Necromancer Academy’s Genius Summoner

My Thoughts on Necromancer Academy’s Genius Summoner

"Necromancer Academy's Genius Summoner" is a web novel that I found to be quite the mixed bag, but ultimately enjoyable if you're willing to invest the time. It's a story about Simon, who enters a prestigious necromancy academy despite a complete lack of prior knowledge, which is a premise that definitely raised some eyebrows. It's a classic "academy" setup, but with a darker, undead twist.

First Impressions

My initial reaction was a bit skeptical, admittedly. The whole "genius who knows nothing" trope felt a little tired, and the initial chapters felt like a fairly standard battle academy story. I was concerned that the plot would rely too heavily on tired clichés, with the MC facing constant humiliation only to dramatically overcome it later. The setup, with Simon's parents seemingly neglecting his magical education despite knowing his future academy placement, felt forced and illogical.

What Works Well

Despite my initial reservations, the novel does have its strengths. Many readers praised the world-building, describing it as richly detailed and consistent. The magic system, while initially confusing, becomes more compelling as the story progresses. The action scenes are well-written, and I appreciated that Simon isn't instantly overpowered. He's talented, yes, but he has to work hard and use his wits to succeed. I also found the character interactions to be a highlight, especially as the story goes on and the relationships deepen. Simon's bright and enthusiastic personality is refreshing, and his willingness to learn makes him a likable protagonist.

Areas of Concern

The characters, particularly Simon and his immediate friend group, are a major point of contention. Some find them one-dimensional and reliant on tired tropes. Simon's "dense protagonist" tendencies can be frustrating, and his motivations sometimes feel unclear. The harem aspect is present, but romance is not a primary focus. Some readers found the plot slow-paced, particularly in the early chapters.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Necromancer Academy's Genius Summoner" is a flawed but ultimately rewarding read. It has a slow start and some frustrating character tropes, but the strong world-building, engaging action, and well-developed character interactions make it worth the investment. If you're looking for a unique take on the academy genre with a necromantic twist, and you're willing to be patient, this novel might just surprise you.