Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on I Was a Woman but now I’m the Main Hero.
First Impressions
"I Was a Woman but now I’m the Main Hero" is a whirlwind of fantasy tropes and gender-bending fun. The premise alone grabbed my attention, and I dove in expecting a unique take on the isekai genre. While it delivered on some fronts, I found myself a bit disoriented at times, like navigating a maze with shifting walls. It's a short read, which is both a blessing and a curse.
What Works Well
The early romance aspect is definitely a highlight. The "love interest falls in love first" trope is executed well enough to keep me invested. The initial setup, with the MC as a crown prince trying to salvage his engagement, is intriguing. I also appreciate that the translation seems to be well done, which made the reading experience smoother. The short length of the story, despite its drawbacks, does mean it's a quick and easy read if you're looking for something to pass the time.
Areas of Concern
Honestly, the plot felt convoluted. There's a lot happening in a very short space, and it sometimes feels like the author is throwing everything at the wall to see what sticks. The world-building also felt a bit underdeveloped; I wasn't entirely sure of the rules or the stakes. I struggled to keep track of the characters, especially with names that felt too similar. The writing style itself can be a bit messy, making it difficult to fully immerse myself in the story. This resulted in me having to skim certain sections, which detracted from the overall experience.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, so here's where things get a bit spoilery. The fact that the FL is actually a princess from another kingdom masquerading as a maid is a major plot point. And the quick marriage proposal based on the MC's "capabilities" feels a little rushed.
Final Verdict
"I Was a Woman but now I’m the Main Hero" is a mixed bag. It has moments of genuine charm and an interesting premise, but it's bogged down by a confusing plot and underdeveloped world-building. If you're looking for a quick, trope-filled read and don't mind a bit of confusion, it might be worth checking out. However, if you prefer a more polished and coherent story, you might want to give this one a pass. I'd give it a cautious 3 out of 5 stars.