Cactus in Distress

My Thoughts on Cactus in Distress

Cactus in Distress is a completed romance novel, and after diving in, I can definitely see why it's garnered so much attention. It's a quick read, clocking in at only 40 chapters, and I found myself easily pulled into the lives of Sun Yutan and Chen Rui. It's definitely a story that plays with tropes, but whether that's a good thing or a bad thing seems to depend on the reader.

First Impressions

I will admit, the initial scene-shifting and POV changes took a bit of getting used to. It felt a little jarring at first, jumping between past and present, but I quickly found my footing. The story revolves around a second chance romance, with plenty of flashbacks to their high school and college days. The setup is fairly classic: a beautiful, somewhat carefree female lead and a handsome, initially aloof male lead. It's the kind of story that hinges on emotional tension and delayed gratification.

What Works Well

The strength of Cactus in Distress lies in its characters, specifically Sun Yutan. I found her to be a complex and relatable character. She's portrayed as independent and confident, yet also vulnerable and self-aware. I enjoyed her practical nature and her willingness to tease Chen Rui, which adds a playful dynamic to their interactions. Chen Rui, the male lead, is your classic tsundere who struggles to express his feelings, leading to some frustrating yet endearing moments. Many seem to enjoy the "cold male lead falls hard" trope, and this novel delivers on that front. The author does a good job of portraying his internal struggles and his slow, often clumsy, attempts to win over Sun Yutan.

Areas of Concern

While I personally enjoyed the female lead, I can understand why some readers found her actions frustrating. Her tendency to push buttons and seemingly take advantage of Chen Rui could be seen as manipulative, and some perceive her as not taking the relationship seriously enough, especially early on. Also, the constant push and pull, fueled by a lack of communication, might not appeal to readers who prefer more mature and straightforward relationships.

Final Verdict

Despite some potential pitfalls, I found Cactus in Distress to be an enjoyable and engaging read. It's a short, sweet romance that doesn't take itself too seriously. If you're a fan of tsundere male leads, independent female leads, and a bit of playful teasing, you'll likely find this novel to be a delightful escape. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a quick and satisfying romance with a touch of angst and a whole lot of heart.