I Did Something Bad, is a typical romance novel that delivers on the emotional connections, making it a delightful read for those who appreciate love stories. However, it is also unique in it’s perspective as a work by a Myanmar writer. The incorporation of the Myanmar language added a rich cultural layer that I found captivating and wish there had been more included. The narrative touches on significant themes, such as the consequences faced by ‘brown’ individuals in violent encounters with ‘white’ individuals. Reading the last half of the book I found myself unable to put the book down, drawn in by the romance that is central to the story.  

The book does have its shortcomings though. I felt that it needed more character development, as the characters often felt flat and did not invite me into their world. The storytelling approach tends to tell rather than allow the reader to discover the story, which detracted from my ability to fully engage with the narrative. While the romance was enjoyable, the overall plot lacked depth and believability, making it difficult to fully immerse myself in the story.  

Would I recommend I Did Something Bad? Yes, to fans of romance novels, as it is clearly targeted at that audience. If you are looking for a light read focused on romance without the expectation of intricate character development or a richly detailed plot, this book will likely satisfy your cravings. However, if you seek a more profound narrative experience, you may want to look elsewhere.  

Thank you to @stmartinspress for the opportunity to read and review this novel. Also, thank you for the gorgeous pen. However, I am wondering where my $400 Cartier version with my initials carved into it is?