Posted by Who knew rejecting the path of martial power could be the most powerful move of all? Beware of Chicken is a refreshing and uproarious twist on the cultivation genre, where instead of chasing glory, the protagonist chooses… farming. Yes, farming. And it’s every bit as epic and entertaining as you’d hope.
Meet Jin Rou, a former cultivator who decides that the ruthless life of martial advancement isn’t for him. After a particularly harrowing near-death experience, he makes the boldest, most unconventional choice of his life: walking away from the world of combat, sects, and cosmic ambitions to settle down on a quiet little farm. But this isn’t your ordinary pastoral retreat—it’s a farm that includes an absurdly powerful chicken, Bao, who exudes the energy of a seasoned wuxia hero with a side of smug confidence.
Jin Rou’s journey is equal parts hilarious and heartfelt. Watching him navigate the challenges of his new life—balancing the simplicity of rural living with the not-so-simple reality of living in a cultivation world—is endlessly entertaining. The book expertly parodies the tropes of the genre while still embracing the heart of what makes cultivation stories so engaging.
The real stars of the show, however, are the supporting characters. Bao, the legendary chicken, steals every scene with his swagger and mysterious power. He’s joined by a delightful cast of humans and animals who bring chaos, comedy, and unexpected wisdom to Jin Rou’s new life. Each character adds depth and humor, turning the story into a celebration of community and connection.
What makes Beware of Chicken truly special is its ability to blend laugh-out-loud absurdity with genuine emotional resonance. Jin Rou’s rejection of the endless grind of cultivation in favor of a peaceful, meaningful existence carries a surprisingly profound message: sometimes the greatest strength lies in choosing a different path. The book doesn’t just parody the genre; it elevates it by exploring themes of self-discovery, balance, and what it means to live a fulfilling life.
The humor is sharp, the writing is witty, and the pacing is perfect. Whether it’s Jin Rou wrestling with the quirks of farm life, Bao flexing his overwhelming power in the most unexpected ways, or the inevitable chaos of the cultivation world spilling into Jin Rou’s quiet retreat, there’s never a dull moment.
For anyone looking for a lighthearted yet meaningful take on the cultivation genre, Beware of Chicken is a must-read. It’s a delightful romp that reminds us all to take a step back, appreciate the little things, and maybe keep an eye on the chickens—they might be plotting something.
Rating: 5/5
Come for the legendary chicken, stay for the laughs, and leave with a newfound appreciation for the simpler things in life. Jin Rou may have left the martial path, but his story is a journey worth following.
Avalible on Kindle Unlimited
J.G. Johnson 