I Favor the Villainess

My Thoughts on I Favor the Villainess

"I Favor the Villainess" had me hooked from the start with its unique premise: a protagonist reincarnated into an otome game who's far more interested in wooing the villainess than any of the male leads. It's a refreshing twist on the isekai formula, and I found myself eager to see how Rei, the main character, would charm the prickly Claire.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the humor and the dynamic between Rei and Claire. Their interactions are genuinely funny, and the story has a light-hearted feel that makes it easy to pick up and enjoy. It felt like a fun, fluffy yuri romance with a comedic edge.

What Works Well

The strength of this novel lies in its characters, particularly Rei. I loved her unwavering dedication to Claire and her almost aggressively flirtatious nature. The slow burn of their relationship is well-paced, and it's satisfying to see Claire gradually warm up to Rei's affections. Many readers praised the author's exploration of LGBT themes, which adds depth and authenticity to the story. I felt the author's realistic take on homosexuality in Rei's original world compared to her current one really hit hard.

Areas of Concern

However, as the story progressed, I did notice some potential pitfalls. Some found that the story loses its way around chapter 60, abandoning the initial plot for social commentary. I also felt that certain plot developments felt rushed or forced, and some characters faded into obscurity without much explanation. The shift in tone, from lighthearted comedy to a more serious exploration of political and social issues, may not appeal to all readers.

Final Verdict

Overall, "I Favor the Villainess" is an enjoyable read, especially if you're a fan of yuri romance and don't mind a bit of over-the-top comedy. However, be aware that the story takes some unexpected turns, and the later chapters may not live up to the promise of the initial premise. Despite its flaws, I still found it to be a worthwhile read, thanks to the engaging characters and the unique dynamic between Rei and Claire. I'd recommend giving it a try, but with the caveat that your mileage may vary depending on your tolerance for genre-bending plot twists and heavy-handed social commentary.