What is a Yandere? Novel Review

My Thoughts on What is a Yandere?

"What is a Yandere?" is a web novel that dives headfirst into the chaotic world of yandere characters, and it's definitely a polarizing read. I went in expecting a thrilling exploration of obsessive love, and what I got was... well, a mixed bag.

First Impressions

From the get-go, the story throws you into the deep end. The initial chapters are a whirlwind of events, and the pacing feels incredibly rushed. The protagonist is immediately thrust into an arranged marriage with a woman who quickly reveals her, shall we say, intense affection. It's a shock to the system, and whether you enjoy that or not seems to be the deciding factor for many readers.

What Works Well

For those who are dedicated yandere fans, this novel offers a relatively rare and focused exploration of the theme. The violence starts early, which some readers appreciate, and the ecchi elements are kept relatively minimal. Some find this approach refreshing, as it allows the story to focus more on the, albeit twisted, relationships. There's a certain entertainment value to be found in the sheer absurdity of it all, especially if you're willing to turn off your logical brain and just enjoy the ride.

Areas of Concern

However, the fast pace and focus on shocking events come at the expense of character development and plot coherence. The protagonist is often described as dense and unlikeable, making it difficult to connect with him or understand his motivations. The dialogue can feel stilted and unnatural, and the plot often lacks a logical throughline. The portrayal of the yandere characters themselves is also a point of contention. Some feel that they lack the nuance and complexity that make yanderes compelling, instead coming across as simply "weird" rather than genuinely terrifying or alluring. It seems the author is trying to improve on these aspects, but as it stands, these issues hold the story back.

Final Verdict

"What is a Yandere?" is a novel that knows its target audience and caters to them unapologetically. If you're looking for a logically consistent, character-driven story, this probably isn't it. However, if you're a fan of the yandere trope and are willing to embrace the chaos and absurdity, you might find some twisted enjoyment here. Just go in with low expectations and a willingness to suspend your disbelief, and you might be surprised. I'm giving it a cautious 3 out of 5 stars.