weak to strong – Faceless One Blog

If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love Vol. 2 Review

Tags: Adventure, Fantasy, Romance, Slice of Life, School Life, Villainess, Shoujo

Sub-Tags: Spirits, Cute, Personal Growth, Weak to Strong

Synopsis:

The Smallest Spark Can Grow into a Fire

When Prince Joseph broke off his engagement to Brigitte, her life was shattered—but meeting Yuri helped her start putting it together again. The two may have started off as rivals, yet the more she learns about him, the more she’s come to appreciate him…Unfortunately, Joseph is ready to turn everything upside down again, suddenly attempting to reinstate their engagement. Brigitte is far from eager to go back, but her relationship with Yuri is getting complicated. Not only that, but it seems her weak, no-name spirit might be something else entirely…! (Source: Yen Press)

A Villainess’ Spirit Awakens!

After picking herself back up from a broken engagement, the second instalment of If the Villainess and Villain Met follows Brigitte as her whole world is about to change.

It Peeped!

Unwilling to address the cliffhanger left over from volume one, the series’ sequel begins with new developments regarding Brigitte’s spirit. Above all other aspects of the story, segments surrounding spirits inject the most of Brigitte’s personality within them, hence why it continues to be the story’s strongest aspect in this volume.

Developments appear thick and fast as Brigitte’s magical powers transform, eventually inviting a spirit. As a result, the novel’s first half finds the series’ protagonist searching for personal growth as Brigitte is forced to confront her past and future.

The future offers a lighter side to her development. It is signified by her blossoming romance with Yuri, which has no shortage of cute moments. Confronting her past takes a more serious approach. These scenes find Brigitte forced to overcome her traumas, which remain raw and vivid. Her memories describing when her hand is put in the flame are especially poignant.

As for the spirit awakening itself, it adds some entertaining moments of comedy to the series. Brigitte’s spirit takes the form of a small chick that likes to peep away and cause all sorts of chaos.

Prince (Not so) Charming

The Prince Joseph question is eventually answered in the latter half of the volume. Determined to get Brigitte back, this plot line follows a similar path to others in its genre, as Joseph’s motives turn out to be less than pure. Joseph is obsessed with Brigitte due to his perceived notion that she’s the only person who’s more of a failure than he is.

For as cutesy as this series portrays itself, this segment turns out to be a rather unpleasant read. Prince Joseph’s cruel and vindictive behaviour feels out of place in a series as light-hearted as this one. It does, however, provide the series with some necessary developments for the future. Firstly, the romance between Yuri and Brigitte is solidified, and secondly, the event serves as the final key to unlocking Brigitte’s true spirit power.

Overall, If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love’s second volume builds on the solid foundations laid in its opening act.

In addition to further exploring the world’s spirit magic system, the second volume finally gives the boot to Prince Joseph, allowing for the romance between Brigitte and Yuri to take centre stage.

If the Villainess and Villain Vol. 2

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 second volume of this series physically and digitally through the distributors listed on the Yen Press website.

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 11 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Video Games, Game Elements, Strong Lead, Gods

Synopsis:

A thousand years in the past, Makoto Takatsuki has successfully recruited the legendary hero party, and they’re finally ready to take on Demon Lord Bifrons. At least, that was the plan. But then the demon lords assemble, rallying an army that outnumbers the heroes a thousand to one. Makoto must shift tactics to counter the onslaught, and just when the situation seems dire, Ira reveals a shocking secret about water magic that could turn the tide of battle. Unfortunately, the Great Demon Lord is hardly one to play fair. Seeing the might of the heroes’ army, Iblis offers Makoto something truly tantalizing: power. The final showdown for the fate of history has begun. Can the heroes’ light pierce through the Clouds of Darkness? And is Makoto’s will as strong as his magic? (Source: J-Novel Club)

Makoto Meets the Great Demon Lord!

Continuing Makoto’s journey one thousand years in the past, the eleventh volume of Full Clearing in Another World finds the hero’s party facing their ultimate challenge.

Managing to unite the hero’s party from the past, the latest chapter in the series picks back up after a small training arc. With their powers tested and successfully upgraded, Makoto and the gang are finally ready to face off against the big guns of the demon army. Making Bifrons their first target, they set out on their final assault, unaware of the big plans Iblis has in store for them.

