strategy – Faceless One Blog

Reincarnated Into a Game as the Hero’s Friend: Running the Kingdom Behind the Scenes Vol. 1 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Game Elements, Video Games, Romantic Subplot, Strategy

Synopsis:

Someday, the hero Mazel will battle the Demon Lord with the fate of the realm at stake. But until that day…he better be carrying plenty of potions! While the hero is off saving the kingdom, it’s up to Lord Werner—a Japanese office worker reincarnated into the world of a classic RPG—to keep the rest of the world from becoming collateral damage. There’s no hero, luminary, or warrior of light who doesn’t need a friend like Werner! But can he truly defy the flames of fate and change the bittersweet ending of the game? (Source: Seven Seas)

Behind the Scenes: Defeating a Demon Lord!

Written by Yuki Suzuki and illustrated by Sanshouuo, Seven Seas’ latest light novel title looks at the hero’s party’s journey from a different perspective.

Reincarnated Into a Game as the Hero’s Friend takes a look at who helps save the world whilst the hero is busy saving a kingdom or going on a quest. Spinning the life of Lord Werner, the story follows his exploits as he tries to survive the world of a classic RPG whilst maybe even saving a few lives along the way.

Trouble with the Plot

From an initial event that solidifies Werner as different from others within the fantasy world to the classic training arc featuring well-known methods from Earth, Reincarnated Into a Game follows all the hallmarks of a typical isekai series. Whilst not necessarily a bad thing, as there’s still merit in the generic, my problems with this series start almost from the word go.

As a writer, Yuki Suzuki seems to be the type to get caught in their own flights of fancy. All too often, the story’s good rhythm is disturbed by the baffling choices made for conveying background information. Instead of being brought up when necessary, the series sometimes takes 20-page detours, just enough time to forget why the information was important in the first place.

Moreover, despite displaying a talent for the descriptive, the story tends to focus on the wrong things. A masterclass on the differences between Western and Japanese nobility is all well and good, but it shouldn’t take precedence over ascertaining the fear felt within the general populace. In volume one, the demon’s first assault on a town is left as a mere footnote. Where a vivid picture painted to show the public’s suffering when those to protect them aren’t around should be shown, we’re given a small sentence that tells us nothing.

Sparks and Changes

Whilst the journey through the plot of the novel is a thorny one, there are still numerous moments of enjoyment to be found throughout. These flashes of inspiration usually come through in its subplots.

By the end of the instalment, a theme of romance begins to blossom between Werner and a member of a rival house. Based on a change in pre-conceived notions, Werner’s development as both a statesman and fighter throughout the story brings the subdued interest of Lady Hermine. Sparks of mere words spoken between the two slowly change into meaningful conversations and a chance for the two of them to get to know each other.

Furthermore, the end of the volume reveals to the protagonist that there are differences between the world he currently inhabits and the original game world. These revelations bring with them positive possibilities for the series’ future. With the protagonist unable to correctly predict future events, it’ll force him to think on his feet and act more cautiously as danger nears.

Unfortunately, whilst the first outing of Reincarnated Into a Game as the Hero’s Friend sported some well-thought-out subplots, the author’s tendency to wander from the main storyline left me out in the cold on this occasion. But, If you like a story that takes a detailed look at Western and Japanese noble societies, then maybe this series is for you.

Reincarnated Hero’s Friend 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.

Easygoing Territory Defense by the Optimistic Lord Vol. 1 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Banishment, Business, Strong Lead, Strategy

Synopsis:

Van, fourth son of a marquis, is just a toddler when he realizes he’s been reincarnated. Thanks to his literal lifetime of knowledge, he’s raised as a child prodigy—until his production magic manifests, and it’s the last thing his snooty mage family wants to see! His disappointed father banishes him to a podunk town on the verge of collapse, yet Van can only see the place’s potential. Can our hero’s bastion of battlements build a better life than battle magic ever could?! (Source: Seven Seas Entertainment)

Production Creates the Strongest Village!

The Village of a Lord Worth Following

Written by Sou Akaike and illustrated by Kururi, the latest review on my blog focuses on a series about creating the strongest village.

