First Romance

My Thoughts on First Romance

"First Romance" promised a sweet and comedic slice-of-life story, and for the most part, it delivered. I was drawn in by the synopsis and the promise of a tomboyish female lead navigating the complexities of first love in a modern setting. While I found myself enjoying certain aspects of the story, there were also some areas that left me wanting more.

First Impressions

The initial chapters were quite charming. The female protagonist is definitely the star here. Her personality shines through, and I immediately found myself rooting for her. The setup is classic rom-com, with the added twist of a musically inclined cast, which I always appreciate.

What Works Well

The writing is solid, and the pacing kept me engaged. I particularly enjoyed the side characters, who added depth and humor to the narrative. They weren't just there to fill space; they felt like integral parts of the MC's world, each with their own distinct personalities and motivations. The comedic elements were well-executed, providing lighthearted moments that balanced the more dramatic aspects of the story. The art and music elements were also woven in well.

Areas of Concern

My biggest issue lies with the male lead. While I understand the appeal of a flawed character, his initial behavior felt borderline unlikeable, and his subsequent "growth," felt somewhat lacking. I struggled to fully invest in their relationship because of this imbalance. I also noticed that the story sometimes leaned heavily into the "everyone is obsessed with their first love" trope, which occasionally felt a bit repetitive and frustrating.

Final Verdict

Overall, "First Romance" is an enjoyable read, especially if you're a fan of lighthearted rom-coms with a strong female lead. However, the problematic male lead and the overused tropes prevent it from reaching its full potential. I'd recommend it with the caveat that you might find yourself more invested in the MC's journey than her romantic relationship.