The Witch, Who Once Was Called A Saint

My Thoughts on The Witch, Who Once Was Called A Saint

"The Witch, Who Once Was Called A Saint" had me intrigued from the very start. The premise of an immortal witch, formerly a saint, grappling with centuries of isolation immediately grabbed my attention. While the translation is still ongoing, I’ve read enough to form a solid opinion, and I'm eager to share my thoughts.

First Impressions

The initial chapters do a decent job of setting the stage. We're introduced to our witch, living a quiet life until an unexpected encounter throws her world into gentle chaos. I found the initial dynamic between her and the male lead promising, though some elements felt a bit rushed.

What Works Well

The strongest aspect of this novel is undoubtedly the world-building. The hints of a larger, more complex history, particularly surrounding the witch's past and the emergence of a looming threat, are incredibly compelling. I also appreciated the subtle exploration of her character. Her immortality isn't just a plot device; it's a core element shaping her reluctance to engage with others, especially romantically. I particularly enjoyed the focus on food and the way it's woven into the narrative, offering moments of warmth and connection.

Areas of Concern

While the premise is strong, I did find some inconsistencies in the main character's portrayal. Her supposed social awkwardness, stemming from centuries of isolation, sometimes feels superficial and doesn't always translate convincingly. I also felt that her wisdom and knowledge, built up over those 400 years, could have been more prominent. Additionally, I had some reservations about the male lead's initial approach. While his intentions seem pure, his actions, particularly his persistent attempts to insert himself into the witch's life, bordered on unsettling.

Final Verdict

Despite some flaws in character consistency and the potential for a slightly unsettling dynamic between the leads, "The Witch, Who Once Was Called A Saint" holds a lot of promise. The intriguing premise, coupled with the immersive world-building and exploration of immortality, makes it a worthwhile read. If you're a fan of fantasy romance with a touch of drama and don't mind a bit of a slow burn, I recommend giving this novel a try. I'm personally invested enough to continue following the translation and seeing where the story goes.