Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on It’s My Turn to Take the Stage to Fly
This novel, "It’s My Turn to Take the Stage to Fly," was quite the ride! Going in, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. The tags are a wild mix of genres, but I was ultimately charmed by the premise and decided to give it a shot.
First Impressions
I was immediately hooked by the unique setup: a protagonist waking up from cryosleep decades later and diving into a VR game. The initial chapters were genuinely funny, especially the beta testing moments. I found myself chuckling at the interactions and curious to see where the story would go.
What Works Well
One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the dynamic between the main characters, Jiang Chen (MC) and Fang Jingxing (ML). Their interactions are hilarious, and I loved how their relationship developed organically. The ML is genuinely likable, supportive, and not overly pushy, while the MC's cold exterior hides a caring heart. The comedy is definitely a highlight, with well-executed misunderstandings and slapstick humor that had me laughing out loud. The game itself is well-developed, with interesting hidden quests and a fun, adventurous feel. I also appreciated that the story doesn't take itself too seriously, maintaining a light and enjoyable tone throughout. I also liked that the focus was kept on the game itself, and not on the external factors such as fan comments or forum posts.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed the novel overall, I can see why some readers might be disappointed by the lack of focus on e-sports. If you're expecting intense tournament scenes and detailed game mechanics, this might not be the book for you. The "hidden quests" part felt a bit repetitive later on, and some of the side characters could have been more developed. The ending also felt somewhat abrupt, leaving me wanting more.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have pointed out that the MC's family works in a research institute and that they are the reason why he participates in the freezing program. When he awakens 30 years later, he isn't allowed to leave because the program didn't work out for the other patients.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "It’s My Turn to Take the Stage to Fly" is a fun, heartwarming, and entertaining read. It's a refreshing take on the gaming novel genre, with a focus on adventure, humor, and character interactions. If you're looking for a lighthearted story with a sweet romance and plenty of laughs, I would definitely recommend giving this one a try.