Keiyaku – Brand Romance

My Thoughts on Keiyaku – Brand Romance

"Keiyaku – Brand Romance" certainly threw me for a loop! This drama, gender bender, and yaoi blend definitely has a unique flavor, and while it hooked me in some areas, I also found myself scratching my head at others. Overall, it was an interesting, albeit uneven, experience.

First Impressions

The premise itself is intriguing: cross-dressing, European ambience, and a marriage of convenience all wrapped into one. It immediately gave me the impression of a classic, somewhat melodramatic, romance with a twist. I was eager to see how the author would navigate the gender-bending aspect and the forced relationship trope. The initial chapters definitely drew me in with the promise of high-stakes drama and emotional turmoil.

What Works Well

The author paints a vivid picture of wealth and privilege, creating a believable backdrop for the characters' struggles. I particularly enjoyed the initial interactions between the leads. The tension was palpable, and I was genuinely invested in seeing how their relationship would evolve (or implode). The "pretend lovers" dynamic is a classic for a reason, and when it's done well, as it is in parts of this story, it can be incredibly compelling. The acting element adds another layer of intrigue, making the characters' deceptions all the more interesting.

Areas of Concern

My biggest issue lies with the pacing of the romance. I found Edward's character transformation to be a bit too abrupt. Initially, he's presented as this cold, almost callous figure, seemingly untouched by the world around him. But then, after meeting "May," he does a complete 180, and it felt rushed. While I appreciate a good character arc, the suddenness of his change felt unearned and detracted from the overall believability of the story. It left me wondering if the change was only skin deep.

Final Verdict

"Keiyaku – Brand Romance" is a story with a lot of potential that doesn't quite stick the landing. While the premise is captivating and the setting is well-realized, the rushed development of the central relationship ultimately left me wanting more. It's worth a read if you're a fan of the genres, but be prepared for some uneven pacing and a character transformation that might leave you unconvinced.