Reincarnated as the fourth son of a prominent Marquis, the story of Easygoing Territory Defense starts when Van is given the less-than-welcome news that he’s discovered to possess production magic. Drawing ire from his father, the assessment results lead him to be put into exile in a village at the end of the world. Determined to make his new life in the boonies a success, Van decides to put his skills and clever thinking to good use to start creating an economic powerhouse the continent will always remember.

For the series’ first volume, the story’s plot is split into three sections – Van’s life before exile, Van’s first days in the village, and Van’s first steps to creating the strongest village.

To start with, showcasing Van’s life before he’s carted off to the edge of the territory provides much-needed context in these types of stories. As a child prodigy, Van never lets these compliments get to his head. Remaining grounded due to his age at time of reincarnation, he’s considered a kind and inquisitive child whose down-to-earth nature quickly gains the admiration of the servants under the Marquis’ employ. It is no wonder that when Van is asked to leave the estate, several servants leave to join him. These include his maid, Till, and his tutors, Diss and Espada.

This welcoming personality of Van’s continues as he first sets foot inside the new village he’s been told to manage. His nature helps to start their relationship on the right foot, which is then solidified as both Van and his gang help to defend the village from several overwhelming threats.

Bargains, Deals and Treaties

The true meat of this volume, however, comes as Van settles down and finally decides to put his plan into action to make a success of the village.

After one of the attacks on the village, Van and the gang are left with a lot of materials from lizardmen. This sets about their success by flooding the settlement with capital. As a result, merchants, demi-humans and even foreign nobility end up paying the little village a visit.

With more visitors to the village, it’s plain to see that the author can let go in these parts and start to have fun. With almost all the arrivals in complete shock at the growth of the village, Van has his work cut out dealing with noble intentions and more than one marriage proposal. In the end, however, he’s always able to convince them onside.

To conclude, Easygoing Territory Defense’s first volume makes for a wonderful start to the series. Filled with fun adventures and an ever-curious protagonist, it makes the experience of watching his new village grow all the more enjoyable.

As his village grows further, I shall wait in anticipation of what’s in store for the little lord next.

Easygoing Territory Defense Vol. 1

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 first volume of this series digitally from the list of distributors found on the Seven Seas website.

The Crown of Rutile Quartz Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Fantasy, Drama, Romance

Sub-Tags: War, Strategy, Strong Lead

Synopsis:

Slaine is a humble, provincial commoner in the small Kingdom of Hasenvalia… Or so he thinks until the day the entire royal family is wiped out in a palace fire and Slaine comes to learn he’s really the king’s illegitimate son. It now falls on him to succeed the throne. Despite his lack of knowledge and experience, Slaine’s natural wits and dedication—plus the support of his aide-de-camp, Monica—allow him to excel against all odds. Between unsupportive nobles at home and hostile rulers abroad, Slaine already has his work cut out for him—and then, on the eve of his coronation, the great Empire of Galed declares war against Hasenvalia. Faced with such a frighteningly powerful foe, Slaine is forced to make a choice between fleeing into political exile or resisting invasion to the bitter end. Caught between the conflicting agendas of neighboring nations, this boy from a backwater town must learn how to grow into his crown. Witness the birth of a king! (Source: J-Novel Club)

From Commoner to King!

The Bastard Prince

Following the story of a bastard prince with infinite potential, my latest review looks at The Crown of Rutile Quartz, a novel written by Surume Enoki and illustrated by TTL.

Rutile Quartz focuses on the story of Slaine, a former commoner whose life is turned upside down when the sudden death of the royal family leads to the discovery that he’s the illegitimate son of the king and heir to the throne. Now enveloped in a life completely alien to his own, Slaine’ll have to shape up fast. From a mountain of politics to learn and a host of unsupportive nobles to navigate, there’s much for a king-to-be to master. Even if he manages to make it through, other nations have ambitions with Hasenvalia, ambitions that could quickly put an end to his regency.

Mixing action, politics and romance, the main plot of the series comes in two parts. The first follows Slaine’s studying efforts to become a great leader. The second puts these skills to the test to see whether Slaine can take the right actions to steer his country in the right direction.

