I Don’t Want the Obsession of a Twisted Archduke Novel Review

My Thoughts on I Don’t Want the Obsession of a Twisted Archduke

"I Don’t Want the Obsession of a Twisted Archduke" boasts a premise that immediately snagged my attention: a novelist transmigrating into her own work. I dove in eager to see how this meta twist would play out, and while it has its charms, it's a bit of a mixed bag.

First Impressions

The initial chapters were intriguing. The female lead, Riddle, finds herself in the body of a side character from one of her earlier novels. Knowing the story's trajectory, she's determined to give Riddle a better ending, specifically by setting her up with the cursed Archduke. This setup has potential for both humor and romance, and I was definitely hooked by the possibilities.

What Works Well

Riddle, as a protagonist, is a breath of fresh air. She's pragmatic, quick-thinking, and uses her authorial knowledge to her advantage. It's amusing to see her critique her younger self's writing choices, a sentiment I think many writers can relate to. The Archduke, despite his curse-induced coldness and occasional killing sprees, is surprisingly endearing. His struggle against the curse and his growing attachment to Riddle create a compelling dynamic. I also have to give a shoutout to Jean, the butler – his sarcastic wit is a consistent source of amusement.

Areas of Concern

While the premise is engaging, the execution sometimes falls flat. Some readers may find the writing simplistic and the plot progression slow. The story can feel like a series of events reported rather than experienced, lacking immersive detail. The fact that Riddle is so focused on returning to her original world creates a certain emotional distance, hindering the romance. I also understand the frustration some readers may feel with Riddle's reluctance to be honest about her past, leading to unnecessary misunderstandings.

Final Verdict

"I Don’t Want the Obsession of a Twisted Archduke" is a novel with a lot of potential. The premise is unique, the characters are engaging, and the humor is well-placed. However, the slow pacing, simplistic writing, and emotional distance of the protagonist can be drawbacks. If you enjoy a story with a strong female lead, a cursed male lead, and plenty of witty banter, this might be worth a read. Just be prepared for a slow burn and some potentially frustrating plot points.