isekai – Faceless One Blog

Finding Avalon: The Quest of a Chaosbringer Vol. 3 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Drama, Mystery, School Life, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Villain, Weak lead, Dungeons, Video Games, Game Elements, Romantic Subplot

Synopsis:

The Battle of the Classes draws near, and students must compete inside the dungeon for a weeklong exam to prove their superiority. Rising above their past defeats at the hands of the elitist bullies of the upper classes, the brave Class E students devise a cunning game plan to maximize their odds. Luckily, they have a secret trump card—Piggy, the overweight and overpowered former villain. His orders are “Tag along with the upper classes, and try not to embarrass us!” This is perfect for Piggy, not being a fan of the limelight! He can use this opportunity to get to meet the diva of class A, his game-era crush, as well as share diet tips with a newfound armored friend—but a spy in his class is determined to unearth his secrets. That’s the least of his problems, as the mastermind of Class B threatens the students of every class. Little does Piggy know that his greatest battle awaits him! (Source: J-Novel Club)

Class E’s Race to the Deepest Level!

With Finding Avalon’s second instalment providing Piggy with much-needed allies, the latest volume will test everything Piggy has learnt as the Battle of the Classes begins.

As one of the most major events in the original game version of Dungeon Explorer Chronicles, The Battle of the Classes makes this volume the most important of the series to date. Set up like an exam, the event serves as the first marker within the academy to decide status and power, both needed by Piggy and the rest of Class E.

Piggy’s role in the battle is to act as Class E’s dungeon diver. Under the estimation of Class E’s leaders, the role is not an important one, and all Piggy has to do is travel far enough through the dungeon to ensure that they don’t get disqualified. Unfortunately, things in fiction are never quite so easy, and Piggy is put on the same team as Class B’s villain, Suou, the heir to the sainthood, Sera, and several Class D thugs.

With Class D’s less-than-subtle antics and the foreshadowing of Suou’s scheme on the horizon, Piggy’s passages give him a lot to do as well as add a nice touch of tension to an event that’s been name-dropped since the very start of the series.

To go alongside an already action-packed volume, without the class president or his family by his side, the story also has Piggy trying to make some new allegiances with the continuance of Tenma and Kuga’s storyline.

Tenma is one of the few rays of hope in an extraordinarily cruel world. Owing to similar bodily circumstances, Piggy and Tenma quickly bond over the different dieting techniques they’ve used. As the volume speeds forward, however, it becomes clear that the bond between them stems from more than just their weight. Tenma is a truly upstanding character. She doesn’t act like the other nobles in the series and uses her judgement to know who to trust and support. This plays well for Piggy, as her friendship will lead to an easier ride through the ranks in the future.

As for Kuga, Piggy’s interactions with her lead to a fraught and shaky alliance. Deciding that having her onside is better than not, the time the two of them spend together raises her suspicions of him even further, and once they get back on the surface, it’ll be interesting to see how the author will handle the inevitable interrogation.

With the third volume signifying the end of the series’ first major event, the author has succeeded in keeping the story fresh and the action on point. This success is largely due to the volume’s uptake in tension. As several antagonists enter the fray, Piggy’s knowledge of the game is tested like never before. Moreover, the continued development of characters such as Tenma and Kuga helps provide a well-rounded read to the story overall.

Finding Avalon Vol. 3

My Rating: 9/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the third volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

Goodbye, Overtime! This Reincarnated Villainess Is Living for Her New Big Brother Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, School Life, Isekai, Villainess

Sub-Tags: Otome, Game Elements, Politics

Synopsis:

Yukimura Rina is an overworked twenty-something systems engineer who’s dangerously close to her breaking point. Her only comfort is an otome game with a charming side character, the brother of the villainess, who soothes her weary heart. She gets so hooked that she forgoes sleep and ends up blacking out…only to wake up inside the game as the villainess, Ekaterina. She’s now the little sister of her favorite character! Her new brother Alexei is handsome, kind, and responsible—the whole package. Rina, now Ekaterina, would be happy just staying by his side, except for one little problem. If she allows the game to run its course, she and her brother are headed straight for a terrible future! Can Ekaterina overcome the doom flags that threaten her new family and the empire, while also preventing Alexei from working himself to death? (Source: J-Novel Club)

Navigating Death Flags and Brotherly Love!

