10/10. A stellar reimagining of Greek mythology, breathing life into what would have otherwise been stereotypical. The author does a phenomenal job with characterisation and character growth, and smacks down with an intricately planned plot despite the shortness of this novel. Hera is sympathetic and cruel, ambitious and loving; her relationships with her fellows are complex and with so much subtext that is missed in the first reading of this novel. Highly recommended for those with the slightest interest in Greek mythology, or for those that want a punch in the gut. Multiple punches.... more>>

TWs include: (godly) in*est, mu*der, su*cide, cheating/adultery, etc.  <<less

9/10. For those who want angst with a happy ending. A surprisingly great and realistic look into what makes a hero. Ilya is a good... more>> boy and Riley deserves to be protected. Minor TWs include: homophobic society (though it’s implied that they take steps to fix this), gruesome descriptions of death.  <<less

9/10. From the fantastic world-building to the realism of the perils of a zombie apocalypse, this novel really does boast an amazing setting to complement the charismatic and vivid characters found within. The trajectory and direction of the plot are satisfying and really in-line with the characters. Despite the ML’s overwhelming power and the MC’s foresight, they encounter pitfalls and fight to build a life out of nothingness.... more>>

This is far from the title’s expectation of a semi-comedy: this is very much a mature novel. Having said that, there is a lovely balance between the slow-paced and homely life of the Otaku Squad and the death-filled apocalypse outside; the author cleverly doesn’t overdo either aspects.

TWs include: mu*der/massacre, r*pe/noncon, abortion, drug abuse, child/domestic abuse, s*xual exploitation of children, trafficking/s*avery, body horror, mentions of h*mophobia, cannibalism, (human) breeding, etc. <<less

8/10. Contrary to the light-hearted title and synopsis, there are only two possible adjectives to describe this novel: brutal, and numbing. The premise given to the MC is harsh (making people fall in love with him then killing them), and the story follows this to the tee. There is manipulation, there is harm, and there is apathetic mu*der. It eventually comes to the point where the reader is just as numb to the constant pain as the MC, but the hope of catharsis is always there.... more>>

TWs include: r*pe, mu*der, toxic relationships/characters, trafficking, nonhuman-human relationships, drug abuse, etc. <<less

8/10. For those that want a novel that brings refreshing plot twists to a genre that otherwise is predictable. Though the primary focus of the novel is on Tia and Cedric’s relationship, the novel goes into shocking depth about politics, geosocioeconomical issues, and court intrigue—side characters become increasingly relevant later on in the novel. There are moments where the MC’s actions are shadowed by guilt and past traumas causing misunderstandings and tension, but the ML is unconditionally loving towards her.... more>>

TWs include: child abuse, mu*der, discrimination towards (nonhuman) minorities, torture, etc. <<less

8/10. A revenge story of a princess who was taken advantage of by the person she trusted most, full of political machinations, plotting and alliance building. Cayena is an exceedingly convincing MC who doesn’t shy away from showing her strengths. She is well-matched by the ML, who despite his initial misgivings about her sudden changes, becomes her most staunch supporter. This comes with the most stunning and gorgeous manhwa—I highly recommend reading that alongside the novel.... more>>

TWs include: (descriptions of) r*pe, abuse, mu*der, torture, etc. <<less

8/10. (Review is subject to change as I’ve only read up to chapter 4 as of this review.) A fascinating premise in which the MC... more>> and ML are the only two people who have memories of an apocalyptic future that could have happened, but the ML managed to prevent. Circumstances have caused them to become close to one another as the only people able to relate to one another. This is super interesting and I can’t wait to see where this goes! <<less

8/10. Scum gongs are aplenty in this novel, but the MC has grown a lot in his past life to not only avoid them but... more>> also outshine them. The ML and the MC have wonderful chemistry with one another—Yuhe and Yifeng are a wonderful CP both on and off screen. The descriptions about their respective roles in the shows/movies they’re in are wonderfully vivid. Furthermore, the MC isn’t omnipotent and encounters many setbacks throughout the novel, thus allowing him to experience even more character growth beyond his rebirth. <<less

8/10. A surprisingly well-written face-slapping novel about a woman whose aim upon rebirth is to ensure her daughter’s future goes perfectly. The author creates a rather nuanced story that stands out amongst novels of this genre by going rather in-depth into the so-called cannon fodder’s situations, depicting mostly realistic personalities and consequences for their actions. Though having said that, there certainly are moments where one needs to suspend reality and beliefs due to 1) the genre’s tropes (e.g. white lotus original FL with a gold finger), 2) the metaphysical aspects, and 3) few stereotype characters that inevitably sneak into the story (e.g. a childish but powerful and gorgeous and rich BFF to sell meng, and the “CEO... more>> that moonlights as an assassin”).

