Academy’s Second Seat Novel Review

My Thoughts on Academy’s Second Seat

"Academy's Second Seat" is a web novel that I found myself both enjoying and getting frustrated with. It's got an interesting premise: a reincarnation story where the MC aims to prevent a bad ending by sticking to the original plot of a game. However, the execution is a mixed bag, leading to a somewhat uneven experience.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the academy setting and the MC's goal of maintaining his "villainous" persona while secretly working hard. The idea of him trying to stay in second place, navigating the complexities of the academy, and dealing with potential death flags seemed promising. However, as I delved deeper, some issues started to surface.

What Works Well

The story shines when it focuses on the slice-of-life aspects and character interactions. The female leads, while sometimes falling into familiar tropes, are generally well-developed with their own motivations. I appreciated that the MC isn't immediately overpowered and has to work hard to maintain his position. Some readers have found the harem aspect enjoyable, noting that the relationships develop gradually and with believable reasons for the girls' interest in the MC. The earlier parts of the story, where the MC is actively trying to stay within the original plot, are also quite engaging.

Areas of Concern

One of my main issues is the MC's insistence on sticking to the original plot, even when it's clear that his actions have already changed things significantly. This leads to some frustrating moments where he seems oblivious to the obvious consequences of his actions. I also found the power scaling to be inconsistent at times, with characters' strengths not always aligning with their supposed training and experience. The original protagonist, Evan, also felt underdeveloped, which made the MC's focus on him seem somewhat misplaced. The MC's denseness when it comes to romantic interests can also be a bit much, even if it's played for comedic effect.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Academy's Second Seat" is a decent read, especially if you enjoy academy settings, harem elements, and a bit of a reluctant villain protagonist. However, be prepared for some inconsistencies and frustrating character choices. If you approach it as a lighthearted rom-com with a focus on character interactions, you might find it more enjoyable. It's not a masterpiece, but it has its moments. I'd give it a tentative 3.5 out of 5 stars.