Rebirth of a Fashionista: This Life Is Soo Last Season

My Thoughts on Rebirth of a Fashionista: This Life Is Soo Last Season

"Rebirth of a Fashionista" promised a fun, lighthearted take on the rebirth trope, and for a while, it delivered. The premise of a rich girl reborn into the body of an aspiring model is definitely intriguing, and I was initially hooked by the protagonist's determination to make the most of her second chance. However, as I delved deeper, I found myself increasingly conflicted.

First Impressions

The initial chapters were a breath of fresh air. I enjoyed watching the female lead, Sheng Jiaoyang, navigate the cutthroat world of modeling and showbiz. Her artistic talent and sharp wit made her a compelling character, and I was eager to see her rise to the top. The story had a certain "ugly duckling" charm as she transformed herself and captivated those around her.

What Works Well

The earlier parts of the novel shine in the areas of character development. I appreciated that Sheng Jiaoyang wasn't portrayed as an instant Mary Sue. She had flaws, like a touch of arrogance and a tendency to be a bit spoiled. This made her feel more relatable and human, and I was invested in her growth. I also found the side characters interesting, each with their own stories and motivations, adding depth to the overall narrative. The exploration of the modeling industry was also fascinating.

Areas of Concern

Unfortunately, the novel takes a sharp turn for the worse when romance becomes a central theme. The male lead, Shen Zhining, is portrayed as an overbearing and controlling figure. His actions often crossed the line into abuse, with instances of kidnapping, threats, and even physical violence. The female lead's apparent forgiveness of these actions felt jarring and out of character, and I found myself increasingly uncomfortable with the romantic dynamic.

Moreover, the plot becomes convoluted with unnecessary drama. One subplot involving the FL's best friend, Li Na, takes a particularly dark and disturbing turn, introducing themes of blackmail and coercion that felt out of place in what was initially a lighthearted story. I felt that the author lost sight of the original premise, sacrificing character consistency and plot coherence in favor of shock value.

Final Verdict

"Rebirth of a Fashionista: This Life Is Soo Last Season" had the potential to be a delightful and engaging read, but it ultimately falls short. While the initial chapters offer a promising premise and compelling characters, the problematic romance and convoluted plot developments detract significantly from the overall experience. I can't recommend this novel, especially to readers who are sensitive to themes of abuse and coercion.