There was No One Beside Her

My Thoughts on There was No One Beside Her

"There Was No One Beside Her" immediately grabbed my attention with its promise of a strong female lead, revenge, and a second chance in a European-esque fantasy setting. I dove in eager to see how the author would handle these elements, and I wasn't disappointed.

First Impressions

The synopsis is spot-on, which I always appreciate. You know exactly what you're getting into: a tale of vengeance and its aftermath. The initial chapters are gripping, setting the stage for a compelling story of a woman wronged seeking to right the scales.

What Works Well

The protagonist is the true star of this novel. Her character is incredibly well-developed, and her actions feel consistent with the trauma she's endured. The author does a fantastic job of portraying the emotional and physical toll of her past life, making her burnout and reluctance to embrace hatred entirely believable. I particularly enjoyed how her sympathy for those who didn't wrong her directly felt justified, yet she wasn't portrayed as a saint. This nuanced portrayal of a scarred individual is a refreshing change from the typical revenge-driven protagonist. The plot moves at a good pace, delivering on the revenge aspect relatively early, allowing the story to delve into the consequences and the character's healing process.

Areas of Concern

The shift towards slice-of-life and romance might not appeal to all readers. If you're primarily here for the angst and revenge, you might find the later chapters less engaging. I also questioned the role and actions of the celestials. Their apparent indifference to the protagonist's suffering in past lives felt like a significant oversight.

Final Verdict

Overall, "There Was No One Beside Her" is a worthwhile read if you're looking for a character-driven fantasy with a strong female lead and a compelling revenge plot. While the shift in focus might not appeal to everyone, the well-developed protagonist and the exploration of trauma make it a memorable story. I'd recommend giving it a try, especially if you appreciate nuanced characters and a European-inspired setting.