On the Path to the Great Dao

My grandfather is very peculiar. Every day, he lights incense for himself and eats candles in front of his own ancestral tablet. The villagers are all terrified of my grandfather. I’m scared of him too. Later, I realized they weren’t afraid of him—they were afraid of me. My grandfather is also afraid of me. … My name is Chen Shi. Chen as in “honest,” and Shi as in “sincere.”

Original Publisher

qidian

Original Language

chinese

Type

Web Novel

## My Thoughts on On the Path to the Great Dao I've been following "On the Path to the Great Dao" for a little while now, and it's been quite the ride. It’s a blend of genres I don’t often see mixed so effectively – action, fantasy, martial arts, and a healthy dose of horror. The story definitely has a unique flavor that keeps me coming back for more. ### First Impressions Right off the bat, I was hooked by the atmosphere. This isn't your typical power fantasy where the MC effortlessly breezes through life. Instead, we're thrown into a world filled with ghosts, demons, and a protagonist who's just trying to figure things out. The fact that the story is told through the eyes of a child makes it even more compelling and adds an extra layer of mystery. ### What Works Well The world-building is fantastic. The author does a great job weaving in rich folklore and creating a sense of unease. I especially enjoy the dynamic between the main character and his grandfather. Their interactions are both heartwarming and unsettling, which perfectly encapsulates the tone of the novel. The pacing is also well-managed, with enough mystery and intrigue to keep me engaged without feeling overwhelmed. I find myself rooting for the main character, even when he stumbles. ### Areas of Concern While I enjoy the story, the villains could use some work. They often feel a bit one-dimensional, lacking the depth and complexity that would make them truly memorable. I'm also hoping the protagonist will face some more significant challenges as the story progresses. Right now, it sometimes feels like he's getting by a little too easily. ### ⚠️ Spoiler Warning Some readers have pointed out that certain character introductions are quickly followed by their demise, or revelation as a monster. This can be jarring, but it also contributes to the overall sense of danger and unpredictability that permeates the story. If you prefer stories where characters have plot armor, this might not be for you. ### Final Verdict Overall, "On the Path to the Great Dao" is a solid read. It's a unique blend of genres with a compelling protagonist and a well-crafted world. While there are some areas that could be improved, the strengths of the story far outweigh its weaknesses. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing where the author takes this story, and I recommend it to anyone looking for a xuanhuan novel with a darker edge.