I Went Back in Time to 10 Years Ago and Saved My Young Lady Childhood Friend and She Became My Fiancee ~She’s Honest and Cool and Looks at Me Like She Wants to Be Noticed~

My Thoughts on I Went Back in Time to 10 Years Ago and Saved My Young Lady Childhood Friend and She Became My Fiancee She’s Honest and Cool and Looks at Me Like She Wants to Be Noticed

Okay, let's dive into this title. Yes, the title is a mouthful, and after reading a chunk of it, I have some thoughts. This web novel definitely leans heavily into some popular tropes, and whether that's a good or bad thing will probably depend on your personal taste.

First Impressions

The premise is straightforward: our protagonist gets a second chance at life, going back ten years to his younger self, presumably to make better choices and, in this case, save his childhood friend. The initial setup is intriguing enough to draw you in, especially if you're a sucker for time travel narratives like I am. I was hoping for a story about growth, maturity, and maybe some clever maneuvering through familiar situations with a new perspective.

What Works Well

The core concept of childhood friends turned lovers is always a winner in my book, and the female lead is presented as a strong, cool character who's also surprisingly earnest in her affections. I appreciate that the story seems to focus on their relationship dynamic and the slice-of-life aspects of their school life. There's a certain charm in seeing these characters navigate their feelings and build a bond, especially with the added layer of the protagonist having prior knowledge.

Areas of Concern

Now, here's where things get a little tricky. One of my main concerns is the protagonist's maturity, or rather, the apparent lack thereof. It can be frustrating when a character regresses in age but doesn't seem to gain any significant emotional or intellectual growth from their past experiences. It seems like he's not learning from his past mistakes. This can lead to some head-scratching moments where his actions and decisions don't quite align with what you'd expect from someone with a decade of extra life experience. His inability to recognize his fiancée's feelings also makes it hard to root for him.

Final Verdict

"I Went Back in Time to 10 Years Ago..." has potential, especially if you're looking for a light and fluffy romance with familiar tropes. However, be prepared for a protagonist who might test your patience and a story that doesn't necessarily break any new ground. If you're new to the genre, you might find it enjoyable, but seasoned readers might find it a bit too predictable.