Gothikana by RuNyx Review

From start to finish, my journey through Gothikana by RuNyx was a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving me with a whirlwind of thoughts and impressions. As I delved into the narrative, I found myself grappling with various aspects of the story, oscillating between intrigue and confusion.

First and foremost, the initial question that crossed my mind was, "What am I reading?" The novel attempts to establish itself as an age gap romance, a premise often rife with tension and complexity. However, the age difference between the protagonists, 21 and 28 respectively, fails to evoke the anticipated discord. While not inherently problematic, this dynamic lacked the depth and intensity typically associated with such relationships.

Moreover, the exploration of power dynamics within the narrative, particularly the professor-student relationship, presented an intriguing yet precarious terrain. The inherent imbalance of authority added layers to the character dynamics, albeit with a tinge of discomfort.

One of the perplexing elements of Gothikana was its setting—a purported school for the paranormal or outcasts, reminiscent of Hogwarts but mired in ambiguity. The narrative vacillates between portraying a collegiate environment and a high school boarding school, leaving readers grappling with its identity. The stringent rules imposed on students further blur the distinction, evoking a sense of discordance.

The much-anticipated "Ball" within the story unfolds as a disillusioning revelation, deviating from its anticipated elegance to reveal itself as an orgy party—a stark departure from conventional expectations. This unexpected twist adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, albeit one tinged with discomfort and disbelief.

As the story hurtles towards its conclusion, an intriguing twist emerges, promising a climactic resolution. However, the execution falls short of believability, leaving readers grappling with unanswered questions and unresolved conflicts. The notion that Vad, despite his actions, evades legal repercussions strains credulity, detracting from the narrative's authenticity.

A lingering question that haunts readers is the enigmatic presence of the lake—its significance shrouded in mystery, leaving a trail of unanswered queries in its wake. The unresolved fate of Roy, submerged within its depths, adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative, begging for elucidation.

Overall Rating: ⭐⭐ (2.5/5 stars)

Spiciness: ⭐⭐ ⭐⭐(4/5 stars) – R

Writing style: ⭐⭐(2/5 stars)

In summation, Gothikana earns a modest rating of 2.5 stars, marred by inconsistencies and unresolved plotlines. While the denouement offers a fleeting sense of satisfaction, it fails to compensate for the narrative's shortcomings. However, it's worth noting that the novel excels in its portrayal of intimate encounters, earning a commendable smut rating of 4/5. Ultimately, Gothikana emerges as a narrative akin to fanfiction—brimming with potential yet mired in its own complexities.