Devil’s Son-in-Law

My Thoughts on Devil’s Son-in-Law

Alright, let's dive into "Devil's Son-in-Law." This web novel is quite the mixed bag, and honestly, my feelings are just as complicated. It’s got elements that hooked me, but also some glaring issues that kept me from fully enjoying the experience.

First Impressions

The initial hook is strong. I was drawn in by the promise of a protagonist dropped into a demon realm, forced to use his wits and knowledge to survive. It felt like a fresh take on the isekai genre. The early chapters, focused on political maneuvering and business strategies, were genuinely engaging. I appreciated the MC's initial weakness and how he had to rely on clever tactics to overcome his enemies.

What Works Well

The world-building is a definite highlight. The blend of Eastern and Western fantasy elements, from alchemy to angels, creates a rich and interesting backdrop. Many readers praised the unique personalities of the female characters. It's refreshing to see a harem where the women have their own motivations and aren't just falling head-over-heels for the MC at first glance. I also appreciated the system, which wasn't overpowered from the start, and the MC's friends having their own lives and goals outside of the protagonist.

Areas of Concern

However, as the story progresses, cracks start to appear. The plot armor becomes increasingly noticeable, with the MC constantly being saved at the last minute. This reliance on luck and convenient coincidences undermines the earlier strategic elements and makes the MC feel less competent. I also found myself getting frustrated with the MC's personality, which some described as hypocritical and indecisive, especially regarding his harem. The later arcs, particularly after chapter 600, seem to lose focus, abandoning the political and business aspects that made the beginning so compelling. The ending also feels rushed and unsatisfying, with a deus ex machina resolution that negates much of the MC's previous struggles.

Final Verdict

"Devil's Son-in-Law" has moments of brilliance, but ultimately falls short of its potential. The strong start, interesting world-building, and well-developed female characters are undeniable strengths. However, the increasing reliance on plot armor, the MC's frustrating personality, and the rushed ending detract from the overall experience. I would recommend reading the first arc, but be prepared for a decline in quality as the story progresses. Overall, I'd give it a tentative 3/5.