Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Record of All Things
"Record of All Things" promised a satisfying conclusion to the exorcism series, and after diving in, I can see why many readers found it so captivating. The blend of comedy, fantasy, school life, and supernatural elements creates a unique and engaging world. While it wasn't perfect for me, there's definitely a lot to appreciate.
First Impressions
The premise is immediately intriguing: an ordinary guy, Jiang Hong, ends up at an exorcism university. The initial chapters sucked me in, and I was eager to see how this seemingly normal individual would navigate such an extraordinary environment. The comedic undertones helped ease me into the more serious aspects of the story, and I was excited to see the characters from previous novels in the saga.
What Works Well
I particularly enjoyed the character development, especially the evolution of Xiang Cheng. Seeing him shed his cold exterior was a rewarding experience. The author's ability to weave in past characters without making it feel forced or awkward is commendable. The world-building is solid, and the concept of the "Book of Everything" with its unique abilities (HP bars, photoshop capabilities!) is a fun and creative addition. The gradual build-up of the plot kept me engaged, and the slow-burn narrative added to the overall appeal.
Areas of Concern
While I found much to enjoy, I did have some reservations. The relationship between Jiang Hong and Lu Xiu felt a bit forced. I didn't quite connect with their dynamic, and at times, I found Jiang Hong's personality a little grating and Lu Xiu's a bit flat. Some sections, especially those focusing on Lu Xiu's timeline search, didn't hold my interest as much. The battle scenes, while detailed, sometimes felt too drawn out and lacked the suspense I was hoping for. The dialogue occasionally felt like it was coming from teenagers playing a game rather than individuals trying to save the world.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have highlighted specific plot points that could be considered spoilers. One reader mentioned the emotional impact of Lu Xiu's perspective and the tragic situation surrounding Yu Zhou. Another pointed out the significance of the Diamond Sutra quote used in the titles. If you prefer to go in completely blind, I recommend skipping over detailed discussions of these elements.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Record of All Things" is a worthwhile read, especially if you're invested in the exorcism series. Despite some shortcomings in character relationships and pacing, the engaging world-building, creative concepts, and satisfying character development make it a memorable experience. I'd recommend starting with the first book in the series to fully appreciate the journey. I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