Fight, Fight, Fight!

Using the build-up and darker setting of the previous novel to its advantage, the final volume in the “thousand-year” arc produces a worthy climax. With their training done and all the preparations made, this story is all about the fight.

The author has managed to surpass themself. Throughout the volume, three fights are showcased against different demon lords that effortlessly manage to upgrade the scale whilst managing to dangle the prospect of even bigger fights to come.

The promised battles against Bifrons, Astaroth and Iblis all get a look in, each showing the awesome might of the demon lord’s army. Furthermore, these battles show that the hero’s party’s true power is nothing to be sniffed at. Makoto and Anna/Abel get massive upgrades to their abilities, giving credence to the world’s written history and their victory by the end of the volume.

The Thousand-Year Question

In addition to the demon’s defeat, this volume also answers the lingering plot thread of Makoto’s thousand-year journey home. Meant as a one-way trip, it was always going to be interesting to see what solution the author would come up with to have Makoto join back up with the action in the present day.

Whilst I won’t spoil the events surrounding the solution in this review, I would like to highlight the segment focusing on Momo’s perspective. Detailing her life up to meeting Makoto in the present day, it’s a truly wonderful, heartfelt perspective that’ll surely win Momo more than a few fans by the end of the volume. As they say, the best things in life are worth waiting for.

Concluding Makoto’s journey in the Age of Demons, Full Clearing in Another World’s eleventh volume is a fascinating read filled with action, comedy and tragedy. Both Momo and Anna are the highlights of the volume. Their actions and perspectives secure them as some of the best characters in the series thus far.

Full Clearing Vol. 11

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

The Ephemeral Scenes of Setsuna’s Journey Vol. 2 Review

Tags: Adventure, Fantasy, Mystery, Romance, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Heartwarming, OP, Strong Lead, Weak to Strong

Synopsis:

Every Family is Unique

Setsuna continues his journey with his apprentice Alto in tow. Along the way, Alto experiences a host of new feelings toward Setsuna—from doubt to envy to love—as their teacher-pupil relationship evolves. But the pair’s bond is put to the test when Setsuna is attacked by two beastfolk who mistake him for a slave trader and attempt to separate them. Still, this is but one more trial they will have to overcome as Setsuna and Alto happen upon a mysterious woman in a cave and they begin to consider what it means to be family… (Source: Yen Press)

The Beginning of a Hero’s Journey!

A Troubling Start

Following on from Setsuna’s brief stop in Gardir, my latest review returns the blog to the Ephemeral Scenes of Setsuna’s Journey as both he and Alto finally start the trip of a lifetime.

Beginning their long journey, the latest volume of Setsuna’s Journey finds the Master and Apprentice making their way towards the nation of Kutt. Styled as a journey of self-discovery and exploration, they’ll travel to experience all the world has to offer, including its people. From beastfolk mercenaries to imprisoned dragon maidens, each will provide our titular protagonists with a new perspective on the fantasy world.

After the positive developments brought forth in the series opener, the second instalment begins by building on this momentum. This starts almost as soon as their trip begins when the author once again focuses on the series’ strong point of character-driven narratives.

Known as Rudol and Kara, these beastfolk mercenaries aren’t afraid to use force against those they believe are harming other beastfolk. To put an end to their murderous intentions, Setsuna agrees to have them follow the pair as they make their way to Kutt. To convince them that he means no harm to Alto, Setsuna intends to both tell and show them on their short trip together. With each passing step, Setsuna’s actions toward Alto, as both a parental figure and Master, manage to turn their opinion of him around. His firm but fair nature ensures that the two mercenaries are convinced that Alto is in safe hands – a considerable achievement given Rudol and Kara’s history with humans.

This part of the journey also reveals some much-needed insight into Alto’s thinking as well. In the short time that he and Setsuna have spent together, Alto has begun to see him as someone extremely important in his life. This is showcased when, in the company of the two mercenaries, Alto willingly comes to Setsuna’s defence, even against opponents beyond his level.

The Passion of Dragonfolk

Reaching Kutt by the second half of the volume, the story turns to focus on Setsuna and his impact on the world and vice-versa. For only the second time in the history of the series, something breaks Setsuna from his stoicism.