Written by Chidori Hama and illustrated by Wan Hachipisu, J-Novel Club’s latest title follows on from an earlier manga release.

Goodbye, Overtime is the latest in a long line of light novel releases focusing on the Otome genre. Following a Japanese businesswoman as she wakes up in the body of famed villainess, Ekaterina, her journey takes the form of many others within the genre as she attempts to quash a series of doom flags to stop her own downfall. The twist? Both she and her brother are major brocon/siscons.

Despite using an unusual gimmick, however, there’s more to this series than meets the eye.

Chidori’s Otome series is equal parts competent and well-written, ultimately creating a story with surprising depth. From the very start, the author’s seasoned penmanship is put on full display as they immediately add background to the game world.

This is displayed best when looking at Ekaterina, the villainess. The motivations behind her original obsessive behaviour towards the prince are made clear with scenes taking a closer look at the emotional abuse and isolation she and her mother suffered at the hands of the family’s matriarch. This informs Rina which direction to take Ekaterina for a journey of redemption and doom avoidance.

As the story continues, it also becomes clear to see that even the series’ main gimmick has extra layers. Originally played for a few laughs, the deuteragonists’ unusually close displays of affection evolve into a more down-to-earth sibling relationship. Through thick and thin, they’ll always protect each other, and their more over-protective nature stems from the two of them being all that’s left of their family.

Finally, what helps this series stand out in a crowded field, is giving Ekaterina more grounded reactions to the fantastical and horrifying aspects of the world.

For the volume climax, a monster attack threatens the academy. Not out of place for an Otome series, the experience between in-game and real life are miles away, and the Japanese businesswoman side of Ekaterina shows this. Even if you’ve experienced the scene hundreds of times within the game, it’ll still bring you on edge considering your life is on the line, and it’s something that series within the genre tend to neglect. The resulting scenes provide a fresh sense of realism that most series often miss.

For its opening instalment, Goodbye, Overtime provides an offering that goes beyond the generic setting and seemingly gimmicky twist. Key to this success is the author’s seasoned writing skills and clear focus for fleshing out the original game world. Most important of all, however, is how the author has turned a quirky plot device into the heart and soul of the series. By volume’s end, it’ll be all but guaranteed that you’ll be rooting for Ekaterina and Alexei to escape their doom and create a new and exciting future for each other.

Goodbye, Overtime! Vol. 1

My Rating: 9/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the first volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

Butareba – The Story of a Man Turned Into a Pig Vol. 3 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Mystery, Tragedy, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Dark Fantasy, Perverted Protagonist, Weak Protagonist, Cute

Synopsis:

Cutie-pie Jess has regained her previously sealed memories, and oh my, she seems to be a little—no, very smitten with Mister Pig! Of course, there’s always the chance it’s just his social debuff as an otaku leading him to think so. Don’t worry—he knows the rules super well: he mustn’t overstep his boundaries. Luckily, there are other urgent matters he can focus on! Together with Jess and her fiancé-on-paper Shravis, Mister Pig hatches a secret plan that will decide the fates of the Liberators and every Yethma in Mesteria. A long-lost member of the royal family is the key to strengthening the fragile alliance between the Liberators and the royal court, so securing his cooperation is imperative. And strangely enough, Naut’s perverted dog Rossi, who loves to sniff girls’ legs, might be their best lead! (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Pig’s Quest to Kill an Immortal!

After regaining Jess’s memories and discovering a mutual enemy to cause a truce between the royal family and the liberators, the third instalment of the titular pig Isekai follows a quest to find a missing uncle.

The latest volume in the series starts on a lighter note than usual. On a quest to find and return Sharvis’ uncle, Hortis, to his human form, Jess and Mister Pig get to spend some quality time together as they look for clues around the royal capital.

