I Have Returned, but I Cannot Lay down My Gun

My Thoughts on I Have Returned, but I Cannot Lay down My Gun

This novel is a wild ride, and I can definitely see why it has garnered such varied opinions. "I Have Returned, but I Cannot Lay down My Gun" throws you headfirst into a world of special ops, alternate realities, and VR gaming, and whether you love it or hate it seems to depend heavily on your tolerance for a somewhat bumpy start.

First Impressions

The initial chapters are… dense. The author spends a considerable amount of time establishing the protagonist's background, a Korean soldier turned US SOF operative, dealing with a virus outbreak, and even a sudden gender-bending transformation into a snake demi-human. It's a lot to take in, and honestly, I felt a bit lost in the details. It felt like I was thrown into the deep end without knowing how to swim.

What Works Well

Once the story shifts its focus to the VR game aspect, things really start to click. The game, heavily inspired by The Division, offers a compelling backdrop for the protagonist to showcase her skills and experience. I found myself drawn into the challenges she faces and the hidden problems she uncovers within the game world. The introduction of characters like Harmony, the broadcaster, adds a layer of intrigue and sets the stage for interesting team dynamics. The action sequences are well-written, and the protagonist's combat prowess is believable, given her backstory.

Areas of Concern

The early chapters are undeniably a hurdle. The information is delivered in a way that feels disjointed, and it takes a while to piece together the bigger picture. Also, the protagonist's seemingly effortless dominance in the VR game could be seen as a bit of a Mary Sue trope. The fact that the game developers essentially tailor the game to her specifications does raise some eyebrows and might detract from the sense of challenge and competition for some readers.

Final Verdict

"I Have Returned, but I Cannot Lay down My Gun" is a mixed bag. The initial chapters are a bit of a slog, but the VR game aspect is engaging and well-executed. If you're a fan of military fiction, VRMMOs, and are willing to overlook some early pacing issues and potential "Mary Sue" elements, then this novel might be worth a shot. I'd recommend pushing past the first 13 chapters and seeing if the game portion hooks you. If it does, then you might just find yourself enjoying this unique blend of genres.