I Treat You as a Brother

My Thoughts on I Treat You as a Brother

First Impressions

"I Treat You as a Brother" immediately grabbed my attention with its premise: a lighthearted story about a protagonist trying to win over a straight guy. The "unrequited love to fulfilled love" trope is always a fun one, and the promise of a comedic, slice-of-life campus experience sounded like a refreshing read. I dove in hoping for a story that would make me laugh and maybe even tug at my heartstrings a little.

What Works Well

The novel definitely delivers on the comedy front. I found myself chuckling at the MC's antics and the various misunderstandings that arise as he tries to "bend" the ML. The characters are well-developed, making their interactions feel genuine and their motivations believable. The dual perspective, switching between the MC and ML, adds another layer of enjoyment, giving us insight into both their thoughts and feelings. It's a clever way to build tension and allow the reader to see the humor in situations that the characters themselves might not fully grasp. The absence of heavy drama is also a major plus. It's a feel-good story that doesn't rely on angst or toxicity to keep you engaged. The story focuses on the daily lives of the characters and the slow burn of their relationship.

Areas of Concern

While the misunderstandings are a source of humor, I can see how they might become a bit frustrating for some readers. There's a fine line between comedic misunderstanding and dragging out the plot unnecessarily. The protagonist's series of lies, while intended to help him win over his love interest, could also be perceived as somewhat annoying. However, the story manages to navigate this potential pitfall by maintaining a light tone and ultimately resolving the misunderstandings in a satisfying way.

Final Verdict

Overall, "I Treat You as a Brother" is a delightful read that I would recommend to anyone looking for a lighthearted and comedic shounen ai story. The well-developed characters, the humorous misunderstandings, and the absence of heavy drama make it a truly enjoyable experience. If you're a fan of the "unrequited love to fulfilled love" trope and enjoy a good dose of campus life comedy, this novel is definitely worth checking out.