Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Common Sense of a Warrior
"Common Sense of a Warrior" promised a compelling backstory to Iris's mother from "Common Sense of a Duke's Daughter," and after diving in, I found it to be a mixed bag. While it has its charms, some aspects left me wanting more.
First Impressions
The initial chapters pulled me in with the premise of Melice's transformation from a tomboyish warrior seeking revenge to the elegant woman we see in the main series. I was immediately curious about how her relationships developed, especially her bond with her future husband. However, the pacing felt a bit off at times, jumping around without a clear direction, which made it a bit hard to get my bearings initially.
What Works Well
The core of the story – Melice's journey and character development – is undeniably engaging. Seeing her grapple with loss and find her purpose in wielding a sword was genuinely heartwarming. I particularly enjoyed the exploration of familial love and the strong female lead. I also appreciated the European ambience and the aristocratic setting, which added a layer of depth to the world-building. For fans of the main series, this prequel offers a deeper understanding of a beloved character and her origins.
Areas of Concern
However, I did find some issues that detracted from my overall enjoyment. The plot felt somewhat rushed, especially towards the end. The resolution of the decisive battle felt anticlimactic, and the swift wrapping up of the story left me wanting more closure, particularly regarding the romantic aspects. I also had some reservations about the depiction of the main characters' relationship; their early interactions felt a bit too mature for their age, which created a slight sense of unease. Additionally, the writing felt a bit bland, and some characters seemed somewhat two-dimensional, which made it difficult to fully connect with them. Finally, the chapters were often too short, which disrupted the flow and made it difficult to fully immerse myself in the story.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Be aware that this story contains spoilers for character deaths, including Anna, Bern/Abel, Granny, the ML's mother, and Sharia.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Common Sense of a Warrior" is an enjoyable read, especially for those already invested in the "Common Sense of a Duke's Daughter" universe. It provides valuable context and a deeper appreciation for Melice's character. However, the pacing issues, somewhat rushed ending, and occasional plot holes prevent it from reaching its full potential. I'd recommend it with reservations, suggesting readers manage their expectations and focus on enjoying the character development rather than a perfectly polished plot.
