A review by aaiza
Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation: Mo Dao Zu Shi (Novel) Vol. 1 by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu

3.0

(Disclaimer: I read an unofficial translation of the original text; this review is also for the entire series, or all of the parts, which I read combined into one volume)

• a compelling tragedy (epic like) book
• enjoyed the mystery aspect, suspense was built well
• really cool world building and fantasy elements
• felt the ending lacked closure/was underwhelming
• gratuitous (but self-aware?) use of scapegoats 
• interesting subtext around the effect of environment/experiences on a person's character 
• interesting subplots
• felt a little weird about the lack of main female characters/general portrayal of women -- not sure if it was just meant as a representation of historical views and roles of women at the time the book takes place