Tome of Troubled Times

My Thoughts on Tome of Troubled Times

"Tome of Troubled Times" presents an interesting blend of wuxia and xianxia elements, promising a journey of self-discovery and power cultivation. It follows a transmigrated protagonist who must shatter time and space to return home, leading him on a quest across the martial world. While the initial chapters might seem a bit odd, the core of the story lies in its wuxia essence, focusing on martial arts, loyalty, and brotherhood.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the unique premise of the "Tome of Troubled Times" constantly updating the rankings of the strongest individuals. It adds a server-wide announcement element that sets it apart from typical wuxia novels. The early focus on the protagonist's travels with just a sword and a gourd of wine also appealed to my sense of adventure.

What Works Well

The world-building and the initial power progression seem to be solid. The author paints a vivid picture of the wuxia world, blending historical elements with mystical powers. The relationships the protagonist forms along his journey are also a strong point, adding depth to the story. The romance aspect, with heroines and princesses, is also a recurring theme that adds flavor to the story. This novel's unique approach to the wuxia genre is a breath of fresh air.

Areas of Concern

However, as the story progresses, some issues arise. The power scaling for side characters, particularly the female leads, becomes questionable. Some readers have pointed out that these characters experience rapid, seemingly unjustified growth, sometimes overshadowing the protagonist. This can be frustrating, as it feels like the protagonist's hard work is undermined by others receiving disproportionate power-ups. It's a common sentiment that the protagonist's growth is consistent, but side characters advance at a faster rate. Additionally, some felt the main character acts like a simp and gives away important treasures to his love interests. This is a point of contention, as it can make the protagonist seem less proactive in his own journey.

Final Verdict

"Tome of Troubled Times" offers an engaging wuxia experience with a unique twist. The world-building, relationships, and initial power progression are strong points. However, the uneven power scaling for side characters and the protagonist's occasional self-sacrificing tendencies are areas that may detract from the overall enjoyment. Despite these flaws, the novel's unique premise and wuxia charm make it worth exploring, but be prepared for some potential frustrations along the way.