This novel is quite undeniably frustrating to read. It's long and often ploddingly slow-paced, revolving around essentially two recurring plot points that become tiresome rather quickly.
Firstly, we have the main character (MC), who is so powerful that his strength and cultivation are often undetectable by others. This sets up an endless cycle where either the MC or his daughters face disrespect, only for those who disrespect them to be utterly shocked when they discover that the MC is, in fact, one of the most formidable beings to have ever existed. What follows is a repetition of the same theme: the MC, having mellowed out after fatherhood, chooses to remain passive, while the antagonists stubbornly cling to their disbelief, convinced that the stories surrounding the MC are exaggerated. They inevitably end up getting curb-stomped as a result. This scenario has played out dozens of times, becoming not just predictable, but also tiresomely repetitive.
The second major plot point revolves around the MC and his ex-wife, who, despite being married for a millennium, have somehow never managed to learn how to communicate with one another. The MC is portrayed as a character who feels betrayed yet brimming with love and kindness for his family. However, this seemingly noble attribute only serves to make him appear oblivious to the emotional fallout of his relationship; he never once questions his ex-wife about the reasons behind their divorce. As a result, this paints the MC in a rather poor light—he seems to genuinely disregard the complexities of his past. Meanwhile, his ex-wife is depicted as somewhat dim-witted, further diminishing the emotional weight of the story.
As the plot continues, readers are frequently left feeling detached and frustrated, especially when significant developments occur. Late spoilers reveal that the MC’s lack of communication isn't just a minor hiccup, but rather a fundamental flaw in his character. This lack of depth and understanding detracts from the overall richness of the narrative.
In conclusion, while the premise of the novel holds promise, the execution falls flat. The repetitive nature of the conflict, alongside underdeveloped character dynamics, ultimately hinders the story's overall impact. The potential for a compelling narrative is overshadowed by an unrelenting cycle of predictable events that leave the reader craving a more layered and engaging experience.