If you want to read an interesting novel, then you have to read ‘Want To Ascend? Then Fall in Love.’ The author dabbed on diverse range of genres, tags, and tropes as if experimenting on which one she is most adept in. In a way, the plot was also a great way for the readers to discover their preferences. I would like to say it’s a roller coaster ride of a read; but to be honest, it was like land across time.
The novel comprises 214 chapters with 10 extras. While this might seem lengthy, the chapters are quite short! The novel is structured into several arcs, allowing for easy breaks in between. It’s akin to reading a collection of short stories, each contributing to a bigger picture that sums up the lessons within each narrative. I found that truly interesting.
Just from the title, I didn’t expect ‘Want To Ascend? Then Fall in Love’ to be so funny and refreshing in the world of cultivation novels. It’s a hilarious and healing read, with the author expertly balancing humor and angst. I would find myself laughing before the feels hit me, and while there are some angsty moments, they don’t linger after I finished reading. Plus, there’s plenty of sweetness and fluff to keep the readers smiling. Despite the abundance of ‘dog food’, the short stories in between kept it from feeling overwhelming.
Through those arcs of short stories, the author masterfully explored various genres and tropes. The main cultivation story is a delightful mix of mystery, comedy, and fluff. Using the concept of transmigration, the author dived into tales of ancient royalty, a slice of life, campus romance, enemies to lovers, pseudo-incest, age gap, modern settings, gaming world, futuristic landscape, arranged marriages, and even a story reminiscent of a floral fairy tale. The narrative also ventured into the realms of the entertainment industry, the criminal underworld, and even a zombie apocalypse. It’s an impressive array for a single novel, but the surprises don’t end there. Throughout the story, the author also delved into philosophical, psychological, and religious themes, adding depth and complexity to an already rich tapestry of storytelling. It was simply mind-blowing.
I can’t say too much as spoilers might ruin the readers' reading experience and I want readers to fully experience what I have experienced while reading this novel. It’s not simply a lighthearted cultivation danmei novel by the author, the lessons were enough to be an eye-opener for a reader. Through the author’s comedic narrative, I can also feel the author’s enjoyment while she was writing this; thus, I want the readers to also be able to feel likewise.