Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Reincarnated as the Legitimate Son of a Duke Family’s ~ Just Trying To Live Live My Life Normally, But Somehow I’ve Got a Harem?~
I went into "Reincarnated as the Legitimate Son of a Duke Family’s ~ Just Trying To Live Live My Life Normally, But Somehow I’ve Got a Harem?~" with cautious optimism, the title alone being quite the mouthful. The premise is familiar, but I always hope for a fresh take on the isekai genre. Unfortunately, my experience was a bit of a mixed bag, leaving me feeling rather underwhelmed.
First Impressions
Initially, I was intrigued by the potential for a lighthearted story with elements of fantasy, romance, and slice-of-life. The tags promised a world filled with beastkin and demi-humans, which sounded like a fun setting. The "trying to live normally" aspect also suggested a protagonist who might be a refreshing change from the typical power-hungry reincarnations.
What Works Well
The story does have moments where it hints at something more. The school arc, while a common trope, isn't necessarily a bad thing if executed well. There's a glimmer of potential in the world-building and the interaction between different races. The author seemed to be aiming for a multi-racial harem setup, which, in itself, isn't inherently flawed. There's a base idea here that could be expanded upon.
Areas of Concern
My biggest issue lies with the protagonist, Alex. His characterization leans heavily into the "beta MC" archetype, and I found myself getting frustrated with his indecisiveness and constant need to explain himself. This is particularly noticeable in his interactions with Serena, the "tsundere princess." Her behavior comes across as needlessly antagonistic, and Alex's reaction to it feels overly apologetic and spineless. It's a dynamic that quickly becomes tiresome.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several readers have pointed to the introduction of Merle, the dog-eared girl, as a turning point where the story's quality dips. Apparently, Alex becomes her caretaker, which triggers Serena's jealousy and leads to frustrating interactions. The constant apologizing and inability to stand up for himself makes it difficult to root for Alex.
Final Verdict
Ultimately, "Reincarnated as the Legitimate Son of a Duke Family’s ~ Just Trying To Live Live My Life Normally, But Somehow I’ve Got a Harem?~" falls short of its potential. While it has glimpses of promise in its world-building and premise, the weak protagonist and frustrating character dynamics make it a difficult read. I'm left feeling that the author may have lost interest in the story, which is a shame, because with some revisions and a stronger lead, it could have been something more. As it stands, I can't wholeheartedly recommend it.