Whilst searching for medicinal herbs in Kutt, Setsuna and Alto stumble across a prison uniquely designed to hold dragonfolk. Upon seeing the woman held inside, to say that his reaction was love at first sight is a bit of an understatement. It’s out of character but fitting, given that his body and experiences have changed since being in Japan.

Overall, the latest volume of The Ephemeral Scenes of Setsuna’s Journey exceeds expectations.

As Setsuna and Alto begin their grand journey, it is one fraught and filled with adventure. From their interactions with the mercenaries and their confessions with the dragon maiden, the second volume in the series hits all the right emotional and character beats.

Setsuna’s Journey Vol. 2

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 and physically through the list of distributors found on the Yen Press website.

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 10 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Video Games, Game Elements, Strong Lead, Gods

Synopsis:

Makoto Takatsuki has journeyed a thousand years into the past at the behest of Goddess Althena. His mission? Save the world from the Great Demon Lord’s diabolical plan to manipulate history. In order to stand a chance, Makoto must team up with Abel the Savior. However, Abel’s famed party is still in its infancy, and the hero himself isn’t quite what the legends have made him out to be. Humanity will need to consolidate their forces, disrupt the demons’ reign, and break through the Age of Darkness. Yet before they can rally, a fierce enemy bursts onto the scene: Noah’s contemporary disciple, Demon Lord Cain. A face-off between Noah’s past and future believers is imminent—with a little divine insight and a lot of improvisation, can Makoto topple the Mad Hero and keep history from falling apart? (Source: J-Novel Club)

Makoto’s Age of Darkness!

Strength of the Elementals

Learning that the Demon Lord Iblis is changing history, my new review looks at Full Clearing’s tenth volume as Makoto is sent back in time to stop him.

In fitting with the change of scenery, the latest volume of Full Clearing starts with a darker tone than usual. Travelling back a thousand years, Makoto soon discovers what life was like under the cruelty of demons. With most of the human population forced to live on feeding farms, those free are in hiding. Scattered across vast swathes of land, they’ve mostly sought refuge in dungeons, out of the way of the demon lord’s prying eyes.

The latest addition to the series sees Makoto separated from his usual harem and forced to team up with a new party to save the future. Wanting to follow the history recorded in the stories of legend, things don’t quite play out the way Makoto expects. Far from following the original course of history, with each new member of the new team, the more likely candidate for saving humanity from the demon scourge rests on Makoto’s shoulders rather than Abel’s.

The key to this change lies in Makoto’s new potential. Many amongst the survivors see Makoto as a new hero, thanks in part to the gifts given to him by the Goddesses. Now able to summon living embodiments of Undyine and cut the strings of fate, he saves both his new party members and clusters of survivors numerous times.

A New Hero Party’s Journey

Makoto’s actions eventually help him build the hero’s party from legend bar one member. No replacement for Makoto’s original group, the author has managed to stay away from any potential pitfalls that starting from scratch can bring. Makoto, Momo, Anna, Abel and the legendary dragon’s interactions throughout the second half of the volume are always enjoyable and make for a great reprieve from this action-heavy addition.

To add their final member, Johnnie Walker, to the cast, the volume’s climax finds them investigating Laphroaig for him. Totally different from its present counterpart, the city is laden with hidden dangers and unexpected allies.

Keeping as much distance as possible from the Witch of Calamity, Makoto’s new party comes across the hidden lair of Estelle. Ira is once again using Estelle as a disguise, and she’s the only one in the past who remembers Makoto. This is a welcome moment for both of them, especially Makoto, who’s been missing his Goddess and friends in the future.

One thing is made clear to all the members of the hero’s party in Laphroaig – they all need to train to get stronger.

To conclude, the latest instalment of Full Clearing makes an excellent start to the series’ new arc.

Pursuing a darker tone than previous iterations, it perfectly captures a world under the control of a powerful enemy whilst keeping the overall comedic undertone that the series usually projects.

Furthermore, the author has done well in the types of characters he’s chosen to play a role in the hero’s party. Instantly likeable, they make for an appropriate replacement for Makoto’s harem, who are still stuck in the future.

Full Clearing Another World Vol. 10

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

If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Adventure, Fantasy, Romance, Slice of Life, School Life, Villainess, Shoujo

Sub-Tags: Spirits, Cute, Personal Growth, Weak to Strong

Synopsis:

Sometimes Fire and Ice are Perfect for Each Other.

