Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on The Bastard Called Brave And The Former Fiancée, I Will Crush All Of Them
This title definitely grabbed my attention, and I dove into "The Bastard Called Brave..." with a mix of curiosity and trepidation. The premise screams "revenge," and while I enjoy a good story of righteous retribution, I also know how easily they can fall into grimdark territory. So, how did this one fare?
First Impressions
Okay, I'll be upfront: the initial chapters are rough. There's a strong element of betrayal early on, and it's not exactly handled with subtlety. The protagonist gets a raw deal, and the setup definitely leans into the "wronged hero" trope. But, I will say that I was intrigued enough to keep reading, hoping for a satisfying payoff.
What Works Well
What surprised me most was the shift in focus. The initial betrayal, while jarring, seems to act more as a catalyst than the central theme. The story quickly evolves into a broader revenge plot against a larger, more sinister force – a goddess manipulating events from behind the scenes. I found this escalation quite engaging. The protagonist's journey isn't just about getting back at his former flames or the "Brave," but about dismantling a corrupt system.
I also appreciated that the MC doesn't wallow in self-pity. He embraces his darker side, assembling a team of "bad guys" to fight against the seemingly righteous heroes. This subversion of typical isekai tropes is refreshing. The action and adventure elements are solid, with the protagonist and his companions facing various dangers as they gather power to confront the goddess.
Areas of Concern
My main concern stems from the pacing and depth of character development. While the overall plot is interesting, some sections feel rushed. I would have liked to see more exploration of the protagonist's emotional state and the motivations of his companions. The writing can also be a bit uneven at times, lacking the polish to truly elevate it.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers might be put off by the initial "NTR" elements. However, it's crucial to understand that this is a fleeting aspect of the story. The betrayed love interests quickly become antagonists, essentially transforming into different characters entirely. They are not romantic interests to be won back, but enemies to be defeated.
Final Verdict
"The Bastard Called Brave..." is a flawed but ultimately engaging revenge fantasy. If you can stomach the initial setup and are looking for a subversion of the typical isekai formula, this might be worth a read. Just be prepared for a bumpy start and a story that prioritizes plot over deep character exploration. I'm giving it a tentative 3/5. It has potential, but needs some refinement to truly shine.
