The Daily Life of the Reborn Adopted Son of a Wealthy Family

Description

Links are NOT allowed. Format your description nicely so people can easily read them. Please use proper spacing and paragraphs.

When Chen Wengang was nine years old, he was adopted by the Zheng family of Jin City after his father died in the line of duty, leaving him dependent on the hospitality of others.

From being a ward of a wealthy family to wandering without a home, he became acquainted with and fell in love with the eldest son of the Zheng family. However, he also faced betrayal and deceit from his lover, bearing the weight of countless rumors.

Most scions of prestigious families looked down on Chen Wengang. At the darkest moment of his life, Huo Niansheng, a playboy who had once mocked him, appeared before him and raised an eyebrow, “You used to be so aloof; how did you end up in such a sorry state?”

Chen Wengang was leaning against a graffiti-covered wall, a cigarette dangling between his fingers, and a half-grimace scar on his face. Huo Niansheng casually approached and borrowed a light, “If you’re truly homeless, why not come with me?”

Chen Wengang got into Huo Niansheng’s car.

Little did he know, that this decision would shape his entire life.

No one knew why the cunning Huo Niansheng was so persistent with an underground lover who was disfigured. He remained indifferent, not indulging in the extravagance of the nightlife.

Later, Huo Niansheng died in a cruise ship accident. In the farewell letter he left for Chen Wengang at the end of his life, he wrote, “I never knew if you truly loved me, and unfortunately, I may never find out in this lifetime.”

Afterward, Chen Wengang was reborn at the age of twenty.

He had not been disfigured yet, and there were many regrets that he could now rectify. Most importantly, he could give Huo Niansheng a second chance.

My love, as long as you stop and pay attention,

You will always see the depth of my love.

Playboy Gong vs. Gentle and Calm Shou

Reading Tips:

1. Primarily focused on emotions, daily life, 1v1, HE (Happy Ending).

2. The past feelings of Huo Niansheng will be addressed.

Associated Names
One entry per line
DLRAS
豪门养子重生日常
Related Series
N/A
Recommendations
Rebirth of a Movie Star (4)
Married the Scum Gong’s Villain Brother (2)
Source Of Calamity (2)
Remarriage (Fu Su) (1)
Little Madman’s Guide to Acting Good (1)
Reborn as a Substitute (1)
Recommendation Lists
  1. Rereading Worthy
  2. Novels (2024)
  3. Reborn BL
  4. Too many tabs 1
  5. Rebirth with Smart Couples (BL)

Latest Release

Date Group Release
05/31/24 98Novels c164
05/31/24 98Novels c163
05/31/24 98Novels c162
05/31/24 98Novels c161
05/31/24 98Novels c160
05/31/24 98Novels c159
05/31/24 98Novels c158
05/31/24 98Novels c152
05/31/24 98Novels c157
05/31/24 98Novels c156
05/31/24 98Novels c155
05/31/24 98Novels c154
05/31/24 98Novels c153
05/31/24 98Novels c151
05/31/24 98Novels c150
Go to Page...
Go to Page...
Review
43 Reviews


Katra1212
Katra1212
Feb 16, 2024
Status: Completed
In the heartwarming narrative of Chen Wengang's journey, we are invited into a world where time folds, allowing him to traverse back to moments before life-altering tragedy struck. This compelling tale meticulously explores his poignant reunion with Huo Niansheng, the epitome of his deepest regrets.

Is this opportunity for rebirth a genuine second chance to mend the fabric of his destiny, or merely an ephemeral illusion, a fleeting dream that dissolves into the ether, leaving behind a haunting yearning for what might have been?

Spoiler
    • I never knew if you truly loved me. Unfortunately, in this lifetime, perhaps I'll never get the chance to find out. I've left you enough to live on. Be strong from now on, and live well."
    • Huo Niansheng's Last Letter to Chen Wengang
    • "I hope you know, you will forever be the ultimate dream nestled deep within the recesses of my soul."
    • Chen Wegang's Love Letter to Huo Niansheng
[collapse]

Plot:

From the outset, we're drawn into the prelude of Chen Wengan's existence prior to his death and subsequent rebirth. This backstory not only crafts a vivid portrayal of the man we journey alongside but also lays bare the soul of someone shaped by a past riddled with compromise, betrayal, and heart-wrenching adversity.

Spoiler

From the modest beginnings as the son of a driver for the prestigious Zheng family to becoming a ward under the family's care following his father's heroic sacrifice. Growing alongside the Zheng's young master, Chen Wengang becomes an extension of his shadow, his life a series of concessions born of indebtedness. His ingrained sense of gratitude, however, morphs into chains of bondage, ensnaring him in a web of tragedy he nobly accepts without resentment. Yet, as fate's cruel machinations unfold, what was intended as a redeemable punishment spirals into an abyss of despair, leaving him broken. In his darkest hour, he encounters Huo Niansheng, who offers sanctuary.

[collapse]

Their intertwined pasts, revealed through evocative flashbacks, weave a tapestry of poignant moments that draw the reader deeper into Wengang's tumultuous former life. Each memory, object, and scene intricately laced with unspoken agony and yearning, paints a vivid picture of a love profound and unspoken.

Spoiler

Two scenes, in particular, remain etched in my memory: a phone number dialled in moments of longing, though its owner has long vanished. The meticulously prepared memorial meal that grows cold, its flavors as hollow as the night wind whispering through long-open windows, echoing the absence of a spirit that will never return.

[collapse]

For Chen Wengang, Huo Niansheng is more than a memory; he is an indelible mark on his soul, a wound that rebirth alone cannot heal. Embarking on this new life, it is fear that grips him first- not joy or anticipation but a visceral fear of losing once more. Their relationship, shrouded in ambiguity, leaves him adrift, yearning for a clarity that eludes him.

Huo Niansheng, as perceived by Wengang in his past life, stands in stark contrast to the man he meets anew. In their past life, it wasn't misunderstanding but circumstance that held their love in stasis. Their story is one of unspoken care and love, a bond so tangled in complexities that even when the chance to vocalize their feelings arises, it's tragically too late.

