Jiànzhì Sēngcàn (–606)

I read this as an arc and I finally got around to reading it- I've actually never read anything with this kind of subject before so I had pretty high expectations, and the writer didn't disappoint. There's a good build-up going on and I'm really glad this isn't a standalone novel, I think it might've felt rushed otherwise. I think the pacing was really good, and the writing was incredibly easy and comfortable to follow, this definitely helped me put of a reading slump XD. The only problem I show more have is that I'm just simply not able to imagine Junwoo's acting. It feels like whenever he actually does his ✨magic✨ the writer mostly focuses on the reactions to him rather than what he is actually doing. Besides his talent for theater, I haven't really been able to really grasp how good of an actor he is, which might have interrupted my intergration into the story a bit. But perhaps this will get better or more clear in the next book, I'm definitely planning on reading it, I can't just leave on this incredible cliffhanger. Also, I love how Junwoo just creates these kind of mini-families around himself. show less

This was a compelling, quick read, and I would recommend it to anyone who likes k-dramas or pulpy high school dramas. The main character is a born conman obsessed with movies, but when his life of crime catches up to him, he makes a wish and gets to relive his life and try to live better. The plot moves along quickly (if a little serendipitously at times) and had me hooked right away. I look forward to the second novel being released!

I must say the cover of the book led me a bit astray. Maybe it was something I hoped for which I didn't get. But it was a bit of a surprise to read. It mainly reads as a kind of "autobiography" by a fictive person (Junwoo).
The relationship between Junwoo and Ilham is constantly in the focus, mainly in the first part of the book.
After that it is a lot about the choices Junwoo makes.

Then suddenly Mansik steps in the spotlight and it all becomes a bit confusing untill Junwoo is back. Obviously show more the two go on together. And Mansik manages to get Junwoo on the stage.
For me, it all becomes a bit like it drags on. Junwoo doesn't become a caracter that interests you, he's a bit of a bore to me.

New people enter the story: Jaemin, Junho. But I think the story about all of Junwoo's acting effords is to long and far to extensive. The story is sort of "open ended", just like the theme of Team 9.... and I can't say I look forward to the next volume.

Though cleverly written by Sosan, I think it is all a bit flat. You don't really get the chance to fall in love with anyone in the book, or indentify yourself with anyone. Because of that it reads as if you are watching something unfold, far, far away, of which you can't recognize because of the distance. Hence it took me a full month to read. show less

This is such an interesting story. Had no idea where this volume was going to end. Makes me curious to read the next volume. I’m so glad that Jungwoo got the second chance to turn his life around and was lucky enough to pursue something he’s passionate about.
Thank you to the publisher for the chance to read this story!