There’s No God in Show Business

My Thoughts on There’s No God in Show Business

"There's No God in Show Business" plunges us into the glittering, cutthroat world of Chinese entertainment, following our protagonist's journey of rebirth and revenge. While the premise intrigued me, my experience was a bit of a mixed bag, leaving me with some reservations despite the novel's undeniable potential.

First Impressions

The initial chapters certainly grabbed my attention. The author paints a vivid picture of the showbiz environment, and the writing style, thanks to the translator, is generally smooth and engaging. I was immediately curious to see how the MC would navigate his second chance at life and exact his revenge.

What Works Well

The story's pacing, for the most part, keeps you hooked. The author teases out the mystery surrounding the MC's past life effectively, and I found myself wanting to know more. The "zero to hero" trope is well-executed, and I enjoyed watching the MC climb the ranks and showcase his talents. I also appreciated the author's attention to detail in portraying the entertainment industry, from the cutthroat competition to the behind-the-scenes drama.

Areas of Concern

My biggest issue, and one I can't ignore, is the MC's initial backstory. His decision to stay with a cheating partner for over a decade felt contrived and made it difficult for me to fully connect with him. I struggled to reconcile his supposed intelligence and composure with his seemingly blind acceptance of his ex's behavior. This initial lack of judgment cast a shadow over his subsequent actions, making it harder to root for him, even as he sought revenge. I also found some of the scripts and roles the MC took on to be less than stellar.

Final Verdict

"There’s No God in Show Business" is a decent read with its moments of brilliance, but it's not without its flaws. While the revenge plot and showbiz setting are engaging, the MC's initial characterization and some plot inconsistencies hold it back from being truly great. If you can get past the questionable backstory, you might find yourself enjoying this tale of ambition, betrayal, and second chances. I'd give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.