Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on The Legendary Villainess Who Vanished on the Guillotine, in Her Second Life She Wishes for Peace as a Studious, Plain Glasses-Wearing Person
This title is quite a mouthful, isn't it? And honestly, the story itself is a bit of a mixed bag for me. The premise is interesting – a reincarnated villainess trying to live a quiet life after a rather dramatic end. But whether it delivers on that premise consistently is up for debate.
First Impressions
Initially, I was drawn in by the promise of a fresh take on the villainess trope. Lettie's desire for a peaceful life, trading her opulent gowns for plain glasses and a studious demeanor, is certainly appealing. The European-esque setting and the hints of political intrigue also piqued my interest. However, as I delved deeper, some aspects started to feel a little… uneven.
What Works Well
Lettie herself is a compelling character. Her intelligence and her subtle attempts to atone for her past sins are well-portrayed. I particularly enjoyed seeing her navigate the complexities of noble society while trying to maintain her "normal" facade. And I have to admit, Camilo, the male lead, is a standout. His devotion to Lettie, both in her past and present lives, is quite touching. He's a bit of a genre-bender, with a Northern Duke-esque intensity that adds a unique flavor to the story. Their relationship, while a major focus, does have its charm, showing a supportive dynamic where he respects her independence.
Areas of Concern
The pacing is definitely an issue. The buildup to the main conflict feels drawn out, and the issues that arise sometimes seem manufactured. It's as if the characters are creating drama where it doesn't naturally exist. Some of the characters' emotional intelligence also feels lacking. The Crown Prince, in particular, comes across as rather detached and annoying, which can be frustrating. And while Lettie is portrayed as intelligent, her naiveté regarding her past execution can be a bit hard to swallow. It creates a sense of disconnect, making it difficult to fully invest in her struggles.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, let's talk about some spoilers!
I was glad to see that the Prince's actions weren't simply waved away with a mind control excuse. The fact that he was genuinely flawed, even before external influences came into play, added a layer of complexity to his character. Camilo's backstory and his actions in Lettie's past life are also quite revealing, showcasing the depth of his commitment.
Final Verdict
Overall, The Legendary Villainess Who Vanished on the Guillotine, in Her Second Life She Wishes for Peace as a Studious, Plain Glasses-Wearing Person is a decent read with some enjoyable elements. The characters of Lettie and Camilo are well-developed, and the premise is intriguing. However, the pacing issues and occasional character inconsistencies prevent it from reaching its full potential. I'd give it a 3 out of 5 stars. It's worth checking out if you're a fan of the villainess trope, but be prepared for a somewhat uneven journey.
