Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on 9 Heavenly Thunder Manual
I went into "9 Heavenly Thunder Manual" with a bit of trepidation, given the rather polarized opinions surrounding it. Modern xianxia is a guilty pleasure of mine, and I was hoping this would scratch that itch. However, I definitely see where a lot of the criticism stems from.
First Impressions
The initial chapters felt like a rollercoaster, jumping between what seemed like ancient China and a modern setting. It was jarring, and I wasn't entirely sure what the author was aiming for. The MC gains power rapidly, and while I usually enjoy a good OP protagonist, it felt a little rushed and convenient here. The treasures and power-ups just seemed to appear out of nowhere.
What Works Well
Honestly, it's a tough sell. Some readers appreciate the "real-like" depiction of human nature, even if it's unflattering. The plot, while somewhat random, does have some foreshadowing, which I appreciated. I can see how the modern setting, despite its flaws, could be a unique draw for some, offering a different flavor compared to traditional xianxia. There's a raw, almost comic-book-like quality to the action that some might find appealing.
Areas of Concern
Okay, let's address the elephant in the room: the racism. It's undeniable. The depiction of the "Kou country" (Japan) is incredibly problematic and uncomfortable. It's not just a matter of cultural differences; it's outright offensive. This significantly detracted from my enjoyment and made it difficult to connect with the story.
Beyond that, the female characters are... lacking. They often feel one-dimensional, existing solely to fawn over the MC. The relationships feel forced and unrealistic. The MC himself can be quite unlikeable, displaying arrogance and hypocrisy. He's not the kind of protagonist I found myself rooting for. The story frequently feels random, and the plot meanders without a clear direction.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several readers mentioned r*pe being present in the novel, which is a major trigger for many. Also, the author appears to be unsure whether to do a modern-type story or a mythical ancient setting.
Final Verdict
"9 Heavenly Thunder Manual" is a deeply flawed novel. While it might offer a fleeting bit of entertainment for those who enjoy modern xianxia with a dark edge, the pervasive racism, weak characters, and haphazard plot make it a difficult recommendation. There are far better novels in the genre that offer a more enjoyable and less problematic reading experience. I'd suggest exploring other options before diving into this one.