What strikes me first about this series as a reader is the author’s command over detail and when to use it. This is most noticeable in the first half of the novel, which can be very information-heavy. The first arc of the volume follows Slaine’s early months as prince, learning all the ins and outs necessary to make a good ruler.

In a new environment filled with people with all manner of motives, the information Slaine learns from Monica and the environment quickly becomes his first source of confidence. From finding his feet at his father’s funeral to declaring Hasenvalia’s fight for survival, we see throughout Slaine transforming from a timid young man into a confident ruler, with every detail of information he learns along the way playing a key role in his ascension.

A Strategy of Water

The second half of the volume sees Slaine putting his newfound confidence to good use. In the midst of Hasenvalia’s turmoil, the neighbouring empire mounts a surprise invasion, putting Slaine’s regency in danger almost as soon as it began.

In the face of overwhelming odds, with the empire having a larger and better-equipped army, it’s Slaine’s unconventional upbringing and natural leadership that sees their nation come up trumps.

Slaine’s victorious strategy is well-visualised by the author. From Slaine’s out-of-the-box thinking leading to the enemy cavalry’s crash course to Slaine’s “man of the people” approach to gathering more conscripts, they’ve clearly made an effort to make Hasenvalia’s victory over the Empire believable.

Aides and Lovers

The Crown of Rutile Quartz’s first volume isn’t all war and politics. Subtle yet well-written, the series’ romantic subplot deserves to be highlighted. Taking place between Slaine and Monica, their love story serves as a scant moment of tenderness amongst the violence.

Their love grows throughout the volume, from a small flickering ember into a raging torrent. For Slaine, his love for Monica grows due to her voice of constant encouragement in a lonely world where the line between ally and enemy is blurred. For Monica, her love is born to a mismatch in expectations. Expecting nothing but the role of babysitter, she quickly grows affection for Slaine when he shows his ambition, not only for himself but for his people as well. The result is a romance where both characters cherish one another and view each other as equals.

To conclude, The Crown of Rutile Quartz makes for an excellent addition to the J-Novel Club roster. The series’ first volume has several aspects worth highlighting, including a subtle romantic subplot and well-paced character development that turns its main character from commoner to king.

Detailed and well-visualised, even if this series remains at one volume, Surume Enoki’s creation is a well-balanced mix of politics, war and love.

The Crown of Rutile Quartz 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.

Death’s Daughter and the Ebony Blade Vol. 6 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance

Sub-Tags: War, Strategy, Moe, Cute, OP, Strong Lead

Synopsis:

Olivia and Felix finally meet on the same battlefield! After successfully mounting a daring plan, the Second Allied Legion of Fernest and Mekia now marches on the imperial capital of Olsted. If they take the city and the emperor, they can put an end to the war that engulfs the continent. In their way stand the Azure Knights—the most elite warriors in the empire, unleashed at last. They are a foe unlike any Olivia and her allies have faced so far, and their commander Felix may be the only human alive who can match Olivia’s might. Outside this clash of nations, still more shadowy forces are rising. The assassins of the Asura will stop at nothing to see Olivia dead, and, unbeknownst to all, Darmés and Zenia’s plans are approaching fruition. Will Olivia lead her allies to victory, or has her end finally come? (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Glorious Final Battle Begins!

A Strategy for the Long Haul

Marking my first review after a short vacation, the sixth instalment of Death’s Daughter and the Ebony Blade records a pivotal moment in their fight against the Empire.

Less moe and more action-heavy than ever before, the story’s latest development sees Fernest and the eighth legion in an all-or-nothing gambit to stop the war. To bring an end to the Empire’s ambition, the Eighth Legion decide to take the fight directly to their strongest fighters, The Azure Knights.

The battle between the Eighth Legion and the Azure Knights covers almost the entire volume. It’s a tense fight throughout, as for most of the volume, the two rival armies could be considered equal. With every clash of skill and strategy, neither side gains an advantage until the battle becomes one of attrition. After all, the Azure Knights are considered the most mighty warriors of the empire, and against such a force over such a long period, even Olivia can only do so much.

It’s a refreshing change to see Olivia and the Eighth Legion on the back foot for once. Up until this point, the legion had easily managed to fight off stronger opponents on all levels, and it’s nice to see that even the Death God has something she struggles against. Even the notorious Death God has to struggle against some adversity.

