The Goal Is To Survive

My Thoughts on The Goal Is To Survive

"The Goal Is To Survive" promised a gripping tale of a protagonist fighting against a predetermined, tragic fate, and while it delivered on that promise for a good portion of its run, the ending left me with mixed feelings. It's a story with moments of brilliance that ultimately stumbles.

First Impressions

Initially, I was hooked. The premise of Faritima, a young woman reborn into the past after a devastating downfall, determined to protect her family and change her future, is incredibly compelling. The academy setting, the aristocratic intrigue, and the hints of a dark undercurrent all contributed to a tense and exciting reading experience. I was eager to see how she would navigate the treacherous waters of high society and rewrite her destiny.

What Works Well

The early character development is undeniably strong. Witnessing Faritima's cautious yet determined efforts to understand the forces arrayed against her family, and her growing closeness with her siblings, was genuinely heartwarming. The plot is tightly woven, and the suspense kept me eagerly turning the page. The novel excels at creating a sense of dread as Faritima desperately tries to avert her family's destruction, making the stakes feel incredibly high. The political maneuvering and the complex family relationships added layers of depth to the narrative, making it more than just a simple reincarnation story.

Areas of Concern

Unfortunately, the latter half of the novel didn't quite live up to the initial promise. The plot takes a detour that significantly diminishes the protagonist's agency. The shift in focus to other characters, while interesting at first, ultimately detracts from Faritima's journey. The romantic developments felt forced and out of character, adding unnecessary complications to the story. The ending, in particular, felt abrupt and unresolved, leaving many questions unanswered and character arcs incomplete.

Final Verdict

"The Goal Is To Survive" is a novel with a strong start and a compelling premise, but its execution falters in the latter half. While the initial character development and suspenseful plot are praiseworthy, the later narrative choices and unresolved ending ultimately detract from the overall experience. I'd recommend it with caution, advising readers to temper their expectations as the story progresses.