Explaining the intense dislike for this novel involves spoilers, but for those who haven't reached the later parts, it's a typical power fantasy where the main character is surrounded by mediocre characters. Nationalistic themes raise questions about his motives towards eliminating fellow countrymen. The story is mostly enjoyable on autopilot, but the ending is disappointing due to an event that will be explained.
The issue arises with a potential love interest. Initially, her inclusion is refreshing, as she's a colleague of the protagonist's sister, a down-to-earth nurse compared to the idealized women in wuxia novels. It's hinted early on that she has feelings for him, but he hesitates. However, her sincerity eventually wins him over, and they start dating. There's a minor love triangle, which is common in such stories. The problem lies in discovering that her hospital director manipulates her and other nurses into drug addiction for his own desires. When he tries to pursue her, she rejects him, believing she's unworthy due to his newfound status as a CEO. Devastated, she takes her own life after another encounter with the director. The main character uses her death as motivation for revenge.
While the story might have seemed promising in isolation, considering the entire novel and the wuxia genre, the reasoning behind her death becomes disturbing. The MC repeatedly saves loved ones from danger, a recurring theme in such narratives. Initially, her death left a sour taste, but upon reflection, it seems she was killed solely because she no longer met the MC's ideal standards.
In this novel, virginity is highly valued, and all love interests must remain untainted. This often leads to complex female characters who initially dislike men, who are "conquered" by the hero. Women are portrayed as objects rather than individuals with agency. This mindset is problematic, and in this particular case, it worsens. If the girl survived, the MC would have had to stay with her, but instead, she's written off for a quick plot twist. The genre often caters to wish fulfillment, but the suggestion of sexual exploitation crosses a line for me.
To clarify, I don't believe the author holds offensive views; it's about effective storytelling. Unfortunately, this novel fails to convey its themes well, earning a one-star rating from my perspective.