A Battle of Equals and the Struggle

Olivia’s adversity becomes a strong theme throughout this novel, and whilst it may start with her precious legion losing advantage, her true moments of struggle come as the volume reaches its climax.

Throughout the series, and especially this volume, the fight between Felix and Olivia had always been on the cards. Touted from the beginning as Olivia’s equal, the fight between the two is a mighty display of warriors. It’s the first time where Olivia’s abilities have only landed her in a stalemate. We will never know who would’ve won the battle, however, as a scheme from the Empire brings the two to agree to a temporary truce.

Whilst the battle between Fernest and the Empire’s finest raged on, Darmés has used the opportunity to stage a coup, subjugating the land through the use of undead warriors.

Now staging an assault against the Empire’s capital alongside a former enemy, Olivia faces her toughest opponent to date – a new death god. Behind Darmés’ newfound powers, this death god ends up wiping the floor with Olivia, destroying any sense of the invincibility the readers thought she once had.

Overall, Death’s Daughter’s latest volume makes for a worthy climax as the series reaches its final two-part volume.

To create a certain level of tension for the finale, this volume does a good job of assuaging the notion that Olivia is the strongest. Through several adversities and losses during battle, Olivia’s position as Fernest’s saviour looks all the more shaky by the end of the volume. This is especially poignant as the volume’s cliffhanger finds beloved main characters in more than just a spot of bother.

As the final battle begins, there’s no doubt in my mind that tragedy is on the way for the Eighth Legion.

Death’s Daughter and the Ebony Blade Vol. 6

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 sixth volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

Death’s Daughter and the Ebony Blade Vol. 5 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance

Sub-Tags: War, Strategy, Moe, Cute, OP, Strong Lead

Synopsis:

Olivia, Claudia, and Ashton set off on a journey, but this time it’s not a battlefield they’re headed to. Fernest has forged an alliance with the Holy Land of Mekia to combat the Asvelt Empire, and Olivia is invited by the enigmatic Seraph Sofitia on an official visit. A magnificent welcome awaits them amongst the soaring spires of the seraph’s palace, but there’s more at play. Sofitia’s true aim is to make Olivia’s incredible power her own—and she has a killer offer with which to tempt the young commander. What will Olivia do when faced with the choice between her new friends and what she’s been seeking all this time? When offered hope of finding Z, will she be able to say no? Meanwhile, down in the darkness, Chancellor Darmés’ schemes are growing closer to fruition… (Source: J-Novel Club)

Mekian Schemes and a Fernest Assault!

You’ve Got a Friend in Mekia

Having settled an alliance with the Holy Land of Mekia, Death’s Daughter’s latest instalment finds Olivia and her closest allies on an official visit to Fernest’s newest friends. Betwixt the celebrations and ceremony, Mekia has more aspirations for the visit than meets the eye. Desperate to be seen as a major power on the continent, they make an almost far too tempting an offer for Olivia to join them.

The time that Olivia spends in Mekia provides a great depth of character for the series protagonist, showcasing that she’s more than just a moe murderer and that she’s made wonderful strides to become a part of Fernest’s makeup.

From the outset of hearing Mekia’s offer to help look for Z if she joins them, it has Olivia pondering whether her time as part of the Fernest royal army is over. It’s the first time we see Olivia struggle, and a conflict rages within – whether to stay with her friends or finally get a lead as to Z’s location.

As much as Claudia and Ashton could convince her to stay, her decision is made after an unfortunate encounter with a legendary beast. With Ashton going missing as a result of the attack, Olivia comes to the realisation that losing her friends would be worse than having to delay her reunion with Z. By the time Ashton returns from his disappearance, Olivia’s already made her choice to stay.

From Defence to All-Out Attack

Saddened by the realisation that they won’t be able to tempt Olivia to their side, The Holy Land of Mekia still decide to help Fernest in the next stage of the war.

Mekia’s presence on the battlefield changes the state of play for Fernest. No longer satisfied with retaking lost territory and playing defensively, with the death god and mages on their side, they finally decide to go on the attack.

