Be Good, Put Out the Cigarette

My Thoughts on Be Good, Put Out the Cigarette

"Be Good, Put Out the Cigarette" is a completed yaoi novel that I recently dove into, and it's definitely a mixed bag. The story blends drama, school life, and slice-of-life elements, centering around a relationship with a significant age gap. While some readers found it heartwarming and sweet, others struggled with the characters and plot.

First Impressions

Initially, I was intrigued by the premise: a coming-of-age story with complex family relationships and a cold-yet-caring older love interest. The initial setup, with the main character (MC) working at a bar while underage to support his hospitalized grandmother, painted a picture of a street-smart survivor. However, I quickly realized this wasn't quite the case.

What Works Well

Several readers, including myself, appreciated the dynamic between the MC and the male lead (ML). The ML is depicted as a source of light and stability in the MC's life, offering him a reason to strive for a better future despite his difficult circumstances. I can see how their relationship could be perceived as very sweet, particularly the ML's caring nature towards the MC. Some readers specifically loved the age gap and found it to be a "lovely touch" to their relationship.

Areas of Concern

Unfortunately, some aspects of the story didn't quite land for me. I felt the narrative suffered from inconsistencies. The MC's initial portrayal didn't quite match his later actions, leading to a sense of disconnect. I also noticed the interactions between characters sometimes felt unnatural, and the logic of certain plot points seemed questionable. For example, the school system's handling of conflicts felt overly dramatic and unrealistic. The MC's smoking habit, while potentially meant to showcase his inner turmoil, sometimes felt like a superficial character trait rather than a genuine addiction.

Final Verdict

"Be Good, Put Out the Cigarette" has moments of genuine sweetness and heartwarming connection. However, inconsistencies in character behavior and plot logic ultimately detracted from my overall enjoyment. While the ML's care for the MC is a definite high point, the story could benefit from a stronger sense of realism and more consistent character development. It's a quick read, and if you're willing to overlook some flaws for a sweet romance, it might be worth your time.