Winner Takes All

My Thoughts on Winner Takes All

"Winner Takes All" is definitely a rollercoaster of emotions, and after finishing it, I can see why it elicits such strong reactions from readers. This novel, part of the 188 series, hooked me with its engaging storyline and complex characters, but also left me with some reservations.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the dynamic between Li Shuo and Zhao Jinxin. Many were intrigued by the characters and the exciting plot. The "manly gay couple" tag felt surprisingly accurate, and I appreciated the initial confusion about who would be the gong and shou. The translation also started off strong, making the early chapters a breeze to read.

What Works Well

I found the characters to be well-developed, each with their own motivations and flaws. Li Shuo, in particular, is a mature and principled character, and I enjoyed seeing how he navigates the turbulent relationship with Zhao Jinxin. I appreciated how the author delved into aspects of Li Shuo's life beyond just his romantic entanglements, giving him depth and making him feel like a fully realized person. Zhao Jinxin, while flawed, is undeniably captivating, and his interactions with Li Shuo are often charged with both tension and sweetness. The side characters also add value to the story, which is a nice change from some novels where they feel like mere afterthoughts.

Areas of Concern

However, the novel isn't without its issues. I understand some readers' concerns about the ML's behavior, which can sometimes cross the line into being manipulative and disrespectful. There are moments when Zhao Jinxin's actions feel less like love and more like control, which can be unsettling. Also, some have pointed out instances of racial stereotypes that felt out of place and negatively impacted their reading experience. I also noticed that the translation quality seems to dip after a certain point, which can detract from the overall enjoyment of the story.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Winner Takes All" is a compelling but flawed novel. If you're a fan of dog-blood dramas with complex characters and aren't easily put off by morally gray characters, you might find yourself enjoying this wild ride. However, it's important to be aware of the potential triggers and problematic elements before diving in. I'd rate it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.