With their diversionary tactics on full display, they successfully manage to lure the empire into thinking that they wish to reclaim their impenetrable fortress, Kier Fortress. The reality, however, sees Olivia, the eighth legion, and the mages of Mekia fight deep within the empire’s territory. Winning fort after fort, the final moments of the volume see Fernest marching on the empire’s capital.

The fifth volume of Death’s Daughter is one of the most important in the series so far. This latest volume sees critical development for both character and plot. For Olivia, this story tests her resolve for a reunion with Z and what she’s willing to sacrifice to achieve this goal. As readers, you can see how hard she works to get through this conflict, reaching the best possible outcome.

On the scales of the plot, the latest outing provides a change to how Fernest is approaching the war. Now moving at a blistering pace, their position within the war has swapped, Fernest in the position of an attacker and the Empire in defence. The result of Fernest’s advancement means there’ll be more focus on the Empire. With a fight with the Empire’s strongest beckoning and a death god plot underway, there’s plenty to look forward to in the future.

Death’s Daughter and the Ebony Blade Vol. 5

My Rating: 9/10

I hope you enjoyed my review and would love to see what you thought of the volume in the comments! If you like what I do and want to see more, consider supporting me by buying me a coffee on Ko-Fi.

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

As a Reincarnated Aristocrat, I’ll Use My Appraisal Skill to Rise in the World Vol. 1 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Strategy, Skills, War

Synopsis:

After thirty-five years of perfectly ordinary life, a run-of-the-mill businessman suddenly drops dead…only to be reborn in another world! Now he must live as Ars Louvent, scion of a minor noble family and wielder of a fabulous skill: Appraisal, the power to perceive the strengths and abilities of others at a glance. He’ll need it, too, because there are plenty of problems to solve in the Louvent family’s territory! Ars only has one choice: recruit the most talented individuals his skill can find, and rise up to new heights in his brand new world! (Source: Kodansha)

A Lord Who Spots Hidden Talent!

Research and Recruitment

Opting for a broader storyline, Reincarnated Aristocrats‘ plot focuses on Ars’s attempts to becoming a successful lord. To reach his objective, Ars spends the first portion of the volume honing his appraisal abilities and enlisting the local talent as his retainers.

These talent-scouting missions are told through recruitment stories which aren’t always created equally, with some being more engaging than others. Whilst Charlotte and Rietz’s introductions are nothing to write home about, the author finds their stride when bringing in Rosell and Licia.

Bringing these characters onside requires Ars to overcome several obstacles. Rosell’s potential as a tactician is only unlocked due to Ars smoothing the rocky relationship between Rosell and his father. Licia’s abilities prove even more problematic. A fiancée to Ars, she possesses the unfortunate combination of ambition and an innate talent for politics. Ars needed a healthy dose of scepticism and smooth talking to bring her onside.

A War Between Two Brothers

Gathering a group of talented individuals proves invaluable by the second half of the volume. The family patriarch falls ill and dies, leaving a young Ars in charge of the Louvent family’s territory. However, he has little time to get settled in the role as the county falls into a civil war.

In conflicts of this nature, knowing who’ll come out on top is a must to ensure the survival of any noble family. As a result, both Ars’ abilities and those of his retainers are all put to good use. Discovering neighbouring territory’s allegiances through intelligence gathering and utilising spies all become par for the course.

These methods bring good results, earning him a private audience with the elder son of the duke. As the volume ends, Ars is put in a new position of power, a spot at the civil war’s war council.

Overall, Reincarnated Aristocrat makes for an entertaining story. Whilst character introductions of varying quality plague the first half of the volume, the eventual payoff more than makes up for it. Engaging interactions, challenging issues and the mechanics of war strategy raise the series for a stronger outing in the second volume.

As a Reincarnated Aristocrat Vol. 1

My Rating: 7.5/10

I hope you enjoyed my review and would love to see what you thought of the volume in the comments! If you like what I do and want to see more, consider supporting me by buying me a coffee on Ko-Fi.

You can read the first volume of this series digitally and physically through the Kobo website.

