The Villainess is a Marionette

My Thoughts on The Villainess is a Marionette

"The Villainess is a Marionette" promised a cunning protagonist navigating a treacherous court, and for the most part, it delivered. I found myself drawn into Cayena's struggle for survival, especially given the high stakes from the very beginning. It's a story where everyone seems to have a hidden agenda, making it compelling to watch the female lead try to outmaneuver them.

First Impressions

Initially, I was hooked by the premise of a reborn villainess who actually learns from her past mistakes. It's refreshing to see a character who doesn't suddenly become a genius overnight but instead uses her knowledge of past events to her advantage. The early chapters did a great job of setting the stage and introducing the complex relationships that drive the plot.

What Works Well

Cayena herself is definitely a highlight. She's smart, resourceful, and determined to forge her own path, and I appreciated how the author portrays her as someone who's constantly thinking several steps ahead. The political intrigue is also well-done, with power struggles and scheming taking center stage. I also appreciated the healthy female relationships, a rarity in the genre. Raphael's character development was also a high point, as he evolves into a supportive and understanding partner for Cayena.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the overall story, I did find some aspects less compelling. The romance, while present, felt somewhat rushed and a bit forced at times. It felt like it was missing deeper interactions, which made it difficult to fully invest in the relationship. I also found the male lead's initial attraction to Cayena a bit cliche, stemming from her change in attitude towards him.

Final Verdict

Overall, "The Villainess is a Marionette" is an engaging read with a strong female lead and plenty of political intrigue. While the romance and some plot points could have been stronger, the story's strengths outweigh its weaknesses. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a fantasy novel with a cunning protagonist and a focus on scheming and survival.