Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on He’s Pregnant with the Major General’s Fish Cub
This novel was quite the ride! From the bizarre title to the mashup of genres, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I ended up finding it a mostly enjoyable and fluffy read. It's definitely one of those stories where you need to leave your brain at the door and just enjoy the ride.
First Impressions
Initially, I was thrown for a loop. The premise is definitely out there: a young prince suddenly discovers he's a mermaid, a prophetic (and rather smutty) book falls into his lap, and the Major General can hear his thoughts! It's a lot to take in at once, and it starts off a little confusing. However, once I got past the initial shock, the story started to click.
What Works Well
The humor is definitely a strong point. The misunderstandings between the MC and ML are hilarious, especially since the ML can hear the MC's... ahem..."interesting" inner monologue. The age gap between them works surprisingly well, with the ML displaying a maturity and understanding that's quite endearing. I also appreciated that the story doesn't take itself too seriously. It's pure, unadulterated fluff, perfect for when you need a lighthearted escape. The world-building is surprisingly well-done, considering the comedic nature of the story. It's a fun blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and mecha elements that create a unique and engaging backdrop.
Areas of Concern
While I mostly enjoyed the novel, there were a few things that didn't quite sit right with me. The ending felt a bit rushed, with the interstellar war being summarized rather than shown. This led to a loss of momentum and made the conclusion feel somewhat anticlimactic. Also, some readers may find the MC's initial inner monologues and judgements a bit annoying, even if he never acts on them outwardly.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers may find the depiction of the Emperor's grief over the broken "mermaid egg" to be in poor taste, especially given the circumstances surrounding it. While the novel treats it as a comedic moment, it can be interpreted as mocking a father's love and grief. Also, the story of how the MC's parents were separated, and the role of the Queen, is also a point of contention for some readers.
Final Verdict
Overall, "He’s Pregnant with the Major General’s Fish Cub" is a fun and fluffy read that's perfect for those looking for a lighthearted escape. While it has its flaws, the humor, cute characters, and unique premise make it an enjoyable experience. Just be prepared to suspend your disbelief and embrace the absurdity! I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.