Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Saving The Black Immortal Venerable
"Saving The Black Immortal Venerable" is a wild ride through the xianxia genre, and I'm honestly still processing everything! This novel blends adventure, comedy, romance, and a hefty dose of tragedy into a surprisingly cohesive whole. It's definitely not a brainless read, and I found myself constantly trying to piece together the complex plot. Despite a few areas that could be stronger, I ultimately enjoyed the journey.
First Impressions
Initially, I was a bit wary. Some readers felt the synopsis gave away too much, essentially spoiling the first few chapters. I can see where they're coming from, but I think it's more of a detailed setup than a true spoiler. The beginning is a bit slow, but stick with it! The story really picks up as you delve deeper into the world and the characters.
What Works Well
The dynamic between the main leads, Mu Yungui and Jiang Shaocai, is fantastic. Jiang Shaocai, the ML, is not your typical brooding villain. He's a bratty, childish old man (with a 10,000+ year age gap with the FL!) who's also a genius. His character growth, from vengeful immortal to someone learning to love properly, is compelling. Mu Yungui, on the other hand, is a "white moonlight" character with a kind heart hidden beneath a cool exterior.
I also appreciated the intricate plot, filled with mysteries and unexpected twists. The author masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, including those of side characters, to create a rich and engaging world. The romance is a slow burn, with the focus more on adventure and character development. And I was pleased that the leads communicate and work through any potential misunderstandings together!
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed the complexities of the plot, it could also be a bit confusing at times, especially when MTLing. Some readers also felt that the female lead's power growth was redundant and that the ending felt abrupt and unsatisfying. I can see their point; the ending could have been fleshed out more, and the FL's development could have been more pronounced.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some reviews mentioned tragic endings for many of the side couples. If you're sensitive to bittersweet or unhappy endings, be prepared for some heartbreak. There are also mentions of betrayals, deaths, and other emotionally charged events.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "Saving The Black Immortal Venerable" is a worthwhile read for those who enjoy complex xianxia stories with well-developed characters and a unique blend of genres. While it may not be a "smooth, brainless read," the engaging plot and lovable main characters make it a rewarding experience. I'd recommend it, especially if you're a fan of this author's other works.
