Reiryuu Academy Student Council Novel Review

My Thoughts on Reiryuu Academy Student Council

"Reiryuu Academy Student Council" is definitely a unique read, and it's easy to see why it's garnered a dedicated following. It's a shoujo novel with a harem and romance focus, set in a modern-day school with a touch of the supernatural.

First Impressions

Initially, I was a bit hesitant jumping in. Some readers mentioned that the prologue can be slow and even deterring. I found that it definitely took a bit to get into. The initial chapters don't immediately reveal much about the main character (MC) or the overall story, which can be a little confusing. However, I decided to stick with it, and I'm glad I did.

What Works Well

The MC, Meru, is a major draw. I appreciate that she's not just another dense protagonist. Her seeming indifference to the male leads' advances isn't due to obliviousness, but rather a conscious choice. It's refreshing! I also loved how the characters are multi-layered. Each member of the student council has their own distinct personality and motivations, and I found myself enjoying their interactions. Despite the harem tag, the relationships felt organic. The story also tackles some deeper themes, hinting at a darker past for Meru, which keeps things interesting beyond the typical school romance. The story has a good balance of angst, heartwarming moments, and tension.

Areas of Concern

While I generally enjoyed the story, I can see some potential pitfalls. Some readers felt that the MC's transition from "average girl" to someone who embraces her abilities felt abrupt. Also, the "harem" aspect might not appeal to everyone. A few reviewers felt that some of the male leads' actions bordered on pushy or even stalker-ish, which can be off-putting. Also, some found certain plot points, like the "ankle incident", to be contrived and cliché.

Final Verdict

Overall, I'd recommend giving "Reiryuu Academy Student Council" a try, especially if you're looking for a shoujo novel that goes beyond the typical tropes. While it has its flaws, the engaging characters, intriguing plot, and moments of genuine depth make it a worthwhile read. Just be prepared for a bit of a slow start and some potentially questionable harem dynamics.