How to Live as an Immortal

My Thoughts on How to Live as an Immortal

Alright, let's dive into "How to Live as an Immortal." With a premise like that, I was immediately intrigued. The blend of adventure, fantasy, sci-fi, and a dash of the supernatural sounded like a recipe for something truly unique. After spending some time with it, here are my thoughts.

First Impressions

The initial hook is strong. We're thrown into a world far into the future, around 2300, where our protagonist, currently going by the name Shin, is clearly not your average Joe. The story wastes no time establishing his immortality, which is a bold move. It immediately raises questions about the psychological toll of such a long life. The early chapters paint a picture of a world shaped by past cataclysms, hinting at a dark and complex history that I was eager to explore.

What Works Well

The exploration of immortality's burden is definitely a high point. The narrative touches upon the potential for mental and emotional fatigue that comes with living through centuries. I appreciate the questions it raises about coping mechanisms – the idea of adopting a childlike mindset or suppressing emotions as ways to survive such an extended existence is fascinating. The world-building, too, has potential. The glimpses we get of a futuristic society, shaped by a World War III that occurred way back in 2040, are intriguing and left me wanting more.

Areas of Concern

While the premise is captivating, the execution felt a little uneven at times. I was left wanting more depth in certain areas, particularly the protagonist's backstory and the specifics of the world's political landscape. The story hints at corruption and a dystopian undercurrent, but I felt it could be explored in more detail to truly immerse the reader. I think grounding the reader more concretely in Shin's experiences and the world's intricacies would help elevate the story.

Final Verdict

"How to Live as an Immortal" presents an interesting concept with promising elements. The exploration of immortality's psychological impact and the glimpses into a war-torn future are definite strengths. However, the execution could benefit from further development, particularly in fleshing out the world and the protagonist's history. It's a novel with a lot of potential, and I'm curious to see where it goes. I'd give it a tentative recommendation, especially if you're a fan of thought-provoking fantasy with a sci-fi twist.