Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Source Of Calamity
"Source of Calamity" is a wild ride, to say the least. It’s a blend of rebirth revenge, corporate intrigue, and a healthy dose of drama, landing it a solid, if somewhat bumpy, 4 out of 5 stars in my book.
First Impressions
Jumping into this novel, I was immediately intrigued by the premise of a reborn MC navigating a world where he was once cannon fodder. The initial chapters hooked me with the promise of face-slapping and a clever protagonist outsmarting his enemies. However, I quickly realized that this story is a bit of a mixed bag.
What Works Well
What I appreciated most was the focus on the corporate environment. It's refreshing to see a story that delves into the intricacies of business and workplace dynamics, rather than just using it as a backdrop for romance. The side characters, for the most part, are well-developed and add depth to the story. I also enjoyed the MC's initial determination to stand on his own two feet and forge his own path, independent of the ML. The side couples were a pleasant surprise, and I found myself invested in their stories as well.
Areas of Concern
However, the novel isn't without its flaws. Several inconsistencies in the plot and character ages kept pulling me out of the story. The pacing can be a bit uneven, with some plot points feeling rushed or underdeveloped. The motivations of some characters felt illogical, and the transitions between scenes could be jarring. I also found the "white lotus" character of Su Shiqing to be excessively annoying, though I suppose that was the point. The romance, while present, sometimes felt secondary to the revenge plot, and I would have liked to see more development of the relationship between the MC and ML.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers may want to skip this section to avoid spoilers.
I was a little conflicted about the original protagonist, Qin Yue. The reveal that he was under the influence of a "halo" and not truly in love with Su Shiqing muddied the waters for me. While I don't blame the MC for choosing the ML, I couldn't help but feel bad for Qin Yue and the unrequited love he had for the MC in his previous life. I also felt that Su Shiqing's character lacked depth and could have benefited from more development.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "Source of Calamity" is an entertaining and engaging read. If you're looking for a perfect novel, this isn't it. But if you're willing to overlook some inconsistencies and enjoy a dramatic, face-slapping story with a focus on corporate intrigue, then I recommend giving it a try. Just be prepared for a wild ride!