Brigitte Meidell belongs to a noble family, which means high expectations were placed upon her spirit contract. However, her bonded spirit turned out to be a weak no-name, and ever since, she has been a source of shame to her family. She thought her engagement to the prince would turn her life around, but when he publicly breaks off their relationship, she finds herself alone again. After her haughty, villainous behavior as the prince’s brideto- be, no one shows her much sympathy—except for the duke’s son Yuri, who attends the same magic academy. Yuri is feared for his incredible abilities and icy personality, but with him on her side, her fortunes might have changed… (Source: Yen Press)

A Romance of Ice and Fire!

Opposites Attract

From romcoms to fantasy romance series, the next light novel on my roster asks whether a misunderstood villainess and villain can fall in love.

Heading back to the roots of the villainess genre, Met and Fell in Love starts with the protagonist, Brigitte, facing down a classic broken engagement scene. Accused and cast out by the usual suspects, Brigitte’s fancy-free new life leads her into the arms of Yuri. Cold and distant, he’s the only man in the academy more hated than this series’ titular villainess.

The romantic aspect of this novel gets off to a rocky start. As expected, given Yuri’s default nature, there’s very little love loss between them as his overly harsh, straight-talking nature constantly rubs Brigitte the wrong way. As their relationship begins to blossom, however, a sweet coupling between them starts to take place. Their cutest moments come through their competitions against each other and the awkward stumbling as seen through the perspectives of their attendants.

Spirits of a Fickle Nature

For the plot’s main meat and bones, the story takes a highly intriguing look at the magic system within the world, spirits. The summoning of strong spirits is highly valued in this world, especially for nobles, and it’s another reason why Brigitte is isolated at the start of the novel.

Despite having contracted with a seemingly weak spirit, one of Brigitte’s few passions in the series is her love for spirits and their study. Throughout her investigations, we’re given an in-depth look at how these beings operate as part of this fantasy world. They are given a great amount of agency and, in many ways, aren’t too dissimilar to humans. Strong spirits are all said to be able to talk, love and feel.

This agency makes up the backbone of the story’s mystery. As it turns out, Brigitte’s spirit contract may not be as weak as first thought. After revealing itself to save Brigitte and her classmates, it is implied that there’s more to a bond between humans and spirits. Physically and emotionally linked, perhaps one of the main reasons Brigitte’s Spirit is considered “lazy” comes from her fear of fire. A trauma that she goes someway into combating by the end of this volume.

Met and Fell in Love’s first volume is a tale of two halves. Whilst its romantic aspects are predictable yet solidly written, the series’ in-depth look at magical world-building is something to write home about.

The prospect of further investigation into the world of spirits and the hidden potential of Brigitte’s spirit are all reasons why I’ll be continuing this series into its sequel.

If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love 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 and physically through the list of distributors found on the Yen Press website.

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 9 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Video Games, Game Elements, Strong Lead, Gods

Synopsis:

Demon lord Zagan has been defeated! Long live the alliance! After fighting alongside the Hero of Light to drive back the demon army, Makoto Takatsuki finds himself stuck in the infirmary battling a new enemy—boredom. As he sits idle, the alliance braces for another incursion from the demon continent. However, the next attack comes from an unexpected direction: Alexander, the Hero of the Sun, targets Furiae, seeking to take her into custody. Highland’s State-Authorized Hero is a powerful foe…so strong that even Sakurai cannot match him! Meanwhile, Makoto is contacted by the Goddess of the Sun, Althena, who pleads for him to save humanity from the Great Demon Lord. Hunted by enemies and allies alike, can Makoto and his friends unite the continent before Iblis’s resurrection shrouds the world in darkness? (Source: J-Novel Club)

The Hero of the Sun and the Gods’ Mistake!

A Story of Knights and Lovers

After successfully assisting in the defeat of the demon lord Zagan, the ninth instalment of Full Clearing sees no rest for the wicked. Not even defeating another demon lord, it seems, can quell the church’s apprehensions as they and their hero begin making moves. Meanwhile, Furiae begins to unlock the mysteries behind her feelings for Makoto.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the latest novel in the series creates a heavy focus between Furiae and Makoto. Well telegraphed, the blossoming romance between the two has been a long time coming. Ever since Makoto failed to be charmed by the moon priestess’s spell, each subsequent volume has drawn the two closer together through a series of well-choreographed events, only requiring the latest volume to place the last two puzzle pieces in order.

