Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on They Realized Their Feelings, but the Knight Had Already Reincarnated as a Young Fox
This novel, "They Realized Their Feelings, but the Knight Had Already Reincarnated as a Young Fox," certainly took me on a journey! It's a story packed with action, adventure, a dash of tragedy, and a whole lot of fantasy elements, all wrapped up in a gender-bending reincarnation plot. It had me hooked from the get-go, but the ride wasn't entirely smooth.
First Impressions
The initial chapters are definitely epic. The premise is intriguing: a renowned knight, framed and misunderstood, embraces reincarnation as a fox beastkin to escape his past. The idea of a stoic knight grappling with a new identity and trying to avoid his old life is immediately captivating. The humor injected into the story, especially surrounding the MC's struggles with their new form and the world's reactions, is a definite plus.
What Works Well
The character development, especially in the early stages, is a strong point. We see the protagonist's flaws emerge, contrasting with the perfect image they initially project. These emotional outbursts feel genuine and add depth to the character. The world-building is also quite interesting, with elements of beastkin, elves, and political intrigue woven together. The slow-burn romance and relationship dynamics are also a key draw, making it feel like more than just a simple action fantasy.
Areas of Concern
My biggest concern, echoed by many, lies in the ending. It feels rushed, and several plot threads and characters are simply abandoned. The resolution of major conflicts feels too swift, leaving a sense of dissatisfaction. The MC's personality shifts depending on their form, which can be a bit jarring. While the story is engaging, at times it feels like the plot moves slowly, and some sections could be condensed without losing much substance.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
If you haven't finished the novel, proceed with caution! Several readers have pointed out that after the first few volumes, key characters like the empress, the elves, and even the MC's aunt are completely forgotten. The author introduces new characters late in the story while neglecting the development of existing ones. This lack of closure for established relationships and storylines is a major letdown.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "They Realized Their Feelings, but the Knight Had Already Reincarnated as a Young Fox" is an enjoyable read, particularly in its early stages. The intriguing premise, well-developed characters, and humorous moments kept me invested. However, the rushed and incomplete ending significantly impacts the overall experience. If you're willing to overlook these shortcomings, it's a worthwhile journey, but be prepared for a somewhat unsatisfying conclusion. I'd give it a solid 3.5/5.
