Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Flowers Reflecting The Sky
"Flowers Reflecting The Sky" is a whirlwind of wuxia, mystery, and romance that, despite its brevity, manages to pack quite a punch. I went in expecting a straightforward murder investigation in ancient China, and while that's definitely the core of the story, I found myself surprised by the twists and turns along the way.
First Impressions
The opening chapters immediately throw you into the action. We meet Fan JiJing, our seemingly naive protagonist, returning home to find his master murdered. He's tasked with finding the killer amongst his fellow disciples, and from there, the mystery unravels quickly. At first, the sheer number of characters was a little daunting, but their distinct personalities helped me keep track.
What Works Well
The mystery itself is compelling. The author does a great job of keeping you guessing, and the ultimate reveal is a satisfying twist. I especially enjoyed how the dynamic between the main characters, Fan JiJing and Hua HuaiXiu, shifts as the truth comes to light. The initial comedy and banter are genuinely funny, and the plot's rollercoaster-like nature kept me engaged. I also appreciated the translator's work; the writing flowed beautifully.
Areas of Concern
While the first two acts are strong, the final act, which focuses on the romance, feels rushed. The introduction of new characters from the author's other works felt somewhat jarring and detracted from the main storyline. There are also consent issues that some readers may find problematic.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Proceed with caution if you haven't read the novel!
The relationship between Fan JiJing and Hua HuaiXiu takes a dark turn. Fan JiJing's manipulative actions towards Hua HuaiXiu, including a scene where he disables Hua HuaiXiu to prevent him from topping, raise serious questions about consent. This scene seems to be a point of contention among readers, with some arguing it's a playful power dynamic within a relationship, while others view it as coercive and bordering on assault. Also, the fact that they are cousins will be a problem for some readers.
Final Verdict
"Flowers Reflecting The Sky" is a mixed bag. The mystery is well-crafted and the characters are interesting, but the rushed ending and questionable handling of consent detract from the overall experience. If you're looking for a quick, twisty read and are willing to overlook some problematic elements, it might be worth your time. However, be aware of the potential triggers before diving in. I'd give it a tentative 3.5 out of 5 stars.
