Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on After I Transmigrated as a Mermaid, I Transmigrated Back
This web novel, After I Transmigrated as a Mermaid, I Transmigrated Back, certainly took me on a ride! With its blend of modern-day fantasy, action, and yuri romance, it's a unique story that has a lot going for it, but also some noticeable drawbacks.
First Impressions
The premise is undeniably intriguing. A transmigration story where the protagonist becomes a mermaid and then returns to her human life? Sign me up! I was initially hooked by the idea of a strong female lead navigating the complexities of human society with her newfound supernatural abilities. The beginning does a solid job of establishing the world and the characters, drawing you into the MC's journey of rediscovering her human life.
What Works Well
One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the romance. I found the relationship between the MC and her love interest to be genuinely sweet and well-developed, especially how their dynamic starts early on. The author manages to portray a believable and engaging connection between the two, which is a definite plus in the yuri genre. The action sequences are also a highlight, bringing a cool and dynamic element to the story that isn't always present in romance-focused novels. I also appreciated the steady plot progression and the satisfying way the story wrapped up.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed many aspects of the story, there are definitely areas where it falls short. The pacing sometimes felt rushed, and I felt like certain plot points could have been explored in more depth. Some plot holes and inconsistencies also started to become apparent. The world-building, while initially strong, suffers later on, particularly in the depiction of certain regions. Also, the tonal shift towards nationalism in the later chapters felt jarring and out of place.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have pointed out problematic depictions of Africa, filled with stereotypes. The portrayal of the continent, its people, and its supernatural elements relies on dated and harmful tropes, which is a significant issue that detracts from the overall experience. There are also questions raised regarding the grandmother's identity and how certain photos exist, creating logical inconsistencies within the narrative. Also, the ending might feel abrupt, with missed opportunities for a more meaningful proposal or exploration of the couple's future.
Final Verdict
Overall, After I Transmigrated as a Mermaid, I Transmigrated Back is an enjoyable read with a captivating premise and a sweet romance. However, it's important to be aware of its flaws, particularly the pacing issues, plot holes, and problematic depictions in the later chapters. If you're looking for a lighthearted yuri fantasy with action and are willing to overlook some inconsistencies, then this novel might be worth a try. Just be prepared for a few bumps along the way.
