Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Repeat Vice – The Villainous Noble Doesn’t Want to Die, So He Swore to Not Die As One of The Four Heavenly Kings (WN)
First Impressions
Okay, that title is a mouthful, I know. But trust me, underneath the lengthy title lies a pretty engaging story. I went in expecting your typical villain-reincarnation trope, but I was pleasantly surprised. The premise is intriguing: a noble, determined to avoid a gruesome fate as one of the Four Heavenly Kings, vows to change his destiny. It's a solid foundation, and the story builds upon it nicely.
What Works Well
What immediately grabbed me was the main character. He's not your run-of-the-mill, overly righteous protagonist. In fact, he starts out acting quite villainous, which is a refreshing change. However, the story does a great job of showing his development as he begins to care more about the people around him – his friends, family, and even the heroines. The romance is also a plus. I appreciate that the author avoids unnecessary drama and clears up misunderstandings quickly. The MC is direct and honest, which makes the relationships feel more genuine and less frustrating. I also found the side characters to be well-developed and interesting, each with their own backstories and motivations that contribute to the overall narrative. The dynamic between the Four Heavenly Kings and their Demon King is surprisingly wholesome, which adds a unique and enjoyable element to the story.
Areas of Concern
If I had to nitpick, the power scaling can feel a bit wonky at times. The MC, even at a young age, is incredibly strong, which can make some conflicts feel less impactful. Also, while the world-building exists, it's not the strongest aspect of the novel. I would have liked a bit more depth and detail regarding the history, legends, and overall structure of the world.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, here's where I have to tread carefully. There's one character, Asteria, that some readers seem to strongly dislike. I won't delve into the specifics to avoid major spoilers, but be warned that her presence might be a point of contention for some. Also, Raymond, the MC's best friend, has a particularly tragic backstory that some readers may find upsetting.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Repeat Vice" is a worthwhile read, especially if you enjoy harem stories with an OP protagonist who isn't afraid to be a bit ruthless. The unique character dynamics, engaging plot, and refreshing take on the villainous noble trope make it stand out from the crowd. Despite some minor flaws in power scaling and world-building, I found myself thoroughly entertained and eager to see where the story goes next. I'd give it a solid recommendation.
