By Courtney
Love on Hold by MALLINFLOWER/DALMEONG is a story about two high schoolers who have feelings for each other, but both dismiss the moment they shared out of fear that it was just a fleeting feeling that wouldn’t be returned by the other. Then, as their fates continue to align as they attend college together, go on military leave together, and reunite once again on campus, the question is begged: is this fate or forced proximity? As the truth unravels, the characters and the reader are rewarded with a love reciprocated on both sides.
This story combines many of my favorite tropes into one. I love second-chance romances, and this story does that perfectly. Although unable to lock down his crush in high school, Chae-Heon makes it his life’s mission to follow Jeong-yoon through life until he realizes that they are meant to be. This gives the reader the faint impression that he is stalking his love interest, which is proved at the end of the story when he reveals an entire photo album evidencing this commitment. Talk about the delusion being the solution!
The obsession, determination, and unwavering infatuation that Chae-Heon has with his classmate are precisely what I love to see in a man. When a character has tunnel vision for the object of their affection, and that affection has always been secretly reciprocated, it’s the best-case scenario for a dark romance reader. I wouldn’t say that this story is overwhelmingly toxic or dark, but it has elements of those tropes that give a sexy and questionable sense to the love story that unfolds.
I hope you loved this story and the podcast episode I released on it! If you haven’t already listened to me go in-depth on this BL manhwa, you can find it on all major podcast platforms, as well as watch it on YouTube. I will include the link below. Thanks for reading and following along with Book Club! Until next time, remember, just like in this story, sometimes the delusion is the solution!
Yours in Deep Delusion,
Courtney