Lord of Darkness Novel Review

My Thoughts on Lord of Darkness

"Lord of Darkness" presents an interesting blend of genres – action, adventure, fantasy, and even a dash of sci-fi with its futuristic setting and genetic modifications. The xuanhuan elements are definitely present, promising a cultivation journey with a unique twist. I jumped into this novel hoping for a fresh take on the genre, and I have mixed feelings.

First Impressions

The initial premise is intriguing. We have a protagonist torn between his scientific aspirations and the necessity of cultivation in a world teeming with mutated creatures and dangers. His initial decision to pursue science, despite the risks and his father's wishes, sets him up as someone with agency, even if that agency seems a little naive.

What Works Well

The pacing, at least in the early chapters, seems to be a strong point. The author quickly establishes the world and the protagonist's motivations. I appreciate when an author dives right in without excessive exposition. There's a sense that the author is trying to forge their own path, rather than simply rehashing familiar tropes, and I always appreciate originality. The concept of absorbing dark energy from monsters for cultivation is interesting and provides a solid foundation for the MC's growth.

Areas of Concern

However, some of the protagonist's actions do raise eyebrows. The reviews highlight some questionable decision-making on his part, especially considering his supposed intelligence and resources. The idea of him venturing into dangerous areas with inadequate protection seems inconsistent with his background and the world's established dangers. If he's meant to be a genius scientist with a rich family, why is he running around with a cheap knife facing monsters and robbers? This apparent contradiction can be jarring and takes me out of the story. Also, the scientific accuracy of the novel may be questionable which can be a big turn off if you have a science background.

Final Verdict

"Lord of Darkness" has potential, with its unique blend of genres and a protagonist facing a compelling dilemma. However, the inconsistent character behavior and potential scientific inaccuracies could be a significant hurdle for some readers. It's an ongoing story, so there's still plenty of time for the author to address these issues and refine the narrative. I'm cautiously optimistic and willing to see where the story goes, but the protagonist needs to start making smarter choices!