Far From You Novel Review

My Thoughts on Far From You

"Far From You" is a completed original shounen ai novel that I ventured into with a mix of curiosity and trepidation, given some of the tags associated with it. While the overall rating suggests it has some appeal, I wanted to dig deeper and see if it lived up to the hype or fell short of expectations.

First Impressions

Initially, I was intrigued by the premise of an arranged marriage and amnesia. It felt like there was potential for a compelling story about overcoming obstacles and rediscovering love. However, I quickly found myself questioning the execution of these elements.

What Works Well

Despite some serious concerns, there were aspects that kept me reading. The core concept, once revealed, of the ML having special abilities and a shared childhood trauma with the MC, added a layer of complexity that piqued my interest. I can see how some readers might find the eventual connection between the two leads satisfying, especially given the MC's long-held feelings. The short length of the story also meant that it didn't overstay its welcome, and I was able to finish it relatively quickly.

Areas of Concern

Unfortunately, there are some significant issues that I can't ignore. The early chapters, in particular, are problematic due to the presence of non-consensual acts. This made it difficult for me to connect with the characters or root for their relationship. I also felt that the plot points, especially the ML's special abilities and the reason behind his amnesia, were introduced too late in the story. This resulted in a rushed and somewhat confusing ending, leaving me with unanswered questions and a sense of dissatisfaction. It felt like the author missed an opportunity to develop these elements more fully and create a more nuanced and believable narrative. The passivity of the MC early on was also a point of concern for me.

Final Verdict

"Far From You" is a story with potential that ultimately falls short due to its problematic content and pacing issues. While the underlying plot has some merit, the execution leaves much to be desired. I would recommend this story with caution, advising readers to be aware of the trigger warnings and to temper their expectations. I'm giving it a 2.5/5.