Jiu’An

My Thoughts on Jiu’An

Jiu’An is a completed original story that I recently dove into, and it was quite the ride. Marketed as an adult, mature romance with tragic elements and yaoi themes, it definitely delivers on those fronts. While the premise intrigued me, my experience was a bit of a mixed bag.

First Impressions

Going in, I was prepared for a deeply emotional experience, given the tags like "tragedy" and "unconditional love." The initial setup is compelling, drawing you into the world of crime and gangs where the central romance blossoms. I was immediately interested to see how these two characters would find each other and build a lasting relationship amidst such chaos and danger.

What Works Well

The main strength of Jiu’An lies in its portrayal of a devoted and strong love interest. The unconditional love between the characters is palpable, and I found myself rooting for them despite the odds. The story spans a significant period, showcasing their relationship's evolution, from first love to something much deeper. I appreciated seeing how their bond strengthened over time, facing various challenges and hardships together. The translation quality is also commendable; it made the reading experience smooth and enjoyable.

Areas of Concern

One thing that held me back from fully connecting with the story was the perceived lack of character depth. Because the story is relatively short, the characters felt somewhat underdeveloped. I wanted to delve deeper into their motivations, fears, and desires. The pacing, while brisk, might be too fast for some readers, leaving them craving more emotional resonance.

Final Verdict

Overall, Jiu’An is a decent read. If you're seeking a quick, engaging yaoi romance with criminal undertones and devoted love interests, you might find it enjoyable. However, if you prefer deeply developed characters and a more profound emotional connection, you might find it slightly lacking. I think it's a solid 3.5/5 stars.