Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on A World Worth Protecting
"A World Worth Protecting" is definitely a unique entry in Er Gen's bibliography, and after diving in, I can see why it elicits such strong reactions. This novel blends xianxia with a near-future Earth setting, and the results are... well, mixed.
First Impressions
My first impression was that this was a lighter, more comedic take on the cultivation genre. The protagonist, Wang Baole, is certainly memorable. He's got a distinct goal - becoming a top official - and he's not afraid to be shameless to get there. The early chapters had me chuckling quite a bit, and I was eager to see where the story would go.
What Works Well
I appreciated the humor, and Wang Baole's character is definitely a departure from some of Er Gen's more stoic protagonists. He's flawed, ambitious, and often hilarious. The story drew me in with its interesting characters and unique twist on the cultivation system. The political machinations and the way Wang Baole navigates them are genuinely entertaining. Some of the side characters also get some great development, making them more than just cardboard cutouts.
Areas of Concern
However, the novel isn't without its drawbacks. The Earth setting, while initially intriguing, feels somewhat underdeveloped. The integration of cultivation into a modern world isn't always seamless, and at times it feels like the technology is just brushed aside. The humor, while initially charming, can become repetitive, particularly the jokes surrounding Wang Baole's weight. The plot also seems to wander a bit, losing some of its initial focus, and the quality of the story declines once he gets onto the sword.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have pointed out that the story shifts significantly after the protagonist leaves the Solar System, essentially abandoning the initial sci-fi elements and becoming a more generic xianxia. There's also a criticism that the later parts of the story drop important supporting characters and subplots, making the world feel less connected. The culture of the federation in the novel is also incredibly Chinese. Everyone and everything is corrupt yet ultranationalistic. The MC is also accused of encouraging his beast pet to bully/r*pe someone else's as long as there is no evidence.
Final Verdict
Overall, "A World Worth Protecting" is a mixed bag. It has moments of brilliance and genuine humor, but it also suffers from pacing issues, underdeveloped world-building, and repetitive jokes. While not my favorite Er Gen novel, it's still a worthwhile read if you're looking for a lighthearted and comedic take on the xianxia genre. I'd give it a solid 3 out of 5 stars. Just be prepared for the story to evolve (or devolve, depending on your perspective) as it progresses.
