Those Years of Mutual Fandom with the Film Emperor

My Thoughts on Those Years of Mutual Fandom with the Film Emperor

"Those Years of Mutual Fandom with the Film Emperor" promised a fluffy, comedic dive into the lives of two celebrity fanboys, and for the most part, it delivered. I went in expecting lighthearted fun, and I wasn't entirely disappointed, though I did find some aspects stronger than others.

First Impressions

The initial chapters were a blast. The premise of two famous actors secretly being huge fans of each other, complete with awkward interactions and online shenanigans, was genuinely hilarious. The banter between the main characters, Shen Fubai and Jiang Heng, felt fresh and engaging. The author’s writing style definitely kept me hooked, even when the plot seemed to wander a bit.

What Works Well

The core of the story, the relationship between the two leads, is definitely the highlight. Their mutual pining and eventual romance are adorable, and the novel excels at portraying the growth and evolution of their bond. I especially enjoyed the moments where their professional lives intertwined with their personal feelings, adding an extra layer of depth to their interactions. The comedic undertones are also a major strength, providing plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. I also really enjoyed the "plot within a plot" where the author delivered a solid story for the yaoi tragedy movie that the main couple starred in. It was a really nice touch!

Areas of Concern

While the first half of the novel kept me thoroughly entertained, I did notice some issues creeping in later on. The introduction of seemingly random characters who don't contribute much to the overall plot felt a bit jarring and unnecessary. The humor, which was initially a strong point, occasionally became repetitive and lost its charm. Some found the characterization of the ML as overly dominant, pushing boundaries in ways that felt uncomfortable, but I did not find this to be the case.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Those Years of Mutual Fandom with the Film Emperor" is an enjoyable read, especially if you're looking for a fluffy, comedic romance with a unique premise. While it has its flaws, the engaging writing style, the endearing relationship between the leads, and the genuinely funny moments make it a worthwhile experience. I'd recommend it to anyone seeking a lighthearted escape into the world of celebrity fandom. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.