Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on She Is Not a Witch
"She Is Not a Witch" is a sprawling fantasy epic, and diving into it has been quite the experience. It's a novel that clearly aims high, crafting a world rich with history and complex characters. While it has some stumbling blocks along the way, the journey is ultimately rewarding.
First Impressions
Initially, the novel had a somewhat slow start. The early chapters are heavy on world-building and exposition, which can feel like info-dumping at times. It has a strong isekai feel, with a female protagonist dropped into a new world with a system. This system grants her access to knowledge from Earth, which she uses to shake up the established order. The pacing feels uneven, with moments of rapid progression interspersed with stretches of slower, slice-of-life content.
What Works Well
The world-building is undeniably a strong point. The author has clearly put a lot of thought into the history, cultures, and power structures of this world. I particularly enjoyed how the novel explores themes of industrial revolution and societal change within a fantasy setting. The character of Lorraine Hill, the "witch," is also compelling. Her growth feels organic, evolving from a shy, quiet girl into a leader while retaining her core personality. The story's exploration of philosophical and moral dilemmas adds another layer of depth, making it more than just a simple fantasy adventure. The later volumes especially shine, with intricate plots, character development, and surprising twists.
Areas of Concern
The pacing can be inconsistent, particularly in the middle volumes. There are moments where the story feels bogged down with unnecessary filler or lengthy descriptions that don't always serve the plot. Also, while Lorraine is an interesting character, her abilities lean heavily toward support rather than combat, which might not appeal to all readers. Some might wish she were more proactive or relied more on the wisdom of other witches.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers found the way Lorraine changes the world with her knowledge of Earth books to be too forced, and the romantic subplot didn't feel particularly engaging.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "She Is Not a Witch" is a worthwhile read for those who enjoy epic fantasy with a strong female lead and intricate world-building. While the pacing can be uneven and some aspects might not appeal to every reader, the novel's strengths in character development, world-building, and thematic depth make it a rewarding experience overall. If you're willing to invest the time, "She Is Not a Witch" offers a rich and immersive fantasy world to explore.
