Above the Skies

My Thoughts on Above the Skies

"Above the Skies" promised a grand xianxia adventure, and while it delivers on some fronts, it also stumbled in ways that left me feeling conflicted. As a fan of the genre, I appreciate authors who try to put a spin on familiar tropes, but the execution here felt uneven.

First Impressions

The initial setup is intriguing. We're thrown into a world ruled by an Emperor and several Kings, with our protagonist, a prince regaining memories of a powerful past life. The early chapters hinted at political intrigue, face-smacking moments, and a unique spin on the typical engagement trope. I was hooked by the potential for a story filled with conquest, revenge, and complex relationships.

What Works Well

I found the world-building to be a strong point. The author clearly put effort into crafting a society with its own rules and power dynamics. The kingdom-building aspect, with its schemes, twists, and alliances, kept me engaged. The integration of time travel, a recurring element in the story, added another layer of complexity and intrigue. The author’s ability to weave in Chinese mythology is commendable, adding depth and richness to the narrative.

Areas of Concern

However, as the story progressed, I noticed some recurring issues. The pacing felt slow at times, and the constant barrage of conflicts, with enemies seemingly resurrected multiple times, became tiresome. I found the character development lacking, particularly in the romantic relationships. The limited interaction between the MC and his love interests made it difficult to invest in their connections. The "cockroach" villains, who just keep coming back, and the constant drama started to wear thin.

Final Verdict

"Above the Skies" is a mixed bag. While it boasts intriguing world-building, political intrigue, and a unique take on time travel, it suffers from slow pacing, repetitive conflicts, and underdeveloped relationships. The heavy dose of tragedy and the constant reemergence of villains may frustrate some readers. While the ending is considered acceptable, the journey to get there might be a bumpy one. I'd recommend this only to readers who enjoy complex world-building and are willing to overlook the flaws in pacing and character development.