Common Sense of a Duke’s Daughter Novel Review

My Thoughts on Common Sense of a Duke’s Daughter

"Common Sense of a Duke’s Daughter" promised a refreshing take on the reincarnation isekai, and while it does deliver in some aspects, it also stumbles in others. Overall, I found it to be an enjoyable, if somewhat flawed, read.

First Impressions

I was immediately drawn in by the premise: a woman reincarnated as a villainess armed with modern knowledge and a determination to carve her own path. The initial chapters were strong, showcasing the MC's quick thinking and resourcefulness as she navigated a sticky situation. It definitely hooked me from the beginning, and I was excited to see how she'd rebuild her life after her "bad end."

What Works Well

The focus on business management and territorial development is a welcome change from the typical shoujo romance. I appreciated the MC's drive to improve her domain and the lives of its people. Seeing her use her past-life knowledge to establish new industries and improve existing ones was genuinely satisfying. The political schemes and economic development were interesting and kept me engaged. Also, I like how it subtly pokes fun at the "saintess" trope; it's a fun twist.

Areas of Concern

However, the novel isn't without its issues. I noticed that some readers found the MC to be too competent, bordering on a Mary Sue. While I admired her intelligence and capabilities, I can see how her near-instant success in various fields could stretch believability. The sheer breadth of her knowledge – from chocolate making to banking – felt a bit much at times, and some found it hard to reconcile with her previous life as an office worker.

Another point of concern is the pacing. The story sometimes jumps ahead, glossing over important details and character development. This made it difficult to fully invest in the world and its inhabitants. Additionally, the supporting characters sometimes felt flat, existing primarily to praise the MC's brilliance. Some even felt that the characters who opposed the MC were overly vilified.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, I still enjoyed "Common Sense of a Duke's Daughter." It's a light and engaging read with a unique focus on business and politics. While the MC's near-perfect competence and the uneven pacing can be frustrating, the overall story is still entertaining. If you're looking for a quick, easy read with a strong female lead, this might be right up your alley. Just be prepared to suspend your disbelief a little.