Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Third-rate Thriller Novelist
"Third-rate Thriller Novelist" promised a fast-paced dive into horror scenarios with a side of shounen ai, and for the most part, it delivered. While it didn't completely blow me away, it kept me entertained for a quick read.
First Impressions
The initial hook was strong. I was immediately thrown into the infinite flow premise, where the protagonist, Mint, navigates deadly horror novel worlds. The early arcs, especially "The Bloody Apartment," were genuinely thrilling and painted vivid, sometimes scary, pictures. The premise of a thriller novelist getting trapped in thriller novels was intriguing, and I was eager to see how Mint's writing skills would play into his survival.
What Works Well
The novel shines in its individual horror scenarios. Several reviewers and I found the arcs to be creative and engaging, with enough gore and suspense to keep things interesting. I especially appreciated the social commentary woven into some arcs, such as the exploration of racism in one particular scenario. The pacing, for the most part, is quick and keeps the story moving, making it a good choice if you're looking for a short, complete read. Mint, the protagonist, is clever and resourceful, and I liked that he wasn't overly overpowered, making his victories feel earned. I also enjoyed the dynamic between Mint and Anonymous, even though their relationship felt somewhat underdeveloped.
Areas of Concern
However, the novel isn't without its flaws. The ending felt rushed and lacked the complexity of the earlier arcs. Plot holes started to appear, and the overarching plot felt clumsily put together. The romance, or lack thereof, was a common complaint. While the shounen ai tag is there, the actual romantic development between Mint and Anonymous is minimal, leaving their eventual coupling feeling abrupt and unearned. Some also found the translation quality inconsistent.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several reviews mention specific plot points that could spoil the experience. For example, the introduction and resolution of the cult leader subplot, as well as the details of the boat arc with its themes of racism, are discussed in detail. If you prefer to go in blind, I'd recommend skipping the user reviews until after you've finished the novel.
Final Verdict
"Third-rate Thriller Novelist" is a decent, quick read if you're in the mood for a fast-paced horror story with a clever protagonist. While the romance is lacking and the ending feels rushed, the individual horror scenarios are engaging enough to make it worth your time, especially if you're new to the infinite flow genre. I'd give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars. It's not a masterpiece, but it's a fun, albeit flawed, diversion.