Spoiler

Their initial life's trajectory was destined for sorrow, with Huo Niansheng's demise becoming a catalyst for Wengang's awakening, to fulfil his last wish: to persevere and live on.

And he did. With Niansheng's legacy, Wengang dedicates his renewed life to philanthropy, aiding those less fortunate, embodying the resilience and compassion that define his character.

[collapse]

Characters:

Chen Wengang emerges from his trials as a figure of tranquillity and resolve, his past life's hardships tempering any impulsive desires for vengeance. His character, originally precocious, evolves into one of patience and understanding, navigating conflicts with a gentle yet firm hand, showcasing a resilience and depth borne of lifetimes of experiences.

Spoiler

The core of his character lies in his complex relationships, most notably with Huo Niansheng, the Zhengs, his neighbours, his old classmates and to our beloved boi, Halley and the inner conflicts that stem from these connections. His love for Niansheng is a beacon that guides him through his darkest moments, yet it is also a source of profound vulnerability. Wengang's struggle to reconcile his past with his present, and his fear of losing Niansheng again, add layers of emotional depth to his character, making his journey all the more compelling.

[collapse]

Huo Niansheng's initial portrayal as an aristocratic young master, notorious for his romantic escapades splashed across the tabloids, sets the stage for a character that readers might be quick to judge. However, as the narrative progresses, it becomes evident that there is much more to him than meets the eye. Behind the facade of the playboy lies a keen intellect and a contemplative soul, suggesting that his public persona is but a mask to protect the more sensitive aspects of his character.

Spoiler

One of the most compelling aspects of him is his embodiment of contradictions. He navigates the world with a sardonic wit and an air of disdain for those around him, yet in moments of solitude or in the company of Chen Wengang, his gentler, more reflective side comes to the fore. These shifts reveal a man who is acutely aware of the expectations placed upon him by society and his family, yet yearns for a simplicity and authenticity that his public life denies him.

[collapse]

Word Building:

The world within the novel is richly painted, set against a modern backdrop of family drama and corporate intrigue. Side characters are meticulously crafted, each with their own narratives that enrich the main storyline. This novel transcends the typical rebirth narrative to explore themes of love, loss, and redemption with a depth that lingers long after the final page is turned.

While some readers may long for vengeance, the novel instead focuses on healing and the power of enduring love. Chen Wengang's rebirth is not a panacea for his woes but a journey towards understanding, acceptance, and the hope of a new beginning with Huo Niansheng.

Pacing:

The novel's pacing is thoughtfully calibrated, mirroring the protagonists' gradual and careful journey towards rekindling their bond. As the narrative unfolds, the slow build-up of tension and longing culminates in moments of passion that blaze with the intensity of a love that has endured the trials of time.

Furthermore, the inclusion of supporting characters is handled with finesse, enriching the story's tapestry without ever overshadowing the primary relationship at its heart. These characters bring a vibrant array of perspectives and dynamics, enhancing the depth and relatability of the world the protagonists inhabit.

In essence, the novel's pacing is a delicate dance between moments of quiet introspection and explosive emotional revelations. It adeptly balances the slow unraveling of past hurts with the exhilarating rush of rediscovered love, crafting a reading experience that is both satisfying and deeply moving.

My Opinion:

This novel swept me away with its emotional depth and nuanced characterizations. Chen Wengang and Huo Niansheng shine as complex, sympathetic leads. Their tangled history and slow rebuild of trust make for an addictive, cathartic read.

Spoiler

Chen Wengang, the MC, is a particular standout - his depression and trauma are depicted with insightful detail. The rebirth was not a cure all for his depression. Watching his descent to memories and fall into trauma gripped my heart throughout the novel.

[collapse]

Unlike typical protagonists who may seek revenge for the wrongs done to them, He chooses a path of understanding and forgiveness. This does not, however, render him weak; rather, it highlights his maturity and the depth of his character. He navigates his second chance with a wisdom born of his past sufferings, making choices that reflect his deep-seated desire for peace and happiness.

On the other hand, Huo Niansheng subverts the typical domineering CEO trope, evolving into an intriguingly imperfect and empathetic lead. His smiles often cloak uncomfortable emotions rather than confidence, his intellect and business acumen balanced by very human limitations. Yet his steadfast support for Wengang recovery and willingness to tear down his own barriers shows profound personal growth through compassion.
Spoiler

I like the complexities of Huo Niansheng. Till the very end he remains an enigma to me. The last two side stories in particular will make you wonder, could he have rebirthed?

[collapse]

My primary critique of the narrative stems from its lack of clarity regarding the protagonists' rebirth. The story leaves readers in the dark about the mechanics and rationale behind such a pivotal plot device. It begs the question: Is this truly an opportunity for a second chance at life, or merely an illusory comfort, a transient dream spawned from deep-seated yearning?

The inclusion of side stories that explore alternate "what if" scenarios only adds layers of complexity. These narratives tantalize with the possibility that the main storyline itself could be another speculative branch in a maze of realities. This ambiguity, whether intentional or not, invites a depth of speculation. Perhaps I'm delving too deeply, seeking answers where the true beauty of the tale lies in its mystery and the emotional journey it provokes. Nonetheless, the absence of an explanation for the rebirth element leaves a longing for a more grounded understanding of their miraculous second chance.

Conclusion:

This quote appropriately summrizes their story.

Spoiler

"My life was once far from perfect, " Chen Wengang glanced at Huo Niansheng, a gentle smile curved at the edge of his lips. "I've made many mistakes, and became a total mess - it was painful and unbearable, as if I had lost everything. Worse still, it was right at this moment that I encountered someone with unclear intentions, unsure if it's good or bad."

"But I soon confirmed that he at least didn't mind my imperfections. Speaking of which, he'll be swearing later to love me, comfort me, respect me and protect me - for better or worse, in sickness and health alike. I actually feel it's unnecessary because he's already fulfilled all that. I understand him and he understands me. No need for excessive sweet nothings. Only after living this long did I grasp that past regrets are unimportant, because he's given me abundant love. So much that no matter what happens, there's no reason left to complain."

