When the demonic sect’s Protector Bi Qianren was travelling around the jianghu, he encountered a malicious ghost who liked bride kidnapping. Without the slightest hesitation, Bi Qianren kicked away the ghostly head blocking his path.
However, could someone tell him why this headless ghost began pestering him to get married? Do ghosts toss their heads to find their matches now?
Zhuge Qingtian: If you’ve sat on my sedan chair and haven’t yet died, you must be my predestined wife, one matched by the heavens.
Bi Qianren: Scram, us demonic cultivators only become husbands.
Zhuge Qiantian: Alright then, husband, when will we hold our wedding?
Bi Qianren: Even this works?
That day, as he stepped onto the path to find a missing head, Mister Hitman Bi Qianren learned a bitter life lesson—don’t casually kick a malicious ghost’s head, because who knows if that ghost will one day become your wife.
Secondly, I apologize for a potentially lengthy review, but I've made efforts to avoid spoilers. This novel ranks among the best I've read on this platform. After finishing it, I declare it my favorite, which prompted me to break my lurking habits just to share this review. Despite competition in terms of writing style, humor, or plot excitement, the way this story unfolds creates a beautiful, hopeful narrative that I look forward to revisiting rather than longing for a fresh experience.
Content warnings for the novel include implied sexual assault, manipulation, forced servitude, historical atrocities, discrimination, and the symbolic significance of the Bifang Bird. However, these themes are not depicted on-screen but rather serve as backstory, with the author emphasizing their negative impact and non-exploitative treatment.
Now, onto the review:
1. The author demonstrates genuine care for all characters, from main characters to supporting roles. Each character has their unique motivations and emotions, even those who are briefly mentioned or never appear, evoking deep empathy for their happiness and struggles.
2. The plot is masterfully woven, with every detail contributing to the overall story arc. Even minor interactions carry significance, and the narrative is full of foreshadowing. The connections between events feel purposeful, even if they stem from life's unpredictability.
3. Despite the tragic backdrop, the story focuses on characters overcoming trauma and finding healing, relearning agency, trust, and self-love. It highlights the power of companionship, hope, and the ability to seek help and support.
4. Luck plays a significant role in the story, underscoring how interconnected events can be despite their apparent randomness. The novel emphasizes the importance of hope and the positive impact of human connection, even in challenging circumstances.
5. The author explores the complexities of relationships and the importance of not becoming too focused on one person, encouraging readers to recognize the value of a support network. It shows that growth and happiness often come from unexpected sources.
6. One of the major themes is the idea that kindness and happy endings are essential, regardless of personal struggles. The story encourages self-improvement, letting go of past baggage, and embracing love and risk-taking.
Additional thoughts:
- Bi Qianren and Zhuge Qingtian's relationship evolves like a true friendship, with a gradual emotional connection that blossoms into love.
- Female characters are portrayed positively and realistically, with rounded personalities and satisfying storylines.
- Though societal attitudes towards homosexuality exist, the author portrays acceptance without fear or judgment.
- The mix of laughter, sadness, and profound moments keeps the emotional journey engaging and seamless.
- The character development, particularly in their physical affection and emotional honesty, showcases the growth in their relationship.
Criticism:
- The novel features a limited number of female characters and lacks lesbian representation due to this imbalance.
- The genocide committed by the Demon Venerable is treated with gravity but seems to lose its impact as the story progresses.
- Some plot points are unclear or inconsistent, like the villain's motivations or timelines.
Favorite scenes:
1. Gou Xing's moment of self-resilience and strength.
2. Zhuge Qingtian's emotional awakening and newfound companionship.
3. The resolution of the teacher-empire relationship.
4. The revelation of historical events' broader context.
5. The emotionally profound marriage vows.
In conclusion, while the novel has its shortcomings, it shines in its character development, themes of hope, and the exploration of complex relationships.
The storytelling seamlessly blends tragedy, humor, and depth, creating an emotional rollercoaster. Just when I think I'm on the verge of tears, laughter takes over; then, moments of levity are followed by profound plot twists that make me ponder. It keeps my mind engaged in a continuous cycle of laughter, reflection, and occasional heartache. I am truly loving every moment of it. Translator Daren, please keep the chapters coming – I can't get enough! 🥰💕
Specifically, I question a demonic cultivator's patience with a ghost who's no longer useful and just a bother. The constant use of the term "wife" to address the MC feels off, even if it's a title. As a woman, I'd find it infuriating if a stranger addressed me that way. It's hard to believe a demonic cultivator wouldn't react more strongly.
The ML's behavior is quite silly, and while his explanation for losing his head (literally) might excuse his actions, it doesn't change the annoyance factor of having an airhead around. Despite Quianren's claims of valuing dignity and face, he accepts the dead partner rather easily, which is confusing.
The novel loses its appeal as I progress. Although the translation is commendable, the excessive details in the narrative slow down the pace, making it rather boring. If the translation was poor, I wouldn't mind the extra context, but since it's not, the redundancy becomes grating.
The relationship felt forced from the start, and though the author tries to improve it later, the initial 15 chapters leave me unconvinced about a genuine emotional connection between the MC and ML. I've decided to drop the book. I don't mean to say it's a bad story, but there are plot holes that don't sit well with me. If logic isn't a priority for you, perhaps you'll enjoy it more.
Rating-wise, I give it two stars due to the high score, but purely based on the story, I'd rate it 4 stars if I were optimistic, or maybe 3 stars if I were more realistic like myself.