Returning to the End of the World

My Thoughts on Returning to the End of the World

"Returning to the End of the World" is a web novel that certainly left me with a lot to think about. It's a blend of genres – adventure, sci-fi, supernatural, and yaoi – creating a unique, if sometimes jarring, reading experience. The story follows a protagonist reborn the day before the apocalypse, seeking revenge and finding solace with a group of unusual children.

First Impressions

The initial premise is undeniably intriguing. Our MC, armed with gamer-like skills from a previous life, sets out to find the one person who showed him kindness. This person is now a child, who becomes the male lead. It's a setup that immediately grabs your attention, and the early chapters do a decent job of establishing the apocalyptic world and the MC's motivations.

What Works Well

The dynamic between the MC and his found family of children is a highlight. These aren't your typical innocent kids; they're all a little twisted, each with their own unique (and often disturbing) talents. Their loyalty to the MC is unwavering, and their antics provide a dark humor that I found surprisingly entertaining. Many readers praised the creativity of the children's "killing techniques" and how the gore was handled artistically. The revenge plot, when it takes center stage, is satisfyingly brutal.

Areas of Concern

The pacing can be uneven, with abrupt transitions and time skips that can leave you feeling lost. The initial world building could be fleshed out more. The age gap between the MC and ML is understandably a sticking point for some. While the novel attempts to navigate this carefully, it may still make some readers uncomfortable, especially when the romance develops. The ending felt rushed to some readers.

Final Verdict

"Returning to the End of the World" is a flawed but ultimately engaging read. It's a story that isn't afraid to be dark and twisted, and it offers a unique take on the apocalypse genre. If you're willing to overlook some of its shortcomings and are comfortable with the potentially controversial elements, you might find yourself enjoying this novel as much as I did. I give it a solid 3.7/5 stars.