[collapse]

Main Story: The continuation of their love story post-rebirth.

Side Story 1: Past Life- Huo Niansheng's perspective.

Side Story 2: The intricacies of their past life

Side Story 3: Their lives in the present.

Side Story 4: If having never been apart.

Side Story 5: If growing up together

The side stories are a masterful touch, from Niansheng's poignant regrets to alternate timelines of their love persevering against all odds. This is an epic, resonant second-chance romance for the ages. I was enthralled from start to finish. Chen Wengang and Huo Niansheng now hold an eternal place among my favorite literary couples.
60 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
xjgg
xjgg
Jan 29, 2024
Status: Completed
🌟3.5 it's a sweet, gentle love story, but the face-slapping was quite unsatisfying. MC was reborn right on the day he was outed. I honestly quite like it.
Spoiler

MC was adopted into Zheng family and was well-fed, well-clothed, and well-educated. He was even allowed to call father Zheng "Yifu". That's why his situation was a bit more complicated; he was treated as well as zheng's biological children on the surface. He even got along really well with his adopted younger sister. Huo niansheng was this sister's maternal cousin.

After rebirth, MC directly broke up with zheng's eldest son, zheng yucheng. In his previous life, he stayed with zyc even though it was a losing battle. Zyc still dated MC but was also afraid to seriously refuse his arranged marriage partner. His arranged marriage partner, he wanxin, was a cruel woman who was an illegitimate child (so she had to get married to zyc since he was her biggest chance to marry well. She blackmailed MC and zyc. Then when MC sacrificed himself to be sent to prison instead of zyc, she paid people to ab*se MC in prison. Once MC was released, she paid people to ruin mc's face with acid. MC didn't have money so his injury festered and he could only live in a very shabby place and work as a cashier in a small store. This was when ML met him and took him in.

ML forcefully gave him a place to stay and medical treatments. MC lost his right eye, got very sickly, had depression, severe ptsd, and was suicidal. ML didn't mention anything but he tracked down the inmates who ab*sed MC and most likely killed them (MC only got to know this after ml's death). He also did something to hwx so she became insignificant in their social circle (it was only mentioned in passing). You see why I said quite unsatisfying? Everything was done by ML behind the scene ahhhh. I at least want to know how ML dealt with hwx. Most of mc's sufferings were caused by her.

Mc's love for zyc was used up after he went to prison and zyc only sent money and people to pick him up once he was released from prison. Then it turned into disgust when they accidentally met again. MC never told ML this and never told he loved him either since he felt inferior. After ml's death, MC inherited all of his wealth and became a philanthropist.

After rebirth, he stayed in the zheng family and made his stance clear. He broke up with zyc, did volunteer works whenever he could. He also accidentally met ML who didn't remember his past life. ML started pursuing him but he felt hesitant. He wanted to make up for his mistakes and love ML wholeheartedly, bit he still felt that this rebirth was unreal, the ML who sincerely loved him was still dead in the other timeline, and the ML in this tl knew nothing about this so this making up thing felt a bit misdirected. This is also why ML was hesitant about going into a long-term relationship with MC since he felt that MC was looking at another person through him. But MC slowly learned to let go and properly love the current ml. Then ML finally got the memories of his past life too after a near-death experience. Their reunion felt so sweet and well-earned.

They also got married twice: first getting a certificate in las vegas, then a wedding reception in china a year/a few years later (?). Mc's adoptive father once said that it was okay for two men of their status to fool around but not to take it seriously. Then years later MC informed his adoptive father about his wedding with ML while his son (zyc) had to cancel his engagement and the cooperation broken because MC and ml's lawyer worked hard and succeeded sending hwx to prison (she kept targeting MC and put him in danger even though she knew MC was dating ML and no longer had any relationship with zyc). ML didn't hide his relationship with MC among their circle (he never disclosed mc's identity to the public since MC didn't want to) and always stood up for MC. It was clear he never wronged mc; worlds apart from zyc. What's more entertaining than rubbing it in his adoptive father's face that MC found such a good and devoted lover in ML (a.k.a. A man of their status) while his biological son was just not brave and good enough to live without a secure marriage to help him keep his position?

Be it in the previous tl or in this one the face-slapping left me feeling unsatisfied. It was only mentioned in passing that years after ml's death, zyc divorced his wife and was seen chasing after MC then later was explained that he wanted to get back with MC and promised to treat him well. Hwx in both timeline was dealt with behind the scene. I want more detailllsss. Yea I know this is a love story, but isn't face-slapping cathartic?

[collapse]
15 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
ByleeM
ByleeM
Jan 12, 2024
Status: c21
It's an ok read. I'm just bored, it feels like the MC has no clear direction so far. He's a reborn tycoon but seems to be content to just linger around in the Zheng family knowing they are at least indirectly responsible for his disfigurement and may likely require him to make the same sacrifice.

I love how he's not obsessed with revenge. I love that how he doesn't jump and down like the clown when the little brother acts like brat but still manage to put him in his place.... more>> What I don't like is that he somehow manages to be confident and mature but still gives of indecisive vibes. <<less
12 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
calledout
calledout
Feb 16, 2024
Status: c54
i know why a lot of reviewers are finding issues with the pacing and lack of drama in the story, but I want to emphasize the title: the daily life of the reborn adopted son of a wealthy family. It's slice of life-paced! I'm buckling myself in for a well-written, sweet, not too dramatic romance about chen wengang getting a second chance at life and romance. Honestly the lack of face-slapping and focus on relationships between characters is really refreshing for me. Excited to read the rest of this story!
8 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
Regra
Regra
Jul 21, 2024
Status: ct
So good!

A true gem! I strongly recommend it!

The author satisfied every requirements of the reader - rebirth, emotional growth, past story (I cried my eyes out) happy ending!

