It’s Not Night

My Thoughts on It’s Not Night

"It's Not Night" is a web novel that definitely sparked some strong opinions, and after diving in, I can see why. This adult fantasy romance, with its heavy dose of smut and enemies-to-lovers trope set against an aristocratic backdrop, promises a lot. While it delivers on some fronts, it stumbles in others.

First Impressions

Initially, I was intrigued by the Romeo and Juliet-esque setup. The premise of two individuals from warring families forced together by circumstance (and perhaps a little magic) is a classic for a reason. The early chapters definitely establish the animosity and tension between the leads, and the mystery surrounding the dungeon incident kept me hooked.

What Works Well

The detailed and explicit smut scenes are undeniably a draw for many readers. Beyond the spice, the core storyline, with its hints of past lives and meddling gods, is genuinely interesting. I found myself wanting to know more about the history between the families and the source of their conflict. The male lead's character, despite his initial flaws, shows potential for growth and redemption, which I always appreciate. Some readers seem to agree, pointing out his efforts to atone for past mistakes.

Areas of Concern

One of the biggest sticking points for me, and for many others, is the female lead's personality. Her arrogance, stubbornness, and tendency to treat the male lead poorly can be off-putting. I understand that her behavior may stem from a difficult past and family history, but it doesn't always make her likeable. The slow progress of their relationship and her emotional immaturity can also be frustrating. Also, the dub-con elements present in early chapters may be a turn off for some readers.

Final Verdict

"It's Not Night" is a mixed bag. It offers a compelling storyline, steamy scenes, and potential for character development, but it's hampered by a problematic female lead and some questionable early interactions. If you enjoy enemies-to-lovers stories with a heavy emphasis on smut and are willing to overlook some character flaws, this might be worth a read. However, if you're sensitive to dub-con themes or dislike unlikeable protagonists, you might want to proceed with caution. Ultimately, I think this novel has potential, but it needs to address its flaws to truly shine. I'm giving it a tentative 3/5.