Dare to Love Novel Review

My Thoughts on Dare to Love

"Dare to Love" is a web novel that took me on quite the emotional rollercoaster. Buckle up, because it's a bumpy ride with some serious highs and lows. This story delves into the complex relationship between Min SeonJae, a man driven by ambition and haunted by his past, and Lee YeonJung, a deaf florist who finds solace and freedom in her art.

First Impressions

Okay, I'll be honest, the beginning is rough. The male lead, SeonJae, is initially portrayed as a complete jerk. He's ableist, arrogant, and treats YeonJung terribly. I almost gave up, but something kept me reading, a morbid curiosity, maybe? I wanted to see how the author would redeem him.

What Works Well

What surprised me most was the character development. SeonJae undergoes a significant transformation, and watching him confront his inner demons and strive to become a better person was genuinely compelling. The female lead, YeonJung, is a strong character despite her vulnerabilities. I appreciated that the story explored her insecurities and her desire for freedom. The author does a great job of showing both characters' flaws and the reasons behind their actions. Also, the translator did a great job.

The smut is surprisingly well-written and adds to the intensity of their relationship. The second half of the story, with the change in POV to YeonJung, really deepened my understanding of her character and her motivations. I also loved the groveling and the happy ending.

Areas of Concern

Despite the redemption arc, the initial portrayal of SeonJae might be a turn-off for some readers. His actions are genuinely offensive, and it takes a while to warm up to him. I also felt that some aspects of YeonJung's past, particularly her previous relationship, could have been explored in more depth.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, "Dare to Love" is a captivating and ultimately rewarding read. The character development is excellent, the plot is engaging, and the steamy scenes add to the overall intensity. If you're willing to stick with it through the rough patches, you'll find a story about flawed individuals who learn to love and grow together. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.