Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on The Abandoned Son Runs Rampant
"The Abandoned Son Runs Rampant" is quite the ride! It's a blend of modern-day and cultivation world shenanigans, with a healthy dose of comedy and some surprisingly touching moments. I went in expecting a standard cultivation story, but I found myself hooked by the protagonist's unique personality and the developing relationship at its core.
First Impressions
The initial arc, set on Earth, is definitely a strong point. The premise of cultivation existing in a modern setting is refreshing, and the story does a great job of blending those two worlds. I found myself laughing out loud at the MC's antics, and I was immediately invested in seeing where his shameless pursuit of the ML would lead.
What Works Well
The MC is a standout character. He's a self-proclaimed genius with a complete lack of EQ, which leads to some hilarious situations. I appreciated his honesty and the fact that he wasn't afraid to cause trouble. The "face-slapping" moments are pretty satisfying, and the gags generally land well.
The romance, while perhaps unconventional, is also a highlight. It begins with the MC's relentless pursuit of the cold and aloof ML. Although the progression may seem abrupt to some, I found it endearing to watch their relationship evolve. The ML's subtle displays of affection and support for the MC were genuinely heartwarming.
Areas of Concern
As the story progresses into the cultivation realms, it does start to feel a bit repetitive. The pattern of making money, leveling up, and dealing with envious antagonists can become formulaic. Additionally, I can see why some readers feel the ML's character becomes less prominent in the later arcs, with the focus shifting more heavily to the MC's cultivation journey.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have expressed concerns about the ML's initial reluctance and potential consent issues in the early stages of the relationship. There are also mentions of certain characters being forgotten or disappearing without resolution, which can be frustrating.
Final Verdict
Despite some minor flaws, I found "The Abandoned Son Runs Rampant" to be an enjoyable and entertaining read. The strong MC, the comedic elements, and the unique blend of modern and cultivation worlds make it stand out from other novels in the genre. If you're looking for a lighthearted and fun cultivation story with a shameless protagonist and a sweet romance, I'd recommend giving this one a try.