Crossing to the Future, it’s Not Easy to Be a Man

My Thoughts on Crossing to the Future, it’s Not Easy to Be a Man

"Crossing to the Future, it’s Not Easy to Be a Man" is quite the ride! With its blend of action, adventure, comedy, and a healthy dose of gender-bending mecha sci-fi, it's easy to see why this novel has garnered so much attention. It certainly grabbed mine.

First Impressions

Initially, I was intrigued by the high ratings and the unique premise of a female protagonist navigating a futuristic, male-dominated society while disguised as a man. The early chapters hooked me with the introduction of Ling Lan, a girl reborn into a world of mechas and interstellar wars, and the circumstances that forced her to adopt a male persona to secure her family's legacy.

What Works Well

The author excels at creating a compelling main character in Ling Lan. Her drive, even if initially motivated by a desire to have talented children, is captivating. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of battles, where the author's talent for depicting melee combat shines. The supporting cast is also well-developed, with varied personalities and motivations that add depth to the story. I found myself invested in Ling Lan's relationships with her overbearing mother, her ninja grandpa, and her quirky AI assistant, Little Four. The blend of sci-fi and cultivation elements is also intriguing, creating a unique world with mechas, hover cars, and spiritual power. The slow-burn romance, while not a central focus, adds a layer of complexity that I appreciated.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the novel, I did find some aspects less appealing. The heavy dose of Chinese nationalism can feel a bit much at times, particularly the portrayal of other nations. Also, the internal logic of the sci-fi elements can be shaky, with some technological aspects feeling underdeveloped or inconsistent. I also noticed that the plot moved at a slower pace than I would have preferred at times.

Final Verdict

Despite some flaws, "Crossing to the Future, it’s Not Easy to Be a Man" is an engaging and entertaining read. If you're looking for a novel with a strong female lead, unique world-building, and a blend of genres, this might be right up your alley. Just be prepared for some slow pacing and overt nationalism. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.