Its an interesting take on the xuanhuan and fantasy genre. It feels more of slice of life with episodic arcs rather than a having a concrete main plot as a whole. However theres quite a lot of wasted potential as author did not take advantage of the fascinating setting and premise he created.
Most likely the high ratings are due to readers who have only read the first few hundred chapters of the novel. If this novel has much lesser chapters and concluded early, it'll probably score higher in my books. The narrative's idea is basically akin to a "deal with the devil", our protagonist being the devil, pretty strong and feared, who provides services or wishes in exchange for payment like souls to extend his own lifespan. The story is morally ambiguous so don't expect good aligned protagonist running a charity, which is a plus for me. I actually like the story concept and also the character, they're pretty unique and refreshing especially with the many trash CN out there. Its engaging at the start with the many mini stories but gets boring and dull pretty quick as these stories get repetitive. The novel overstays its welcome.
It also doesn't help theres not really a consistent main plot, more like it lacks presence. Probably because is focusing more of the devil's slice of life theme i guess.
The world crafted by the author is grand and ambitious, multiple types of fantasy and myths with a myriad of races and different kinds of abilities like magic and cultivation, it feels like a multiverse. However its a missed opportunity on authors part as he does not fully utilize the setting, there are no epic adventures, no legendary escapades, no major plot points, only peddling souls/life. I mean i'm not expecting an epic tale but when you introduce such an impressive setting but ignore it then whats the point right? Anyways, 1000+ chapters down the road and you'll go insane. Of course theres good and bad ministory arcs but eventually it'll become monotonous. Repetitive standalone slice of life mini stories have limited mileage if not done right.
Don't get me wrong, i'm a fan of this genre and open to slice of life concept. I love xxxHolic and it does this genre much better than Trafford's Trading Club as the different aspects of the narrative and writing are well balanced and flow organically to keep the story engaging till the end, which this novel really lacks.
Lastly, there are strong hints of china nationalist pride in the narrative. Just like in novels such as Records of the Human Emperor, its practically china propaganda with them being superior to other religions, myths, nations, history, races or systems. Chinese mythology are the strongest, chinese governance is prosperous and righteous, the chinese are benevolent and have virtuous values while outsiders are the chaotic, unruly and inferior. Ironic considering in reality, modern china does not have a good reputation. The many controversial and reprehensible happenings as well as actions of china, its chinese culture and chinese citizens are testimony to this fact.