The Regressed Son of a Duke is an Assassin Novel Review

My Thoughts on The Regressed Son of a Duke is an Assassin

First Impressions

Okay, so "The Regressed Son of a Duke is an Assassin" definitely piqued my interest with its title. I'm a sucker for a good regression story, especially when there's a bit of an edge to it. The premise of an assassin getting a second chance in a noble setting? Sounds like a recipe for some fun. However, diving in, I quickly realized this novel is a bit of a mixed bag.

What Works Well

There are definitely elements that kept me reading. I can see the appeal of the underdog MC trope, and the idea of him gradually becoming overpowered. The world-building seems reasonably fleshed out, with a power system that has potential. And I do appreciate that some of the supporting characters get their own backstories, making them more than just cardboard cutouts. I particularly enjoyed the hints of romance, which added some depth to the female lead's character. It's not just a mindless power fantasy; there are attempts at character development.

Areas of Concern

However, I have to address some glaring issues. The plot, while promising, often feels contrived and lacks clear motivation. I struggled to understand the main character's actions at times, especially his seeming reluctance to deal with threats decisively. This indecisiveness led to frustrating situations and avoidable losses, which really took away from my enjoyment. The MC's arrogance and overconfidence, constantly being reminded, can also get a bit irritating. There's also the issue of translation quality, which can sometimes hinder comprehension, even if it's not a major problem.

Final Verdict

Overall, "The Regressed Son of a Duke is an Assassin" is an okay read if you're looking for something to kill time. It has potential, but the execution falls short in several key areas. The plot can feel aimless, the MC's motivations are often unclear, and the constant delays in taking decisive action can be incredibly frustrating. If you're new to the regression genre, you might find some enjoyment here. But if you're a seasoned reader, you might find yourself wanting more depth and complexity. I'd give it a hesitant 3/5 stars.