Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Cultivating to Become a Great Celestial
"Cultivating to Become a Great Celestial" is a unique xianxia novel that surprised me in the best ways. It's not your typical power fantasy, and the female protagonist's journey is both relatable and compelling.
First Impressions
The premise immediately grabbed my attention: a modern woman transmigrating into the body of a 70-year-old granny in a cultivation world! It's a refreshing twist on the usual tropes. I was curious to see how the author would handle such an unusual starting point, and I wasn't disappointed. The initial chapters focus on world-building and character development, which is a welcome change from stories that rush into action.
What Works Well
What I appreciate most about this novel is its focus on character interactions and relationships. The MC isn't overpowered; she struggles, makes mistakes, and relies on the help of others. Her kindness and genuine nature endear her to those around her, and it's heartwarming to see her build meaningful connections. The world-building is also well-done, with new elements introduced gradually and seamlessly. I also enjoyed the humor, which is often derived from the MC's sassy internal monologues and her interactions with other characters. The story also does a great job of subverting expectations. It's not a simple "weak-to-strong" narrative; the MC's growth is slow and steady, and she often relies on her wits and resourcefulness rather than brute force.
Areas of Concern
The ending feels a bit rushed. Events seem to happen too quickly, and some plot points are resolved in an anticlimactic way. Also, I know that some readers might be turned off by the lack of immediate romance, or the fact that the main character starts as an old woman. The story takes its time to develop romantic relationships, and the MC doesn't transform into a beauty overnight.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have mentioned that the MC eventually gains the ability to body swap, which adds another layer of complexity to the story. Also, the identity of the final villain and their motivations are revealed later in the story, and some readers found the resolution of that plotline to be unsatisfying.
Final Verdict
Despite some minor flaws, "Cultivating to Become a Great Celestial" is a highly enjoyable and unique xianxia novel. If you're looking for a story with well-developed characters, a compelling plot, and a refreshing take on the genre, I highly recommend giving this one a try. I'm giving it a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars.
