Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on It’s Not That I Like Using a Blunt Weapon!
This web novel definitely has a unique premise, and after diving in, I can see why it's garnered such mixed reactions. It's a lighthearted story about a protagonist who, despite societal prejudice against blunt weapons, strives to become a powerful adventurer. There's a certain charm to the idea, but the execution seems to be a sticking point for many, including myself.
First Impressions
The initial chapters drew me in with the novelty of the concept. Hanna, the main character, is undeniably likeable, and her optimistic attitude is refreshing. The world, however, felt a little shaky from the start.
What Works Well
I appreciate the focus on Hanna's determination and growth. She's portrayed as a hard-working protagonist who overcomes adversity, and that's always a compelling narrative. The author does a decent job of portraying her journey from underdog to someone with significant power, even if the specifics are sometimes questionable. Also, the translation is well-done and easy to read.
Areas of Concern
One of my main issues lies in the world-building. The prejudice against blunt weapons feels contrived, especially considering how reliant society is on the tools created by blacksmiths and carpenters. It creates a sense of disbelief that's hard to shake. The power scaling also feels inconsistent. Hanna can defeat powerful monsters, yet struggles against lower-ranked adventurers, which makes little sense.
The side characters are another area of concern. Many of them feel one-dimensional, existing solely to create conflict or blindly support the protagonist. Rozelia, in particular, seems to be a point of contention for many readers. Her sudden shift from bully to obsessive friend feels forced and lacks proper development.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several readers have pointed out Rozelia's abrupt change in character after Hanna saves her life. This sudden shift, without any real acknowledgment of past behavior or genuine reconciliation, feels unearned and negatively impacts the overall story for some.
Final Verdict
"It’s Not That I Like Using a Blunt Weapon!" is a flawed but potentially enjoyable read. If you're looking for a lighthearted story with a likeable protagonist and don't mind overlooking some inconsistencies in world-building and character development, you might find it entertaining. However, if you prioritize logical consistency and well-developed side characters, this might not be the novel for you. I'm giving it a 3/5. It has its moments, but the issues ultimately hold it back from being truly great.