Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Although I Am Supposed to Be the Villainess (Planned), I Just Want to Eat Confectionery – I Will Aim for a Peaceful Life with the Block Skill
This title is quite a mouthful, isn't it? I dove into "Although I Am Supposed to Be the Villainess..." with a mix of excitement and trepidation, and I have to say, my experience was a bit of a mixed bag. While the premise is undeniably charming, the execution left me wanting in several areas.
First Impressions
The initial chapters hooked me with the promise of a villainess who just wants to bake and avoid drama. The idea of a "block skill" being used for peaceful confectionery consumption is inherently comedic, and I was eager to see how the author would develop this unique concept. The early focus on the protagonist's relationship with her house and the mysterious confectionery was definitely a highlight.
What Works Well
The world-building, at least initially, felt intriguing. I appreciated the hints of deeper mysteries and the potential for complex family relationships. The characters, especially in the beginning, were well-defined and held promise. I found the initial interactions between the protagonist and her (eventual) ex-fiancé to be quite engaging, showcasing a level of awareness that's often missing in similar stories.
Areas of Concern
Unfortunately, the plot development felt rushed and, at times, disjointed. I felt like several interesting plot threads were introduced but then either dropped entirely or resolved in a very unsatisfying manner. The "block skill," despite being in the title, felt underutilized, and the focus shifted away from the confectionery aspect far too quickly. The story seemed to prioritize the romance, falling into familiar Cinderella tropes, while neglecting other potentially compelling elements.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, let's talk spoilers for a moment. I was particularly disappointed by the handling of the protagonist's father and the neighboring country's general. The potential for a traitorous plotline was dangled, only to be left unresolved. Similarly, the "prophecy" dream that sets the story in motion felt largely irrelevant by the end. The resolution of the ex-fiancé and his mistress's storyline also felt rushed and unearned, especially considering their earlier actions. And what was the deal with the Holy King? It felt like a deus ex machina.
Final Verdict
"Although I Am Supposed to Be the Villainess..." has a lot of potential, but ultimately falls short of delivering a truly satisfying experience. While the initial premise and character interactions are promising, the rushed plot, underdeveloped side plots, and underutilization of key elements leave me feeling somewhat disappointed. If you're a fan of the "tragic villainess finds happiness" trope, you might still find enjoyment here, but be prepared for a bumpy ride.
