Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on I Decided to Abandon the Traitors Who Planned to Use and Dispose of Me, the Hero, at the Last Moment.
First Impressions
Okay, so diving into this title, I Decided to Abandon the Traitors…, I was definitely intrigued by the premise. Betrayal, revenge, a hero scorned? Sign me up! I went in expecting a dark, gritty tale of vengeance, and while it delivered on that front, it also surprised me with some comedic elements. It’s a short, complete story, which is always a plus when I'm looking for a quick read.
What Works Well
The initial setup is undeniably strong. The betrayal stings, and the author does a good job of making you feel the protagonist's pain and anger. I found myself immediately invested in seeing those who wronged him get their just desserts. The revenge plot, at first, is quite satisfying, and I appreciated that the author didn't shy away from the darker aspects of seeking retribution. Also, I thought the "bro" dynamic with the hero's companions was a fun twist, adding a lighter touch to an otherwise grim narrative. The ending, while perhaps not universally loved, did offer a sense of closure.
Areas of Concern
While the core concept is solid, the execution falters in some areas. The revenge plot, while initially engaging, can feel drawn out and repetitive. The antagonists, while meant to be despicable, sometimes veer into cartoonishly evil territory, making them less compelling as characters and more like plot devices. This, in turn, diminishes the impact of their downfall. I also felt that some of the non-MC POV chapters detracted from the main narrative, rather than enhancing my understanding or enjoyment. The world-building is also pretty basic, so if you're looking for something deep and complex, this might not be it.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers felt that the evil deeds of the villains were increasingly exaggerated as the story progressed, seemingly to justify the severity of the revenge.
Final Verdict
Ultimately, I Decided to Abandon the Traitors… is a mixed bag. It's a quick and easy read that delivers on its promise of revenge, but the execution is uneven. If you're looking for a short, cathartic story with a heavy emphasis on payback and don't mind some over-the-top villains, this might be worth your time. However, if you prefer more nuanced characters and a tightly woven plot, you might find yourself feeling a bit unfulfilled. I'd give it a tentative recommendation, but with the caveat that it's best enjoyed as a light, somewhat mindless revenge fantasy.
