Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on I Shall Survive Using Potions!
"I Shall Survive Using Potions!" promised a fun, lighthearted isekai adventure, and while it delivers on some of that promise, it also stumbles in ways that left me feeling a bit conflicted. The premise is simple: a reincarnated protagonist armed with potion-making cheats navigates a fantasy world. It's got all the hallmarks of a comfy read, but the execution is where things get tricky.
First Impressions
Initially, I was hooked by the idea of a clever female protagonist using her wits and potion skills to carve out a peaceful life. The early chapters had a certain charm, and I was eager to see how Kaoru would use her abilities. However, that enthusiasm waned as the story progressed.
What Works Well
The humor is definitely a strong point. There are moments of genuine comedic gold, particularly in Kaoru's interactions with the world around her. I also appreciated the "instant karma" aspect; seeing bad guys get their comeuppance is always satisfying. I can see why some readers enjoy the MC and how she interacts with people. The author writes her in such a way that she learns from her mistakes and she isn't completely ignorant of her surroundings.
Areas of Concern
My biggest issue lies in the inconsistencies of Kaoru's character. She's often touted as intelligent, but her actions frequently contradict this, leading to frustrating situations where she draws unnecessary attention to herself despite supposedly wanting a quiet life. It feels like the plot dictates her actions more than her own internal logic. Also, the potion-making aspect, while central to the story, sometimes feels like a convenient deus ex machina, solving problems a little too easily. This removes some of the tension and excitement.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, I have to address the elephant in the room: the time skip. Several readers were extremely unhappy about the events that occur after chapter 167. Apparently, a significant time jump occurs, aging or killing off the original cast and introducing new characters. This seems to drastically alter the dynamic of the story, and not in a good way. I haven't read far enough to experience this myself, but it's a significant point of contention that's worth noting.
Final Verdict
"I Shall Survive Using Potions!" has moments of genuine fun and comedic relief, and the premise is appealing. However, inconsistencies in the main character's behavior and some questionable plot developments ultimately hold it back. It's an okay read if you're looking for something lighthearted and don't mind overlooking some flaws, but it falls short of its potential. I'd give it a tentative 3/5.
