Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Starting as a Manga Editor
"Starting as a Manga Editor" initially pulled me in with its premise: a blend of the familiar "isekai'd into a new life" trope with a focus on the vibrant world of manga and anime production. While the gender-bender aspect isn't usually my cup of tea, I was willing to give it a shot, and I found myself reasonably entertained for a good chunk of the ride.
First Impressions
The early chapters did a great job of setting the stage. The protagonist's journey, thrust into a new world and navigating the complexities of the manga industry, felt fresh and engaging. The hints of wish fulfillment, with the MC seemingly possessing an almost eidetic memory and being incredibly beautiful, were present but not overwhelmingly distracting... at first.
What Works Well
The novel shines in its exploration of the creative process behind popular manga and anime titles. The author clearly has a passion for the subject matter, and that enthusiasm translates well onto the page. Seeing the protagonist brainstorm ideas, collaborate with artists, and overcome challenges to bring compelling stories to life was genuinely enjoyable. I particularly liked the moments where the MC introduced concepts inspired by popular franchises like FGO, Hearthstone, and Dungeon & Fighter. This interweaving of familiar elements into the narrative felt clever and added a layer of depth.
Areas of Concern
However, I did find certain aspects wearing thin as the story progressed. While the author's detailed descriptions of the protagonist's beauty were appreciated initially, they did become repetitive and felt somewhat forced after a while. It felt like a constant reminder that detracted from the overall narrative.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
And unfortunately, this story was axed at c336.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "Starting as a Manga Editor" offered a fun and engaging escape into the world of manga creation. While I wished it had continued and addressed some of its shortcomings, the novel provided a satisfying blend of wish fulfillment, creative exploration, and slice-of-life elements. It's a shame the story was cut short, but the journey, while it lasted, was enjoyable enough to warrant a recommendation for those seeking a lighthearted and entertaining read.
