Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Harry Potter and the Secret Treasures
"Harry Potter and the Secret Treasures" promises a fresh take on a beloved universe, and after diving in, I've got some thoughts. This fanfic definitely has its strengths, particularly for those who enjoy the blend of Harry Potter's magical world with elements of Chinese web novels. However, it's not without its flaws, and I'd advise going in with tempered expectations.
First Impressions
Initially, I was intrigued by the premise: a reincarnation story where a Chinese fan of Harry Potter gets a second chance in the wizarding world. The early chapters set up the protagonist, Ivan, as someone knowledgeable about the original series, but some found his initial actions a bit inconsistent with that knowledge. The story starts out like a fairly standard HP fanfic, but it soon veers off into new territory.
What Works Well
Many readers praised the story's ability to evoke nostalgia for the original Harry Potter series while adding exciting new elements. The later arcs, especially after the Chamber of Secrets, introduce "evil gods" and "secret treasures," expanding the scope of the conflict beyond Voldemort. I found this shift compelling, turning a familiar school story into a grander, more epic tale. The author’s dedication to incorporating various historical religions and mythological studies is also a plus. The friendships between the characters, particularly the dynamic between Ivan, Harry, Ron, and Hermione, also received positive attention.
Areas of Concern
One of the most common criticisms I encountered was the portrayal of Ron Weasley. Some felt he was unfairly depicted as foolish or jealous, becoming a convenient pawn for the villains. Others also thought Hermione’s character was overly idealized, with the focus on her appearance becoming repetitive. I also noticed some inconsistencies in the writing, with grammar and spelling errors detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, the romance between Ivan and Hermione seems to divide readers, with some finding it cute and others finding it awkward or forced.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several reviews mentioned plot points that could be considered spoilers. For example, Ron takes Ginny's place in the second book and endures mental trauma. Also, the MC has suspicious looks from Granger after she picked him up as a cat and was taking him to a bath which he swiftly ran from but then he saved the f*g brigade at the train from the dementors and his patronus was the same animagus cat he transforms into and a chapter later him and hermione are reading bout dementors and the patronus and learn that the patronus takes the shape of an animal close to you and she just gives him a look but he swiftly tells her not to think too much about it lol. If you prefer to experience the story without knowing these details, proceed with caution.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Harry Potter and the Secret Treasures" is a mixed bag. It offers an interesting twist on the Harry Potter universe with the introduction of new villains and a broader scope, but it suffers from inconsistencies in writing and character portrayal. If you're a die-hard Harry Potter fan willing to overlook these flaws for a fresh take on the story, it might be worth a read. However, if you're looking for a polished and faithful adaptation, you might be disappointed. I'd recommend giving it a try, but be prepared for a bumpy ride.
