Loving You Is Hurtful

My Thoughts on Loving You Is Hurtful

"Loving You Is Hurtful" is a complicated read, to say the least. With its tags of "adult," "josei," "mature," "psychological," and "romance," I went in expecting a nuanced exploration of a difficult relationship. What I found was... well, a mixed bag.

First Impressions

The synopsis promised a tragic wife, cheated on and exploited. Initially, I was drawn in by the potential for a story about resilience and self-discovery. However, as I delved deeper, I found myself increasingly frustrated with the main character's choices and the overall narrative direction.

What Works Well

I can appreciate the author's attempt to portray the complexities of an emotionally abusive relationship. The novel certainly doesn't shy away from difficult topics, and there were moments where I felt a pang of sympathy for the protagonist. The villainesses also receive karmic justice for their actions, which does provide a sense of closure in that aspect.

Areas of Concern

My biggest issue lies with the main character's portrayal. While the story positions her as a victim, her actions often felt contradictory and, at times, even complicit. This made it difficult for me to fully invest in her journey or root for her ultimate happiness. The repeated cycle of forgiveness and reconciliation with the abusive husband became tiresome and detracted from the story's overall impact. I also struggled with the male lead's possessive nature, which never seemed to truly dissipate despite his supposed remorse. It felt like he viewed her as an object, reinforcing a toxic dynamic that undermined any attempts at redemption.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Loving You Is Hurtful" is a difficult novel to recommend. While it attempts to tackle complex themes, its execution falls short. The frustrating protagonist, the problematic relationship dynamics, and the questionable ending left me feeling more disappointed than satisfied. If you're looking for a story that glorifies unconditional love at any cost, this might be for you. However, if you prefer narratives with strong, independent characters who prioritize their own well-being, I'd suggest looking elsewhere.