Hermes Today?

My Thoughts on Hermes Today?

"Hermes Today?" is a short, punchy web novel that I found to be a surprisingly enjoyable read, even if it's not going to win any awards for groundbreaking storytelling. It's a breezy school-life drama with comedic elements and a satisfying dose of face-slapping.

First Impressions

The premise is simple: Song Anran, our female lead, has a roommate, Xue Rong, who's pretending to be a wealthy "second generation" student. Initially, Song Anran lets minor transgressions slide, but as Xue Rong's deception escalates, Song Anran decides to reveal the truth. The story is short, with only 9 chapters in the original, making it a quick and easy read.

What Works Well

The satisfying "face-slap" is definitely a highlight. I appreciated the slow burn as Song Anran gathers her evidence and prepares her counterattack. There's a certain glee in watching the downfall of someone who's built their life on a lie. The story also touches on the privileges of wealth and connections, and how the lack of them can make life significantly harder, which added a layer of depth. I also found the supporting characters, especially Song Anran's friend, to be well-written and entertaining. The humor is lighthearted and keeps the story engaging, and the quick pace prevents it from becoming dull.

Areas of Concern

While the simplicity of the plot is part of its charm, it also makes it predictable. There aren't many surprises along the way. I also felt like, at times, the story leaned a little too heavily into wish fulfillment. It's easy to imagine the author reliving their dream through the main character.

Final Verdict

Overall, I'd give "Hermes Today?" a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It's a fun, quick read with a satisfying ending. Don't expect a complex plot or deep character development, but if you're looking for a lighthearted story with a dose of karmic justice, this might be right up your alley. It's a perfect palate cleanser between heavier novels.