Return of the Irregular Appraiser

My Thoughts on Return of the Irregular Appraiser

"Return of the Irregular Appraiser" grabbed my attention with its unique premise: an appraiser returning to an earlier age with his knowledge intact. It's a concept that feels fresh amidst the usual reincarnation tropes, and I was eager to dive in.

First Impressions

Initially, I was intrigued by the world-building, or at least the potential for it. The idea of gates and interdimensional travel, coupled with lost civilizations, really sparked my imagination. The protagonist's non-combat focus as an appraiser also felt like a welcome change of pace. I was hoping for a story that leaned into the intricacies of artifact appraisal and the mysteries surrounding them.

What Works Well

The protagonist himself is a definite plus. His confident and in-control demeanor is appealing, avoiding the often-seen trope of the perpetually struggling underdog. The supporting characters, at least in the early chapters, seem to hold promise. I appreciate the potential for interesting dynamics as the MC navigates his relationships with his past acquaintances, now in different positions relative to him. The "game elements" tag also hints at a system that, if implemented well, could add a layer of strategic depth to the appraisal process.

Areas of Concern

Unfortunately, the execution seems to be a significant stumbling block. The quality of the writing and translation is a serious issue. Confusing POV shifts and unnatural dialogue make it difficult to become fully immersed in the story. The flow feels uneven, with some sections dragging on while crucial world-building elements are glossed over. I found myself wanting more detailed explanations of the environment, the various organizations involved, and the history of the world itself. Without this context, it's hard to fully appreciate the significance of the MC's actions and discoveries. Also, the protagonist's apparent plot armor and automatic success in his endeavors might diminish the tension and stakes as the story progresses.

Final Verdict

"Return of the Irregular Appraiser" has a lot of potential, but it's currently held back by issues with the writing and translation. The core concept is intriguing, and the protagonist is likeable, but these strengths are overshadowed by the execution. If these issues are addressed, this could be a truly captivating read. As it stands, I'm cautiously optimistic, hoping that the story will improve as it develops.