Dear My Friend

My Thoughts on Dear My Friend

"Dear My Friend" promised an intriguing twist on the villainess trope, and while it had some initial charm, my overall experience was a bit of a mixed bag. It's a completed story, which is always a plus, but the execution left me wanting more.

First Impressions

Like many, I was drawn in by the promotional webtoon and the premise of a protagonist, Maristella, trying to escape her destined tragic end as the original heroine's friend. The initial chapters were engaging, especially Maristella's attempts to distance herself from the toxic "friendship" with Dorothea. This dynamic offered a refreshing take, and I appreciated that Maristella wasn't portrayed as overly innocent.

What Works Well

The early focus on Maristella standing up for herself against Dorothea was definitely a high point. Several readers praised this aspect, finding it relatable to experiences with toxic people. There's a certain satisfaction in seeing her actively trying to change her fate. Also, the translation quality was consistently praised, making the story easily readable.

Areas of Concern

Unfortunately, the novel seems to lose its way as it progresses. A common complaint is that the plot becomes bland and predictable. The characters, including Maristella herself, are often described as flat and lacking depth. The romance feels forced, with the male leads falling for her for seemingly no reason.

I also noticed a recurring sentiment that Maristella becomes frustratingly dense and slow to pick up on things, which clashes with her supposed intelligence. The repetitive dialogue and drawn-out conversations further contribute to the feeling that the story is dragging. While the initial "face-slapping" moments were satisfying, the revenge tactics are eventually seen as petty and juvenile.

Final Verdict

"Dear My Friend" has potential, but it ultimately falls short. If you're looking for a light, shoujo-esque read with a focus on a protagonist escaping a toxic friendship, it might be worth a try. However, if you prefer complex characters, intricate plots, and well-developed romances, you might find this novel underwhelming. I'd suggest going in with lowered expectations and perhaps checking out the webtoon instead.