2.5 stars
I've hated the majority of this book. The amount of sexism, misogyny, and laughing at certain groups of people put me off. Moreover, the book is full of sometimes distasteful, not particularly funny jokes. The plot is absolutely ridiculous, with so many holes and pacing problems. I felt like there was not much editing done, as sometimes it was hard to decipher what the author wants to communicate, which character is which etc.
However, the ending was actually very good, and the mystery's big reveal satisfying. I also enjoyed the author's playing with the Chinese folklore, and the magical tale that was the story's backbone.
I feel I would have enjoyed this book more if I've read it 10-15 years ago, when I wasn't so conscious and I didn't mind terrible plot holes and cringy humor ;). I just feel there are nowadays much better books with this kind of "puzzle mystery" plot lines (e.g. Mistborn trilogy, The Shadow of the Wind, Annihilation...) or with a cool absurd humor (Good Omens, Anxious People).