I’m the Bad Guy, Can I Leave? Novel Review

My Thoughts on I’m the Bad Guy, Can I Leave?

"I’m the Bad Guy, Can I Leave?" plunges you into a world of dungeons, hunters, and a protagonist desperately trying to escape his assigned role. Overall, I found it an engaging read, despite some stumbling blocks along the way. The premise is undeniably fun: a calm and collected MC finds himself in the body of a villain and just wants out. The story is ongoing, and I'm curious to see where it goes.

First Impressions

I was immediately drawn to the idea of a protagonist actively trying to avoid the chaos around him. The initial chapters, while a bit rough around the edges due to translation issues, still managed to hook me with the promise of obsessive characters and hilarious misunderstandings. It’s a bit cliche, sure, but sometimes that’s exactly what I’m in the mood for.

What Works Well

The characters are a major draw. The MC, despite his calm demeanor, is far from boring. I appreciated that he isn't a stereotypical damsel in distress. His internal thoughts and self-awareness add a layer of depth, and the way his actions are constantly misinterpreted creates some truly funny situations. The potential love interests, with their varying degrees of obsession and brotherly complexes, also add to the entertainment value. I found myself particularly intrigued by the "psychopath healer" and his interactions with the MC. The story shines when it focuses on these character interactions and the absurdity of their relationships.

Areas of Concern

The translation is definitely a hurdle. While it reportedly improves after the first ten chapters, the initial MTL quality can be confusing and detract from the experience. I also noticed that the plot can feel a bit aimless at times. While the character interactions are enjoyable, I sometimes found myself wishing for a clearer sense of direction and stronger world-building. The pacing can also feel rushed, and scene transitions aren't always smooth, leading to a bit of whiplash.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, "I’m the Bad Guy, Can I Leave?" is an entertaining and engaging read. If you're a fan of BL with a focus on character interactions, humor, and a healthy dose of misunderstandings, this might be right up your alley. Just be prepared to power through some translation issues early on, and don't expect a groundbreaking, politically charged narrative. Instead, settle in for a fun ride with a protagonist who just can't seem to escape his found family, no matter how hard he tries.