How to Live as the Enemy Prince Novel Review

My Thoughts on How to Live as the Enemy Prince

"How to Live as the Enemy Prince" immediately grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise: a soldier reborn as the prince of the very kingdom he fought against. It's a setup ripe with potential for political intrigue, personal conflict, and a whole lot of clever maneuvering, and from what I've read, it largely delivers.

First Impressions

The initial chapters are captivating, throwing you right into Calian's (formerly Bern's) struggle for survival. He's weak, vulnerable, and a target, which creates immediate tension. I found myself quickly invested in his plight and eager to see how he'd use his past knowledge to navigate the treacherous waters of the Kailis court. The story is slow-paced, which might not appeal to everyone, but I appreciated the deliberate world-building and character development.

What Works Well

The strength of this novel, for me, lies in its characters and the political landscape. The author has created a world that feels complex and believable, where power is a game of chess and even the smallest piece can turn the tide. I found the characters to be well-developed, each with their own motivations and agendas. The main character is smart and calculating, but not without his own vulnerabilities. The relationships between characters are also well written, with complicated dynamics that add depth to the story.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the slow pace for the most part, I can see how it might frustrate some readers. The story takes its time to unfold, and those looking for immediate action and adventure might find it lacking. Also, while the world-building is decent, I felt that the magical aspects could have been more integrated into the world.

Final Verdict

Despite its slow pace and some minor world-building issues, "How to Live as the Enemy Prince" is a captivating read with a strong premise, well-developed characters, and intricate political intrigue. I highly recommend it to fans of transmigration stories, court politics, and those who enjoy a more deliberate and thoughtful narrative. It's just a shame that the author passed away and the story will likely never get an ending.