Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Rebirth of Chen An
"Rebirth of Chen An" promised a thrilling ride with a badass MC, and while it delivered on some fronts, it also stumbled in others. As a web novel enthusiast, I went in hoping for another "True Star"-esque experience, but came away with mixed feelings.
First Impressions
The initial chapters hooked me with the premise: a reborn arms dealer seeking revenge. The MC, Chen An, starts as a cunning and ruthless character, and I was eager to see him reclaim his former glory. The hints of a harem and the promise of "yandere" love interests definitely piqued my interest.
What Works Well
Many readers praised Chen An's cunning and cool-headed nature, and I agree. He's not a pushover; he's proactive and intelligent, especially when showcasing his arms-dealing knowledge. The author's writing style is engaging, and the translation quality is good, making it an easy read. I also enjoyed the humor sprinkled throughout the story. The initial power dynamics between Chen An and his obsessive admirers are intriguing. The author's ability to create cliffhangers definitely kept me reading. Some enjoyed the side characters, particularly the MLs.
Areas of Concern
However, the novel loses its way after the initial volumes. The plot becomes disjointed, with random arcs that feel like filler. The MC's personality seems inconsistent at times, and his motivations become unclear. The "everyone wants him" trope gets overused, and the harem aspect feels forced. Some plot points felt illogical.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several readers expressed concerns about the "r*pe victim becomes lover" trope, finding it disturbing and inconsistent with Chen An's initial character. The time-travel arc was also criticized as feeling out of place and unnecessary. The shift in Chen An's character towards the end, particularly his decision to become a farmer, felt abrupt and unearned. The ending has been criticized as feeling like a random epilogue.
Final Verdict
"Rebirth of Chen An" has its moments, particularly in the beginning. However, the inconsistent plot, character derailment, and questionable tropes ultimately detract from the overall experience. If you're looking for a harem BL with a cunning MC and don't mind overlooking some flaws, you might enjoy it. However, be prepared for a bumpy ride with a story that loses its way towards the end. Ultimately, I would give it a cautious recommendation.