The first gets Furiae to recognise her feelings of jealousy and possessiveness over Makoto, and early events in the volume get her to release these feelings by the bucket-load. As if the incessant flirting between the harem wasn’t enough, Makoto’s actions lead him to sign yet another knight’s oath – this time with the Grandsage. Couple these all together, and it was only a matter of time before Furiae’s feelings would lead her to take action.

Already at a love overload, the second and final puzzle piece to push Furiae right into Makoto’s arms comes at the hating hands of the church. The church has always had a thing against Furiae, but this latest volume sees them ramp up the rhetoric, putting the Hero of the Sun into action. This ends up spurring Makoto into action.

In terms of power levels, The Hero of the Sun is the strongest enemy Makoto has faced to date. Basically invincible, it takes Makoto breaking all his constraints and becoming an elemental lord to put a stop to him, and even then, it ends up killing him.

Thankfully, he’s brought back through the power of the gods, but for Furiae, the thought of losing Makoto finally gets her to make a move, leading to a rather passionate kiss.

Even Gods Apologise for Mistakes

Ordinarily, the Gods wouldn’t use their powers to bring someone back from the dead; Makoto just so happens to be a special case. As it turns out, The Hero of the Sun was a bit of a cheat. More than an average human, he has the All Father’s blood running through his veins. This mistake is so bad that it requires a visit from Althena, the strongest goddess.

The latest Goddess to make an appearance, Althena isn’t carefree like some of the other Goddesses introduced thus far. Stern but fair, she gives and takes in equal measure – bad news for the church but great for Furiae and the Cambions, who are finally given a place on the continent.

A Parting of the Ways

Unfortunately, allowing Alexander to roam free wasn’t the only slip-up made by the Pantheon. Failing to notice Iblis’ homecoming plan of altering the past, they turn to plan B to ensure the world’s survival.

The plan involves having a weak and unnoticeable hero travel back in time and stop whatever changes Iblis is making to the timeline. Unspeakably dangerous and essentially a death sentence, the plan has Makoto’s name written all over it.

In spite of all his lover’s and friends’ unquestioning rejection of the plan, Makoto forges ahead, taking the plunge into the past. With Makoto gone, the last moments of the volume show the lives of his harem after his departure, and although they live busy lives, it’s obvious that something or someone is missing.

Marking the end of the latest arc, the ninth instalment in the series is filled to the brim with exciting story plots and character moments. The result is a strong volume that makes strides of progress in all facets of the series.

Particular points to highlight include the blossoming relationship between Makoto and Furiae and the introduction of the Goddess Althena. Both are plot threads long in the making and settle story events in the present to make way for a journey into the past.

As Makoto starts a new arc into the world’s dark past alone, the author has a lot of work on their shoulders to ensure the series keeps its strength.

Full Clearing Vol. 9

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

The Ephemeral Scenes of Setsuna’s Journey Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Adventure, Fantasy, Mystery, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Heartwarming, OP, Strong Lead, Weak to Strong

Synopsis:

A THIRD CHANCE AT LIFE

After being summoned to another world as the 68th hero in order to protect the world from monsters, Setsuna Sugimoto is abandoned because of his weak and sickly constitution and waits for his inevitable death. But when he meets Kyle, the former 23rd hero, he is given another chance at life and inherits Kyle’s vast knowledge, power, and life force. Having finally gained the freedom to travel the world, Setsuna embarks on a journey as an adventurer, where he’ll encounter all walks of life, meet new people, and say good-bye to others—each one bound to leave their mark on him and the world. (Source: Yen Press)

A New Life and A Chance for Adventure!

Third Time Lucky

Life has always seemingly dealt Setsuna a bad hand. Constantly ill from a young age back on Earth, his unlucky streak continues as his chance at a new life is scuppered when even the hero summoning doesn’t get rid of his terminal illness. Given only the bare necessity of a hospital bed, it isn’t long before Setsuna realises that this otherworld is extremely harsh and that an early death is inevitable.

Hope, however, sometimes comes from the most unusual of places. On Death’s door, Setsuna is visited by a wandering hero named Kyle. Having lived a long life, he’s decided to trade lives with Setsuna, offering him a chance to explore the world through the use of soul transference. As a result, Setsuna gains immense abilities and knowledge.

