Swallowed Star 2: Origin Continent

My Thoughts on Swallowed Star 2: Origin Continent

As a big fan of the original "Swallowed Star," I was both excited and apprehensive to dive into "Origin Continent." Sequels can be tricky, and living up to the hype is never easy. Having read a fair chunk of this continuation, here are my thoughts.

First Impressions

Immediately, the story throws you back into Luo Feng's world, and I appreciate how the author, IET, gently reminds us of key details without excessive exposition. It's been a while since I devoured "Swallowed Star," so those reminders are welcome. The pacing feels tight, and there's a definite sense of progression that keeps me hooked. It's clear IET's experience in the cultivation genre shines through. The sense of adventure is definitely present, with Luo Feng striking out on his own, which evokes a nostalgic feeling for IET's earlier works.

What Works Well

The world-building remains a strong point. IET does a solid job expanding the universe and introducing new concepts while staying true to the established lore. I also appreciate the focus on Luo Feng's personal growth and ambition. He's a relatable protagonist, and I enjoy following his journey as he navigates the challenges of this new continent. The action sequences, while perhaps not as grounded as in the first novel, are still engaging and showcase Luo Feng's increasing power. Although, it is not always clear how he got to that power level.

Areas of Concern

One thing that did bother me was the abstract nature of the power descriptions. As Luo Feng's abilities increase, the explanations become less concrete. It's a common issue in high-level cultivation stories, but it can be frustrating when you lose that sense of understanding what's happening. Also, I felt like some of Luo Feng's new techniques felt like rehashes of abilities from the first novel, which made them feel less exciting. The idea of the space being more "stable" in new areas felt like a convenient way to limit Luo Feng's power and create new challenges.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Swallowed Star 2: Origin Continent" is a worthwhile read for fans of the original. While it may not reach the same heights in some aspects, the solid world-building, engaging protagonist, and steady pacing make it an enjoyable continuation of the story. Just be prepared for some abstract power descriptions and a sense of familiarity with certain plot elements.