Only the Villainous Lord Wields the Power to Level Up Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Drama, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Villain, Strong Lead, War, Strategy, Game Elements

Synopsis:

Ryuichi Hasegawa, the top player in a strategic medieval RPG, is granted a special “bonus” by the developer and reincarnated into the game world—not as the protagonist, but as the villainous lord Erhin Eintorian who dies in the prologue! This means Erhin’s survival is a race against time, for his domain is set to be invaded by a hostile foreign power in just one day. In order to save himself, Erhin must use the leveling system that only he can access and his knowledge of the game to prepare his forces. The only hitch, of course, is that there’s no way a villainous lord left a functioning military at his disposal! Can Erhin forestall the tragic fate scripted for him, or is he doomed to play out his own demise? (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Doomed Lord Fights for Survival!

The Evil Lord

We’re all familiar with reincarnates being thrust into characters on the verge of doom, although they usually have more time on their hands than the poor sap who’s been reincarnated as Lord Erhin Eintorian. With only a day before his territory is invaded and he’s killed, Erhin has to work fast to ensure his survival – a task made all the more difficult given the lord’s notoriety and evil deeds.

Key in both the reincarnate and original Lord’s ability is intelligence. For Erhin, schemes are more to his forte than fighting prowess. He can easily read the emotions of others, a skill he often puts to use given the need to quickly raise an army and tempt turncoats. This is shown best in his dealings with Euracia. She’s hell-bent on killing Erhin and stopping his evil deeds, but Erhin can de-escalate the situation and later turn her into an ally.

Overcoming Martial Prowess

Erhin’s intelligence is also shown in his warfare strategies, and several battles take place during the volume.

Having the protagonist put under immense pressure brings out the best in this story. Whether it’s facing the Naruyan Kingdom in his own territory or stopping them from taking a strategic castle, these do-or-die situations take his strategies to the next level.

About more than just different attack and defence strategies, the protagonist needs to bend the game system’s rules to his advantage. This requires genuine out-of-the-box thinking and makes the system more than just an easy cheat machine.

Taking a closer look at the game system in use, beyond the protagonist’s unique application of the system in life-or-death situations, I’m conflicted as to its integration within the story. The levelling and appraisal aspects are all within the expected range; however, the systems’ work during warfare is an issue. It allows the user to access a skill without any prior training or practice, which in a strategy-based world, feels like a bit too much of a cheat.

Overall, The Villainous lord’s first volume makes for a good start to the series. Focusing heavily on the protagonist, Erhin, the reader can grasp his character, motivations and abilities by the end of the volume. Volume one ends with several interesting plot devices, all of which could take the series in promising directions.

Only the Villainous Lord Wields the Power to Level Up Vol. 1

My Rating: 8/10

I hope you enjoyed my review and would love to see what you thought of the volume in the comments! If you like what I do and want to see more, consider supporting me by buying me a coffee on Ko-Fi.

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

Death’s Daughter and the Ebony Blade Vol. 4 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance

Sub-Tags: War, Strategy, Moe, Cute, OP, Strong Lead

Synopsis:

Olivia is moving up in the world. Between her and the First Legion, the Royal Army scored a dazzling victory on the central front that has the empire on the back foot. But the Royal Army is still stretched thin, and there are rumblings from the south that the United City-States of Sutherland is threatening to abandon its neutrality and march on Fernest’s southern border. Fortunately, Field Marshal Cornelius has a plan—he’s giving Olivia a whole army. Now Major General Olivia Valedstorm, she’s put in command of the newly established Eighth Legion. It’ll be up to her, Claudia, and Ashton to whip their army of fresh recruits into shape in time to fight off this new foe! (Source: J-Novel Club)

The Eighth Legion Faces a Surprise Invasion!

Stonia and Meika

Throughout the story so far, the Empire has always talked about its aspirations to unite the continent beyond its war with Fernest. This volume constitutes the first move towards this goal, goading the Kingdom of Stonia to attack the holy nation of Meika.

Having the main focus on a battle between two nations that have been on the sidelines until now has both upsides and downsides. To start with, focusing on nations without Olivia as their secret cheat weapon means that the series can take a deeper look at strategy and warfare. A battle between a country filled with fighters against one with mages reveals the overpowering abilities of magic and the importance of moral in war.