I love the author for the extra chapters that gives us an alternate ending. The only complaint is that the last chapter has an open ending (T^T)

I kind of shipped MC childhood friend (who has a lil bro) and the Buddhist pretending friend of ML but it didn't sail 🤐
5 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
Destiny Slayer
Destiny Slay
Dec 28, 2023
Status: c89
The story isn't bad but not great either. I feel like the story can be shorter than this but there are some unimportant chapter that the author write to delay the plot/make the story longer but became boring.

... more>>
Spoiler

In zheng family, MC have two sisters and three brothers. One of the sister (the older) is already married. While the younger sister is the only one who close with MC in the zheng family (the ML is also her cousin). One of the brother is one who fell in love with MC and there is another one who became MC friend. But there is one of the brothers (Mu Qing) who hate MC. He tried to copy MC and even slandered MC (+other zheng family members). He also used someone who chased MC. I don't like him. When all the things Mu Qing did was exposed, I feel like the revenge isn't done well like in other novel. Btw, he is adopted to like MC but actually he is related to zheng family.

[collapse]

Anyway, that's my opinion. Have fun reading !! <<less
5 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
sagastile
sagastile
Dec 27, 2023
Status: c5
Just the start but its very interesting read. The MC has a lot of baggage but at the same time is clear headed and calm in a poised maner till now. Maybe we will see some flare after from him.

And I think the love with the ML will be interesting. Cant wait for more.
5 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
Xiao Jing Ya
Xiao Jing Ya
Sep 15, 2024
Status: --
4/5 Stars from me.

This perhaps would be a hit or miss for some people. But for me, it's a hit, because it feels 'mature'.

Mainly because it doesn't follow the refreshing faceslapping plot other rebirth stories usually have. If you're here for it, then you would be very likely to get disappointed.

... more>> For me personally, this story is a 'grown-up' one. Slow and steady, not unnecessarily flashy and dramatic.

MC, Chen Wengang's, way of thinking and mentality is not 'hotheaded' or focuses solely on revenge or making up past mistakes like other rebirthed MCs.

He had already been in his late 30s or even early 40s, and reverting back in age didn't automatically make his mentality and thought process younger (which felt like a default in most rebirth stories). He was also someone who had been diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety, had just barely came out of his shell when he abruptly lost ML and his anchor for 7 years, Huo Niansheng, and tried his best to 'live well' as Niansheng told him for 10 years.

Actually I love that his depression and anxiety provided reasons for his indifference and lack of desire even after the rebirth. I had seen other readers complaining about Wengang's lack of action against his past perpetrators in the current timeline, but they forgot that this person is a patient. His emotion had become so numb and tired that he couldn't even bother to care about anything, to the point of being suicidal. He really had no energy to get mad or revenge. It's only after regaining Huo Niansheng in the current life and gradually getting his sense of emotions back, combined with the actual threat on Huo Niansheng's safety, that he eventually felt the need for retaliation. Even his initiative to retaliate against He Wenxin, the one who caused his greatest misfortune in the past life, hadn't come as quickly as towards the people who hurt Niansheng.

For him, grievances from he was in early 20s and the people who harmed him were already faraway and had long been numbed. He himself never felt the need to retaliate or revenge bc he had already been overwhelmed just to maintain his mental state. He had already accepted a new home with Huo Niansheng, and had lived alone for 10 years after he died to fulfill Niansheng's last words. He had moved on to a new life.

So I don't feel it strange that he's so indifferent with the current status in Zheng family and other troublemakers who had harmed him in the past. Even from the narrations, I already feel that he's just like a middle aged man watching children jumping up and down in front of him. Retaliating against them is exhausting, unnecessary, and doesn't offer any triumphant feeling.

Because what Wengang wants most now is to rekindle a genuine relationship with Huo Niansheng, and learn how to properly love him, not entangling in debt, pity and regret from the past life.

This is why I feel the author is mature. Sometimes you can feel whether a romance is written by a mature author or not. It's different how they prioritize things or how they approach problems in life or matters of the heart. I don't know how to explain it, but it's just different. It feels like a proper adult romance in how they communicate, how they treat each other, how they make decisions, etc.

You could see how a story is written by a mature person, because wordings and passages aside, the decisions and priorities in life is inherently different from young people.

If you're truly an adult who had seen the world and had experienced so much, watching petty tricks from people like Mu Qing, the jealous adopted brother, or He Wenxin, the unscrupulous young lady who snatched his ex, it feels so childish that it's almost laughable.

Even Zheng Yusheng, the 'scumbag' ex, was clearly way more immature and naive than Wengang's current mentality, so it's just feels like facing a kid throwing a tantrum.

Wengang doesn't take revenge against them because he genuinely doesn't need it. Mu Qing and He Wenxin in this life hadn't done anything worthy of the so called revenge. Though he did prepare to retaliate against Mu Qing for what he had done at that point in life, but the school had solved it before he could interfere.

He doesn't do anything to the Zheng family, bc they had yet done anything to slight him that warranted any retaliation. It's just not worth it to disturb a peaceful lake when he already has a clear path to leave it. And he's clearly leaving them, though it's slow and peaceful, unlike the hotheaded falling outs in most faceslapping novels. It's better to leave courteously than to make it ugly for everyone involved, because Zheng family also has people Wengang genuinely cares about. It's not his place to ruin them.

He doesn't do anything to Zheng Yusheng, his ex, except for clearly ending their relationship and setting boundaries, because he had indeed moved on a long time ago. They're just strangers now. It's unnecessary to make things sour when they could just part amicably.

Wengang is a person who had been wounded and healed, had moved on and had lived for years after those things happened. Huo Niansheng had solved them in the past life, and Wengang had let go of them in the first place.

So what's the use of the so called revenge? He's already numb, already let go, and he had better things to care for than getting entangled back in previous grievances. Why insist in unnecessary emotional battles?

For him, the important thing is what he had gained, not things he had lost. This is not indifference. He just wants a peaceful life with people he cares about.

