Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Please Stop Pretending To Be a Cute Newcomer!
"Please Stop Pretending To Be a Cute Newcomer!" is a delightful surprise, especially if you're looking for something a little different in the infinite flow genre. I went in expecting a standard horror escape game, but what I found was a story brimming with humor, a shameless MC, and a surprisingly sweet romance.
First Impressions
The premise alone hooked me. A lazy, powerful MC who just wants to retire and latch onto a "golden thigh"? Sign me up! I was immediately drawn to the dynamic between Shen Qingchen (aka Meiren), our cunning MC, and Lu Qi, the stoic but devoted ML. The initial chapters set the stage well, introducing the horror game world and hinting at the MC's hidden depths.
What Works Well
The characters are definitely the highlight. I absolutely adore the MC's brazen flirting and how he constantly leaves everyone speechless. The ML's slow descent into doting indulgence is also incredibly endearing. The romance is a slow burn, but once they get together, it's pure sugar. I found myself laughing out loud at their interactions.
The story's blend of horror and comedy is also well-executed. While the arcs can be intriguing, the focus is more on the characters and their interactions than on intricate mystery-solving. The MC's relaxed attitude towards the terrifying situations creates a unique and often comedic atmosphere, making it a less stressful read compared to some other novels in the genre. I also appreciated the fact that there's no amnesia plotline, which seems to be a common trope in these types of stories.
Areas of Concern
While I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, I can see how some readers might find certain aspects less appealing. As the story progresses, some of the "COPY"s they played become less interesting. Also, the focus shifts slightly, with the MC relying less on his "cute newcomer" act and more on his inherent abilities. Also, the author didn't tell much of their lives every after instances nor the players interaction outside the copy.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers may be disappointed to learn that amnesia does appear in the story. The collection of yin energy from ghosts is a central plot point.
Final Verdict
Overall, I highly recommend "Please Stop Pretending To Be a Cute Newcomer!" if you're looking for a lighthearted and entertaining read with a unique MC and a sweet romance. It's not a deeply complex or terrifying horror story, but it is a fun and engaging one. I'd give it a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. Definitely worth checking out if you need a break from more intense novels!