Using soul transference as a method for the protagonist to learn abilities and knowledge is unique among the usual tropes of the genre. Rather than focusing on a world transfer or a ceremony giving him power, the author of this story has opted for a technique full of personality. The transfer provides great insight into the former hero’s character. Choosing to hamper some of Setsuna’s power and information until after certain conditions have been met gives the impression of a jovial and teasing man.

Gaining Life Experience

Looking at the start of Setsuna’s journey, the first volume acts as a prologue, and the true start of his travelling doesn’t begin until the last chapter. What this volume does provide, however, is a way for Setsuna to familiarise himself with the otherworld and his powers.

As is natural in most light novel fantasies, his journey to become acquainted with the world starts at the adventurers guild. A veritable well-spring of information, Setsuna plays the game well here, taking on multiple quests that revolve around doing things in groups rather than solo. Through these quests, he learns more and more tidbits of information on how to survive in this harsh world and what it means to be a traveller.

With his knowledge up to code, the last chapter provides the missing piece before Setsuna can set off and see the world. Up until this point, Setsuna’s unique magical abilities had yet to manifest, but after saving a child beastman slave, he unlocks an all-encompassing healing ability.

Naming the child Alto, Setsuna makes him an apprentice to free him from slavery. The two quickly form a father-son bond that’ll likely make for some wonderful heartwarming moments once the journey begins.

Overall, Setsuna’s Journey’s first volume is a major tease for the things we can come to expect once the protagonist starts to travel the world. Characters and world-building have already made themselves a highlight.

Throughout the first volume, readers are greeted with a highly detailed world filled with an array of history and culture to explore. Furthermore, characters are treated as complex and flawed beings, and this stretches to side characters as well as main ones – dynamics between father and son are done especially well.

There’s a lot to like about this fantasy series and undoubtedly a lot to look forward to as well.

Setsuna’s Journey Vol. 1

My Rating: 8.5/10

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 or physically through the list of distributors on the Yen Press website.

Stuck in a Time Loop: When All Else Fails, Be a Villainess Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Fantasy, Romance, Mystery, Villainess, Isekai, Tragedy

Sub-Tags: Time-Loop, Reincarnation, Weak to Strong, Strong Lead

Synopsis:

Selene Vixent has died nine times. In every life, she’s been betrayed by her fiancé, abused by her noble family, and laid low by an untimely end all because she was unable to awaken the power of Sun, a so-called protective gift passed down in her family. Yet Selene is determined to escape this cursed time loop and, after her ninth demise, abandons any further attempts to be a good girl. She awakens to the power of Shadow—seen as an ominous portent of misfortune—and fully embraces her new life as a villainess. But Selene’s dark path is about to take another strange turn when Dier Veldt, the former crown prince, reveals that he knows all about her time loop. He even offers his help, but under one condition: she must kill him in exchange. With her newfound villainy, can Selene break free of this endless time loop once and for all? (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Reincarnated Villainess Wants Revenge!

A Revenge Served in Shadows

Killed time and time again, the beginning of Stuck in a Time Loop’s opening volume finds its protagonist, Selene, at a changing point in her life. Sick of every time loop inevitably ending terribly, she’s decided to stop playing the good daughter, aiming to crush those who’ve wronged her.

The story immediately acts on this statement of intent by showcasing that this new version of Selene can get things done. Now as ruthless as the world she lives in, she spends little time getting her revenge started. After emotionlessly getting through a breaking of an engagement, she turns to start her reign of terror by taking over her family’s house.

Coming face to face with her abusive father and the servants that joined in, there’s no need to wonder why her methods to take over are so merciless. Using her newly awakened shadow powers, she resorts to ultimately humiliating her father. Showing her complete control over the family lineage by proving both the servant’s and military’s allegiance are completely for her and only her.

The Purpose of the Gifts

Whilst revenge and anger dominate the first third of the volume, the story for the rest of the volume changes itself to focus more on the mystery behind the guardian’s powers. While not necessarily meaning that the revenge plan is stopped, it is halted after Selene has a chance encounter with a man nobody remembers, the eldest prince of the Kingdom, Dier.

