Since only My Soul was Summoned to Another World, I’ll Live as an Incompetent Witch’s Familiar (Plushie)

My Thoughts on Since only My Soul was Summoned to Another World, I’ll Live as an Incompetent Witch’s Familiar (Plushie)

This web novel certainly had an intriguing title that pulled me in. The premise of a soul being summoned into a plushie's body in another world, partnered with an allegedly incompetent witch, sounded like a recipe for either hilarious chaos or frustrating mediocrity. After diving in, I found myself experiencing a bit of both.

First Impressions

The initial chapters held promise. The concept of the main character (MC) grappling with body dysphoria and resenting his partner, Lize, for her apparent incompetence, was a unique starting point. I was ready to see how this dynamic played out, expecting a story of growth and adaptation.

What Works Well

The world-building is adequate, providing a functional backdrop for the story. The core concept of the MC as a plushie does lead to a few interesting scenarios. I found the instances where his physical limitations came into play – like getting soaked in blood and being unable to move, or needing to be held steady during combat – to be somewhat engaging. These moments, while infrequent, highlighted the unique challenges of his predicament.

Areas of Concern

Unfortunately, the initial promise quickly fades. The characterization, particularly of Lize, is a significant sticking point. Her perceived incompetence and overconfidence become grating, leading to frustrating situations for both the MC and, frankly, the reader. I struggled to understand her motivations and actions, finding her constant blunders more irritating than endearing.

Furthermore, the MC's acceptance of Lize's clumsiness felt abrupt and unearned. The initial resentment seemed to vanish without a satisfying resolution, replaced by a more passive, almost accepting attitude. This shift undermined the potential for a compelling character arc.

The plot also suffers from pacing issues. Events unfold rapidly, leaving little room for character development or meaningful exploration of the world. The fact that the MC is a plushie, beyond a few specific instances, doesn't significantly impact the narrative. It feels like a missed opportunity to leverage the unique aspects of his form.

Final Verdict

Since only My Soul was Summoned to Another World, I’ll Live as an Incompetent Witch’s Familiar (Plushie) has a catchy title and an interesting premise, but it ultimately falls short of its potential. While there are moments of amusement and intrigue, the flawed characterization and pacing issues prevent it from being a truly engaging read. It lands squarely in the realm of mediocrity, making it a difficult recommendation.