Far from a sightseeing trip around one of the kingdom’s few centres of peace and opulence, the author uses this quest as an opportunity to showcase the development in the relationship between the series’ deuteragonists. For Jess, in particular, these scenes provide solid insight into how her separation from Mister Pig has affected her.

Whatever fondness Jess had for the pig before has certainly blossomed into romantic feelings now. This spells disaster for Mister Pig’s original plans for idolisation, as Jess has become wilful and confident since getting her memories back. For better or worse, the romantic development between the two will only escalate from this volume onwards.

A Brother’s Quarrel

As the quest for Hortis draws to a head, the darker, serious aspects of the series reveal themselves once again as the protagonists turn their attention towards a secondary quest – a quest to find legendary objects that can rid a mage of immortality.

This quest serves as an opportunity to finally defeat The Clandestine Arcanist as well as a way for The Liberators to negotiate with the Royal Family as equals. As such, this plot line features subterfuge against the royal family heavily.

With the royal family in the spotlight, a closer inspection shows the dynamics between them are one-sided. Central to this is the new king, The Marquis. There are many words to describe him, but measured is not one. A walking stereotype for the world’s cruelty, he rules his people in much the same way as his family – with an iron fist.

As for the quest against the Clandestine Arcanist, this lacks the usual emotional punch of previous story climaxes. The only sticking point in the story and the series thus far, its one saving grace, comes from the scenes involving Hortis. I won’t spoil these moments, but needless to say, the moments between Hortis and The Marquis are why I keep coming back to the series.

Despite a slightly weaker climax, Butareba’s third outing still manages to entertainingly mix dark fantasy and comedy aspects. Jess’ wilful change and royal family dynamics are particular highlights as the volume’s ending leaves the journey for a new future for Yethma in an uncertain place.

Butareba Vol. 3

My Rating: 8.5/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the third volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

Tsukimichi: Moonlit Fantasy Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Harem, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Strong Lead, OP, Gods, Slapstick

Synopsis:

Makoto Misumi was an average, everyday high schooler, who found himself shipped off to another world at his parents’ whims. Upon arrival, however, he’s insulted by the Goddess for being too ugly and thrown into a desolate wasteland. He frantically searches for human warmth and connection, but can find nothing but monsters and inhuman settlers. When he finally meets companions he can trust, they turn out to be a pair of powerful perverts in a former dragon and a former giant spider! His high-octane, incredibly misfortunate trek through this foreign world has only just begun! (Source: Hanashi Media)

A Monster at World’s Edge!

Written by Kei Azumi and illustrated by Mitsuaki Matsumoto, Hanashi Media’s latest acquisition is a comedic fantasy isekai series that many may recognise.

Whether familiar with the anime or a newcomer to the series, Tsukimichi’s first volume makes for a great opener. Despite treading on what is now familiar ground, this series shows why this isekai sub-genre became popular in the first place.

The key to encapsulating the essence of a harsh start to Isekai life comes from the author’s composition of a protagonist. Far from the usual mild-mannered hero, Makoto Misumi isn’t afraid to speak his mind. His raw and unfiltered feelings toward a world that sends nothing but bullshit his way helps bring his experiences within the world to life.

Furthermore, I personally like the author’s decision to have Makoto be a descendant of those from the Isekai world.

As part of this background, it is revealed that to earn their place on Earth, Makoto’s parents had to promise one of their children to the Isekai world. As a result, they’ve been secretly training both Makoto and his sisters from birth to prepare them for a world where fighting is a part of everyday life. This eventually sets up a good explanation as to why Makoto is so calm in the face of terrifying monsters and horrifying situations.

The Tale of a Dragon and Spider

For the series’ first volume, the story follows Makoto as he journeys through the edge in the hopes of discovering fellow humans as well as introducing his main companions for the trip.

Whilst this type of journey would be nothing out of the ordinary for any isekai series, it’s led to stand out from the crowd through the introduction of his legendary beast companions.