Dier is described in not too dissimilar fashion to that of an immortal vampire. Searching for a way to die, with his fight against Selene ending in failure, it puts the two on a fateful path. With both searching for a way to end their misery, either at the hands of immortality or time loops, they eventually find a key to their problems hidden deep within the palace walls.

Said key requires the powers of all guardians to activate and thus starts a quest to collect them. Whilst this quest can vary in quality, the mystery aspect is at its best when adding new twists and turns. On that front, the guardian of the forest’s story makes for great intrigue – posing questions over the limits of the central powers and what happens when they aren’t inherited.

The volume ends in an action and cliffhanger-heavy manner. Defeating a world-ending monster reveals that the relationship between the royal brothers is not estranged but loving. As a result, the three of them aim to solve the key behind the world powers, a solution that sees them back in a time loop.

Overall, Stuck in a Time Loop’s first volume is a tale of two halves. The first is purely revenge based, featuring a ruthless protagonist set on stopping her tragic future. The second is a mystery, weaving its way through the heart of what makes the world tick.

Whilst both stand up well, the latter leads to an eventual softening of the protagonist’s character. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it is played into the story a tad too quickly to the point where her past nine lives are almost forgotten. On a more positive note, this softening leads to some wonderful interactions between the two leads as they clumsily navigate a more intimate future.

Stuck in a Time Loop Vol. 1

My Rating: 7/10

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.

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 8 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Video Games, Game Elements, Strong Lead, Gods

Synopsis:

Makoto and his companions have successfully forged an alliance with Great Keith, and the Northern Front Plan is ready to commence! But before that, the heroes and priestesses of the six countries must convene in Highland for a strategy meeting. Unfortunately, Highland’s pope has a vicious vendetta against Makoto and Furiae, so he hurls shocking accusations intended to pit the other nations against them—and it couldn’t come at a worse time, as the King of Beasts and the Abyssal King proceed to launch their demonic forces against humanity. Bolstered by Noah’s anima, Makoto pours all his strength into fighting back the demons, but the alliance is soon rocked by devastating news: the Hero of Light will shine no more. Can Makoto defy fate to save his old friend and pull humanity back from the precipice of annihilation? (Source: J-Novel Club)

The Wars’ Beginning and the Fading Light!

The Hero of Roses’ War

After his successful campaign in Great Keith, Makoto has yet another alliance to add to his belt. These alliances have come just in time, as the latest volume in the series has members of the Northern Front Plan on edge as they expect an imminent attack from one of the world’s demon lords, The King of Beasts.

If Makoto ever hoped to play a major role in the battle, however, he clearly forgot about the deeply ingrained discrimination at the heart of the nation of Highland.

Makoto’s involvement in the Northern Front Plan is heavily opposed by the Pope and his cronies, thus resulting in the first quarter of the volume being entrenched by petty squabbles and politics.

Whilst there may have been a few dissenting voices highlighted in the argument, what’s important to note is the number of allies Makoto has gathered since his first visit to the country. Having seen his true skills in action, many in high-powered positions are finally coming around to having him as part of the battle strategy rather than judging him for following an “evil Goddess.”

Furiae’s Homecoming

As a compromise between the allied nations and the church, Makoto’s role in the upcoming battle sees him defend the ruined nation of Laphroaig. Being Furiae’s home for the first part of her life, this homecoming is something of an emotional rollercoaster.

It’s immediately noticeable the type of suffocating atmosphere that the Priestess of the Moon has had to deal with. The populous of Laphroaig barely go five minutes without checking whether Furiae has left their sights. As a result, Furiae finds herself getting a lot closer to Makoto through a series of late-night conversations.

Volume eight signifies yet more important developments in the relationship between Makoto and Furiae. In every volume since she first set foot on the scene, the story has been signalling the change in Furiae’s feelings for Makoto, from her knight to possible lover. This volume has shown the most significant development yet, as Furiae finally acknowledges her feelings have changed, and she’s ready to fight in the harem arena.

The Hero of Light’s War

The climax of the volume takes place in the heart of the battle. One of the other reasons for the anxiety felt by the Northern Front Alliance is due to Ira’s foresight, predicting the Hero of Light will die by battle’s end.

As the King of Beasts corners The Hero of Light, it gives Makoto the perfect opportunity to enter the heart of the battle to save his friend. Usually, when the series focuses on the friendship between Sakurai and Makoto, any opportunity Makoto is given to shine is suffocated by the overly perfect Sakurai.

