The Fiercest Bandit in Great Ming

This is a somewhat overlooked alternate history novel. So far, it has very few flaws, the logic is quite sound, and it's easy to read and immersive. I personally think it's above average.

I think the author shouldn't establish a constitutional monarchy for the protagonist. The country is too decentralized, and merchants and capitalists might exploit loopholes. I think the protagonist could have fifty or even a hundred children, and then, when they're in their teens, send them out of the palace for training in poor or cold places for four or five years as officials, then send them…

I can't stand it anymore. The author portrays the protagonist as being too soft-hearted towards ordinary people. It was unreasonable to let the civilians disrupt the formation last time; the real army would have been wiped out long ago. You risked your life again to save the people, and no matter the outcome, it has set a bad precedent.

I guess I've been reading mostly late Ming Dynasty literature. Lately, all I see on Douyin (TikTok) is Ming fans arguing with Qing Dynasty apologists. To be honest, I'm not a Ming fan; I just enjoy reading about that period of history. The Ming Dynasty was utterly rotten, and its demise was no injustice, especially the Southern Ming, whose leaders were like scum.

Everything else is fine, except for the inclusion of Guan Yu as a deity—that's a plot hole. At this time, the Guan Yu cult probably didn't exist yet. It truly emerged during the Qing Dynasty when the temples dedicated to Guan Yu, including the chief priest, were abolished, and only Guan Yu, who originally wasn't even allowed into the main hall, was worshipped. That's how the Guan Yu cult came about. As for why the Qing Dynasty did this, well, those who know, know.

The most important thing is educational reform to enlighten the people. Ignorance and lack of knowledge are the root of all disasters. It can collect primary sources from mathematics, physics, chemistry, geometry, astronomy, biology, geography, economics, sociology, and logic to build a framework. This includes overseas trade, overseas colonization, and the steam engine industrial revolution.

This book was a very enjoyable read. The characters are well-developed, especially Old Huang and that other character. Unlike some books where everyone is the same except for the main character. I also really liked the chapter about the big-headed fish; it was very down-to-earth yet incredibly satisfying. The author's writing skills are solid, exceptionally impressive; only plain language can truly showcase an author's talent.

The main character is well-written in other aspects, but the plot regarding the harem and heirs is too drawn out. As a powerful ruler, how can he lack women? Most importantly, he must have at least five sons as heirs. Otherwise, in the eyes of his subordinates, who will inherit their wealth and status if anything happens to him?

So far, this is the historical novel that best suits my taste. All the characters are intelligent, and the protagonist has a distinct personality. High combat skills were necessary in that era, and it's quite normal for him to know a little about various aspects without going into depth. I also understand some basic principles. My favorite parts are still the construction and farming aspects.

It's better to give an announcement beforehand, whether you're taking a break or not, whether it's a formality or a period of inactivity. I'd rather you just post another chapter, and then go several days without updating again...