Tomoe and Mio are great additions to the series. Both legendary creatures, the contract that bonds them together with Makoto reveals them to be rather unique characters. A weeaboo for Samurai culture and a masochist with a taste for blood, they send the chaotic nature of the series to new limits as they cause Makoto no end of trouble. Martial arts training can only do so much when your overpowered companions are extremely unpredictable and can destroy a town with the slash of a sword.

In conclusion, Tsukimichi’s first instalment makes for a great introduction to the series for anime aficionados and newcomers alike. Hanashi Media’s translators have done an excellent job of keeping the humour and Makoto’s unfiltered emotions that make the series iconic. This, coupled with unique characters and ample amounts of chaos, and you’ve got yourself a smash series.

Tsukimichi Vol. 1

My Rating: 9/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the second volume of this series digitally through the distributors listed on the Hanashi Media website.

Peddler in Another World: I Can Go Back to My World Whenever I Want Vol. 7 Review

Tags: Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Harem, Slice of Life, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Weak Lead, Episodic, Cute, Business

Synopsis:

Shiro’s first venture into a dungeon—albeit accompanied by the majority of the adventurers attached to the Fairy’s Blessing guild—turned out to be a resounding success. With the grimoire written by Nathew (the Father of Alchemy himself) in hand, he was able to perform the ritual that summoned lost loved ones without a hitch, allowing everyone to say one last goodbye to their dearly departed. Yet one much-missed soul was conspicuously absent at this gathering of spirits: Aina’s father. What could this mean? Is he still alive somewhere? And if he is, how can Aina and Stella find him after being parted for such a long time? Shiro has little time to ponder these weighty questions, however, because a familiar face is moving to Ninoritch, and Shiro is forced to rush around preparing lodgings for the imminent arrival of their entourage. But what could possibly bring such a distinguished person to this tiny little town out in the sticks? (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Peddler Prepares to Celebrate!

Fresh from the revelations put forth by a prize at the bottom of a labyrinth, the latest volume of Peddler follows Shiro as he prepares to celebrate a very special occasion.

A Birthday Fit for a Princess

The seventh volume of Peddler in Another World continues to provide a series of fresh and fun adventures. This time, the series chooses to focus on the fallout after discovering that Aina’s father might still be alive. As a result, the latest instalment is Aina and Stella heavy.

On the more fun side of their story, a major part of the volume focuses on Aina’s upcoming birthday. An understandably large occasion, it gives the author a good excuse to expand the story’s world-building. Throughout the segment, we’re given little tidbits that showcase the difference between birthdays in Japan and in the fantasy world.

Moreover, to coincide with Aina’s birthday, this storyline also sees the return of Shess. Having calmed down from her original appearance, this novel does a better job of showing Shess and Aina as best friends, and they end up doing a lot of normal kid stuff that they didn’t have time to do during the Capital arc. Luza also gets her time in the sun. Her scatterbrained personality is still plenty entertaining.

A Mother’s Choice

The more serious plot line this time around centres on Stella. Upon discovering that her husband is still alive, she comes across a difficult question; whether to search for him or not.

It’s a subject that the author treats with suitable delicacy, especially on the side of the protagonist, Shiro. Choosing to do the opposite of the normal protagonist moves, he questions himself on what would be the best way to help Stella rather than rushing in and making things worse.

Ultimately, the decision that Stella makes comes down to how Shiro has managed to integrate into the Ninoritch community. Since the very start of the series, he’s become an invaluable member of Stella and Aina’s family, and now, seven volumes in, Stella’s built-up trust in him will pay off as he’s put in charge of looking after Aina whilst she goes on her own quest.

Overall, Peddler in Another World’s seventh volume remains an entertaining read. Whilst the return of Shess provides some much-needed development for her friendship with Aina, the main highlight of the volume comes alongside Stella’s painful decision. It’s a segment that shows Shiro’s importance to the people of the fantasy world and how well he’s managed to integrate over seven volumes.

