Retired Villain’s Hobby Is Fanboying Novel Review

My Thoughts on Retired Villain’s Hobby Is Fanboying

Okay, so I dove into "Retired Villain’s Hobby Is Fanboying" with a good amount of anticipation, the premise of a retired villain fanboying over the protagonist was just too unique to pass up. I wanted to see how this played out! I wanted to see the MC and ML dynamic! But, after reading what I could, I'm left with some mixed feelings.

First Impressions

Initially, the story grabbed me. The quick pace of the backstory was a smart move, setting the stage without dragging. The early focus on organizational dynamics within the esper setting was a refreshing change from the usual dungeon-crawling narratives. I found myself curious about the leads and their evolving relationship, especially the themes of trust and admiration.

What Works Well

The initial setup is undeniably strong. The character of Na Doyoung, the MC, is particularly appealing. His chill personality and dedication to the ML, even after their conflict, are endearing. Some readers appreciated how the author handled the initial backstory, covering it efficiently without making it feel like a simple summary. The premise of the villain being a fan is a fun twist!

Areas of Concern

Unfortunately, I found several aspects lacking as the story progressed. The chemistry between the MC and ML seems to be a recurring issue. Many found it difficult to connect with their relationship, describing it as awkward and lacking genuine depth. The plot also seems to wane, with the characters falling flat. Some felt the characters' reactions towards situations were off, and were disappointed with the characters' lack of emotional depth. The story seemed to lose its way, feeling rushed and shallow, with no clear goal.

Final Verdict

"Retired Villain’s Hobby Is Fanboying" has an interesting premise and some initially promising elements. However, the lack of character depth, questionable plot choices, and weak romantic chemistry ultimately hold it back. While it might offer some entertainment, I'd approach it with tempered expectations. It's a story that could have been great, but ultimately falls short of its potential.