The General and The Black Cat

My Thoughts on The General and The Black Cat

"The General and The Black Cat" is a completed short novel with a blend of action, comedy, and fantasy that I recently dove into, and it definitely left me with mixed feelings. While it has its charm, it's not without its flaws, making for a somewhat uneven reading experience.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the premise: an ex-assassin working for a kingdom, unexpectedly sharing a home with a witch who enjoys transforming into a cat. The setup promised lighthearted fun and quirky interactions, which, for the most part, the story delivers. I was also intrigued to learn that this novel serves as a prequel of sorts to "Unnamed Memory," giving me a chance to delve deeper into the backstory of certain characters.

What Works Well

The humor is definitely a strong point. The main character's internal monologue is hilarious, and the banter between him and Tina, the witch, is genuinely entertaining. Their dynamic is a highlight, with constant back-and-forth that feels like a comedic routine. I also enjoyed the world-building and the glimpses into Tina's past, especially the contrast between her younger, more inexperienced self in this story and her more mature persona in "Unnamed Memory." The translation is also excellent, which always makes a big difference in my enjoyment.

Areas of Concern

However, I did find some aspects of the story frustrating. The main character is often mistreated by other characters, and it can feel like he's constantly being walked all over. While some might find this funny, it eventually wore thin for me. I also felt that the story lacked a certain depth, feeling more like a collection of amusing vignettes than a cohesive narrative. While the slice-of-life aspect can be appealing, I wished for a more substantial plot to tie everything together. Also, some readers might be disappointed that the romantic potential between the main character and Tina isn't fully realized.

Final Verdict

Overall, "The General and The Black Cat" is an amusing but not particularly deep read. If you're looking for a lighthearted story with plenty of humor and don't mind a main character who gets pushed around a bit, you might enjoy it. However, if you prefer stories with strong character development and a more substantial plot, this might not be for you. I'd recommend it primarily to those who have already read "Unnamed Memory" and are interested in learning more about Tina's backstory. I'd give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.