Translated stories I like enough to recommend. I review them so expect some spoilers (I try not to spoil major events.)
(Please read the novels on the original translator's site which can be found on novelupdates!)
Beyond the earthly realm were Buddha and the Dharma. In the earthly realm were feelings of love. Camel bells rang the song of the West, about a love story that journeyed along the Silk Road over a thousand years ago...
Thoughts:
A novel based on nonfictional events, with a sprinkle of fictional scenes added for spice.
I really liked this, but I wouldn't deny that it was rather similar to a history book. Although I was very interested, reading it, especially at the beginning, gave me a headache and made me feel sleepy (what I feel during history class.)
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This story focuses on Buddhism and the history of China (religion, philosophy and politics), which I have no prior knowledge about, however I liked the fact that these were seen as significant factors to why the leads should not get together.
The themes were NOT taken lightly, something I appreciated since most of its plot was factual. Most, if not all, characters were real historical figures, so people who studied them beforehand may feel uncomfortable. The author's approach was somewhat similar to what the writers of the movie Titanic did, basing the plots on real events but adding romance as to not seem like it was only a biography of Kumarajiva (a Buddhist monk/ML.)
I really enjoyed reading FL and ML both as a couple and an individual! They are very understanding, they listen and value the other's opinion even when it sometimes clashes with their own, something I appreciate since they were born in different eras with different identities.
The leads don't only experience sunshine and rainbows, but the struggles as well, especially ML, as doing what he desires betrays the beliefs he cultivated as a child. The two are not innocent nor are they perfect, but their flaws are what greatly appeals to me as protagonists.
Truly not your typical historical novel. So yeah, there are some ideologies I disagree with, but to each their own.
The translations was done very well. The translator clearly poured in a lot of time and effort, even going as far as researching for it. However one downside is that it updates very slowly, like a month or more for a chapter.
I read the MTL just so I know how it would end, but it's still better to wait for the translations. It made my life 10x more difficult trying to figure out what things meant (it gave me a massive headache).
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It also has a drama adaptation, so check it out if you'd like.
**WARNING** there are a lot of heavy/triggering events that occurred, all written in great detail. Please read with caution. You have been warned.
