Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on The Villainous Shizun Is As Beautiful As A Flower
First Impressions
Going into "The Villainous Shizun Is As Beautiful As A Flower," I was immediately drawn in by the promise of comedy and a shizun-disciple relationship. The synopsis hinted at a transmigration story with a mischievous MC, and I'm always a sucker for that trope. I was hoping for a lighthearted and entertaining read, and for the most part, that's what I got.
What Works Well
The humor is definitely a highlight. I found myself chuckling at Shen Liuxiang's antics and his interactions with his family, especially his father and brother. His carefree attitude is infectious. The romance, while slow-burn, is sweet and satisfying. I appreciated that the MC clearly acknowledges his feelings for the ML, Zhou Xuanlan, which avoids the endless pining that can sometimes drag down danmei novels. Zhou Xuanlan's character development, from an obedient puppy to a fierce wolf, is also well-executed. The story shines when it focuses on the relationship between the MC and ML and the wholesome family dynamics. I also appreciated that the side characters, for the most part, had their own motives and weren't just cardboard cutouts.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed the overall experience, I did find some areas that could have been stronger. The plot, at times, felt a bit disconnected, like a series of side quests that didn't quite form a cohesive whole. The world-building could have been more robust, relying heavily on the reader's prior knowledge of cultivation novels. Also, the MC's character, while likable, sometimes felt inconsistent, adapting to the cultivation world a little too easily. I did find that the ending felt a bit rushed, and I would have liked to see more development in certain areas, such as the background of the ML and the MC's mother.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some reviewers have mentioned specific plot points, such as the MC being kicked out of the sect, ending up in the palace, and the ML becoming the 9th lord. There's also a twist involving the original ML returning and temporarily replacing the sweet ML disciple. Be aware of these potential spoilers before diving in.
Final Verdict
Despite some minor flaws, "The Villainous Shizun Is As Beautiful As A Flower" is an enjoyable and entertaining read. The humor, sweet romance, and likable characters make it a worthwhile experience, especially if you're looking for a lighthearted xianxia novel with a happy ending. If you're not expecting a deeply complex plot or intricate world-building, you'll likely find yourself charmed by this story. I'd recommend it to fans of the shizun-disciple trope who appreciate a good laugh and a heartwarming romance.
