Dark Fire

My Thoughts on Dark Fire

"Dark Fire" is a completed yaoi novel with a strong emphasis on drama and romance, and after diving in, I can see why it's garnered a decent, if not spectacular, rating. It's a story that definitely caters to a specific taste, particularly those who enjoy a male yandere love interest.

First Impressions

Going in, I knew the plot wasn't going to be overly complex. The summary lays out the core conflict: a protagonist caught between his feelings for someone else and the obsessive affections of our ML. Initial impressions were that the writing was easy to get into, but also that the characters might be a bit… much.

What Works Well

The main draw, without a doubt, is the ML. He's the kind of character who operates behind the scenes, manipulating events to his advantage. Instead of outright destroying rivals, he engineers situations where they essentially betray the MC themselves. I appreciated this nuanced approach to a yandere character. It's compelling to watch how he supports the MC and encourages him to break free from the constraints of being a perfect idol. While his actions are often questionable, there's a sense that he genuinely wants what's best for the MC, even if his methods are… unorthodox.

Areas of Concern

The morality of the romance is definitely a gray area, and that's putting it mildly. There are instances of non-consensual kissing early on, and the ML's jealousy and possessiveness can be overwhelming. The MC's tendency to be a bit passive and forgiving might also frustrate some readers. I also noticed that the MC seemed to be in a daze frequently, almost in every chapter. It felt a bit repetitive and detracted from the story at times.

Final Verdict

"Dark Fire" is a novel that knows its audience. If you're looking for a morally ambiguous romance with a possessive yandere ML and a relatively straightforward plot, this might be right up your alley. Just be prepared for some uncomfortable moments and a relationship dynamic that's far from healthy. Personally, while I found some aspects intriguing, the problematic elements held me back from fully embracing the story.