Side Story Novel Review

My Thoughts on Side Story

"Side Story" is a web novel that pulled me in with its premise: a normal girl transmigrates into the body of a villainess and decides to help her favorite second lead character get his happily ever after. I've read a fair share of transmigration stories, and I was curious to see how this one would play out, especially with the focus on supporting a character's romance rather than pursuing one herself.

First Impressions

Initially, I was intrigued. The idea of a protagonist trying to orchestrate a happy ending for someone else, rather than focusing solely on their own survival or romance, felt like a refreshing twist. The early chapters set up the characters and their relationships well, and I was drawn into the protagonist's motivations. The European-inspired setting and hints of aristocracy added to the story's charm.

What Works Well

One of the strongest aspects of "Side Story" is the character of the male lead, Ver. He's portrayed as a genuinely kind and considerate person, and it's easy to see why the protagonist is so invested in his happiness. The slow-burn romance between the leads also felt natural. The author does a great job of building tension and anticipation as their feelings for each other slowly develop, even as the protagonist tries to push him towards the original heroine. I also appreciated that the story doesn't make the protagonist an overpowered know-it-all. She makes mistakes and faces challenges, which makes her more relatable and human.

Areas of Concern

As I read further, I did find some aspects of the story frustrating. The protagonist's self-sacrificing tendencies can become a bit extreme, and her plans sometimes seem poorly thought out, leading to unnecessary angst and misunderstandings. I can understand why some readers find the protagonist's actions to be meddlesome and even harmful, as she inserts herself into other people's lives without fully considering the consequences. The character motivations can also be confusing at times and the lack of comedic relief can make the story feel a bit heavy.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Side Story" is a mixed bag. While it has a compelling premise and some well-developed characters, it also suffers from frustrating plot developments and questionable character decisions. It's a story that will likely appeal to readers who enjoy angst-filled romances and are willing to overlook some flaws in the characters' motivations. However, if you're looking for a straightforward and satisfying romance, you might find yourself disappointed.