Peddler in Another World Vol. 7

My Rating: 8/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the seventh volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

I’m a Noble on the Brink of Ruin, So I Might as Well Try Mastering Magic Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Harem, Isekai

Sub-Tags: OP, Strong Lead, Spirits

Synopsis:

What’s a guy to do when his life suddenly changes while innocently enjoying a nice, cold drink after work? And I mean really changes. This middle-aged commoner now finds himself in the body of Liam Hamilton, the young son of a noble house teetering on the brink of collapse. Between his fervidly desperate father and his utterly apathetic brothers, the only bright side to his new situation is that Liam can finally try learning magic like he’s always wanted. Little does he know his hobby of choice may be about to turn his life upside-down yet again! Will Liam be able to master the craft of magic? And will it be enough to save him from the shadow looming over his family…? (Source: J-Novel Club)

Magic Mastery and the Key to Independence!

Written by Nazuna Miki and illustrated by Kabotya, I’m a Noble on the Brink of Ruin is JNC’s latest release that focuses on all the wonders that magic has to offer. Starring Liam Hamilton, the fifth son of a noble house, the story follows his journey as he chooses a completely different method from his siblings to avoid commonerhood.

Instead of marrying up, Liam focuses his efforts on learning the ins and outs of magic after a little nudge from a helpful fugitive. To this end, magic mastery makes up the bulk of the first volume’s story.

Best described as a light-hearted power fantasy, the first volume follows a well-trodden path within the genre as Liam’s introduction to the world of magic quickly snowballs into him becoming one of its strongest users.

Whilst Liam learns the basics, we’re given some of the best moments of the volume. The relationship between Lord Liam and his master is the highlight of the novel. The magic master’s tips and tricks always push Liam into finding new ways of using his magical abilities and gives some credence to how powerful he eventually becomes.

Unfortunately, what this series makes up for in magic, it needs to improve in character development. Of the several side characters introduced, none are complex or well-developed. Most, if not all, are nothing more than yes men, there to praise Liam for every little thing he gets right. There are some interesting moments of conflict between the protagonist and his family, but this isn’t well-realised as it isn’t given enough time.

Furthermore, the way the topic of a harem is brought about in this series is a little problematic. The dynamics between Liam and his potential love interests just don’t feel right, and hopefully, they’ll rectify this as the series continues.

Overall, whilst I’m a Noble on the Brink of Ruin’s foray into magic is both fun and entertaining, the volume itself is let down by a lack of vision in creating complex characters and a troubling dynamic that’s developing between Liam and the members of his harem.

I’m a Noble on the Brink of Ruin Vol. 1

My Rating: 6/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the first volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

After-School Dungeon Diver: Level Grinding in Another World Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Harem, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Dungeons, Cowardly Protagonist, OP, Episodic

Synopsis:

Why not unwind in another world once in a while? High schooler Kudo Akira happens upon the ability to travel between Japan and the fantastical world of Do-Melta. Not bound by any dire mission or duty, he leisurely enjoys exploring his way through the massive dungeon in the center of the world and all the trappings that come with it. The guild receptionist is trying to mooch off of him, his magic instructor has “rewards” for him, and he just might have some fun with a girl he saves… A brand-new fantasy adventure from Hitsuji Gamei begins! (Source: J-Novel Club)

An Oddball Goes Dungeon Diving!

Written by Hitsuji Gamei and illustrated by Karei, the latest light novel series to grace the JNC library features a cowardly high-schooler’s adventure in the exciting fantasy world of Do-Melta.

A Certain Trading Card Joke

Deep down in the dark dungeon shines a rather strange figure.

Equipped like a Victorian going on a safari, Kudo Akira’s oddball approach to dungeon diving embodies the overall light-hearted atmosphere of the series. Essentially episodic, the first volume serves as an introduction to the fantasy world of Do-Melta. As the protagonist comes and goes from his daily dives, he runs into all sorts, fleshing out the world as a vibrant environment filled with interesting people and culture.