I find this common approach in rebirth stories with truly mature characters, those who hadn't 'regressed' to teenager's way of thinking just bc their physical age became younger. For them, revenge is never the priority, but to get back a peaceful life with their loved ones. If it's not worth it, they won't do anything excessive.

So for me this novel is just right. It truly is a 'Daily Life'. Not everything has to be dramatic.

I subtracted a star because the extra timeline is unnecessary and OOC. I don't like how author went with it.

Spoiler

basically Huo Niansheng dubconned Wengang when he was drunk and they had one night stand before Niansheng relentlessly pursued him. It destroyed Niansheng's core character. He is NOT a playboy, despite acting like one. He's very responsible. And more importantly, he RESPECTS Wengang's consent. Always. Of all other ways that could get them together in the first life, author chose this tasteless one. Deeply disappointed.

[collapse]
<<less
4 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
Dapi
Dapi
Jul 26, 2024
Status: --
I usually find myself liking slice of life stories at first but slowly being less interested over time, either because it gets repetitive or it stops feeling like a slice of life. I think this story strikes a wonderful balance of focusing on the small moments of day to day life, while having an over arcing tension that simmers below the story to keep it moving. Slowly learning more about the past and also wondering what Huo Niansheng's motive and feelings are kept me reading, but I also love all... more>> the relationships Chen Wengang builds with other people and the day-to-day activities throughout.

I liked how it felt grounded, even if it's still a rich person CEO drama. When a character acts unreasonably cruel and manipulative, the people respond to it the way real people would, rather than how people in stories respond. You can't rely on tropes when characters are introduced, having to slowly learn if a character can be trusted or not, and at the end characters aren't split into friends or villains, having more complexity than that.

Spoiler

I also really liked that in the first life, Chen Wengang's disfigurement wasn't portrayed as this impossible to recover from tragedy, which I think would have been kind of disrespectful to people who are disfigured. Chen Wengang went through a realistically complex emotional journey that was because of a lot of different unfortunate things, not just one.

[collapse]

I can see some people having issues with pacing. There are several plot lines that are introduced early but pay off late, but personally I liked that things took times. It added to the sense of realism. There also isn't a lot of face slapping, and Chen Wengang isn't out for revenge, which might not be people cup of tea, but makes a lot of sense character wise.

All around, lovely story that really makes you feel as you read it. <<less
4 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
NotSoProud
NotSoProud
Jul 13, 2024
Status: Completed
Very enjoyable. (Do note this is slice of life - since some people seem to be surprised by it for some reason??? Despite it having a slice of life tag and 'focuses on emotions and daily life' in the description??? O-o)

Putting it simply: This is a story of a man filled with regret who returned to his past and hopes to live a happy life with the person he loves. He has a lot of issues - depression, self-contempt, indecisiveness etc. With a façade of maturity plastered on... more>> top, carefully crafted in order to survive in society during his past life after ML (who was and is the only thing keeping him in this world) was no longer with him.

This is also a story of another man, ML, who for the first time found a real home in a kind soul who has been battered and bruised by life, and beaten down into hopelessness even though he didn't really deserve it.

It's about their difficult past, and the present where they try to get their happier future together. (Sweet but also sour. It's a happy end) <<less
4 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
yellauraya
yellauraya
Jul 11, 2024
Status: Completed
➺ 4/5 🌟

I never knew if you truly loved me.

It’s a pity; maybe I’ll never get to know in this lifetime.

... more>> I’ve left you enough to live on. Be stronger in the future and live well.

This novel conveyed the poignant and melancholic vibe suited perfectly to the plot and the protagonist's perspective of life. The feeling of unbearable regret of not cherishing the only person who stayed by his side for a long time and not being able to express his love until it was too late. The feeling of deep yearning for the person he once lost, having no choice but to continue living a few more years without him because that person wished him to live well. But then fate gave him a second chance to go back before everything started but instead of feeling relief, he felt the fear of experiencing the same pain again and losing the person for the second time. The angst is not right in the face but more like creeping and staying in the background, making you feel repressed and the pain is dull but lingering.

Just like how the title showed, this is the daily life of the protagonist, so it's more slow paced and the plot is not intense event one after another. There are parts that nothing happen and seemed kind of monotonous but this feels more realistic because that's what happens in real life. But that's not to say that it's irrelevant because those slow, tedious moments are part of the character's arc. I always found it fascinating to read slow paced slice of life like this, as if I was reading someone's biography. I couldn't say I enjoyed this because I don't think 'enjoy' is the right word to describe reading something so sad. But I was really invested and I was sincerely rooting for the MC to find the happiness he so much deserved.

The MC's past life is actually in the form of quick flashbacks but you can still vividly feel the depression and desolation he experienced. There's also a small 'past life' arc where it focused in MC's life post-disfigurement when he received the ML's support. After that small arc are a few chapters leading to the ending, more domesticated life between the MC and ML, tying the loose ends for the conclusion but I loved that not everything has a resolution, making it more realistic.

I also just want to say that there's a lot of great representation of depression, panic attack, disabilities and more. I appreciate that the author is very sensitive when it comes to these delicate topics. I think he/she has enough knowledge about these to properly represent it and not just include it for the sake of the plot. I also loved the writing style and of course, kudos as well to the translator.

I highly recommend this but be sure that you're mentally prepared because this novel consists of dark and heavy emotions. <<less
4 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
Common_people
Common_peopl
May 31, 2024
Status: c141
I love it even its drama. Good story and good plot, even though it's a Rebirth theme, but the novel still has a fresh point. I don't like mellow thingy, but this one.. I love it. You know, MC has a tons of wound in his heart+his family situation make his action somewhat like a dragging and burden to you. But the ml, who looks like unruly men is the one who Patience at him, take a good care little by little. I like how they mesh well each other,... more>> how the author describe their emotional bound, even in their past. Give it a chance. Maybe it's suit for you AS well even though you don't like emotional drama like me. <<less
4 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
WallEyeKnee
WallEyeKnee
Jan 28, 2024
Status: Completed
This is a mature story about pain, regrets, and hope that to find what's was lost.

