If Only You Were My Friend

My Thoughts on If Only You Were My Friend

"If Only You Were My Friend" promised a blend of action, drama, and yuri romance in a fantasy setting, and after diving in, I have some thoughts. It's a novel with definite strengths, but also some areas that held it back from reaching its full potential.

First Impressions

The premise immediately grabbed me: a princess and a saint navigating a world of political intrigue, curses, and demons. The "shoujo ai" tag piqued my interest, and I was eager to see how the relationship between the two female leads would unfold. The initial world-building felt familiar, yet solid, laying a decent foundation for the story.

What Works Well

I found the core relationship between Sophia and Theresa to be the strongest aspect of the novel. The author really delved into their individual worldviews and temperaments, creating a believable and compelling dynamic. Their chemistry was undeniable, and I appreciated how their circumstances naturally drew them together. The emotional impact of their interactions, especially as their relationship evolved, resonated deeply. The afterstory, with its focus on healing and the exploration of their feelings, was particularly well-done. It provided a satisfying conclusion to their journey and cemented my investment in their bond. I also appreciated how the author tied many of the world-building details into the plot, making the setting feel relevant and purposeful.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the romance, some elements of the plot felt less developed. The character of Alec, in particular, presented some issues. His actions sometimes seemed overly cruel, and the justifications for his behavior didn't always land effectively. It felt like the narrative struggled to balance his moral ambiguity with his supposed strategic genius. Moreover, I found some characters besides the leads were not active enough in the story.

Final Verdict

"If Only You Were My Friend" is a flawed but ultimately worthwhile read, especially if you're a fan of yuri romance and don't mind some darker themes. The relationship between Sophia and Theresa is beautifully explored, and the afterstory provides a satisfying resolution. While some aspects of the plot and certain character motivations could have been refined, the emotional core of the story shines through. I'd recommend it with a caveat: be aware of the potential triggers and approach it with an open mind.