Key to this volume’s staying power, however, comes from the author’s well-timed comedic undertone. Giving the volume a bit of “get up and go,” it gets its best use showcasing – how the protagonist has already settled within the world and has already made connections. The ongoing jokes shared between Kudo and some of the traders and fellow divers are a highlight. Look out, especially for a few fun conversations revolving around a certain trading card game!

The only little niggle I had about the comedic aspect is the author’s habit of going over the top with the lewd tone. I could’ve done without the story about the raging boar incident.

The Importance of Diving Prepared

As for the characters, Kudo’s clearly the most fleshed out after volume one. Cowardly and a bit of an oddball, he stands out from the crowd by being one of the only residents of Do-Melta, diving in the dungeon for fun and a way to upgrade skills rather than doing it for a living.

Other characters of note in volume one are Scrael and Eldrid. Both helped by Kudo after coming to the dungeon unprepared, they grow closer to him as a result. Both are quirky in their own right, and I’m hoping that the promised trip to Earth next volume expands on their characters.

Overall, Hitsuji Gamei’s latest series, After-School Dungeon Diver, is an entertaining and light-hearted read. Aside from a few lewd moments, the comedic undertone is its highlight. Chocked full of understandable references, it adds a nice vibrancy to the series as a whole.

After-School Dungeon Diver Vol. 1

My Rating: 7.5/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the first volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

The Evil Queen’s Beautiful Principles Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Fantasy, Romance, Drama, Tragedy, Villainess, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Revenge, Politics, Conspiracies, Ruthless Protagonist

Synopsis:

A woman reborn, Crown Princess Luxeria is derided as a doll, beautiful and docile. But that’s merely the mask she wears. Powerful magic courses through her veins—magic that can corrupt hearts, erase memories, and pluck one’s innermost thoughts from the air. After years of being confined to a tower, she is finally set free…only to become embroiled in a grand conspiracy that kicks off with her parents’ murder. Thrust onto a tragic stage of love and betrayal, she will play her part to perfection. (Source: Seven Seas Entertainment)

The Doll Princess’ Revenge!

From the same author that brought us The Accomplishments of the Duke’s Daughter comes the newest light novel series from Seven Seas Entertainment featuring revenge, tragic romance and kingdom-building.

Personal Vengeance

Revenge can be a difficult theme to manage. A balance of catharsis and believable motivations, it’s a theme that, on the whole, The Evil Queen’s Beautiful Principles navigates adeptly.

Key to this successful navigation is the volume’s central revenge act – Luxeria, the protagonist’s revenge against those who murdered her parents. Acting as a puppet ruler over the novel’s first half, it allows the revenge plot to build bit by bit. Throughout, her façade allows her to plan secretly gathering allies, leading to the perfect moment of catharsis as Luxeria reveals her true intentions in a bloody wedding sequence. It’s well-focused and staged, helping to feed into Luxeria’s prized narrative as the cold-hearted queen.

Unfortunately, the rest of the volume’s subplots aren’t so well-focused.

Romance and a Revenge for the People

In the case of the volume’s climax, the focus is taken away simply due to the novel already having peaked. Going one step beyond a personal vendetta, she takes her plans to stop the kingdom’s bureaucratic decay and create a system that helps both commoners and the nobility equally. A fine concept in practice, unfortunately, it falls foul of the fact that not one member of the nation’s ministry holds a candle to her power and, therefore, barely feels like a threat.

As for the series’ romantic subplot, the problem stems from an overall lack of connection between the series’ two romantic leads. Beyond a small flashback, Luxeria and Wilhelm barely speak more than two words to each other throughout the entire volume. As a result, I find it difficult to connect with their love story, and what’s more, I barely find it believable that she would use her abilities on him in a way that could endanger her entire motivation as ruler.

Fortunately, the theme of friendship is one subplot that offers some light at the end of the tunnel. The relationship between Luxeria and Alicia is the only link that the protagonist doesn’t sever from their childhood years. Offering a very different side to Luxeria from the ruthless ruler, their fun-loving moments together come as a welcome tension-breaker. Although, even this subplot suffers from a few holes. Explaining a plot point as being happenstance isn’t exactly a favourite of mine.

