I was so excited when Qidian started translating this novel - I've been hooked ever since I read the first two chapters a while back, and I think that there are two key factors that make this novel stand above the rest. But I'm sad to say that as of chapter 56, I have dropped this novel because there are too many flaws with the writing. So, let's get into it:
Strengths
- The protagonist. Fu Jiu is super likeable and unique, she can be described as a simultaneous lady and man-killer. Her flirtatiousness isn't irritating, but instead it gives her a special charm that draws you in. To be more exact, she is the perfect representation of a "seme" in a homosexual relationship, although readers know that she's only pretending to be a man. Her personality is pretty rare for a female lead, and I might've just finished the whole novel if they only focused on her more! In my opinion, and I think for many readers, her character has been the best part of this novel so far.
- Hacking and professional gaming. To me, these are both very interesting topics, and I particularly enjoyed reading about a female being successful in this area. Some of you may notice that these occupations are very different, and yes, it is a bit of a stretch that Fu Jiu is good at both. But if you read this novel, you'll realise that in terms of exaggeration, this is just the tip the iceberg!
Weaknesses
- I was debating dropping this novel for a while, but ultimately I said yes because Fu Jiu wasn't getting enough screen time (if that applies to a webnovel). And why was that? It's a combination of a poor characterisation and serious exaggeration. Like, I know all novels exaggerate to a certain extent, but this one takes it to a whole new level. If the male lead turns up at a school, he will be treated as the next messiah (by adults and students alike). If he enters a game server, literally everyone will stop what they're doing to idolise him. And then the server will crash because millions are trying to log on for whatever reason. The author tries to establish how much of an untouchable elite this guy is at every opportunity. His sidekicks (yes, sidekicks - 80% of characters only exist to idolise the ML) never fail to express surprise when he does normal-people things.
- The male lead is a mega-boss CEO and #1 professional gamer at the same time. How does that work?
- Qin Mo is also petty, self-absorbed and uncaring. The author repeatedly uses descriptors like 'cool', 'manly', and 'handsome', but the character's actions speak otherwise. I won't go into the details, but he clearly believes that he is entitled to special treatment, and treats certain people like crap.
- Did I mention the male lead must smoke in every scene (even though there are people in the room with him)? I guess the author thinks that smoking is cool, when in fact it's the total opposite.
Anyways, thanks for listening to my rant, and sorry if it was too long XD
Kudos to the translators, 5 stars for translation quality and update stability :)
