Except Me, Everyone Else Is the Protagonist

One of the novels that truly had me laughing from start to finish. Although the humor did wane slightly towards the end, it was an enjoyable read overall. I appreciated the FL's (female lead) relationships with both her seniors and juniors - it's refreshing to see supporting female characters serve roles beyond just being followers or rivals. The portrayal of the male supporting characters as a close-knit found family was a welcome change from the typical love triangle tropes.

The main love interest (ML) and romantic aspect felt somewhat superfluous to the story. The dynamics between the friends were so engaging that the ML's character seemed somewhat平淡 in comparison. I wished there was more focus on their early interactions as business partners trying to outsmart each other before the romantic subplot took center stage. Additionally, some jokes felt overused, particularly the one revolving around the junior sister's accidental physical prowess due to her cultivation background.

Despite these minor drawbacks, this Chinese novel stands out as one of the better translations, with its strong ensemble and engaging plot.

The characters are truly captivating, and it's enjoyable witnessing their evolving dynamics. The blend of humor and intrigue makes for a delightful experience!

The story is genuinely amusing and entertaining, particularly at the start. The female lead (FL) is delightful, possessing a mix of charm, a hint of cunning, fairness, and the occasional underhandedness that adds depth to her character. The villains are portrayed comically inept yet in a way that complements the narrative without becoming grating. The male lead (ML) starts off excellently, serving as a foil or straight man, enhancing the humor, but unfortunately, he becomes somewhat one-dimensional towards the end, which is a letdown. The side stories were enjoyable but slightly predictable. Overall, I would rate it 4 stars for its engaging story, lovable FL, and well-structured plot, but deducting a star due to the decline in quality towards the finale.

The protagonist's statement, "She truly understands me!", encapsulates the profound impact MC has on the story and her significance to the original characters. In typical cultivation novels, protagonists often exhibit an air of coolness and reserve, appearing invincible. However, MC, Nanshi, humanizes them by showing their vulnerability and relatability. She creates space for them to express their imperfect side, helping them navigate complex emotions through modern understanding. Her practicality and humor defuse dramatic moments, lightening the mood.

Thanks to MC's presence and interactions, the main characters become multi-dimensional, each with their distinct strengths, flaws, and growth. Even without MC, these characters remain worthy of their heroic roles, evolving from clichéd archetypes into genuine individuals. MC's influence turns them from caricatures into authentic humans.

The camaraderie among the characters, including the relationships between the original characters (OGs), is another highlight. They resemble a quirky family, with genuine affection for one another. The dynamic between MC and the ML, the original villain, stands out as exceptional. Their mutual attraction, based on genuine connection rather than superficial reasons, is a refreshing take on the typical romantic dynamic.

What particularly resonates is the laughter that permeates the novel. Scenes are so funny that readers find themselves unable to contain their laughter, as seen in the hilarious encounter where MC, ML, and another OG protagonist get trapped in an illusion, leading to unexpected and absurd scenarios.

In conclusion, this novel is a delightful gem, offering a heartwarming and humorous journey. The relationships, character development, and genuine connection between the characters make it a standout read. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a refreshing take on the cultivation genre.