Carta Visa

My Thoughts on Carta Visa

Carta Visa is a completed Thai BL novel, now being translated, that I jumped into with some mixed expectations. The tags – comedy, romance, shounen ai, modern day, organized crime, and photography – create a rather intriguing blend. After reading a good chunk of the available chapters, here’s what I think.

First Impressions

Initially, I was a little unsure. The story throws you right into Petch's world, and his interactions with Alexei are… intense, to say the least. I can see why some readers might find Alexei off-putting early on. He definitely has that "cold genius" vibe, and his actions can be questionable. It took me a bit to warm up to the dynamic.

What Works Well

What really grabbed me was the slow-burn unraveling of the plot. This isn't a story where everything is laid out on a silver platter. The author takes their time revealing the characters' motivations and the deeper connections between them. I especially appreciated how Petch isn't just a typical hot-headed character; he's shown to be hardworking and genuinely trying to improve himself.

The side characters are also surprisingly well-developed, each with their own lives and problems that add depth to the overall narrative. It's more than just a romance; it's a story about relationships, devotion, and the lengths people will go to for those they care about. I also found myself chuckling at some of the comedic moments, which helped balance out the more angsty parts.

Areas of Concern

I can understand some readers' reservations about the initial interactions between Petch and Alexei. Alexei's possessiveness can feel extreme, and some of their early encounters might make some uncomfortable. It's definitely a relationship that requires patience and a willingness to see beyond the surface. The plot is also quite slow at the beginning and it's important to stick with it to see the story progress.

Final Verdict

Overall, I'd recommend giving Carta Visa a try, but with a bit of caution. If you're looking for a light and fluffy romance, this might not be it. However, if you enjoy stories with complex characters, intricate plots, and a slow-burn romance that requires you to look beyond first impressions, then Carta Visa could be right up your alley. I'm rating it a solid 4/5. I'm definitely curious to see where the translation goes!