Outaishihi ni Nante Naritakunai!!

My Thoughts on Outaishihi ni Nante Naritakunai!!

"I Don't Want to Be a Crown Princess!!" is definitely a web novel that evokes strong opinions, and after diving in, I can see why. It's a josei romance with plenty of adult content, but whether that content elevates the story or detracts from it seems to be the crux of the debate.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the premise: a protagonist desperately trying to avoid an arranged marriage with the crown prince. Her solution? To lose her virginity and become "unsuitable." It's a bold move, and one that immediately sets the tone for a story that doesn't take itself too seriously. However, I quickly realized that this plot device can be perceived as either clever or utterly ridiculous, depending on your perspective.

What Works Well

The steamy scenes are definitely a draw for many, and I can see why. They're described as tastefully done, fitting for a josei audience, and the translator even makes it easy to skip them if that's not your cup of tea. Some readers have praised the dual POV, saying it adds depth to the characters and clarifies the motivations, especially of the male lead. Others have said that the characters have growth, with well-defined personalities and problems of their own.

Areas of Concern

The biggest issue seems to be the female lead, Lidi. While some find her charming and proactive, others see her as dense, self-centered, and downright dumb. Her plans are often ill-conceived, and her actions can have far-reaching consequences that she doesn't seem to grasp. The male lead, Prince Freed, also has his detractors. He's described as overly possessive and initially motivated by shallow reasons, leading some to find the romance unconvincing.

Final Verdict

"Outaishihi ni Nante Naritakunai!!" is a polarizing novel. If you're looking for a lighthearted, smutty romance with a focus on character interactions and don't mind a potentially frustrating protagonist, you might enjoy it. However, if you prefer a strong, intelligent female lead and a more nuanced plot, this might not be the story for you. Ultimately, it seems to boil down to personal preference and tolerance for certain tropes.