The setting describing the siheyuan and paddy fields in a post-apocalyptic world is oddly peaceful. It’s like a little oasis of life in a dead city. I’d hang out there. Maybe fish a bit. That contrast makes the apocalypse feel more tragic.
The scene where he tears open the beast’s body made me think about how far removed he is from human morality. He used to be a person, now he’s gutting animals without a second thought. That psychological shift is interesting but unexplored.
1 The descriptions of her physical state are brutal. "Malnutrition, basic stomach problems, fatal brain injury, weight 40kg." At fifteen years old? That's heartbreaking. It really makes you feel for her and root for her to finally get some rest and food, even if it's in the creepy rich family's house.
I plan to revisit and refine this review once I’ve finished the entire novel, but so far, I am thoroughly enjoying the experience! The comedy is absolutely top-notch, and I appreciate how this novel fully embraces the understanding that its male lead (ML) is far from being the ultimate prize for a spouse. In fact, he's often the subject of playful mockery, which is both refreshing and entertaining. There’s something delightful about watching him crawl, scrape, and plead in order to even begin to earn a favorable glance from the main character (MC). This stands in stark contrast to many other historical novels I've encountered, where the ML often gets a free pass for abhorrent behavior—sometimes even serious transgressions—simply because of his dazzling good looks. Honestly, it’s invigorating to witness a male lead who commits wrongdoings yet is not only called out for them but also faces repercussions as penned by the author. This narrative choice adds depth to the characters and keeps the reading experience engaging and true to life. That said, I can see why certain aspects of this novel may clash with some readers' modern sensibilities. If you’re the type of reader who feels uncomfortable with the idea that an ancient love interest may already have children before their romantic journey begins, it might be best for you to steer clear of this story. However, if you understand that the ML is a product of his time and that the novel relentlessly criticizes him for being, in its own words, a “man slut,” then those elements are unlikely to bother you. Personally, I found this narrative approach quite agreeable; I don't subscribe to the fantasy that individuals should wait until they meet their "true love" to have children. That’s not the reality for many people today, and it certainly wasn’t the case in historical contexts where having children was often seen as a duty of familial devotion. My perspective could shift, of course, if the ML were to experience a transformation similar to that of the ML in *Doomed to be Cannon Fodder*, where all his previous misdeeds are inexplicably justified. However, if the story maintains its lighthearted humor, continues to critique the flawed ML, and keeps delivering mouthwatering descriptions of food, then I doubt I’ll feel compelled to alter my rating. If you prefer a world-shattering, heart-wrenching, star-crossed romance, this might not be the book for you. In that case, you may want to pass on this one, as it likely wouldn’t meet your expectations!
I really appreciate how the story shows the tiger cub's memories through Wu Qiuqiu. It's not just info dumping, we actually feel her pain and suffering through the narration. The part where it mentions she was locked outside, beaten daily, and fed only leftover bones really makes you understand why she's so small and weak. Building that emotional foundation makes the revenge part so much more satisfying.
The vibe seems to be setting up a classic revenge/rebellion narrative, but I hope the author subverts expectations. Yu Mu saying he doesn't want to be the Heavenly Dao's tool anymore and just wants to live for himself is a compelling starting point. But we also have Yun Buqi's sacrifice in the previous life and Yu Mu's desire to save him. These conflicting motivations could lead to some really interesting choices down the line.
2 The "second brother is a simp" drama is making me impatient. I want to get to the part where the rain starts and the villa floods. The lead-up is fun, but the real story begins when the power goes out and the looting starts. The shopping list is taking too long. I'm ready for the action and danger.
A minor nitpick: Why does he trust Guide-kun so quickly after a near death? The system could be a trap or a game for the attacker. The hero is too compliant. A real salaryman might be suspicious of broken software. I’d retract that. Too late.