I Became the Hidden Mastermind Novel Review

My Thoughts on I Became the Hidden Mastermind

"I Became the Hidden Mastermind" is a web novel that definitely grabbed my attention with its blend of action, fantasy, horror, and school life elements. The premise of a protagonist navigating haunted locations with a system intrigued me, and I dove in eager to see what it had to offer.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the mystery elements and the promise of a unique take on the system trope. The idea of a high school student dealing with supernatural events felt reminiscent of a horror game, which immediately piqued my interest. The early chapters do a decent job of setting the stage and introducing the core cast of characters.

What Works Well

The author does a great job of portraying the main characters as relatable high schoolers, complete with their own flaws, curiosities, and fears. Their reactions to the supernatural encounters feel genuine, and the differing personalities create a dynamic and engaging group. I also appreciated the lighthearted approach to horror, making it more akin to a comedic mystery rather than a gruesome or terrifying experience. This allowed me to enjoy the story without feeling overwhelmed by the horror elements. The mystery surrounding the protagonist's system and its connection to the supernatural events definitely kept me invested.

Areas of Concern

While the novel has its strengths, I did find some aspects to be lacking. The "hidden mastermind" title feels somewhat misleading, as the protagonist doesn't seem to be exhibiting any mastermind-like qualities, at least not in the chapters I've read. The horror elements, while present, could be more impactful. The ghosts often feel repetitive, and their interactions with the protagonist tend to follow a predictable pattern. I also found the system elements to be fairly generic, lacking the depth and innovation that would truly set it apart.

Final Verdict

Overall, "I Became the Hidden Mastermind" is an enjoyable read with a unique blend of genres and a likeable cast of characters. While it has its flaws, the lighthearted horror, engaging mystery, and well-developed characters make it a worthwhile experience. I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy comedic horror with a touch of mystery and don't mind a somewhat generic system.