Gloves

My Thoughts on Gloves

"Gloves" is a novel that promises a complex blend of genres, from romance and slice-of-life to the darker realms of psychological drama and tragedy. With such a wide range, I was intrigued to see how the author would balance these elements. However, after diving in, I found my experience to be quite turbulent.

First Impressions

The initial premise, focusing on a potentially captivating yuri relationship with elements of first love and persistent, even cold, love interests, definitely piqued my interest. The 'mature' tag also suggested a more nuanced and perhaps realistic portrayal of relationships, something I always appreciate. However, some aspects quickly raised red flags.

Areas of Concern

The most significant issue I encountered was the heavy reliance on tragedy, which, in my opinion, veered into the territory of unnecessary suffering. I felt that the story pushed the boundaries of believability, creating a sense of "Soap Opera Syndrome" where characters endured excessive and sometimes gratuitous hardships. I struggled to connect with the characters, particularly An Chujie. I found her repeated forgiveness of Shang Zhuoxi's actions frustrating, and it detracted from my overall enjoyment. While the novel explores mature themes, I felt that the execution sometimes normalized toxic behavior and manipulation rather than providing a thoughtful examination.

Final Verdict

"Gloves" presents a complex and potentially interesting premise, but ultimately falls short in its execution. The overabundance of tragedy, coupled with the normalization of toxic behaviors, made it a difficult and, at times, unpleasant read. While I appreciate the attempt to explore mature themes within a yuri context, I believe the novel could benefit from a more nuanced and balanced approach. If you're looking for a lighthearted or heartwarming romance, I would advise you to steer clear of this one.