Protect Our Patriarch

My Thoughts on Protect Our Patriarch

"Protect Our Patriarch" is a web novel that definitely took me for a ride. Blending xuanhuan with slice-of-life elements, it tells the story of Wang Shouze, a transmigrator who becomes the patriarch of a minor cultivator clan. Instead of the typical lone-wolf protagonist, Shouze focuses on family, using modern knowledge and applied psychology to elevate his clan. The premise alone had me intrigued, and I dove in eager to see how this different take on the genre would play out.

First Impressions

Initially, I was hooked by the clan-building aspect. The focus on administration, management, and developing the territory felt refreshing. It’s a nice change of pace to see a protagonist use commerce, strategy, and alliances instead of just brute force. The story presents itself as a refreshing take on the genre, and I was excited to see it through.

What Works Well

The novel shines in its world-building and character development. Many of the side characters have distinct personalities, making the world feel alive. I especially appreciated the emphasis on familial connections and collective efforts. The humor, while dry, often hit the mark, adding a layer of enjoyment to the reading experience. I also liked how the MC wasn't always the strongest, forcing him to rely on his intellect.

Areas of Concern

However, the novel isn't without its flaws. As I read further, I noticed a recurring theme that bothered me: the perceived imbalance in the treatment of male and female characters. Some felt the novel leaned too heavily into favoring female characters, sometimes to the detriment of the male ones. While some argue this is a comedic subversion of typical xianxia tropes, others found it off-putting, especially the implications of the MC's daughter wanting him to get concubines and the lack of any reprimand. The pacing can also be inconsistent, with time skips that can disrupt the flow of the story.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Protect Our Patriarch" is a mixed bag. It offers a unique spin on the xuanhuan genre with its focus on clan building and family dynamics. However, the perceived gender imbalances and pacing issues may detract from the experience for some readers. If you're looking for something different and don't mind some potentially problematic elements, it might be worth a try. But be prepared for a story that might not always live up to its initial promise.