Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on This Venerable Won’t Have Children
This Venerable Won’t Have Children promised a delightful blend of wuxia, comedy, and a rather unique premise: a monk impregnating a demonic cult leader. I went in expecting a wild ride, and it definitely delivered on some fronts.
First Impressions
The initial concept grabbed me immediately. A stoic monk and a powerful, assertive demon lord forced into a… parental situation? Sign me up! The early chapters were engaging, setting up the dynamic between Ji Chun and Su Ran, and the overarching plot involving the Di Mang artifact. The story starts off with a bang, quickly throwing the main characters into a complicated relationship.
What Works Well
The core appeal of this novel lies in the relationship between the two leads. The dynamic is genuinely entertaining. Su Ran's assertiveness and Ji Chun's initial naivete create a fun contrast, and seeing their bond develop, complete with moments of jealousy and tenderness, was a highlight. The plot, while not groundbreaking, kept me invested. The search for the Di Mang and the mystery surrounding it provided a decent through-line. The mpreg element, of course, adds a certain level of chaotic charm to the whole affair.
Areas of Concern
Unfortunately, This Venerable Won’t Have Children does stumble in a few areas. The pacing, particularly towards the end, feels rushed. Plot points are resolved rather abruptly, and certain explanations lack depth. Some arcs felt unnecessary, and the ending, especially the extras, leaves something to be desired. I also felt like the side characters could have been more fleshed out. While the focus on the main couple is understandable, giving the supporting cast more depth would have made the world feel richer and the emotional impact of certain scenes more profound. Also, the baby was not in the story enough!
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
The twist regarding the Abbot was unexpected and well-executed, adding a layer of intrigue to the story. However, the ending of the last extra, with the abrupt cut-off during a discussion about the wedding and a second child, felt incredibly unsatisfying. It felt like a loose end that should have been tied up more neatly.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, This Venerable Won’t Have Children is an enjoyable and unique read. The dynamic between the monk and the demon lord is the strongest aspect, and the overall plot, while rushed, keeps you engaged. If you're looking for a lighthearted wuxia with a dash of mpreg and don't mind a fast-paced story, I'd recommend giving it a try. Just be prepared for a somewhat abrupt ending.
