In the Years When I Was a Father

My Thoughts on In the Years When I Was a Father

In the Years When I Was a Father is a web novel that really pulled at my heartstrings. The premise alone, about a protagonist transmigrating into the bodies of deadbeat dads to raise their children, was enough to pique my interest, and overall, I found it to be a comforting and enjoyable read.

First Impressions

From the very beginning, I was drawn in by the slice-of-life feel and the strong focus on family dynamics. The quick transmigration (QT) format keeps things fresh, with each arc presenting a new world and a new family to embrace. The MC, Qi Sheng, is genuinely likeable, and his dedication to being a good father is heartwarming.

What Works Well

What I appreciated most was the novel's focus on wholesome family relationships. Qi Sheng's interactions with his children, whether sons or daughters (though admittedly, there are significantly more sons), are often touching and sometimes hilarious. He's not afraid to be affectionate, supportive, and firm when necessary. The author does a good job of portraying him as a capable and loving father figure, and I found myself rooting for him in every arc. I also enjoyed the unique situations that arose in each world, from navigating the entertainment industry to dealing with beastkin cubs. The episodic nature of the story kept me engaged, and I was always eager to see what challenges and heartwarming moments awaited in the next arc.

Areas of Concern

While I thoroughly enjoyed In the Years When I Was a Father, I did find a few aspects to be less satisfying. Several plot points are introduced and never explored in depth. Additionally, the ending felt somewhat abrupt and unsatisfying, leaving me with unanswered questions about the MC's origins and the overall purpose of his transmigrations. I also felt like the female characters could have been better developed. While there were a few arcs with daughters, they often felt like afterthoughts compared to the sons.

⚠️ Spoiler Warning

Some readers might want to be aware that, on occasion, characters realize that Qi Sheng is not the original father. These moments can be bittersweet and add an extra layer of complexity to the story.

Final Verdict

Despite its minor flaws, In the Years When I Was a Father is a worthwhile read for anyone who enjoys heartwarming family stories with a touch of fantasy. It's a feel-good novel that will leave you with a smile on your face, even if you're left wanting more at the end. I'd recommend it as a light and comforting escape.