Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on What Did I Do Yesterday?
"What Did I Do Yesterday?" promised a cute and spicy read, and while it delivered on some fronts, it also stumbled in a few key areas. The premise – a tipsy encounter between a fan and his idol leading to unexpected romantic pursuit – is definitely intriguing, and I found myself initially hooked by the potential for a lighthearted and fluffy story.
First Impressions
The initial chapters drew me in with the promise of a funny and heartwarming romance. The dynamic between the average-looking protagonist and the handsome, knightly male lead is ripe for comedic situations and sweet moments. I was eager to see how their relationship would develop after their initial, alcohol-fueled encounter.
What Works Well
The core concept of the story is undeniably appealing. The "fanboy meets idol" trope is given a fresh spin with the added element of amnesia and a persistent, lovestruck knight. There are moments of genuine sweetness and humor between the main characters, and the smut scenes are well-executed, adding a layer of spice to the overall narrative. The plot, while not overly complex, is engaging enough to keep you reading, and the blend of comedy, drama, and fantasy elements creates a unique reading experience.
Areas of Concern
Unfortunately, the execution of the story leaves something to be desired. I found the writing to be a bit clunky and lacking in depth. There were times when the narrative felt rushed, and I wished for more detailed descriptions and emotional exploration. The translation also suffers from awkward phrasing and odd word choices, which can make it difficult to fully immerse yourself in the story. While the political elements add an extra layer of intrigue, the protagonist's limited perspective prevents them from being fully explored. This made the world feel smaller than it could have been. The disjointedness of the scenes also made the experience jarring at times.
Final Verdict
"What Did I Do Yesterday?" has a lot of potential, but it ultimately falls short of being a truly great read. The premise is captivating, and there are moments of genuine charm and humor, but the writing and translation issues detract from the overall experience. It's an okay read if you're looking for something light and fluffy to pass the time, but don't expect a literary masterpiece. I think this story would truly shine as a manga adaptation, where the visual storytelling could compensate for the shortcomings in the writing.
