Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Only I Shall Be Immortal
Alright, let's dive into Only I Shall Be Immortal. I’ve been poking around the xianxia genre for a while now, and this one definitely piqued my interest, especially given its seemingly solid overall rating despite some early mixed reactions. After looking into what others are saying, I’ve got a pretty good feel for what this novel brings to the table.
First Impressions
From what I gather, the initial chapters focus on setting up the protagonist's entry into a sect. I can see how some readers might find the main character's immaturity off-putting at first, as he's portrayed as a child who makes mistakes. However, I think that's a deliberate choice by the author, and it could be a refreshing change of pace from the usual overpowered MCs we often see.
What Works Well
Several readers pointed out that the sect dynamics are a major highlight. Apparently, the characters aren't your typical mustache-twirling antagonists, and the protagonist's interactions with his seniors are genuinely heartwarming. It's rare to find a xuanhuan novel where characters are portrayed as decent human beings, so this aspect alone makes me want to give it a try.
Another thing that stood out to me is the MC's growth. He's not perfect, he messes up, and he faces consequences for his actions. However, he also learns from his mistakes and earns the protection of those around him. I appreciate that the author doesn't shy away from showing the MC's flaws and allows him to develop organically. I also got the impression that the interactions between the MC and prideful old cultivators are well done.
Areas of Concern
Honestly, from the reactions I've seen, I don't have any major concerns. The only thing that might deter some readers is the MC's initial immaturity, but I think it's a necessary part of his character arc. As long as the author continues to develop him in a believable way, I'm confident that he'll grow into a compelling protagonist.
Final Verdict
Overall, Only I Shall Be Immortal sounds like a promising xianxia novel with a unique take on the genre. The focus on character dynamics, the flawed protagonist, and the refreshing lack of constant antagonism are all major selling points for me. I'm definitely adding this one to my reading list!
