Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Lillia to Treize
First Impressions
Alright, let's dive into "Lillia to Treize," the next chapter in the Roxche and Sou-Be-Il saga. As a fan of the original "Allison," I was excited to see what adventures awaited us with Allison's daughter, Lillia. The European ambience, political intrigue, and promise of more aerial escapades definitely piqued my interest. The childhood friends-to-lovers trope with a hidden prince twist? Sounds like a recipe for a fun read!
What Works Well
The world-building continues to be a strong point. It's always a pleasure to revisit this setting, with its unique history and geopolitical tensions. The plot itself is engaging, throwing you into a mix of action sequences, conspiracies, and suspenseful moments. There's a murder mystery element, a hostage situation, and even a thrilling battle on a runaway train – definitely keeps you on your toes. The return of familiar faces from the original series is a welcome touch, providing a sense of continuity and nostalgia for long-time readers. It's nice to see how the world and its characters have evolved.
Areas of Concern
However, I have to admit, the main characters didn’t quite resonate with me as much as Allison and Wil did. Lillia, while spunky, can come across as a bit abrasive. She's portrayed as assertive, but sometimes it felt like she was just bossing Treize around. Treize, on the other hand, while undeniably skilled, often felt like he lacked the backbone to stand up to her. Their dynamic didn't quite capture the same sense of mutual respect and complementary strengths that made Allison and Wil so compelling. I found myself more invested in the side characters and the overall plot than in the central romance.
Final Verdict
"Lillia to Treize" is a decent addition to the "Allison" universe, offering a thrilling plot and a chance to revisit a beloved world. While the main characters might not be as endearing as their predecessors, the engaging story and familiar faces make it a worthwhile read, especially if you're invested in the overarching narrative and eager to explore the other spinoffs and sequels.
