The Incompetent Minister Wants To Retire

My Thoughts on The Incompetent Minister Wants To Retire

"The Incompetent Minister Wants To Retire" hooked me with its intriguing premise: a profoundly lazy intelligence minister desperately trying to escape his responsibilities, while everyone around him interprets his every action as a sign of terrifying genius. The humor derived from this fundamental misunderstanding is definitely the initial draw.

First Impressions

Initially, I found myself chuckling at Erwin Barmuth's predicament. His internal monologue, filled with self-deprecation and a yearning for a quiet life, clashes hilariously with the awe and terror he inspires in others. The supporting cast, from his devoted (and slightly unhinged) secretary, Celine, to the elite assassins who dissect his every gesture, adds to the comedic effect. It's a fun setup, especially if you enjoy stories built on dramatic irony.

What Works Well

The novel shines in its comedic timing and the absurdity of its premise. Erwin's attempts to be ordinary are constantly misinterpreted as brilliant strategies, leading to laugh-out-loud moments. The author does a great job of building a world where everyone is convinced of Erwin's brilliance, even when he's just trying to return a faulty bookshelf. I also appreciate the hints that there might be more to Erwin than meets the eye, a subtle undercurrent that adds intrigue without undermining the comedy. The story is developing at a good pace. And, if you can get past the first 20 or so chapters, where the MC is nothing but annoying (at least for me), it gets really interesting.

Areas of Concern

While the misunderstanding trope is initially entertaining, I can see how it might become repetitive over time. Some readers might also find Erwin's initial cluelessness annoying. It's important for the plot to evolve beyond just comedic misunderstandings to maintain long-term engagement. There's also the harem element, which, based on some reader comments, can be a bit strange and potentially disturbing.

Final Verdict

Overall, I think "The Incompetent Minister Wants To Retire" is an enjoyable read, especially if you're looking for a lighthearted fantasy with plenty of humor. The premise is unique, the characters are entertaining, and the plot, while potentially lacking a clear direction at times, keeps you engaged. However, be aware of the potential pitfalls, such as the repetitive nature of the misunderstandings and the potentially problematic harem elements. If you can overlook those, you're in for a fun ride.