Martial Arts Ain’t That Big of a Deal

My Thoughts on Martial Arts Ain’t That Big of a Deal

"Martial Arts Ain’t That Big of a Deal" is a novel that throws you headfirst into a chaotic world of martial arts, memes, and surprisingly heartwarming relationships. It’s definitely not your typical wuxia story, and that's part of its charm. I went in expecting a standard cultivation tale, but what I found was something far more…unique.

First Impressions

The initial chapters are a bit of a whirlwind. The main character, Lee Seojun, wakes up in a strange place, and the story takes off at breakneck speed. I can see how some readers might be put off by his initial behavior, as he doesn't exactly come across as the most grateful person. However, sticking with it pays off, as his character develops quite a bit as the story progresses.

What Works Well

Without a doubt, the relationship between Seojun and Chun Bong is the heart of this novel. Their sibling-like bond is genuinely enjoyable, and their interactions are often the highlight of each chapter. Chun Bong absolutely carries the story in a lot of ways, and her dynamic with the MC feels incredibly natural and heartwarming. I also found myself enjoying the humor. The author isn't afraid to use modern slang, parody anime tropes, and generally embrace the absurd. If you appreciate meme-heavy comedy, you'll likely find yourself laughing out loud quite a bit. The world-building, while a parody of traditional Murim settings, has its own quirky originality, and the pacing keeps the story moving at a brisk pace.

Areas of Concern

While the humor is a strong point, it might not be for everyone. If you're expecting a serious, traditional martial arts story, you might find the constant jokes and gags distracting. The POV shifts between first and third person can also be a little jarring at times. Some of the time skips felt like missed opportunities to further develop the relationship between Seojun and Chun Bong, which was a shame. Finally, I can see how some might find the introduction of later heroines detracting from the core dynamic that makes the story so enjoyable.

Final Verdict

"Martial Arts Ain’t That Big of a Deal" is a fun, chaotic, and surprisingly heartwarming read. It's not perfect, but its unique blend of martial arts, humor, and strong character relationships make it worth checking out, especially if you're looking for something a little different from the usual wuxia fare. Just be prepared for a heavy dose of memes and a protagonist who doesn't always take things seriously. I'd recommend giving it a try if you're in the mood for something lighthearted and entertaining.