Evil-like Duke Household Novel Review

My Thoughts on Evil-like Duke Household

"Evil-like Duke Household" certainly grabbed my attention with its intriguing title and cover, promising a potentially dark and twisted story. What I found instead was a delightful comedy centered around a family constantly misunderstood due to their imposing appearances and peculiar habits. Think Addams Family meets fantasy aristocracy, and you're on the right track.

First Impressions

Initially, I was wary. Misunderstanding-based stories can quickly become tiresome if the characters are portrayed as deliberately obtuse. However, this novel cleverly avoids that pitfall. The Ractos family is fully aware of how they're perceived, and watching them navigate the world's skewed perception of them is genuinely entertaining. The early chapters focus on introducing each family member and showcasing how others interpret their actions, which I found to be a smart approach.

What Works Well

The humor is definitely a major highlight. It's not laugh-out-loud funny every single chapter, but I found myself consistently chuckling at the absurd situations and the characters' reactions. The multiple POV format, while potentially jarring, actually enhances the comedic effect. Seeing the same event unfold from different perspectives, each colored by their own biases and assumptions, really sells the core premise of the story. I also appreciated the slice-of-life feel. While there isn't a grand overarching plot (at least in the translated chapters), the focus on the family's daily lives and interactions makes them relatable and endearing. Ezra is a particular favorite, her youthful nature juxtaposed against the family's "evil" image makes her scenes particularly amusing.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the multiple POVs, I can see how it could become repetitive for some. The constant shifting can hinder the plot's progression, and some readers might find the focus on "trivial things" ultimately boring. Also, the translation quality seems to be a point of contention. While some find it adequate, others note typos and awkward phrasing that detract from the reading experience.

Final Verdict

Despite some minor flaws, "Evil-like Duke Household" is a fun and heartwarming read. If you're looking for a lighthearted fantasy novel with a unique premise and a healthy dose of humor, I'd recommend giving this one a try. Just be prepared for a potentially slow-paced story and some translation quirks.