Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Back to the Countryside
"Back to the Countryside" offered me a mostly enjoyable, if somewhat predictable, journey into a rural setting filled with romance, family drama, and a touch of revenge. While it wasn't the most groundbreaking novel I've ever read, it definitely had its charms.
First Impressions
Initially, I was a little hesitant. Some described it as a Cinderella story, and the writing style, especially in the early chapters, felt a bit amateurish. However, I decided to stick with it, and I'm glad I did. It definitely has a "classic" feel that drew me in.
What Works Well
The romance between He Ling and Qi Yue is undoubtedly the heart of the story. He Ling's character development, from a shy and anxious young man to someone who can stand up for himself, was particularly satisfying. Qi Yue, with his "black belly" personality, is a devoted and protective love interest with a hidden past. I really enjoyed the dynamic between them, especially Qi Yue's methods of revenge – not always lethal, but certainly impactful. The side characters also added to the overall charm, and I appreciated the inclusion of side couples, though I would have liked to see more of their stories fleshed out.
Areas of Concern
While I found the story enjoyable overall, there were a few aspects that didn't quite hit the mark for me. The plot can be quite predictable, and the black-and-white morality of some characters felt a little simplistic. The focus on the antagonists, particularly the He family, sometimes overshadowed the main couple's relationship, which I found frustrating. The Jianghu arc also felt somewhat unnecessary and detracted from the slice-of-life feel that initially drew me in. Finally, the ending felt a bit rushed.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some reviewers mentioned the extent of Qi Yue's revenge on He Zhen. I have to say, it was deliciously wicked. I also felt conflicted about one instance where Qi Yue reacted angrily towards He Ling after He Ling was pushed and nearly miscarried. While Qi Yue was scared, his reaction seemed misplaced, and He Ling was unfairly burdened with guilt.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "Back to the Countryside" is a cute and relaxing read. If you're looking for a complex plot with morally grey characters, this might not be for you. However, if you enjoy a sweet romance with a dash of revenge and don't mind a bit of predictability, I'd recommend giving it a try. I'd give it a solid 3.8 out of 5.
