The character of Zhao Xiaopang is simple but well-used. He steps up immediately to take the blame. He’s a young man who is ready to give up his bright future for the village. His role is to show the selfless nature of the younger generation. When he steps forward, he acts as the foil to the protective elders later. He’s a bit of a trope (the brash youth), but he plays it well. His actions set off the entire defense mechanism of the village. Without him confessing, the village might have just stayed quiet. He’s a catalyst. I hope he gets more personality later, but for now, he serves his purpose perfectly.
The system's interest rate of sixty-six percent for a loan to change her appearance is so hilarious. She literally compares the system to her former boss and thinks "in essence, my two bosses really didn't have any differences." That's such a tragic but funny realization. You can't escape capitalist systems no matter what universe you're in! The fact that the system is literally a cosmic law but still operates on predatory loans shows how deeply satirical this novel is about systems and power dynamics. It feels like a smart parody of those typical "system" novels where the system is perfectly benevolent.
**Review: 5/5 from Chapters 1-120, but rapidly declines to a disheartening -1/5 by Chapter 600** I’m not entirely sure why this novel has received such low ratings. It presents a compelling narrative centered around a Chinese exorcist, where the protagonist, after a near-fatal encounter with a ghost, immerses himself in the art of exorcism and engages in battles against malevolent spirits. Initially, the story captures the quintessential elements of a classic ghost novel, which is quite promising. However, one significant drawback stands out: the author seems to lack a nuanced understanding of female characters. Throughout the tale, the main cast is entirely male, forming a tight-knit brotherhood of close male friends who embark on their adventurous quests together. Unfortunately, female characters are relegated to one of three unsatisfactory archetypes—they are either embodiments of evil, mere sexual objects, or simply spectral entities. While the author doesn’t render his female characters unintelligent, they nonetheless become mired in these repetitive and limiting roles. On the whole, the novel serves well as a ghost story. It is reasonably engaging, featuring a solid plot and commendable writing. The narrative is thrilling, primarily revolving around the protagonist’s narrow escapes from danger. However, it's essential to note that the intensity of the horror elements is somewhat subdued, leaving the frightening factor lacking for those seeking a gripping thrill. Additionally, a basic understanding of Eastern occultism would greatly enhance your reading experience, as the story delves into various esoteric practices prevalent in East and Southeast Asia. Many of the dark and sinister rituals depicted in the novel are rooted in real practices from that region, which adds a level of authenticity, albeit at times confounding for those unfamiliar with the context. Without this foundational knowledge, readers may find some elements of the story disorienting or unexplainably bizarre. In summary, this novel has the potential to be a standout ghost story, particularly in its earlier chapters. However, the decline in quality and depth as the narrative progresses is disappointing. It's a series that might be more fulfilling with the right expectations and background knowledge in Eastern occult traditions.
The confrontation with Ye Gou and Er Ma Zi was a great showcase of the new skill. The part where they say “when?” and he’s just casually holding both their sabers is a classic power-fantasy moment. And then he throws one back and impales a cicada on a tree? Perfect threat. It shows him establishing dominance in his small town.
The death-by-lightning reincarnation was way too convenient. A huge bolt hits exactly at the moment Xi Yang’s dying? C’mon. And then he’s not just revived but possessed by a cultivator who happened to be on the Netherworld Road? It’s like two different stories smashed together with a hammer.
One of my biggest pet peeves in stories is when the main character is too perfect or too much of a victim. But Shen Qing Shu feels balanced. She's kind and loving with Fu Si Yu, she's professional and decisive at work, but she also admits to her own foolishness in loving Fu Si Yan. She's not a saint—she has her breaking points and she feels anger and bitterness. That mix of vulnerability and strength is what makes her someone I can really invest in.