TWs include: mu*der, terminal illness, dubcon, drug abuse, nonconsensual substance abuse, neglect/child abuse, abortion, cheating, etc <<less

8/10. Most CN rebirth novels have scum characters experience ridiculous levels of retribution with absolutely no sympathy afforded to them due to their irredeemable personalities.... more>> This particular novel tackles the regret of side-characters with surprising flair, making them both empathetic and pitiful; it contrasts beautifully with the MC’s growth and success. This novel successfully portrays the change in characters in a realistic and meaningful way, while keeping the characterisation of the MC and all of the cast dynamic. There is also a really good balance between seriousness and levity. <<less

8/10. Uncomplicated romance between two inexperienced souls coloured by a complicated and rich setting of Ancient China—this novel really is the epitome of historical Chinese court intrigue. Complex interrelationships dot the vivid setting, all of which is aided by the wonderful translation by TranslatingBoredom, The MC’s rebirth gives him reason to develop a stable and strong personality, and the powerful ML is very much supportive and kind towards him. They guide and encourage each other to become better. Couple goals, right?... more>>

TWs include: mu*der, mentions of noncon, in*est, su*cide etc. <<less

8/10. The scum gong is real scummy, and the shou is absolutely charming in so many ways. Following his rebirth, A’xiao is competent, forward-thinking and... more>> filial, showing the breadth of his maturity compared to his past self. The scum gong’s redemption arc isn’t the best, but it’s far off in the future and it only just highlights A’xiao’s inherent kindness (as well as Chengyu’s scumminess). The teaser/free portion of the novel is honestly amazing as a stand-alone novel. <<less

7/10. For those that enjoy a semi-comedy concerning two dense-as-bricks men, both of whom accidentally cause a nationwide misunderstanding of their so-called ardent lust for... more>> one another. Luisen is a spoilt and useless MC who does his best to become a better person after having experienced a future-that-will-be-prevented. There’s a lot of character growth on both Luisen and Carlton’s parts, especially on the former. <<less

7/10. In which we follow the growth and change of the reborn MC, who realises the tragedy of his past life was the consequence of both his own making and the machinations of others. With a surprisingly mature insight into the character’s thoughts, the biased and unreliable narration adds really well to the MC’s character development, while also highlighting the otherwise unknown feelings and thoughts of those surrounding him. ... more>>

TWs include: su*cide, self-harm, mu*der, emotional abuse/manipulation, noncon/rape, period-typical in*est, polygamy, etc. <<less

7/10. Following her rebirth, the MC’s stubbornness in refusing her fate is probably her biggest charm point. She knows what she has to do to... more>> avoid her previous fate, and is willing to do whatever she has to to achieve her goals, that is: 1) avoid bad luck, and 2) find her master. Though she ends up relatively Mary-Sue with her power, it’s a light read that is very satisfying when one puts into perspective what her life would have been if she went down the original path. <<less

7/10. This is peak comedy, for those that want a novel that is just straight up Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 2 levels of shenanigans. Don’t... more>> read this if you want something serious. This is a comedic parody of transmigration/rebirth novels done absolutely spectacularly. <<less

7/10. Hand in hand with a fantastic translator, this novel boasts both a fun premise and an interesting MC who has been tempered by her past. For those that want a novel with both levity and seriousness in its approach to an apocalypse survivor’s survival. This does not focus on romance and doesn’t shy away from the gritty nature of a zombie-filled world.... more>>

TWs included: gore, mu*der, apocalypse. <<less

7/10. Hilise is a fascinating MC, with her personality slowly being revealed to the readers as the novel progresses. Having experienced rebirth numerous times, and... more>> having been betrayed countlessly, she is understandably hardened and closed off to the world around her. The subplots are intriguing, adding complexity to the relationships between the MC and those around her; romance is extremely slowburn and barely even present for the most part. This novel focuses on Hilise and her grasp at power. <<less

7/10. For those who want a redemption arc of a boy who almost grew up into a terrible man, but changed due to selfless and constant love of a girl who never gave up on him. The ML is an amputee/disabled character, causing a lifetime of misery and self-hate and low self-esteem; a pretty realistic perspective is given concerning how some people (don’t) cope with such issues. A minor drawback would be the lack of relevance of the rebirth throughout the story.... more>>

TWs include: descriptions of dismembering/disfigurement, ableism, dubcon, etc. <<less

6/10. (Review subject to change as I’ve only read up to chapter 4 as of this review.) Interesting premise wherein the MC reincarnates into someone... more>> who’s almost the exact opposite of who he was in his past life. There are many Japanese BL tropes to be seen so far (e.g. extremely feminine shou/uke, family that dotes upon him as if he is a fragile girl), but it seems to have promise so far with the MC’s very strong personality coming through regardless of his treatment. <<less

6/10. For those that want a novel in which the abused and neglected MC rejects the future she’s already experienced. The characters in this novel... more>> experience slow but conspicuous development, and the plot gets surprisingly complex as it progresses, with many hidden layers and subplots to add to the intrigue. The ML is properly scum; his redemption arc is understandably slow and arduous. <<less

6/10. In which a bro-con struggles to wrangle her sis-con brother into not giving her too much work. Needless to say, it only makes this... more>> worse. This is a comedic quick read, full of ridiculous scenarios and light-hearted characters. <<less

6/10. For those that enjoy satisfying face-slapping and a charming, snarky MC that doesn’t compromise for anyone (or anything). The MC is hilarious, and the... more>> characters around her are helpless in the face of her abilities. As per the usual for this genre, she is rather Mary Sue in terms of her beauty and abilities; the LIs involved tend to also seem to be rather shallow (and mostly scum) in terms of how they develop and interest in her. <<less