Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on It’s Not Easy To Be A Villain This Time
"It's Not Easy To Be A Villain This Time" is a novel I went into with mixed expectations, given the varied opinions surrounding it. The premise itself – a transmigration into a game world with a competitive MC and a potentially tragic female lead – definitely piqued my interest. After diving in, I can see why some readers are head-over-heels for this story, while others are left wanting.
First Impressions
Initially, I found myself agreeing with the sentiment that the story starts somewhat slow and with familiar tropes. The early chapters felt a little cliché, and I wasn't immediately blown away. However, I decided to stick with it, and I'm glad I did, as the narrative does get more complex and intriguing as it progresses.
What Works Well
One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the dynamic between the main character, Ji Rong, and Gu Baiyi, the female lead. Ji Rong's initial desire to ship Baiyi with another character, only to realize the game's "dog planner" (the game developer) intended for them to be together, is a fun twist. The author has created a unique plotline and character development that challenged my initial clichéd expectations. The storyline involving Ji Rong's past lives as Sanhua and Yue Yanqiu is another highlight, adding layers to her character and deepening her connection with Baiyi. The story is a slow-burn romance with lots of fluff and mushy scenes.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed many aspects of the story, I can also understand some of the criticisms. The pacing might be too slow for some readers, and the initial reliance on established tropes could deter those looking for something immediately groundbreaking. One of the more controversial elements seems to be the "system" used to filter the main character's actions. While some might find it a useful tool for character development, others might see it as an unnecessary and intrusive element that detracts from the story's potential.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Proceed with caution, spoilers ahead!
The female lead's transmigration is a major plot point, as is the reveal of the MC's past lives. If you want to experience these reveals organically, I recommend skipping this section.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "It's Not Easy To Be A Villain This Time" has a lot to offer, especially for fans of yuri, xianxia, and transmigration stories. The complex characters, intriguing plot twists, and heartwarming romance make it a worthwhile read, provided you're willing to be patient with the initial pacing and potentially divisive system element. I would recommend this novel to people who enjoy a slow-burn romance with a lot of character development and plot twists.
