Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on The Deeds of an Extremely Arrogant Villainous Noble (LN)
First Impressions
Okay, so I dove into "The Deeds of an Extremely Arrogant Villainous Noble" with a mix of excitement and trepidation, and I've got to say, it's been a bit of a rollercoaster. The premise itself, a self-insert character wrestling with the original host's personality, is pretty intriguing. However, the execution has left me with some mixed feelings.
What Works Well
The core concept of an arrogant, almost smug, protagonist certainly delivers on the "villainous noble" aspect. This isn't your typical meek MC. The story also seems to excel in showcasing the perspectives of side characters, offering glimpses into how they perceive the protagonist's actions and supposed "genius." For readers who enjoy a story that invests time in developing its supporting cast, this could be a major plus. The accelerated growth of the main character is another point in its favor, which can be satisfying to witness.
Areas of Concern
My biggest issue lies with the narrative structure. The story jumps between multiple points of view quite frequently, which, at times, made it difficult for me to fully connect with the MC's internal motivations and short-term goals. The time skips also felt a bit abrupt, disrupting the flow and leaving me feeling like I'd missed crucial developments. This isn't necessarily a deal-breaker, but it does require a certain level of patience and willingness to piece things together.
Final Verdict
"The Deeds of an Extremely Arrogant Villainous Noble" is a novel with a lot of potential. The arrogant protagonist and focus on side characters offer a unique flavor. However, the somewhat disjointed narrative structure with its frequent POV shifts and time skips might not appeal to all readers. If you're looking for a tightly focused, linear narrative, this might not be the best choice. But, if you're willing to embrace a more fragmented and character-driven approach, there's definitely enjoyment to be found here. I'd say give it a try if the premise piques your interest, but be prepared for a potentially bumpy ride.