The Hawk Soars in Mizuho’s Skies ~Plastic Expert Reincarnated as a Noble’s Daughter so Japan Will Become a Nation Founded on Chemistry~

My Thoughts on The Hawk Soars in Mizuho’s Skies Plastic Expert Reincarnated as a Noble’s Daughter so Japan Will Become a Nation Founded on Chemistry

First Impressions

Okay, that title is definitely a mouthful! But once you get past it, the premise is pretty intriguing. We've got a plastic expert reincarnated as a noble's daughter in Meiji-era Japan, aiming to modernize the nation through the power of chemistry. It's a unique blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and a dash of gender-bending. I was immediately curious to see how the author would pull it all off.

What Works Well

The core concept is undeniably fascinating. Watching Youko, our protagonist, introduce modern concepts like Nylon 66 to a rapidly industrializing Japan is genuinely entertaining. The author clearly did their research, weaving in details about early 20th-century weaponry and military strategy. This historical accuracy adds a layer of depth that keeps me engaged, even if I'm not a hardcore war buff. The blend of historical context with Youko's modern knowledge creates a compelling narrative. It's a classic "fish out of water" scenario, but with the added twist of using scientific knowledge to shape a nation's future.

Areas of Concern

While I appreciate the premise, I do have some reservations. The story leans heavily into Japanese nationalism, which might not sit well with all readers. It's a delicate topic, and while I haven't seen any explicit mentions of war crimes, the potential for problematic themes is definitely there. Additionally, the gender-bending aspect feels somewhat unnecessary. It doesn't seem to add much to the plot and could have potentially been avoided.

Final Verdict

Overall, "The Hawk Soars in Mizuho’s Skies" is a novel with a lot of potential. The unique premise, coupled with the historical setting and scientific elements, makes it an engaging read. However, the strong nationalist themes and somewhat questionable gender-bending element are things to consider before diving in. If you're a fan of historical fiction with a touch of fantasy and don't mind potentially controversial themes, this might be worth checking out. I'd give it a solid 3.7 out of 5 stars.