MC was betrayed by the son of his adopted father who he had a relationship with, it was truly a bunch of socialpaths coming together to hurt him for just being jealous. MC is very gentle and kind, he is just so soft he doesn't fight back even whens someone says bad things about him. Later when he fell into the deepest pit, ML pull him out and offer him a new life where he... more>> feel warm, only for it to be broken with ML's calculated death.

MC is reborn this time after sometimes of ML's death he also die because of his hurting body, but ML doesn't have the memory of past life. So it was up to MC to show his peac*ck feathers and to attract ML's attention once again.

ML doesn't have a good family himself. Alot of illegitimate children including himself, father was a scumbag. Alot of inheritance fights, uncles are tr*sh etc. But he found solace in MC and he couldn't help but love him and care about him. Also his not a playboy but a real Romeo who only has one true love.

I get what people say about MC not leaving Zheng family etc, but back then MC was still young and foolish believing in this so called love with Adopted fathers eldest son. The eldest son was also a dreamer, he love MC but has no ability to overcome leaving his family and money. The family actually raise him and didn't do him wrong before he had this kind of relationship with someone's eldest son, heir to the family. It is understandable how they would react. Now reborn he choose a different path and you can see the difference.

MC still manage to revenge even if he's soft, ML dots on him and help clobber those dirty mouth people.

Endless morons always try to slander MC that's the most annoying thing about the novel, it does lack faceslaps.

Also alot of people trying to court MC, like a ton but ML doesn't do anything they just need to make them eat sugar and fluff.

Their relationship is the one I enjoy reading, it feels real and you feel emotionally connected with them. You will laugh and cry sometimes with them.

Chen Wangang x Huo Jiansheng forever <<less
4 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
danayama1
danayama1
Aug 22, 2024
Status: c157
Before you start reading this review, whether as someone who have already read this novel or is just about to (yet still needing one more push to do it), I implore you to listen to this song—"Let Me Follow" by Son Lux.

Done listening? Okay. I made you listen to that song because I believe it encapsulates the heart of this story. For people who's about to dive into this novel, it's like an ambiguous summary of what they're getting into. For people who read it already and loved it, it's... more>> kind of a gift from me to you, like a keepsake in a form of a song (unless you already know it and have already associated it to something else) to remember this novel as we go on reading more stories posted in this website.

Why do all this? Because this was a story truly worth remembering. I'm actually still pretty hung up on it right now and also running low on sleep for days, so I'll just sacrifice coherence for efficiency and write my review down in bullets before I doze off.

• As others have said, buildup is slow in this novel. Not in a boring way, but in a slice of life way. Have you read "His Marriage Partner is Scheming"?? The style of writing is similar to that one, albeit not as poetic.

• Flashbacks in this story can be categorized in two types: sporadic and continuous. I'm saying this because the sporadic flashbacks in this story often don't have any transitional elements alerting you that what you're reading is a flashback, which could be a hiccup to your reading experience for the first few chapters. Meanwhile, the continuous flashbacks have explicit labels on them, so you obviously won't have any problem differentiating that.

• Translation is good (always thankful for translators), but some chapters have a considerable amount of typo, like repetitive paragraphs or misnamed dialogues, that can again hamper the reading experience, so prepare for that as well.

• If you got a penchant for characterization, congratulations! This novel has top class characters. For better or for worse everyone you'll read about has an actual personality to flaunt, and our main characters, of course, receive 10's from me. The author committed to the that "fictional-realistic" vibe it started with and created a main lead duo that catered to the trope but offered something more grounded as the story goes.

More reviews with spoiler here ⬇️

Spoiler

• THIS IS POSSIBLY THE MOST ASIAN FAMILY REPRESENTATION I'VE SEEN IN A LIGHT NOVEL. At some point it got so Asian that it amazed me. I love the diversity of family scenarios in this novel. The father-son relationship between a caretaker and their client's child? Missionary pastors and their adopted children? Cousins who have provided more support for you than your actual parents? Reunions that you have to attend no matter how broken your relationships are with each other? Yep. That's the Asian family experience right there.

• You guys...I guess I'm just feeling sappy because I'm supposed to have my period this week but this possibly have one of the best "non-climax" climax scene I've read in awhile. When both of them set sail in the middle of the ocean for Chen Wengang's birthday? Bawled my eyes out PRONTO. It's not even because of a tearjerker line or because Chen Wengang's experiences were so pitiful—it's simply because of the affirmation that THEY'RE ALIVE. LIKE. THEY'RE ALIVE, BREATHING, LIVING, EATING AND I'M JUST SO, SO HAPPY THAT IT HURTS??? Anyway, I love when the main characters relish the gift of life because at least to me that's where the real value of rebirth trope lies like this is how angst to livelaughlove pipeline should be done.

• Also loved the villain erasure! The most vile villains in this novel were painted with so much irrelevance that I feel like compared to the usual way of writing faceslapping/revenge scenarios, this is what a full faceslap experience is.

[collapse]

That's that on my review! I had so much fun reading this one that it tired me out, but it was worth it! <<less
3 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
DemonKing49
DemonKing49
Jul 17, 2024
Status: Completed
Just finished reading. And I'm in love. I understand all the other reviews and that's it. Not gonna talk about other people's reviews. Now about mine, this book is one of those books that you don't read on a whim or in one go, but give it time to sink in. Trust me, if you read it by giving little breaks you love and love this book. Atleast for me it was like that. But I think some people can still read it in one go, I've seen many do.

Don't... more>> read this book if you're comming for a binge read session to complete in one go.

Don't read this book if you want comedy. There's none.

Do read this book if you want a devoted MC and equally if not more devoted ml. They don't shy away from showing love to each other. In their eyes, nothing and no one in the world can compare to the other. They're not just devoted, but they love, respect and even in a context worship eachother. I love this dynamic.

Except for the rebirth, most things in this book feel awfully realistic ofcourse except the MC being the person he is. The situations, the background characters all are so fleshed out and real. No loose ends are left in this book, everything is written and packed well.

