The Ungrateful Bastards All Got Reborn—She’s Done Saving Them

My Thoughts on The Ungrateful Bastards All Got Reborn—She’s Done Saving Them

This web novel, "The Ungrateful Bastards All Got Reborn—She’s Done Saving Them," promises a satisfying revenge story with a historical fantasy twist, and while it has some enjoyable aspects, it also has some frustrating elements that held it back from being a truly great read for me.

First Impressions

The premise is undeniably intriguing: a female protagonist, Chu Ningzhao, who was betrayed in her past life by those she helped most, gets a second chance. The added layer of the "ungrateful bastards" also being reborn, only to seek help from her manipulative twin sister, Chu Yu, sets the stage for some potentially delicious karma. I was immediately drawn to the idea of a calm and collected protagonist orchestrating the downfall of those who wronged her.

What Works Well

I appreciated the pacing of the story. It doesn't rush the revenge, allowing the consequences of the past to unfold gradually. This slow burn approach allows for a satisfying build-up as the villains' schemes crumble around them. I particularly enjoyed how Chu Ningzhao doesn't get her hands dirty, instead letting her enemies' own actions lead to their downfall. The author does a good job of making the villains' comeuppance feel earned and justified. Also, the political intrigue adds a layer of depth to the story, making it more than just a simple revenge tale.

Areas of Concern

However, I did find some aspects of the story less compelling. The intelligence of the male leads is questionable. Their blind obsession with Chu Yu, despite her obvious flaws and lack of genuine support, strains believability. It's hard to understand why they consistently choose to trust her words over Chu Ningzhao's actions. This perceived lack of intelligence in the antagonists made it difficult for me to fully invest in their downfall. The characters can sometimes feel one-dimensional, lacking the depth and complexity to truly resonate. Chu Ningzhao can also feel passive at times, more of an observer than an active participant in her own revenge.

Final Verdict

"The Ungrateful Bastards All Got Reborn—She’s Done Saving Them" is a decent read if you're looking for a straightforward revenge story with a female protagonist who takes a backseat. While the plot can be formulaic and the characters somewhat shallow, the satisfying pacing and the slow burn of the villains' downfall make it an enjoyable guilty pleasure. Just be prepared to suspend your disbelief regarding the intelligence of the male leads and the effectiveness of Chu Yu's manipulations.