Blue Sky

My Thoughts on Blue Sky

"Blue Sky" is a web novel that I approached with a healthy dose of curiosity. The premise, blending action, adventure, and a gender-bending twist within a virtual reality setting, definitely piqued my interest. However, after diving in and considering the range of reader reactions, I find myself with mixed feelings.

First Impressions

The initial chapters do a decent job of setting the stage. The story immediately throws you into the deep end, introducing multiple plot threads and cliffhangers. This approach can be exciting, leaving you eager to discover where the author intends to take the story. However, this approach may also feel overwhelming depending on the reader.

What Works Well

The virtual reality game elements are generally well-executed. The author does a reasonable job of crafting the in-game world, and the action sequences can be entertaining. It seems that the translation and editing are also well done, making the story easy to read.

Areas of Concern

One of the biggest issues I noticed is the main character's personality, or rather, the apparent lack thereof. The MC's seemingly apathetic reactions to major life changes, from reincarnation to sudden wealth, can be off-putting. This lack of emotional investment makes it difficult to connect with the protagonist or feel invested in their journey.

Additionally, some plot points felt rushed or poorly explained. One example is the MC's sudden victory over a challenging boss, achieved through a low-probability skill combination with no clear justification. This type of deus ex machina can undermine the sense of accomplishment and make the story feel less believable.

Finally, there's the author's note about their aversion to writing romance. While authorial preferences are understandable, introducing a potential love interest only to then declare an intention to skip the romantic development feels jarring and unsatisfying.

Final Verdict

"Blue Sky" has potential, but it ultimately falls short due to a combination of bland characterization, plot contrivances, and a lack of commitment to key story elements. While the virtual reality setting and action sequences offer some entertainment, the overall experience leaves much to be desired. I can't wholeheartedly recommend it.