The Eight Empresses Betrayed Me, Only to Deeply Regret It After Being Reborn Novel Review

My Thoughts on The Eight Empresses Betrayed Me, Only to Deeply Regret It After Being Reborn

This title is a mouthful, but the premise is undeniably intriguing: a protagonist betrayed by his harem, gets a second chance, and the former empresses are filled with regret. After diving in, I found it to be a mixed bag, with some elements working well and others falling flat.

First Impressions

The initial chapters hooked me with the promise of a satisfying revenge story. The idea of a "New Game+" scenario where the MC is determined not to repeat his past mistakes is compelling. The setup, however, could have been smoother. I found myself wishing for more clarity regarding the backstories of the eight empresses and the intricacies of the cultivation system early on.

What Works Well

The strongest aspect of this novel is the MC's resolve. He's not your typical forgiving protagonist. He's cold, calculating, and focused solely on cultivating to prevent history from repeating itself. This "sigma male cultivator" persona, as some readers have called it, is a refreshing departure from the usual harem-seeking protagonist. I also appreciated that the story doesn't shy away from the consequences of the empresses' actions. There's a sense of deservedness in their suffering, and the MC's enjoyment of their regret adds a layer of dark satisfaction. The system also introduces a comedic element that prevents the story from becoming too bleak.

Areas of Concern

Despite the enjoyable aspects, I had some reservations. The core issue seems to be the MC's past. The idea that he spent thousands of years with these women without resolving fundamental misunderstandings strains believability. It makes him seem partially responsible for his own downfall, which diminishes the impact of his revenge. Additionally, some of the empresses' motivations for betrayal felt flimsy and unconvincing, making it difficult to fully invest in their regret. The female characters come across as shallow. I wish there was more introspection and development beyond simply regretting their actions.

Final Verdict

"The Eight Empresses Betrayed Me, Only to Deeply Regret It After Being Reborn" is a decent read if you're looking for a revenge story with a cold, calculating protagonist and a focus on cultivation. However, the weak character motivations and lack of emotional depth prevent it from reaching its full potential. I'd recommend it with the caveat that you shouldn't expect a nuanced exploration of love, loss, and regret.