Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on The Witch, Who Once Was Called A Saint
"The Witch, Who Once Was Called A Saint" had me intrigued from the very start. The premise of an immortal witch, formerly a saint, grappling with centuries of isolation immediately grabbed my attention. While the translation is still ongoing, I’ve read enough to form a solid opinion, and I'm eager to share my thoughts.
First Impressions
The initial chapters do a decent job of setting the stage. We're introduced to our witch, living a quiet life until an unexpected encounter throws her world into gentle chaos. I found the initial dynamic between her and the male lead promising, though some elements felt a bit rushed.
What Works Well
The strongest aspect of this novel is undoubtedly the world-building. The hints of a larger, more complex history, particularly surrounding the witch's past and the emergence of a looming threat, are incredibly compelling. I also appreciated the subtle exploration of her character. Her immortality isn't just a plot device; it's a core element shaping her reluctance to engage with others, especially romantically. I particularly enjoyed the focus on food and the way it's woven into the narrative, offering moments of warmth and connection.
Areas of Concern
While the premise is strong, I did find some inconsistencies in the main character's portrayal. Her supposed social awkwardness, stemming from centuries of isolation, sometimes feels superficial and doesn't always translate convincingly. I also felt that her wisdom and knowledge, built up over those 400 years, could have been more prominent. Additionally, I had some reservations about the male lead's initial approach. While his intentions seem pure, his actions, particularly his persistent attempts to insert himself into the witch's life, bordered on unsettling.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, let's delve into some specifics that might spoil the story for you. If you haven't read at least a few chapters, proceed with caution!
Some readers might find the male lead's actions in the early chapters, such as using food as a means of interaction and establishing himself as a cook, to be overly persistent and potentially off-putting. Others may find the MC's reluctance to reject him outright, even when she desires to be left alone, a bit frustrating.
Final Verdict
Despite some flaws in character consistency and the potential for a slightly unsettling dynamic between the leads, "The Witch, Who Once Was Called A Saint" holds a lot of promise. The intriguing premise, coupled with the immersive world-building and exploration of immortality, makes it a worthwhile read. If you're a fan of fantasy romance with a touch of drama and don't mind a bit of a slow burn, I recommend giving this novel a try. I'm personally invested enough to continue following the translation and seeing where the story goes.
