A short ‘ Should You Buy It?’ review of the You Can Have My Back Boys’ Love novels
The ongoing Boys’ Love light novel series You Can Have My Back offers a refreshing take on the Boys Love genre by intertwining themes of reincarnation, mystery, and political intrigue within a fantastical setting.
The narrative revolves around Leorino, an extraordinarily beautiful young man who carries the memories of Ionia, a knight who died heroically 18 years previously after being killed during an insurrection, and his love for the king’s younger brother Prince Gravis.
This unusual premise sets the stage for a deep exploration of identity, love, and duty, making You Can Have My Back really stand out in the BL genre.
Character development in You Can Have My Back
The series excels in character development, particularly with Leorino as he evolves from an innocent young man to one much stronger and wiser. (Although I will say it is close to the end of Volume 2 before you see much growth, as he spends most of Books 1 and 2 crying his way through every situation, as man after man attempts to take advantage of him due to his immense beauty).
But also a man who struggles with his past life’s memories, and his ability to incorporate them into his current existence.
This internal conflict, coupled with his burgeoning feelings for Gravis, which are both his but also not completely his, adds layers of emotional depth.
The chemistry between the characters is also outstanding, even during their most frustrating misunderstandings, offering readers both the thrill of romance and the anguish of unrequited/lost love.
Sometimes slow-moving and too detail-oriented
However, like many books, the series isn’t without its challenges.
Some readers might find the pacing a bit cumbersome due to its detailed exploration of political conspiracies and the emotional fallout of Ionia’s death, which can overshadow the romantic elements at times.
Especially as, during some of the most romantic scenes, the story suddenly moves to explain the political events occurring around them.
Despite this, the world-building is rich, with a well-thought-out backstory that ties the current events together well, while providing a sense of continuity and depth to the narrative.
The characters too are beautifully written, instantly relatable, and come gorgeously alive from the very first page. (My favorite, though, is definitely Prince Gravis).
The emotional resonance of You Can Have My Back, however, is what makes it stand out in the BL light novel genre.
That comes from its portrayal of love that transcends lifetimes, mixed with the harsh realities of the destruction of betrayal and other people’s political machinations.
In other words, You Can Have My Back is not just a story of romance but is also a tale of redemption, vengeance, and the complex nature of human (and in this case, perhaps more than human) relationships.
After all, if you are reincarnated as another person, should your feelings and emotions be carried over into that new person’s life?
Even if they may hurt you and some of the people the person in your previous life cared about so much? And can they ever be used for good?
Should you buy You Can Have My Back?
I recommend You Can Have My Back for those BL fans who appreciate a blend of romance with a heavy dose of fantasy and mystery encompassed inside a very well-written story.
In other words, the light novel series does not feature your typical BL plot. And, for me, that’s a good thing.
The book series (after the first two volumes at least) is less about the typical fluffy BL elements and more about a profound exploration of what it means to love, remember, and confront one’s destiny across lifetimes.
While it might not cater to everyone looking for a straightforward Boys’ Love romance, for those intrigued by a narrative with depth, emotion, and a touch of the supernatural, this series will be a hidden gem in the BL genre.
So, yes, you should buy it. (Although, be warned, if you’re not into long sex scenes, this BL light novel series may not be for you — and, yes, I skimmed through some of them).
The first two volumes of You Can Have My Back are published now via Yen Press, with Volume 3, the final volume, due out on October 1st.
I have to say, Volume 3 is a book I have been looking forward to far more than many other series on my bookshelf.
