Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Times of Our Lives
"Times of Our Lives" is a slice-of-life BL novel that I found myself drawn into despite my usual preference for more action-packed stories. It's a gentle and heartwarming tale of two boys navigating high school, university, and early adulthood, and it left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling.
First Impressions
What immediately struck me was the simplicity of the premise. There's no over-the-top drama, no ridiculously wealthy characters, and no instant, obsessive love. Instead, it felt like a realistic portrayal of two young people growing together. I was intrigued by the promise of a calm and uncomplicated romance.
What Works Well
The strength of this novel lies in its characters and their relationships. Xie Meng and Ji Qinyang have a relationship that feels incredibly natural. They support each other through life's challenges, offering a shoulder to lean on and a hand to help each other up. This mutual support and unwavering trust were incredibly sweet to read.
I also appreciated the focus on friendships and family. The side characters are well-developed, and their relationships with the main characters add depth to the story. The ML's mother, in particular, is a standout, offering a loving and accepting presence. Many readers praised the author's writing style, describing it as soft and nostalgic. It's clear the author is familiar with the setting, Suzhou, and brings it to life beautifully. The story really does feel like an ode to the city.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed the overall story, I can understand some of the criticisms. The pacing, with its significant time jumps, can be a little jarring at times. I can see how this might make the plot feel superficial or rushed for some readers.
Final Verdict
Despite these minor drawbacks, "Times of Our Lives" is a lovely and comforting read. It's a welcome change from the usual BL tropes and offers a realistic and heartwarming portrayal of young love. If you're looking for a sweet, simple, and unpretentious story, I highly recommend giving this one a try.