A focus on the Kingdom of Stonia and Meika also allows for a focus on the lives of people under the influence of the Empire. The Kingdom of Stonia is a puppet nation for the Empire and, under their ruler’s new plan to test out the strength of the Meikian army, Stonia is caught between a rock and a hard place. Either they face destruction fighting back against the Empire, or they face destruction through a defeat against a nation of mages.

Unfortunately, having a majority of the volume focusing on different nations and characters means we see less of Olivia and her team’s entertaining antics. No matter how enjoyable reading about warfare can be, it just doesn’t feel the same without the great interactions you get when reading about the actions of the eighth legion.

The Surprise Invasion

What we do get of Olivia and the gang is still as good as always. Fighting off against a surprise invasion with an entire legion at her command this time. Her destruction and devastation come across to a legendary extent.

Commanding an entire legion allows for even larger schemes in order to defeat the enemy. This time, to fight off the United City-States of Sutherland, they lull them into a false sense of security. Suitably overconfident, the eighth legion tears this notion apart with superior numbers, strength and strategy, culminating in the most one-sided defeat in the series so far.

Whilst Death’s Daughter’s fourth volume misses Olivia for the majority of the volume, it still comes over as a strong entry in the series. With what little we get with Olivia being timely content and a good focus on strategy and warfare, there’s room for exciting developments in the volumes to come. Moreover, with a partnership with the holy land on the horizon, things are only looking up for here.

Death’s Daughter and the Ebony Blade Vol. 4

My Rating: 8/10

I hope you enjoyed my review and would love to see what you thought of the volume in the comments! If you like what I do and want to see more, consider supporting me by buying me a coffee on Ko-Fi.

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

Death’s Daughter and the Ebony Blade Vol. 3 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance

Sub-Tags: War, Strategy, Moe, Cute, OP, Strong Lead

Synopsis:

Olivia, Claudia, and Ashton are back in Fernest after ousting Rosenmarie and the Crimson Knights from the north, enjoying some well-deserved time off and investigating Olivia’s mysterious heritage. But the ripples of this latest defeat are spreading, and new players are moving out onto the board. The empire’s Helios Knights have mobilized to wipe out the Second Legion, while Seraph Sofitia of the Holy Land of Mekia, no longer content to watch from the shadows, seizes the chance to set her plans into motion. What havoc will her mages wreak when they join the fray? With chaos looming, duty calls Olivia back to the battlefield. She and her friends join the Invincible General Cornelius on a mission to save the Second Legion and the central front! (Source: J-Novel Club)

The Death God Comes to the Rescue!

Who needs fame, prestige and riches when you have lots and lots of cake! Words that Olivia continues to live by as the series reaches its third volume.

This latest outing has Olivia and the seventh legion once again coming to the rescue. The object of their rescue mission this time comes at the hands of the Empire’s prestigious Helios Knights. They’ve got the second legion over a barrel and only a miracle will save them from the jaws of defeat.

Meanwhile, other large players on the continent have begun to make their move. An attack on the Empire by the Holy Land of Meika has set off a series of shockwaves that could spell trouble for Olivia back in Fernest!

A Cunning Plan

Three volumes in, and I’m finally noticing the series’ development patterns. The first volume focused on Olivia’s worth towards the Kingdom of Fernest, whilst the second focused more on Olivia’s closest allies and friends – how Ashton’s strategising and Claudia’s innate ability to learn skills are important in Olivia’s victories.

The latest volume, however, focuses on the legion itself and its instrumental value in creating victories. To get to this realisation, the story gives a hilarious recounting of their plan to defeat the Helios Knights.

Almost opposite to Baldrick and his cunning plans, for Olivia, Ashton and the rest of the soldiers, their plan actually works! Involving a doppelganger of Olivia, it has the Empire’s knights completely fooled allowing the real Olivia, Ashton and Claudia to saunter in and kill the Helios general.

Their teamwork continues to develop in the latter half of the volume as well. Helping the first legion to victory lands Olivia an audience with the king and a chance to eat a giant cake created by the finest patisseries. Cue Olivia over-eating, to Claudia’s constant dismay!

Behind the Scenes

To much pleasure, this volume sees a lot more development in terms of world-building. Away from Olivia’s exploits, more pieces are being moved on the chess board, and larger players are about to enter the scene.

