Yama Rising

My Thoughts on Yama Rising

"Yama Rising" is a novel that grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise: a cowardly protagonist tasked with rebuilding Chinese Hell. It's a wild ride through a blend of xuanhuan, horror, and kingdom-building, but it's not without its bumps along the road.

First Impressions

The initial chapters hooked me. The world-building is genuinely impressive, and I appreciated the fresh start. The author clearly put in the time to research the underworld and its intricate politics, making the premise quite compelling. The main character, Qin Ye, is a refreshing change from your typical overpowered protagonist. He's smart, pragmatic, and, yes, a bit of a coward, which makes him relatable. I found his gradual acceptance of his role as a leader to be a fascinating character arc.

What Works Well

I was particularly drawn to the unique blend of genres. The horror elements are well-executed, especially in the early chapters, and the kingdom-building aspects are genuinely interesting. The author's attention to detail, like the specific type of paper needed for Hell's currency, impressed me. The comedy is also a strong point, providing levity amidst the darker themes. Plus, the references to pop culture, games, and other novels added another layer of enjoyment for me.

Areas of Concern

However, "Yama Rising" does have its drawbacks. The pacing can be slow, and the story sometimes feels repetitive. Some readers may find the long monologues and detailed psychological reactions of characters tedious. Also, the author's portrayal of female characters has been criticised, with some finding them to be less developed and sometimes even disrespectful. The most significant concern, though, is the nationalism present in the novel. While some might find it a natural part of a kingdom-building story, I felt it was excessive, especially when it directly referenced current real-world events.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, I found "Yama Rising" to be an enjoyable and unique read. The intricate world-building, compelling characters, and blend of genres make it stand out. However, be aware of the slow pacing, repetitive elements, and potentially divisive nationalistic themes. If you can look past these issues, you might find yourself engrossed in this dark and fascinating tale of rebuilding Hell. I'd give it a solid 3.5 out of 5.