Emperor’s Domination

My Thoughts on Emperor’s Domination

Emperor's Domination is a web novel that I approached with a mix of excitement and trepidation, given its mixed reception. The premise, a shepherd trapped in a crow's body for millions of years, learning countless secrets and grooming future emperors, certainly grabbed my attention. However, the recurring complaints about arrogance and repetitive plotlines gave me pause.

First Impressions

Initially, I was intrigued by the story's setup. The idea of an ancient soul inhabiting a weak body and using his vast knowledge to climb back to the top is a classic xuanhuan trope, but the sheer scale of the MC's past life promised something unique. I was ready to see how this "old monster" would dominate the world.

What Works Well

The world-building in Emperor's Domination is undeniably one of its strongest points. I found myself drawn into the rich history and diverse races that populate the MC's universe. The foreshadowing, when executed well, added a layer of depth and intrigue. The earlier arcs, before the story seemed to fall into a predictable pattern, held my attention. The concept of the MC seeing his past students again after so long was compelling and provided some emotional depth. Some readers found the main character very compelling, especially with his unrepentant attitude and the way he is able to dominate and defeat opponents.

Areas of Concern

However, the issues that many readers raised quickly became apparent. The MC's arrogance, while initially entertaining, often veered into the realm of insufferable. It felt like the conflicts were manufactured simply to showcase his superiority. The plot became formulaic, with repetitive cycles of antagonizing someone, eradicating their sect, and acquiring treasures. The side characters, though sometimes well-developed, were often discarded after a single arc, making it difficult to invest in them. I also noticed the author's tendency to over-explain concepts and repeat information, which slowed down the pacing considerably.

Final Verdict

Emperor's Domination is a novel with flashes of brilliance buried beneath layers of repetitive tropes and excessive filler. While the world-building and overarching plotline have potential, the execution often falls short. If you enjoy overpowered protagonists, aren't bothered by repetitive storylines, and can tolerate extreme arrogance, you might find something to enjoy here. However, be prepared for a potentially frustrating reading experience with a lot of skimming. I give it a cautious 3/5.