Do Your Own Revolution

My Thoughts on Do Your Own Revolution

"Do Your Own Revolution" promised a thrilling ride, and after diving in, I can see why it's garnered so much praise. It's a seinen fantasy novel with a strong focus on action and a morally grey protagonist, a combination that immediately piqued my interest.

First Impressions

The initial chapters are gripping, immediately throwing you into the protagonist Eugene's desperate situation. He's been isekai'd into the body of a hero destined for betrayal, and his struggle for survival is palpable. The translation quality is excellent, which made it easy to get hooked from the start.

What Works Well

What stands out most is the protagonist, Eugene. He's not your typical hero; he's ruthless, prioritizing his survival above all else. This isn't a story about a noble savior, but about a pragmatic character making tough choices in a brutal world. I found this refreshing, as many novels shy away from truly exploring the consequences of a character's "evil" actions. The plot is well-paced, gradually revealing information and allowing the reader to understand the complexities of the world. The action sequences are intense and engaging, and the political intrigue adds another layer of depth to the story. The world-building is a solid mix of fantasy and sci-fi elements. While magic exists, the focus remains on large-scale army conflicts and strategic thinking, giving the battles a grounded feel.

Areas of Concern

While the story is compelling, I do have some minor reservations. The focus is heavily on Eugene, and while that's not inherently bad, some of the side characters feel underdeveloped. I wish some of them had more screen time. The pacing, while generally good, does have some issues. The school arc, in particular, felt rushed with too many time skips.

Final Verdict

Despite these minor shortcomings, "Do Your Own Revolution" is a captivating read. The morally complex protagonist, the intense action, and the intriguing world make for a compelling story. If you're looking for a fantasy novel that doesn't shy away from morally grey characters and difficult choices, I highly recommend giving this one a try. I'm giving it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.