Don’t You Like Me

My Thoughts on Don’t You Like Me

"Don't You Like Me" promised a fluffy, supernatural romance, and for the most part, it delivered. I went in expecting a lighthearted read, and that's precisely what I got, though with a few caveats along the way. Overall, it was an enjoyable experience, but not without its imperfections.

First Impressions

The premise is certainly unique: a somewhat arrogant young man, Lin Feiran, suddenly gains the ability to see ghosts after his grandfather's death. Terrified, he discovers that physical contact with his academically and socially superior roommate, Gu Kaifeng, makes the ghosts disappear. This sets the stage for a series of adorable, often humorous, interactions as Lin Feiran, initially quite dense, navigates his newfound abilities and growing feelings. I found the initial rivalry between the two leads quite amusing, even if Lin Feiran's competitive streak bordered on petty at times.

What Works Well

The strongest aspect of "Don't You Like Me" is undoubtedly the relationship between Lin Feiran and Gu Kaifeng. Their dynamic is genuinely sweet, with Gu Kaifeng being a particularly doting and patient love interest. Many readers, including myself, found their interactions to be consistently smile-inducing. The humor is well-placed, and the pacing keeps the story moving at a comfortable clip. I also appreciated the way the ghost element was integrated into the narrative; while not overly scary, it added a unique layer to the story and provided a catalyst for the central romance. The translation quality is also top-notch, making the reading experience even more pleasurable.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the novel, there were a few aspects that gave me pause. Lin Feiran's initial motivations for clinging to Gu Kaifeng, solely for his ability to ward off ghosts, felt a bit selfish. While his feelings eventually evolved, the initial imbalance in the relationship dynamic was a slight turn-off. Also, the plot isn't particularly complex, and the story can feel a bit slow-paced at times, especially in the middle.

Final Verdict

"Don't You Like Me" is a charming and fluffy BL novel that's perfect for readers looking for a lighthearted and feel-good story. While it may not be groundbreaking in terms of plot or character development, the sweet romance and humorous interactions make it a worthwhile read. Just be prepared for a bit of second-hand embarrassment early on and a relatively simple storyline. I'd recommend it for those seeking a delightful and easy read within the yaoi genre.