Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Succeed, or Fall into Depravity as a Witch!
"Succeed, or Fall into Depravity as a Witch!" certainly lives up to its name in terms of wildness. Diving into this novel, I wasn't quite sure what to expect, given the, uh, extensive list of tags. However, I found myself surprisingly entertained, even if a little bewildered at times.
First Impressions
Honestly, the first few chapters felt a bit like wading through a swamp of silliness. The premise is definitely out there, and I can see how some might be immediately turned off. It feels like the novel is almost daring you to keep reading, and I'm glad I did.
What Works Well
Beneath the surface-level ecchi and smut elements, there's actually a pretty compelling story struggling to get out. I was pleasantly surprised by the world-building and the development of the characters. The MC and ML have a fun dynamic, and the side characters aren't just cardboard cutouts; they have their own motivations and backstories. I found the writing to be witty and engaging, and the humor, while often "below the waist," landed well for me. I also appreciated that the story wasn't just about the smut; there's a genuine plot with betrayals, kidnappings, and other dramatic elements that kept me hooked.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed the novel overall, I do have some reservations. One aspect that might deter some readers is the handling of the male lead and the prevalence of gender-bending elements. I can see how the frequent gender swaps and the way they're sometimes implemented could feel forced or even off-putting. The male lead also seems to be a bit of a "no-show" for some readers, which is an understandable concern.
Final Verdict
"Succeed, or Fall into Depravity as a Witch!" is a surprisingly in-depth story hiding beneath a layer of smut and silliness. If you're willing to push past the initial weirdness and potential triggers, you might find yourself enjoying a well-crafted plot with engaging characters and witty writing. However, the handling of gender-bending and the male lead might be a deal-breaker for some. Proceed with caution, but be prepared to be surprised.
