I’ll Live A Long Life to Adore My Absolute Fave—Currently My Stepbrother!

My Thoughts on I’ll Live A Long Life to Adore My Absolute Fave—Currently My Stepbrother!

Alright, buckle up, because "I’ll Live A Long Life to Adore My Absolute Fave—Currently My Stepbrother!" is quite the ride. The title pretty much gives the whole game away, doesn’t it? We've got your typical reincarnation scenario where our protagonist gets a second chance at life, reborn as the stepbrother of his ultimate favorite character from an otome game. Hilarity, and perhaps a touch of awkwardness, ensues.

First Impressions

My initial reaction was definitely a mix of amusement and curiosity. The premise is undeniably quirky, and I was interested to see how the author would handle the whole "doting on my stepbrother" angle. It’s a fine line to walk between cute and…well, something else entirely. I jumped in expecting fluff and over-the-top displays of affection, and the story certainly delivers on that front.

What Works Well

The biggest strength of this novel is, without a doubt, the protagonist, Alba. He's completely unapologetic about his adoration for his stepbrother, Orsis, and his inner monologues are pure gold. The author does a great job of portraying Alba's struggles with his illness, which is exacerbated by his intense emotions. The scenes where he’s desperately trying to swallow his medicine to avoid hyperventilating from sheer fanboying are genuinely funny. The family dynamics are also surprisingly heartwarming. Orsis doesn't see Alba as a nuisance, but as a cute and loving little brother, which is a refreshing change from some similar stories. The slow burn of their relationship, from childhood to adolescence, is well-paced and engaging.

Areas of Concern

While the cuteness overload is definitely a selling point for many, it can also be a bit much at times. Some might find Alba's constant doting and clinginess to be grating, and some of the plot devices can feel a bit contrived. The humor doesn't always land, and there are moments where the characters' actions don't quite line up with their supposed ages. Also, some might be squicked out by the stepbrother dynamic; proceed with caution if that's a trigger for you.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, "I’ll Live A Long Life to Adore My Absolute Fave—Currently My Stepbrother!" is an enjoyable read if you're in the mood for something lighthearted and fluffy. It's not going to win any awards for literary genius, but it's a fun escape with a protagonist that is pretty cute and lovable. If you can embrace the cringe and revel in the over-the-top adoration, you'll likely find yourself charmed by this quirky tale. I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. Just be prepared for a heavy dose of sweetness!