Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Reincarnation of Master Su
Alright, let's dive into "Reincarnation of Master Su." This novel certainly stirred up some strong opinions, and after digging through what readers are saying, I've got a pretty good feel for it.
First Impressions
Okay, so the elephant in the room is the similarity to "Rebirth of Chen An." It seems like everyone and their mother noticed it, especially in the beginning. There was a bit of a "who copied who?" debate happening, but the consensus seems to be that "Master Su" came first. Initially, I was worried that the plot similarities would overshadow everything, but thankfully, it seems the story quickly diverges and finds its own path. However, I think the initial similarities are something to be aware of going in.
What Works Well
One of the biggest draws seems to be the MC, Su Bai. Readers consistently describe him as cunning, clever, and charismatic. Many seem to enjoy his "black belly" nature and his ability to manipulate situations. The plot itself, once it gets going, sounds intriguing, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you hooked. The relationship between Su Bai and the male lead, Tang Xiao, also seems to be a highlight for many, with their dynamic described as intense and engaging. I'm also hearing that the world-building, particularly the modern "mafia" setting, is well-executed.
Areas of Concern
While the positive aspects are strong, there are a few criticisms to consider. Some readers felt the writing lacked depth, particularly in the initial chapters. There were also complaints about the MC feeling weaker than expected, especially early on. Also, I did see some complaints about the translation quality impacting the reading experience.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, heads up, this section contains spoilers! Several readers mentioned potentially triggering content, including off-screen instances of r*pe and the obsessive behavior of one of Su Bai's adopted children, Chen Yuan. There are also details about betrayals and the ultimate fates of certain characters. So, proceed with caution if you're sensitive to these themes.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Reincarnation of Master Su" seems like a novel with a lot to offer, especially if you enjoy cunning protagonists, intricate plots, and a good dose of yaoi romance. While the initial similarities to "Rebirth of Chen An" and some potential trigger warnings are worth noting, the unique direction the story takes and the compelling characters seem to make it a worthwhile read for many. I'd say give it a shot, but be prepared for some potentially dark and intense themes.
