Legend of the Great Sage Novel Review

My Thoughts on Legend of the Great Sage

"Legend of the Great Sage" is a web novel that definitely grabbed my attention, and after diving in, I can see why it has such a dedicated following. It's a xianxia tale with a unique flavor, even if it stumbles in some familiar genre pitfalls along the way.

First Impressions

Initially, I was hooked by the premise. The idea of a reincarnation that actually feels like a reincarnation, where the protagonist isn't just conveniently handed power-ups, was refreshing. The early chapters paint a vivid picture of a down-trodden boy who slowly begins to find his strength, and I appreciated how the author took the time to develop the characters and their motivations. It felt like a journey of self-improvement and discovery, which is always appealing.

What Works Well

What stood out to me was the world-building. The focus on monsters and the non-sect life, and the avoidance of those annoying, arrogant young masters, made for a refreshing change of pace. I particularly enjoyed the MC's internal conflicts as he juggled his human and monster identities. The author's ability to make even minor characters feel real is a testament to the writing quality. The action is well written and the plot is creative. The main character is likeable and not a hypocrite.

Areas of Concern

As I progressed, I began to notice some cracks in the foundation. The pacing can be incredibly slow, and the plot armor starts to feel a bit too convenient. What started as a unique cultivation system gradually morphed into something more generic. I found myself losing interest as the story progressed further down the line. It's also been pointed out that romance and relationships can feel awkward and superficial, which is a shame. The MC has many lovers and children but does not seem to care about them.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Legend of the Great Sage" is a mixed bag. The beginning is strong and unique, with well-developed characters and a compelling world. However, the slow pacing, generic plot developments, and potential for abandonment are significant drawbacks. While it's worth a try if you're looking for a xianxia novel with a different flavor, be prepared for a potentially bumpy ride. I'd say it's a solid 3.5/5.