I love that Bai Mengjin is not actually bothered by the illusion. She even thinks about how she has no inner demon because her youth was rough but she's moved past it. That's such a refreshing take for a protagonist who's been through trauma. Most stories would have her breaking down and crying over her sad childhood, but she's genuinely like "nah, I'm over it." Her questioning why the Samsara Mirror would put her here is smart thinking too, she's not just accepting things at face value.
The humor often comes from Regis's internal reactions to his body's limitations. Like when he gets breastfed and he questions the morality, or when he's being cradled and he feels uncomfortable. It's crude humor, but it works in context. The self-awareness makes it funny.
What can I say about this particular novel? The first volume certainly starts off with a lot of potential—there's an air of excitement and intrigue that pulls you in right from the beginning. However, unfortunately, it quickly declines in quality not long after. Readers who embark on this journey will undoubtedly recognize the point where things begin to falter. One of the most significant issues lies in the plot itself, which feels rather disjointed and poorly planned. It’s as if the author, rather than writing with a clear vision and understanding of the audience's expectations, simply threw together ideas without proper consideration. This leads to a narrative that lacks coherence and fails to keep the reader engaged. Moreover, the story takes a rather dark turn— and I mean really dark. While depth and complexity can sometimes enhance a story, the darkness here feels excessively heavy and bleak, overshadowing the initial promise the novel had. Although there are moments towards the end that hint at a recovery or redemption, the twist left me with a lingering sense of dissatisfaction. It felt more jarring than insightful. Ultimately, I found myself unable to finish the book, which is always a disappointing outcome. Therefore, after careful consideration, I have to rate this novel two stars. It had potential, but sadly, it fell short on execution and left me wanting so much more.
The scene where Li Tai rolls up with his gang calling Jiliu Jia a waste and Jiliu Jia just charges at him despite knowing he’s way weaker—man, that got me. It’s so reckless and stupid but also kind of admirable? The rage feels real, not like some cool-headed hero moment. It’s pure teenage defiance, and I loved that Xu Shanrou immediately pulling him back showed she’s the brains of the duo. The power imbalance between them and Li Tai is laid out clearly with that cultivation rank system, which helps you feel the stakes instantly.
The protagonist of the story is undeniably adventurous, and her dynamic spirit drives much of the plot forward. However, it’s not just her daring nature that sets her apart; she is also rooted in a solid set of beliefs and values that guide her decisions and interactions throughout her journey. This blend of adventure and conviction adds a layer of depth to her character, making her relatable and engaging. Additionally, we can't overlook the intriguing concept of "golden fingers," a term popular in many web novels that refers to special abilities or fortunate circumstances that often assist the character in overcoming challenges. These 'golden fingers' not only serve to enhance her adventures but also present opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Whether it's an unparalleled talent, a unique skill, or a fortuitous turn of events, these elements continually elevate the stakes and keep readers on the edge of their seats. As the story unfolds, it's fascinating to witness how her beliefs shape her actions, especially in moments of conflict or moral dilemmas. It prompts readers to reflect on their own convictions and how they navigate their adventures in life. Overall, this character's journey promises to be an enthralling exploration of bravery, integrity, and the serendipitous rewards that come with an adventurous spirit. I'm enthusiastic to see how these elements will intertwine as the narrative progresses.
1 I'm curious about Feng Yaoyao's real motives. She obviously has a crush on Qin Bai, but she's also using him to mess with Shen Muyu. The way she called him at midnight with those ridiculously fake excuses (water heater broken? toilet broken?) shows she's just trying to get him alone. Her desperation is a bit over-the-top, but it's entertaining to watch.
The idea that a 0.3-second exposure to the "Honghuang" can improve his cultivation aptitude is a fantastic hook. It flips the entire narrative on its head. The golden finger isn't about bringing treasures back; it's about using the environment itself as a training tool. It makes every attempt a balancing act between harvesting that improvement and not dying. It’s much more interesting than just finding a magic herb. The "reward" is becoming strong enough to handle the world, not getting loot. 1
The Noble Consort's public humiliation of Su Zhiruan sets up future conflict beautifully. Now the reader wants to see Su Zhiruan rise in status and get even. But the author doesn't rush it. Su Zhiruan doesn't immediately fight back or scheme. She just kneels and takes notes. That creates dramatic irony where we know she'll eventually succeed, but the waiting makes the payoff sweeter. The "two hours kneeling" also builds sympathy for the protagonist.