Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on The Demon Lord Only Wants to Follow the Script
"The Demon Lord Only Wants to Follow the Script" has been quite the ride, and I have mixed feelings about it, like many other readers. It's a story that starts strong but stumbles a bit along the way. It's a danmei novel that throws our MC into the body of a ruthless Demon Lord, Yan Sui, who is destined to be killed by the protagonist, Xie Huai. Our MC, a self-proclaimed straight man, wants nothing to do with the original plot and tries to rewrite his destiny.
First Impressions
Initially, I was hooked. The premise is engaging: a transmigrator trying to avoid a tragic fate. The comedic undertones and the angst-filled situations had me laughing one moment and reaching for tissues the next. I found the dynamic between the MC and ML intriguing, especially the miscommunication born from their initial roles as enemies.
What Works Well
The first half of the story shines. The MC's attempts to subvert the plot, his internal struggles, and the slow burn between him and Xie Huai are well-written and entertaining. I particularly enjoyed the comedic elements and the moments where Xie Huai sees through the MC's facade, leading to a role reversal of sorts. The side characters, like Wu Yimei, are also well-developed, adding depth to the story.
However, the novel's second half is where things get a little dicey. After the MC's "death" and rebirth, the plot becomes convoluted, and the misunderstandings drag on for far too long. The introduction of new villains and complicated backstories felt unnecessary and detracted from the central relationship. Some readers found the MC's behavior frustrating, particularly his insistence on being straight despite his obvious feelings for Xie Huai.
Areas of Concern
The biggest issue I have is the handling of the second half. The plot becomes needlessly complex, and the characters seem to lose their initial charm. The misunderstandings become repetitive and tiresome, and the introduction of non-con elements in their relationship was a major turnoff for some, myself included. Additionally, the rushed ending and the anticlimactic resolution of the main conflict left me feeling unsatisfied.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
There are mentions of non-consensual situations and plot holes that might ruin your reading experience if you are sensitive to those themes.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "The Demon Lord Only Wants to Follow the Script" is still a worthwhile read, especially if you enjoy the transmigration, xianxia, and comedic romance genres. The first half is genuinely enjoyable, and the MC and ML have a compelling dynamic. However, be prepared for a bumpy ride in the second half, with frustrating misunderstandings and a convoluted plot. I'd recommend going in with moderate expectations and focusing on the character interactions rather than the overall plot.