To conclude, whilst the story’s central revenge plot is well-focused and delivers the perfect amount of catharsis, this positivity doesn’t extend towards the rest of the story. A less-than-stellar climax and an underdeveloped romantic subplot mean that I won’t be picking up the sequel in the series.

The Evil Queen Vol. 1

My Rating: 6/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the first volume of this series physically and digitally through the distributors listed on the Seven Seas website.

Goodreads Review #4

Revolutionary Reprise of the Blue Rose Princess Vol.3 by Roku Kaname

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Topping off the trilogy, the climax of the Revolutionary Reprise saga proves the old saying – saving the best for last.

Reaching the point of the start of the revolution on her original timeline, the third volume finds that Alicia and her country haven’t come out of the woods just yet. In fitting for a series climax, the final volume is filled with twists, turns and tension as the journey delivers antagonists, political and systemic.

More than anything else, however, this volume delivers on character. This volume feels like the culmination of Alicia’s developmental journey throughout the trilogy. In a story that sees the empire plunged into turmoil, it forces Alicia to take the final steps toward becoming a ruler. Powerful in her own right, this volume sees her use her abilities to act as equal to the empress as well as talk two neighbouring nations out of war.

Alongside Alicia’s standout performance, Charlotte and The Prince get their moments in the spotlight. Both breaking tropes, their journeys of emancipation see them take very different paths throughout the volume.

For Charlotte, this journey is one of betrayal. Despite her admiration of her father and her lovesickness towards the Prince, she’s still able to stand up for what’s right, an act that sees her help Alicia, thus betraying the ones she loves.

For the Prince, this journey is an attempt at lashing out. With a mother who’s regarded as all-powerful and constantly being compared to her achievements, the Prince’s act of defiance is a way for him to move out from under her shadow. Damaging though the act may be, it eventually gets the job done.

For those looking for a complete villainess saga, this series is highly recommended.
4.5/5 stars.

View all my reviews

Goodreads Review #1

For the sake of audience and archives, take a look at the reviews I’m publishing on Goodreads. You can follow my profile here: FaclessOneLN

Reincarnated Into a Game as the Hero’s Friend: Running the Kingdom Behind the Scenes (Light Novel) Vol. 1 by Yuki Suzuki

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Written by Yuki Suzuki, Reincarnated Into a Game follows all the hallmarks of a typical modern isekai story. Spinning the tale of the protagonist, Lord Werner, sees him use his memories of the game world to survive as well as knowledge from his former world to stand out and influence events to a brighter future.

Whilst there’s nothing inherently wrong with treading on familiar ground, on this occasion, Suzuki’s foray into the familiar left me out in the cold.

I suspect the reasons why I didn’t warm to Werner’s fantasy journey mainly stem from the author’s tendency to wander. Despite a gift for the descriptive, the author, in this case, tends to focus on the wrong things. More often than not, possible world-building aspects that could help build tension and a sense of scale to the encroaching demon army are left as mere footnotes. Instead, we’re left to explore the “magical” world of nobility and the slight difference between titles in the game world and that of Earth. This unappealing foray also isn’t helped by the fact that the author likes to give this information in blocks, which can really bog down the pace of the plot.

Thankfully, there are themes that stop this series from being a complete disaster. Whilst small, the blossoming romance that begins to develop by the end of the volume shows promise. Their potential relationship has ramifications more widely in bridging the gap between the bureaucratic aristocracy and those who gain valour on the battlefield.

Furthermore, the protagonist’s realisation that his actions change events in the game world has intriguing possibilities. Without foreknowledge of the future, he’ll have to think on his feet to avoid now all too real dangers.

Unfortunately, whilst I didn’t enjoy this novel myself, those who enjoy a lesson in noble society over action may find something to entertain themselves with here.

View all my reviews