Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on The Eldest Martial Sister Gave Up Treatment
This novel was quite a ride! I went in expecting a lighthearted cultivation story, and while it definitely delivered on that front, it also surprised me with its depth and unexpectedly emotional moments. I found myself chuckling at the absurd situations Bai Lian gets into, and genuinely invested in her relationships with her junior sisters.
First Impressions
The premise is undeniably intriguing: a villainess from a cultivation game, reborn with her memories, desperately trying to avoid her original fate. It's a setup ripe for comedic misunderstandings and clever subversions of tropes, and the novel definitely capitalizes on that. I was immediately drawn in by Bai Lian's predicament and her attempts to navigate this dangerous world while battling a rather trollish system.
What Works Well
The humor is a major highlight. The author does a fantastic job of using misunderstandings to create genuinely funny situations, and the characters' interactions are a delight. Bai Lian's master, An Lan, is a particular standout, with her own unique brand of twisted logic. I also appreciated the slow burn of Bai Lian's character development. She starts out focused on survival, but gradually grows to genuinely care for the people around her, and that transformation is really satisfying to witness. The action is also surprisingly well-done, with Bai Lian frequently facing enemies stronger than herself, creating real tension.
Areas of Concern
While I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, I do have a few minor gripes. Some parts can drag on a bit, and the translation can be a little choppy at times. Also, as the story progresses, Bai Lian becomes significantly stronger than her junior sisters, which creates a bit of a power imbalance. While the author attempts to address this with side stories, it doesn't fully resolve the issue.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some of the reviews mention that the novel gets spicier later on, with the introduction of dual cultivation. It's described as being handled with innuendo and metaphors, but it's definitely present. Also, there are references to a foot fetish, which might not be everyone's cup of tea.
Final Verdict
Overall, I highly recommend "The Eldest Martial Sister Gave Up Treatment." It's a fun, lighthearted, and surprisingly engaging cultivation novel with a strong female lead and a delightful cast of characters. While it has a few minor flaws, the humor, heart, and action more than make up for them. If you're looking for a yuri harem with a comedic twist, this is definitely worth checking out. I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
