Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Seijo no Hazu ga, Douyara Nottoraremashita
"Seijo no Hazu ga, Douyara Nottoraremashita" (That Time I Was Supposed to Be a Saint, But It Seems I Was Robbed of the Position) is a completed web novel that I recently dove into, and my experience was...mixed. It's a story about Anise, a girl summoned to another world alongside her friend, only to be deemed the "fake saint" and cast out. She decides to carve her own path, seeking refuge and protection with the General of the neighboring Farglow Kingdom.
First Impressions
Initially, I was intrigued by the premise. The idea of a "fake saint" trying to survive in a world that expects her to be something she's not offered a lot of potential. The setup felt like it could lead to a compelling revenge story or, at the very least, a unique twist on the isekai trope.
What Works Well
I found the relationship between Anise and General Lector to be quite charming. Lector is a flirty and proactive love interest, which is a refreshing change from the cold, indifferent types often found in similar stories. The dynamic between them, with Anise being denser than a brick when it comes to his advances, creates some genuinely funny moments. I also appreciated the inclusion of characters like Father Austin, who adds a comedic element to the story.
Areas of Concern
However, as the story progressed, I started to lose some of my initial enthusiasm. I felt the plot became somewhat generic, falling into familiar "doting prince" tropes. I agree with the sentiment that Anise's character seemed to lose some of her initial proactiveness, becoming more passive as the story went on. The ending felt rushed and left several plot threads unresolved, such as the conflict with the queen.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers might be interested in knowing that Anise and Lector do eventually get married (Chapter 48). However, the focus shifts to their domestic life afterward, with less emphasis on the overarching plot. Also, the identity of the Farglow soldier is revealed in Chapter 34.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Seijo no Hazu ga, Douyara Nottoraremashita" is a decent read, especially if you're looking for a lighthearted romance with a fantasy setting. While it has its flaws, the endearing characters and humorous interactions make it an enjoyable experience. Just don't expect a groundbreaking plot or a deeply complex narrative. I'd recommend it if you're in the mood for something simple and fun, but be aware that the story's quality dips a bit as it progresses.