About mc: nothing I will type will justify him. He's sweet, he's cute, he's kind, he's smart, he knows when to step in and when to step back. But what no one realises is that he's so detached from world around him. It's like he's just floating in a sea. And this exact statement is said so many times in the book. He's really like a boat in the sea.

Saying he's detached is not totally correct though. In context, he actually cares about and does everything he can to help for people who matter to him. My favourite one was MC & his cousin sister and MC & ml's step sister. MC and MC's childhood bestfriend are written well. Unlike other books, this childhood bestfriend is actually what a real life childhood bestfriend is.

About ml: one of my fav spectrum of Mls really. He's not a good guy. He doesn't pretend to be good guy. His many actions in the book show he's not a good guy. He even goes on saying, I'm not a good guy. But he's so good to MC. He's so sweet to him. He's so soft near him. Many times you'll get stuck into the illusion of him being good because of reading him when he's with MC, but as story goes on and other characters interaction comes, you see that no he's not as good of a guy that you think him of.

It's not that he's not good, it's just that he doesn't care. He cares about MC and MC only. Which is so freaking understandable.

A quote from one of the last chapters of main text, quote from ML
Spoiler

uh I'm writing is from my memory so it may differ in words, but meaning is same "you (mc) are my only family that I built myself, ofcourse my family is my everything. "

[collapse]

Now let's move to me saying it's not for binging, it's because text upon text can be quite boring. I got bored by chapter 60, next time I was reminded of this book I continued till 90 and forgot again. But after that I realised that everytime is continue it, I find it more interesting. So yeah it's one of those books you read for a week every night.

Reading experience was good, visualisation was really easy, personally there are two people who I've fixed as a reference image for MC and ML regardless of whay book it is so it's quite easy on that.

Now this last paragraph is totally for those extra chapters showing the past, I never cry reading books. I've cried reading only 2 books. One is mdzs and another is a bts bl fanfiction. Other than that I don't remember ever shedding tears for a book. This book's extra chapters made me sob. Full on sob. Specifically it was that 2 chapter that hit me hard. Context: extra 1 was about past life or rather orignal life of MC and ML before the rebirth, and there were around 7 to 10 chapters.

Spoiler

context: extra 1 was about past life or rather orignal life of MC and ML before the rebirth, and there were around 7 to 10 chapters.

The 2 chapters that made me sob were the chapter of ml's og death. It wasn't about how he died but about how after his death MC got a call from his assistant miss amanda and how MC spiraled.

There were so many things fluctuating inside MC, but the moment ml's body was going inside to be burned and turned into ashes that it suddenly hit him like a storm that he's never going to see his lover again.

The most painful thing in that chapter was MC reading the letter ML wrote for MC as he was sinking. ML wrote a letter and stuffed it inside a bottle, as he was sinking as om the verge to die.

It's crazy how everyone including ML thought MC didn't love him in the og life.

MC's biggest regret in his og life was not expressing his love and giving back the assurance he got from ml.

And it so broke my heart. Really. Their Life in original timeline is so tragic.

[collapse]

This all makes their love all the more sweet and sugary.

Oh my most favourite thing in book,

Spoiler

they live in MC's dad's house which is just a small house of what a middle class person would live in. With everything so simple and down to earth.

ML cooks and tends to the plants and flowers he planted himself in the yard.

They also have a child. Their precious dog.

[collapse]

Also another thing I loved
Spoiler

they didn't get a child. MC and ML are seen with several children in the book, with children having their own background and personality, and MC is a very excellent father figure to their sisters and all those little children, but they never get a child and even clearly stated they never will.

MC doesn't want one and ML can't be one. Not a physical defect, but an acknowledgement that he won't be a good father.

[collapse]

On the streak of spoilers here's another one. Nah not putting tags, because it's not technically a spoiler. In this book, china like in real life, hasn't had same s*x marriage legalized.
Spoiler

so they go to la to get married. In that chapter everything was there except the marriage.

It went like, " half an hour ago, they took the same vows ",

😶😶😶

But good thing, we actually got a wedding they held in private in china. They held is after months and months of their marriage, but it was splendid and so sweet.

[collapse]

Ok that's it.

10/10 from me. Very good read. If I had money, I'd buy it. Ofcourse this book isn't officially published as a hard book yet 🥲 and probably won't be, 🥲🥲 <<less
3 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
drybranch
drybranch
Oct 01, 2024
Status: Completed
I’m going to be honest: this book left me destroyed on the floor, and yet somehow managed to heal my soul at the same time.

I truly admire the way the author was able to explore and so thoroughly weave the past and present of the main characters into the narrative. ... more>>
Spoiler

Seeing what their past life together looked like shed a light on the reasons behind the main character’s current personality, attitude and thought patterns.

[collapse]
The complexity of the main couple’s relationship, as well as their conflicting feelings of love, depression, guilt and helplessness towards each other were extremely well-developed and are definitely the core of the novel.

Despite the fact that this novel has its fair share of angst, the author balanced it out exceptionally well by inserting funny and fluffy moments in the middle of it. It felt a bit like having someone punch me in the guts and then tenderly pat my head immediately after...

Overall, although it starts as an angsty novel, it quickly turns into a hopeful, cheerful love story about the one who was saved, the one who did the saving, and their second-chance at living a happy life together without regrets. <<less
2 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
shuulys
shuulys
Sep 26, 2024
Status: Completed
5/5 ⭐️ for me. Really really love the story. For one, the love story between CWG and HNS is so beautifully written. It's not as if it's like super cute and fluffy and all, I mean it is v cute, but that's not the main point. The unconditional love they have for each other is very touching, whether its reciprocrated or not. In the past, HNS loved CWG when he was down and broken, never demanding anything from him and just caring for him by his side. Things weren't great... more>> back then and there were a lot of bad things constantly happening to CWG but HNS didn't leave or let go. He was there throughout till he wasn't able to.