There’s a particular notice given to the Holy Land of Maika, a land of mages and seraphs. With the newly found weakness of the Empire, it has given them the perfect opportunity to strike. Alongside the fact that the war has started to open up, this volume provides some excellent insight into the system of magic or magic craft in this fantasy world.

To those uninformed, mages seem all-powerful with abilities beyond the normal human spectrum, and yet, there are huge drawbacks to this fake style of magic – they’ll die if they use up all their mana, and without a symbol to cast their mana from they can no longer use magic.

Additionally, the third outing gives plenty of time to some of the more slice-of-life aspects of the series. Sections are dedicated to library research on the Vanderstorm family, in turn showcasing some interesting history of the world and a possible reason why Olivia is so strong.

Death’s Daughter’s latest addition to the series is just as great as previous entries, delivering more interesting world-building and great comedic antics between the central three characters. For those not already acquainted with the series, I highly recommend it for being constantly engaging with each passing volume.

Death’s Daughter and the Ebony Blade Vol. 3

My Rating: 9/10

I hope you enjoyed my review and would love to see what you thought of the volume in the comments! If you like what I do and want to see more, consider supporting me by buying me a coffee on Ko-Fi.

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

The Mythical Hero’s Otherworld Chronicles Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Romance, Drama, Isekai

Sub-Tags: OP, Strong Lead, War, Strategy

Synopsis:

Unexpectedly summoned to the world of Aletia from modern-day Japan, Hiro Oguro soon discovers this isn’t his first visit. As the legendary Hero King Mars, he once ruled battlefields, conquered nations, and founded the continent-spanning Grantzian Empire before giving up all memories of his hard-won glory to return home to his old life. Now he’s back, a thousand years after he left, and his legacy is in peril. The Grantzian Empire creaks under a warmonger’s rule while ambitious royals squabble for power and foreign nations sharpen their swords. After a chance encounter with Princess Elizabeth von Grantz draws him into a cutthroat struggle for imperial succession, Hiro must don the mantle of the War God once more. Can he live up to his own legend now that Aletia needs him again? (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Legendary Hero’s Return!

For the third review of the week, I’m moving back to pre-pubs to a series filled with war, strategy and chunni energy!

Mythical Hero stars Hiro as he’s foisted into another world and into the care of Princess Elizabeth von Grantz. However, for Hiro, this isn’t his first time in the world. The more time he spends there, the more vivid his lost memories become of his time as the former Hero King. It seems he has been returned due to the destruction of his and his friends’ legacy carried out by a bitter battle for the throne.

Donning the moniker once more, he’ll play the role of War God, fighting for his legacy and helping Elizabeth and her ideals onto the throne!

From the get-go, there’s one thing this series gets right, pacing. As soon as Hiro enters the other world, it’s all go and all action as Elizabeth and her loyal followers are in immediate danger. To reach a safe point within the kingdom, the group will have to split up to avoid being killed and captured by the fourth prince’s faction.

Bonds are formed quickly as a result and the main dynamic between Elizabeth and Hiro settles in quite nicely. From the very outset, the author’s intentions are clear as to which direction he wants to take their relationship. Romance will likely bud soon enough.

The action subsequently takes the form of battles later on in the volume. A surprise invasion by a neighbouring country leads to Hiro’s first two awakenings. The fights here are well-directed but the chunni aspects could go either way and could make or break the series for you depending on your preferences.

Unfortunately, whilst the action and dynamics between Liz and Hiro are great, the introduction of the antagonists is not. Of the three introduced in this volume, all come over as paper-thin both character and motive-wise. They come across as cartoonishly evil villains whose instant thinking is always about rape and power. The only one I have hope for is the First Prince, surviving through the first volume and likely to be recurring, there’s still a chance for more fleshed-out motives to come into play.

Overall, whilst I think Mythical Hero’s first volume is a good start to the series – nice action scenes and character dynamics between the main cast. The series still leaves something to be desired in the villain department and overall motives with the rest of the cast.

The Mythical Hero’s Otherworld Chronicles Vol. 1

My Rating: 7.5/10

I hope you enjoyed my review and would love to see what you thought of the volume in the comments!

You can read the first volume of this series in pre-pub format on the J-Novel Club website.