Cuddle

My Thoughts on Cuddle

"Cuddle" is a short, completed web novel that I decided to dive into, given its "slice of life" and "romance" tags. I went in expecting a quick, heartwarming read, and while it delivered on the "quick" part, the "heartwarming" aspect felt a little…complicated.

First Impressions

The premise is certainly attention-grabbing: a sudden, brutal betrayal followed by an unexpected connection. The initial setup is quite jarring, throwing the protagonist into immediate turmoil. It definitely hooked me right away, making me curious to see how he would navigate such a painful situation.

What Works Well

For a story intended to be a brief glimpse into life, "Cuddle" does manage to pack an emotional punch, albeit a somewhat superficial one. I can see the appeal in its concise nature; it's a very quick read that can be consumed in a single sitting. The relationship that blossoms after the initial heartbreak is undeniably cute, and I appreciated the attempt at a second chance romance, even if it felt a bit rushed.

Areas of Concern

The biggest issue I had was the lack of depth. The characters felt underdeveloped, making it difficult to truly empathize with the protagonist's pain or fully invest in his new relationship. The abruptness of the events also contributed to a sense of unreality, making it harder to connect with the story on an emotional level. The pacing is so fast that the shift from despair to budding romance felt somewhat forced and unearned.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Cuddle" is a fleeting read that might satisfy those looking for a very short and somewhat unrealistic romance. However, the lack of depth and rushed pacing prevent it from being a truly impactful story. I'd recommend it if you're in the mood for something quick and fluffy, but don't expect a deeply moving or thought-provoking experience. I give it a 3 out of 5 stars.