I think the tutorial-like explanation of classes and ranks could have been shortened. It’s a lot of info to remember. Mos doesn’t even seem to pay much attention to it, so why should I? Maybe she’ll figure it out as she goes.
The opening chapters set up a strong revenge drama with a clear emotional hook. I'm invested in seeing Shen Qi take control of her life. The writing is straightforward, with good use of flashbacks and strong action scenes. The weaknesses are some flat secondary characters and occasional translation stiffness, but the strengths outweigh them. The ice rink scene is iconic, and the family dynamics ring true. If you like stories about wronged heroines getting a second chance and burning bridges, this delivers. I'm going to keep reading to see how Shen Qi navigates the compound and whether she finds real happiness this time around.
I'm already rooting for her to fail in the most spectacularly funny way. I don't want her to save the universe perfectly; I want her to fumble, accidentally befriend her targets, get yelled at by her system, and somehow win by sheer luck and a healthy dose of cunning. Her saying "Pleading to the teacher, but it probably won't work," while also planning to do it shows her moral compass is slowly becoming less selfish. She's learning to be a friend even if she doesn't want to admit it. That's a classic start of a redemption arc, and I'm all in for this reluctant hero.
Comparing this to other rebirth palace stories, the fetus perspective is a fresh twist. Most have the protagonist reborn as herself or a new adult. Being unborn limits action but allows for unique eavesdropping. I'm curious how the author will maintain interest.
Gu Rongzhan being tormented by dead child spirits while he's literally the father of a child he almost killed is such poetic justice I'm not saying he deserved it but I'm not not saying that either.