When CWG returned back to the past, he didn't take revenge or anything. Despite the Zheng and the He family treating him unfairly and even badly, he didn't choose to take revenge. This was one part that many readers weren't that happy with. Personally, I love revenge type of novels. I especially love it if the MC can go back to the past and slap everyones face hard. But this is not CWG. CWG is not a revengeful and petty person. (But ofc if someone touches his bottomline, which is HNS, then beware of his anger) Despite not having that many revenge plots in this novel, I found myself enjoying it alot. It might also seem more like a slice of life and time travel type of novel. Anyways I just love it alot!

Lastly, I need to say that I was really touched by their love story. I cried alot. Especially near the end. Especially the extra where they show us what exactly happened in their first life after they got 'together'. What happened when HNS died and how CWG lived on really wrecked me. I couldn't take it and had to take breaks while reading. That was how touching those scenes were. The mental health part of this novel was also very well described and written. Clap claps! So well written that it really affected me emotionally and psychologically hahaha 🥲 Anyways, this novel is definitely something I will reread again in the near future. Of course for their cute interactions but also their unconditional love. I truly love their pairing 😭 I want more extras 😭😭😭 <<less
2 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
damnmei
damnmei
Sep 02, 2024
Status: Completed
Before starting I was a bit worried about MC's first love intruding on the plot, but safe to say that MC's feelings for him are long past even by the very first chapter. This author truly didn't let me down a single time with their writing, and every plot point was well executed, with characters fully fleshed out, and intense emotional scenes described in such vivid detail that I legitimately broke down in tears multiple times. Truly one of the best novels I've read in a while.

I want to erase... more>> this novel from my memory just so I can read it again and experience it anew- as soon as I finished I went back and re-read the first few chapters just to prolong my time with this story. What an absolute masterclass in storytelling, to be able to weave together a narrative so engaging while also leaving out enough to allow for an even greater heartbreak when more is revealed.

The romance is so good (and definitely the main focus of this novel), with a slow burn that's perfectly paced to match with the characters' backstories. They're in an ambiguous at best relationship relatively early in the novel, but each chapter is very long so it still takes a while for them to fully be together, especially since they still have a lot to work through what with ML's commitment and trust issues and MC's past life trauma.

When they're finally truly together though, I melted at the descriptions of their casual intimacy, descriptions of their chests pressed together, hearts beating against one another, breaths intertwining... peak romance right there. I really just could not get enough of their lives together, after going through all that they did to finally reach happiness.

Their past life in the extras was so bittersweet, and I'm very glad the author included it at the end, because I definitely wouldn't have been able to bear reading through it at the start. It's the pain of vaguely knowing what will happen but being unable to do anything to prevent it-
Spoiler

The chapters after Huo Niansheng's death were particularly difficult to read, and the way he wrote that letter in his last moments knowing he may die, in between the hijacking and the shipwreck, will forever haunt me. I haven't cried this hard in a while. Few MLs will ever measure up to Huo Niansheng in my mind. Truly a man who will stick by you no matter how your appearance changes, how sick you get, how difficult it is, how uncertain, how painful... and there go my tears again...

To be fair the contents of that letter are petty AF but can you blame him really?

[collapse]

Huo Niansheng's unconditional love and support for Chen Wengang in their past life gives me such unrealistic expectations. Definitely make space for yourself when reading the extra chapters, as it really hits hard to have to see them suffering after all the happiness in their second life. It really is beautiful how patiently and lovingly he cares for Chen Wengang through it all, and how Chen Wengang returns that patience in the next life while waiting for Huo Niansheng to truly let him in.

The writing itself is poetic and beautiful, aided by the great translation quality. The characters aren't entirely flawless, and they have moments where they break down or act out, but it really is the respect and love that Chen Wengang and Huo Niansheng have for one another that drives them forwards. Their lives are made complete by having the other to share their sorrows and happiness with. Never have I read an emotional line as satisfying as this one.

On the chapter divide, chapter 119 is the last chapter of the main story, and I would classify the rest as extras, as they depict the MC's past life, and then just a lot of nonsense slice of life fluff (which was very necessary after tearing my heart out with the story of their first life), followed by two "what if" scenarios. The past life extras took parts that had been mentioned in the main story and expanded them, forming a full picture of the heartbreaking past. Honestly genius storytelling ability. <<less
2 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
Dingbang
Dingbang
Aug 27, 2024
Status: Completed
This is a masterpiece. From the start, till the end, this story didn't leave me alone as at any moment of the day I would unexpectedly think about it and come to read for a while.

The first novel I read that I see have a good representation of dealing with "mental health" and all the problems involved.

I loved the protagonists and all the side characters.

God, the extras. Chef kiss.

Extremely recommended, might re read in some years because I'm sure this one won't leave me.
2 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
Pocketedpeach
Pocketedpeac
Aug 05, 2024
Status: Completed
This is a lovely 10/10 ❤️ from me. The story tends to be a bit slow and draggy at times esp towards the end is a common quip that I've heard, and that can be considered true. But I found that the best way to enjoy this story is to read it as it's written, i.e. By taking breaks in the middle and enjoying the ebb and flow of their lives with your own. I feel that it's very fulfilling that way, a great complement to my days and keeps... more>> me happy. I've reread it 2 times already.

Personally, I loved both the writing and the translation for this work, the words are really poetic and the tempo of the story is just perfect. I felt that the balance between the everyday, mundane things and tension has been perfectly maintained and I never got bored from any of it. I usually find dog food tiresome, but not in this case. Huo Niansheng x Chen Wengang all the way ❤️

The depictions of mental illnesses and depression were also really good. The author did their due research, which I infinitely respect.

I heard a lot of people say that we did not need the chapters covering their past, but that part, personally, was one of my favourites in the series. I got super emotional reading it and it was a really memorable read for me.

Anyways, I encourage people to read it. This story might not become your favourite based on preferences, but I can guarantee that it can give you a good time. 😉 Best wishes to everyone who read my review until here ❤️ you're awesome 💖 <<less
2 Likes · Like Permalink | Report
1 2 3
Leave a Review (Guidelines)
You must be logged in to rate and post a review. Register an account to get started.