Farewell Summer

After the college entrance examination, I threw a wad of cash at Xie Shuyan in front of the whole class: “I’ve had enough fun, let’s end this.” He bent down, picking up the bills one by one from the floor. In a hoarse voice, he said, “Alright.” At the end of the summer vacation, Xie Shuyan boarded the train bound for Peking University. Meanwhile, I flew abroad to begin a long course of chemotherapy. Years later, I returned to the country, lying in a hospital bed, my hair completely gone due to the treatment. As I was busy choosing a wig, the door to my hospital room opened. Wearing a white coat, Xie Shuyan met my gaze.

Original Publisher

biquge

Original Language

chinese

Type

Web Novel

## My Thoughts on Farewell Summer "Farewell Summer" has been quite the experience. Diving into a collection of short stories that orbit around love, loss, and the quiet moments in between, I found myself surprisingly moved. It’s a novel that resonated with me on a deeper level, even if it wasn't always what I expected. ### First Impressions Initially, I was drawn in by the premise – a journey through the lives of Xie Shuyan and Meng Tingyue. The synopsis hinted at a poignant romance, and I was eager to see how their story unfolded. The short story format intrigued me, promising glimpses into different stages of their relationship and individual lives. ### What Works Well The strength of "Farewell Summer" lies in its raw emotional honesty. The author doesn't shy away from portraying the complexities of love, particularly the heartache and longing that can accompany it. I found myself deeply invested in Xie Shuyan's devotion to Meng Tingyue. The author captures the essence of their bond in a way that felt authentic and relatable, even amidst the more dramatic plot points. The slice-of-life elements are also handled delicately, adding layers of realism to the narrative. The medical setting provides a unique backdrop, and I appreciated how the author wove it into the characters' lives and relationships. ### Areas of Concern While I enjoyed the overall experience, the writing style could be more polished. The prose is straightforward, which works in some ways, but at times I felt it lacked the poetic touch that could have elevated the emotional impact. ### Final Verdict Despite its minor flaws, "Farewell Summer" is a worthwhile read, especially if you're in the mood for a heartfelt and emotionally charged story. It's a novel that stays with you long after you've finished reading, prompting reflection on love, loss, and the importance of cherishing the present moment. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.