Veteran Reader in a regression novel

After so long, a new novel was finally posted. It was on a site that I frequently visited, but had quickly been growing bored of. After all, if there's nothing new to read, why would I stay? Anyways, this is quite an exciting event.

After a few chapters of reading, I can confidently evaluate the novel without any bias.

“Boring,” I subconsciously said out loud after muttering the same word in my mind every time I read a new novel.

I have read many books and novels throughout my life. The common misconception is that people who read a lot would be smart. While that may be partially true, it does not mean I performed well academically. The most I gained from a novel would be philosophical insight, not scientific enlightenment.

But even without being smart, there is something I can give my opinion on, and that would be the state of the novel I am reading now.

“Are there really no interesting novels nowadays? It feels like a copy of a popular novel that’s been edited over and over again!” After a moment of contemplation, I decided to open the comment section of the novel.

The author really made me waste my time reading this bullshit? Fine, I will make you taste the same hell as me.

“This regression novel makes no sense. What kind of novel is this? It is filled with clichés. How can a world operate like this? It feels like a compilation of third-rate novels. Just quit being an author and go imagine your little world in your secluded closet, you stinking otaku.” In rage, I posted the comment while cursing the author.

It may seem petty, but I should at least pay back the suffering I received. Novels nowadays lack creativity and are filled with clichés. Sometimes a thought strikes me—maybe the reason I find all these novels to be filled with clichés is because of how much I’ve read. Maybe all the stories have already been told?

‘A pointless thought, not that it would change anything.’

In a world where every day is a repetition of the previous day, you can’t possibly find something new.

I turned off my phone and headed to bed. Sleeping early is a virtue for a reader, so we can keep our heads clear at all times and spot any plot holes or foreshadowing. Just as I was about to reach the bed, I heard a notification from my phone.

‘Did the author respond to my comment already? Is he actually a no-life otaku shut-in?’ Dismissing the notification as trivial, I planned on reading it tomorrow morning.

Not looking at the notification on my phone one last time would turn out to be my greatest mistake.