The washed-up magician Zong Jiu transmigrated into a horror, infinite flow novel about a survival show, taking the place of the cannon fodder who died tragically in the first evaluation round. This show was very interesting. Out of the tens of thousands of people, only a hundred people could survive, and the c-position (strongest contender) could even get a universal wish ticket.
If it were someone else, they’d probably be scared to death.
No one expected that Zong Jiu was not only unafraid, but also caused a sensational stir, shamelessly showing off his tricks the whole way.
Once his tricks stopped, and his life could be considered safe and sound, he ended up in a rivalry with the novel’s big villain.
Today you try to get at me, tomorrow I’ll get you back, back and forth, it’s pretty fun, heh.
As a result, though it was just playing around, one time they got carried away and really did end up sleeping together. Watching the nemesis who was pressing him to the ground, Zong Jiu lazily lifted his gaze. “If you want to kill me then kill me, don’t speak nonsense.” Even when at a disadvantage, he showed no trace of fear, and actually continued to provoke him.
That person used his ice-cold finger to trace his ear, and the action heading toward the aorta suddenly stopped.
“What a pity. I’ve changed my mind.”
—
He was once very willing to personally give Zong Jiu death. Every day, he used to regret not gouging out his flesh, personally snapping his neck. But after this person fell into his hands, another, more urgent desire grew like weeds.
Compared to winning or losing, he would rather see him crying and panting, with eyes red, begging for mercy.
- The "enemies to lovers" plotline is captivating. The tension between the main character (MC) and the love interest (ML) is highly engaging, with a touch of chemistry that's swoon-worthy. The MC demonstrates resourcefulness as a magician, while the ML's charming personality adds depth to the story. What stands out is that the characters' personalities remain consistent even after they become a couple, without significant changes.
- The narrative arcs are intriguing, with the school-related arc being relatable and realistic, while the circus arc offers a darker, thought-provoking twist. It evoked such an emotional response that it made the reader consider dietary choices.
- The supporting characters are well-developed, which is a rarity in many novels. They contribute significantly to the story without overshadowing the main pair, and the overall tone becomes lighter towards the end.
- The ending and additional content provide a satisfying conclusion, solidifying this as one of the author's top BL (boys' love) horror picks.
Cons:
- There seems to be no major drawbacks to mention. The book is an enjoyable read, with each chapter bringing a delightful experience.
Overall, the pros far outweigh any potential cons, making this a highly recommended read for fans of the genre.
One scene that stood out was when #9 and #1 got married, with #9 being unaware, making it a delightful surprise. It was lovely to see the other top 10 in attendance. What added to the charm was #9's confusion upon meeting the unexpected visitor and his ability to discern the difference without needing physical proximity. I wished for more interactions between them.
I particularly enjoyed how they transformed the endless cycle into a playful challenge and devised a system to regain their loved ones and cherished memories. Overall, the book was beautifully written, and I would have appreciated additional chapters to delve deeper into their story.
In particular, during the Las Vegas arc (chapters 23-33), there was a gambling scene that blew me away. Despite being a translation, the author's description was so vivid that I felt the rush myself. It was simply fantastic! I'm not sure how they achieved it, but the writing had a captivating energy to it.
While I've heard there might be some gay moments in the future, which aren't my cup of tea (I'm uncomfortable with kissing scenes), I believe others who don't mind should definitely give it a try. The writing is exceptional.
As for the horror aspect, it wasn't overwhelming - there were moments that could be unsettling, but it struck a balance that should suit those who enjoy a mild scare. For horror enthusiasts, the story maintains a decent eerie vibe.
My review might be a bit disorganized, but I hope it conveys my enthusiasm for the book despite my personal preferences. Give it a read if you're intrigued by the combination of magic and horror!
If I had to choose a favorite part to re-read, it would be difficult, as I enjoyed every single chapter. Each character, including Number 1 (whom I absolutely adore), stands out with their uniqueness and charm, leaving a lasting impression. The dynamic between Zong Jiu and Number 1 is simply fantastic, filled with laughter and smiles during their interactions. As others had warned, their chemistry and intense battles were indeed incredible.
What I wished for was a longer story, as I found myself wanting more of these beloved characters and the other supporting cast. Overall, this book is an exceptional read, deserving of a solid 10 out of 10. I am definitely looking forward to revisiting it in the future.