experience.
