You Use a Gun, I Use a Bow Novel Review

My Thoughts on You Use a Gun, I Use a Bow

"You Use a Gun, I Use a Bow" promised a lighthearted dive into the world of e-sports with a healthy dose of shounen ai romance. Having finished it, I can say it delivers on that promise, albeit with a few stumbles along the way. It's a fun read, but it definitely has its quirks.

First Impressions

The initial chapters really hooked me. The premise of a cute, somewhat clumsy protagonist who's a god with a bow in a PUBG-esque game was charming. I loved the dynamic between Wen Xi, the MC, and Mo Chen, the ML. Their interactions are full of playful banter and unintentional flirting, making for a delightful start. I was eager to see how their relationship would develop amidst the competitive gaming scene.

What Works Well

The strength of this novel lies in its lightheartedness and the relationships between the characters. Many readers, including myself, found the side characters surprisingly well-developed and likable. The author does a good job of creating a team dynamic that feels genuine and supportive. The romance, while sometimes bordering on overly sweet, is undeniably cute and fluffy. It's a feel-good story that's easy to pick up and enjoy after a long day. I also appreciated that the ML is openly biased towards the MC, it's a fun twist on the typical cold-CEO trope, and it doesn't impact his decisions in the game.

Areas of Concern

However, the novel isn't without its flaws. I noticed several reviewers mentioned that the plot felt rushed, especially towards the end. The major competitions lacked tension, and the ending felt somewhat anticlimactic. I agree that the author could have spent more time developing the esports aspect and creating a greater sense of suspense. While the OP-ness of the main characters is initially appealing, it does diminish the stakes and the feeling of genuine struggle. I also felt that the MC's characterization could have been stronger. While cute, he sometimes felt a bit too childish for his age.

Final Verdict

Overall, "You Use a Gun, I Use a Bow" is an enjoyable, fluffy read perfect for when you want something low-stakes and heartwarming. While the plot might not be groundbreaking and the ending feels rushed, the charming characters and sweet romance make it a worthwhile experience. I'd recommend it to those who enjoy gaming BL with a focus on character interactions and lighthearted fun. Just don't expect a nail-biting esports drama. I'd give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.