I Picked Him Up and Raised Him, Only to Be Repaid With Captivity Novel Review

My Thoughts on I Picked Him Up and Raised Him, Only to Be Repaid With Captivity

"I Picked Him Up and Raised Him, Only to Be Repaid With Captivity" – the title alone promises a wild ride, and so far, it's been quite the journey. I dove into this novel expecting a blend of heartwarming found-family tropes and a healthy dose of suspense, and it's definitely delivered on that front, though not without a few reservations.

First Impressions

Initially, I was completely charmed by the dynamic between the strong, independent female lead and the seemingly innocent young boy she takes under her wing. The early chapters are filled with sweet, tender moments as she cares for him, creating a found family bond that's hard not to root for. The "European ambience" adds a layer of richness to the setting, making it feel like a classic fairytale with a dark twist.

What Works Well

The female lead is undoubtedly a major strength. I appreciate that she's portrayed as capable and self-sufficient from the start. She isn't some damsel in distress; she's a proactive character who can handle herself, which makes her interactions with the male lead all the more interesting. The slow burn of his hidden intentions is also well-executed. The contrast between his outward innocence and the possessive thoughts simmering beneath the surface creates a palpable sense of unease that kept me hooked.

Areas of Concern

While the "yandere" aspect is a core element, I found myself occasionally struggling with the execution. The shift from innocent child to obsessive captor can feel a little jarring at times. I needed a little more grounding to fully understand the transition and the motivations behind it. I'm also a little worried about the plot becoming too reliant on the captivity aspect and losing some of the nuances that made the beginning so compelling.

Final Verdict

Overall, "I Picked Him Up and Raised Him, Only to Be Repaid With Captivity" is an engaging read with a unique premise and compelling characters. The strong female lead and the intriguing dynamic with the male lead are definite highlights. While there are some pacing concerns, the novel's strengths outweigh its weaknesses. I'm cautiously optimistic about where the story will go and eager to see how the author navigates the complexities of the relationship between these two characters. I'd recommend this to readers who enjoy dark romance with a fantasy setting and aren't afraid of a little (or a lot) of yandere behavior.