Fortunately, this battle strikes the right balance as Makoto’s powers are instrumental in helping Sakurai defeat the King of Beasts. Makoto’s elementalist abilities and Sakurai’s power of light work in perfect harmony, likely giving us a small glimpse into their likely future battle together.

Overall, Full Clearing’s latest volume successfully showcases the first movements of the Northern Front Plan, highlighting political disagreements and battle strategy. Most importantly, for romance fans, the eighth volume gives the most conclusive moments of love between Makoto and Furiae. As several new plots are floated by the end of the volume, things are looking just as interesting for the next couple of volumes!

Full Clearing Another World Vol. 8

My Rating: 8.5/10

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

Magic Stone Gourmet: Eating Magical Power Made Me the Strongest Vol. 1 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Oedipus Complex, Game Elements

Synopsis:

Following a mysterious gacha pull, an unlucky soul is reborn into a fantastical world as the young Ein Roundheart. He possesses a skill that allows him to break down poisonous substances—which is nowhere near as cool as his little brother’s flashy combat skill! Ein does his best, but even so, his father and stepmother bypass him to proclaim their youngest son the heir to the household. And things only get more complicated from there. On the heels of a fateful encounter with a young girl named Krone, Ein and his mother are shunned by the family and decide to take refuge in her home kingdom…where Ein is suddenly declared the crown prince! This marks the beginning of a whole new life for Ein, and he’s out to prove that he’s worthy of the crown. (Source: J-Novel Club)

From Shunned Noble to Exalted Crown Prince!

Complex, Thy Name is Oedipus

It’s rare for me to find a light novel I have difficulty reviewing. At the heart of the issue lies my conflicting feelings on this series’ present and knowing what’s to come in its future. Before reading Magic Stone’s pre-pub, I had already indulged in the fan translation and have a good perspective on how good the series will get. As a result, I’m conflicted as to whether to tell my readers about the series’ big issue without giving proper context as to how it’ll develop in the future.

The big issue in question involves two plot points surrounding Ein’s mother, Olivia. The first looks at Olivia and Ein’s relationship as mother and son and the particular “closeness” the two share.

Likely developed due to the isolation the two shared whilst a part of the Roundheart family, the author creates a lot of mental gymnastics to explain how the two could end up romantically involved. Those worried about how this develops in the future shouldn’t be too concerned as (SPOILER) it’s put on a heavy back-burner.

The second plot issue is less of an issue and more of a point of potential discord. After deciding to return to the home kingdom of Ishtarica, the reason for leaving beyond Ein being shunned is revealed. The marriage of the Crown Princess to the Roundheart’s son was purely political and put in place until Olivia could find an alternative source of sea crystals. Contention arises over whether the son knew about this arrangement, Olivia’s actions over birthing her son, and when exactly the son took on a second wife.

A Prologue to Adventure

Away from the problematic family relationship, the series at large is a fun fantasy adventure that serves as a prologue to the true start of the story.

Compared to Heim’s medieval ways, Ishtarica is positively cosmopolitan, filled with modern comforts. The differences between these nations parallel the gap between Ein’s noble beginnings and the fact that he has to learn what it means to be a crown prince.

Determined to emulate the legend of the first king, Ein’s first steps to becoming a successful prince involve mastering his detoxification abilities. A unique skill compared to most of the light novel fantasy genre, it allows Ein to learn skills by eating toxic magic stones. It’s appreciated that this skill requires mastery, and Ein isn’t shown as OP immediately after learning to use the ability.

Diplomacy makes up the second part of Ein’s princely training, an arc that pays off by the end of the volume as he riffs off the first king’s speech to save his betrothed.

Alongside Ein’s efforts, the series introduces several interesting members to the supporting cast. Krone and Chris are great, but the real standout belongs to Katima. She’s a bit of a loose cannon, constantly performing mad experiments and getting Ein involved in crazy schemes. She’s a lot of fun!

Setting aside the volume’s singular issue, Magic Stone Gourmet is a fun fantasy read that takes its main protagonist out of their comfort zone to learn the ways of royalty. With tangible development in character growth and a set of charismatic side characters, there’s certainly a lot to love about this series.

Magic Stone Gourmet 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 on the J-Novel Club website.