Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on I Was Banished Because the Hero Party Didn’t Need an Assassin, so I Started Guarding My Childhood Friend, the Second Princess!
This web novel, "I Was Banished Because the Hero Party Didn’t Need an Assassin, so I Started Guarding My Childhood Friend, the Second Princess!" definitely had some interesting concepts that caught my eye, but the execution, in my opinion, leaves a lot to be desired.
First Impressions
The premise itself is intriguing. A protagonist, seemingly overpowered but oblivious, getting the boot from the hero party and then dedicating himself to protecting a childhood friend who just happens to be royalty? It has potential for a fun blend of action, romance, and comedy. But the initial chapters didn't quite grab me as much as I'd hoped.
What Works Well
Honestly, the "strong but doesn't know it" trope can be entertaining if done well. The dynamic between the banished assassin and the second princess also holds promise. There's the potential for a compelling romance and some lighthearted moments as he navigates his new role as her bodyguard. I can see how the premise could be adapted well into a manga as the tags suggest.
Areas of Concern
My main issue lies in the protagonist's characterization. I found myself a bit frustrated with his constant self-blame and lack of self-awareness. It felt a little overdone and predictable. I also struggled with the portrayal of the hero party, who came across as rather dense and lacking in common sense. This made it difficult to invest in the overall narrative. The beginning felt a bit slow, and I didn't find myself immediately hooked. While the idea has merit, the writing needs some refinement to truly shine.
Final Verdict
"I Was Banished Because the Hero Party Didn’t Need an Assassin, so I Started Guarding My Childhood Friend, the Second Princess!" has a foundation for an enjoyable story. However, the execution needs improvement in terms of character development and pacing. It's not a complete disaster, and some readers might find enjoyment in the tropes it employs. But, ultimately, I felt like it fell short of its potential.
