That Year, That Cicada, That Sword

This isn't a lighthearted read; it requires careful reading. The author presents a grand historical backdrop that may seem tedious at first glance, but becomes truly awe-inspiring upon closer reading. The book is rich in historical allusions, making each reading a nostalgic experience. Dynasties may change, but the martial arts world remains the same. The book offers a unique charm, and only by savoring each chapter can one truly appreciate its richness!

It possesses breadth, depth, charm, and philosophical depth, encompassing both worldly intrigue and the chivalrous spirit of chivalry. It depicts the diverse aspects of society at the bottom and the power struggles and attacks from those at the top. Family affairs, national affairs, and world affairs—all are ultimately matters of the sword.

The beginning was really good. Before reading it, I read other people's reviews saying that the book started strong but ended weakly. Actually, I think it's still okay. Although the ending felt a bit too fast, I regret not seeing Nan Gui's ascension. But I think for our protagonist Xu Beiyou, ascension is no longer a problem. Also, I'm quite curious about the Shangqing Sixteen, which means Xu Beiyou is the last sect leader. I wonder how the future will develop.

One summer a year, cicadas and swords; fine horses, gold, and a thousand taels of silver. The young man first met the royal princess, but alas, Biyou had already arrived first. After traveling north and returning south, the Sword Sect and the imperial family have become half the sky. With a single sword that cleaves the past, we journey together through sixty years to share our earthly ties.

The first few chapters were stunning, truly a masterpiece. While the story progressed smoothly into the middle section, it strayed a bit too far from its intended plot. The later chapters were quite good, though some plot holes remained unresolved. The ending was satisfying, with a satisfying conclusion. I almost gave up on the book at first because of the title. Okay: Fellow Daoists, now that this matter is settled, we'll meet again in the martial world!

This book is like chicken ribs—tasteless to read, but a pity to throw away! I'm amazed at myself for managing to read over 400 chapters! I just couldn't keep going. I'm desperate for something to read! The author seems to be struggling to manage this book; some plot points lack foreshadowing, the logic is flawed, and unnecessary narration is repeated endlessly.

I've reread it three times already. The author is a fan of the novel, and the writing style is quite similar to that of the author, but I personally feel this book has its own unique style. Unlike lengthy novels, it's neither too long nor too short, just enough to encompass a world, a court, a young man, and a cicada.

It took me half a year, on and off, to finally finish watching it. Here are my personal thoughts. Two major highlights are the character development and the author's meticulous attention to detail. First, the character portrayal is excellent. The author devotes considerable space to developing the characters, primarily through contrast and foil.

In those days, rising from the ninth rank to the fifth rank was a single step to heaven. In the capital, experts are everywhere; in Xuandu, earth immortals are as common as dogs. With all twelve divine swords in hand, he became an invincible immortal. Wielding the Immortal Execution Sword, he roams freely, and the revitalization of the Sword Sect is within his grasp.

Personally, I found it incredibly verbose. The part about their first meeting in the north and south was quite interesting, but the part where they parted ways in Jiangnan suddenly reminded me of how Xiao Zhinan always had a lot of explanations and interpretations whenever he appeared. And then there was the part about the pretty boy—the explanation took up a whole chapter and a half!