The Mail Order Life of a Man Around 40 in Another World

My Thoughts on The Mail Order Life of a Man Around 40 in Another World

Alright, let's talk about "The Mail Order Life of a Man Around 40 in Another World." This isekai story definitely has some interesting elements, but it's also got a few quirks that might make you pause. I went in expecting a fun, slow-life adventure, and while I got some of that, there were also some things that rubbed me the wrong way.

First Impressions

The premise is definitely unique: a middle-aged guy gets transported to another world with the ability to order stuff from a Japanese online store. It's like having Amazon Prime in a fantasy setting, which is a pretty cool cheat ability. The early chapters were engaging, and I was excited to see how the MC would use his modern conveniences to navigate this new world.

What Works Well

I appreciated the author's attention to detail when it came to the MC's crafting and construction skills. It felt believable, or at least as believable as you can get in a fantasy setting. The story also has a relatively good pace, and it was nice to read an isekai novel where the protagonist isn't a stereotypical shy guy. The "sex scenes" are glossed over, which is a plus for me. I also enjoyed the selective use of technology. For example, he can get cars and electricity, but no firearms, which creates interesting limitations.

Areas of Concern

Here's where things get a bit tricky. One of the main issues I had was with the MC's character. While it's refreshing that he's not a virgin, his behavior can be pretty problematic. He's constantly commenting on women's appearances and comes across as a bit of a pervert.

Also, his moral compass seems a little off at times. He threatens to sell people into slavery and witnesses a sexual assault without intervening. It's hard to root for a character who does questionable things, even if he occasionally does good deeds.

Another potential issue is the MC's naivete. Apparently, there are moments where he makes really questionable decisions, like trusting people who have tried to harm him. It seems out of character for a 40-year-old.

Final Verdict

"The Mail Order Life of a Man Around 40 in Another World" is a mixed bag. It has a unique premise and some enjoyable elements, but the problematic MC and potential connections to the author's other works give me pause. I'd say it's worth checking out if you're a die-hard isekai fan, but go in with your eyes open. It's not a masterpiece, but it's entertaining enough to pass the time. I'm giving it a tentative 3 out of 5 stars.