Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Villain Too Many Children of Destiny, I Choose to Lie Flat
This novel, Villain Too Many Children of Destiny, I Choose to Lie Flat, is quite a ride. It's a xianxia story with a modern twist, and while it has its flaws, I found myself enjoying the journey for the most part.
First Impressions
Initially, I was drawn in by the premise. A protagonist trying to avoid the typical "Child of Destiny" tropes while also trying to avoid doing anything that might make him a target? Intriguing! The early chapters were particularly strong, setting up a unique blend of system comedy, family dynamics, and, surprisingly, a career as an underground ecchi artist. Yes, you read that right. Our MC decides to use his modern knowledge to revolutionize the NSFW art scene in this cultivation world. It was definitely a breath of fresh air in a genre often bogged down by repetitive storylines.
What Works Well
The characters are a definite highlight. I appreciated that the side characters, especially those within the MC's inner circle, felt distinct and well-developed. They had their own quirks and personalities, which made the interactions more engaging. The system, despite being overpowered, serves more as a comedic element than a serious plot device, which I found refreshing. It's self-aware and cracks jokes, preventing the story from taking itself too seriously. I also appreciated that the MC's modern sensibilities continued to influence his actions and decisions throughout the story, preventing it from becoming just another generic cultivation novel.
Areas of Concern
However, as the story progressed, I noticed some cracks in the foundation. The initial charm of the art-focused plotline started to fade, becoming less and less relevant as the story moved forward. The antagonists, unfortunately, fell into the trap of being cardboard cutouts, lacking the depth and nuance of the other characters. I also felt that the plot started to rely more on convenient plot armor and forced developments, which detracted from the overall experience. The MC's personality seemed to shift at times, becoming more akin to the typical arrogant protagonist found in many Chinese novels.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers might be turned off by the harem aspect, especially the development of certain female characters. The Su character, in particular, undergoes a transformation that some might find jarring and unconvincing. She goes from being an arrogant rival to a submissive member of the harem, which feels forced and lacks proper development.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, I'd still recommend giving Villain Too Many Children of Destiny, I Choose to Lie Flat a try, especially if you're a fan of the xianxia genre and looking for something with a unique twist. While the quality dips as the story progresses, the initial premise, engaging characters, and comedic elements make it an enjoyable read, even if it doesn't quite reach masterpiece status.
