**Title: A Defiant Beginning with Frustrating Central Character Choices** Initially, this story shows a lot of promise and kept me invested with its intriguing premise. However, as I continued to follow the protagonist's journey, I began to feel increasingly let down by his choices and development. One of the most glaring issues is the presence of numerous plot holes that detract from the overall experience. The main character (MC) comes across as disorganized and immature, exuding a naivety that borders on foolishness. He is overly vocal about his frustrations, often expressing them out loud in a manner that feels more juvenile than fitting for an 18-year-old, especially after experiencing death and a rebirth of sorts. Each time he revives, instead of showcasing any sense of growth or learning from past experiences, he immediately erupts into emotional outbursts—shouting his anger without any form of self-reflection or understanding of the situation at hand. What is particularly disappointing is the lack of critical thinking displayed by the MC. Despite having lived through enough experiences to have gained wisdom, he does not explore alternate paths or strategies to improve his situation. Even as an individual who has returned to life, he still embodies the characteristics of a fragile and ineffective 12-year-old rather than embracing the growth expected of someone who should be more mature. This stagnation in character development is frustrating to witness. The supporting characters fare no better; they remain one-dimensional and uninspiring, plunging the story further into the depths of boredom. It feels as if the author has attempted to emulate Subaru Natsuki from *Re:Zero*, but lacks an understanding of the narrative depth and consequences that accompany such character traits. Unlike Tappei Nagatsuki, who masterfully develops his character's growth and struggles, this story finds itself wanting and lacking in the same intricate storytelling. Considering all of these points, I would rate this work around 3.5 out of 5 stars, but since it is only the first volume, I am willing to give it a more generous 4 out of 5. However, if the protagonist doesn't undergo a significant transformation in mindset and attitude, I fear that this series may only solidify its place as a disappointment in the long run. That said, I am still willing to give it a chance to prove me wrong, as there is an underlying potential that could be developed further if the author pays greater attention to character growth and narrative depth. Therefore, while my current feelings are mixed, I will remain optimistic and hopeful for what’s to come. Highly recommended for those looking to explore a story with untapped potential.
The whole "matchmaking agency" setup feels very real for modern China. The pressure to marry, the comparison with friends, the emphasis on material displays—it's all grounded in contemporary social issues. The author uses this backdrop brilliantly to set up Lu Zheng's character and his disillusionment with shallow relationships.
This story is an absolute gem and had me laughing out loud from the very first chapter! I can't help but daydream about having an equally powerful pet of my own after witnessing the incredible bond between our main character and their beast companion. The interactions between them are not just cute; they are genuinely heartwarming, filled with humor and charm that keeps you engaged. As I delved deeper into the narrative, I found myself eagerly anticipating each new twist and turn. The unique twist on the beast companion trope adds a fresh perspective that sets this story apart from others in the genre. If you're looking for a mix of laughter, adventure, and a delightful exploration of friendship, this is definitely a MUST-READ! So far, it’s proving to be an utterly enjoyable experience that I wholeheartedly recommend to fellow readers. Don't miss out on this enchanting tale!
The fight with the giant was short and not very realistic. They push the giant, Chen Dian throws a stone at its head, and it works? A giant that size would not be knocked down by a stone. Yan Yu using a wooden stick also felt ineffective. The whole battle was like a video game quick-time event. But the teamwork between Chen Dian and Yan Yu was okay, and their escape with Yingxiu was fun. The giant seems to just let them go?