Sevens Novel Review

My Thoughts on Sevens

"Sevens" is a web novel that took me on quite the journey. It's not a perfect story, but its strengths definitely outweigh its weaknesses. I've seen so much praise for it, and while I can understand some of the criticisms, I ultimately found it to be a very enjoyable read.

First Impressions

I'll admit, the beginning was a bit rough. Several readers pointed out that the initial chapters can be slow and the main character, Lyle, starts off as somewhat unlikable. He seems weak and indecisive, and honestly, it took me a while to warm up to him. Others have said that they found the premise off-putting, and I can see where they're coming from. However, I decided to stick with it, and I'm glad I did.

What Works Well

One of the strongest aspects of "Sevens" is its character development. Lyle's growth from a seemingly useless individual to a capable leader is gradual and believable. It's not an overnight transformation, but a slow and steady progression that I found satisfying to witness. The supporting cast, especially the harem members and the seven ancestors, are also well-developed and have distinct personalities. Many readers praised the harem dynamics, noting that the women have their own agency and motivations, which sets it apart from typical harem stories. The humour is also a highlight, with many finding the interactions between Lyle and the ancestors particularly hilarious. The world-building is also well-done, with a consistent and believable setting.

Areas of Concern

Despite its strengths, "Sevens" does have some flaws. I noticed several reviewers mentioned that the plot can be predictable at times, and I agree that it does follow some familiar tropes. Additionally, some readers found the pacing to be inconsistent, with certain sections feeling rushed or underdeveloped. The villains, while adequate, aren't particularly memorable or complex. I also found the sheer number of harem members a bit overwhelming at times, especially as some of the later additions receive less attention.

Final Verdict

Overall, I would recommend "Sevens" to anyone looking for a fun and engaging fantasy novel with a focus on character development and humour. While it may have a slow start and some predictable elements, the well-developed characters, interesting dynamics, and overall enjoyable story make it a worthwhile read. It's not a masterpiece, but it's a solid and entertaining novel that I'm glad I took the time to read.