Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on It Turns Out, They Are the Protagonists
"It Turns Out, They Are the Protagonists" is a novel that grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise: a transmigrator who aims to become a kept man by seducing the female leads, who are the actual protagonists. After diving in, I can see why it has a dedicated following, even if it’s not without its flaws.
First Impressions
The story starts with Mu Zhi'an, our MC, waking up in the body of a villainous young master. Immediately, I was drawn to the idea of a protagonist who uses cunning and charisma rather than brute force. The initial chapters set the stage for a fun, scheming adventure, reminiscent of "I Am The Fated Villain" but with a lighter touch. The focus on character interactions and clever planning appealed to me more than endless cultivation and combat.
What Works Well
The biggest strength of this novel is its character interactions. The relationships between Mu Zhi'an and his harem are genuinely entertaining. The female characters aren't just cardboard cutouts; they have distinct personalities and motivations. I found myself enjoying the "shura field" as Mu Zhi'an juggled multiple relationships, often with hilarious consequences. The comedy is well-executed, and the shamelessness of the MC adds to the fun. I appreciated the novel's focus on the romantic elements, which felt more developed than in many other cultivation stories. The world-building, while not the primary focus, adds a layer of depth to the story.
Areas of Concern
One aspect that I found somewhat lacking was the cultivation system. It felt underdeveloped and, at times, forced. Additionally, the antagonists, while providing obstacles for the MC, often came across as too dumb or one-dimensional. I also noticed that the plot can feel aimless at times, with a lack of clear direction or overarching goal. The MC's lack of proactive action could also be frustrating.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers might be disappointed by how the author introduces too many female leads and does not give them all adequate attention. Also, the ending might feel rushed or incomplete.
Final Verdict
Overall, "It Turns Out, They Are the Protagonists" is an enjoyable read, especially if you're looking for a harem xianxia with a focus on character interactions and romance. While it has its flaws, the strengths of the novel outweigh its weaknesses. I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys lighthearted, character-driven stories with a healthy dose of comedy and shamelessness. Just don't expect a deep, complex plot or groundbreaking world-building.
