Sep 15, 2024
One of the first LN I've read after I decided to read them on a whim. Somehow I took delight in this series despite having little to no financial knowledge, but I still absolutely like it.
Not the usual Otome game where they use their hindsight and classically fall into the usual tropes. The MC and characters are great and the dynamics between characters are done well to a unique setting that I don't think I've seen before.
Of course, there is some semblance of that stereotypical Villainess turnaround story, but it is fine-tuned to and in line with the MC's backstory and the historical
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setting and condition she finds herself in. The struggles with loneliness, friends, money, morality, duty, responsibility, and the sense of alienation and connection the MC feels to those around her are executed excellently IMO.
I've seen some point out how disengaging certain aspects of the writing are, but honestly, the realism and plausibility of cheesing the economy makes me not care. Modern politics just before the dawn of the internet age and post-Cold War era (a few twists regarding Axis powers of Japan/Germany).
The contrast and merge of the capitalism and culture of East-West in an Alt-history world on the advent of a new millennium was a captivating idea that was splendidly done. Like the divergence in East Asia's political landscape and the survival and resurgence of Japan's old guard in a post-war society.
The contemporary setting is a fresh breath of air to all the CTRL+C & CTRL+V templates that have been done to death, which was a selling point for me. Moreover, the reader's and author's connection to these real-world events only increases the level of immersion especially after they've been affected accordingly.
Namely, the crossroads of a globalized and interconnected world and the key milestones that have (will happen in this case) in modern history. It prompted me to go through many what-if scenarios regarding the IT Boom, Asian Financial Crisis, Russian Financial Crisis, 9/11, War on Terror, Invasion of Afghanistan, Iraq War, Lost Decades, GFC and so on. Overall, the numerous yet subtle points of divergence have been skilfully balanced.
As expected there is a lack of violence in a novel like this, well explicitly stated at least. Despite this, it has never failed to keep me interested for more. The content is clearly well-researched and thought out. For the most part, it manages to stay grounded in historical facts and stay true to the crucial events of the present age. All the while ensuring that its modern context isn't overtly familiar and stale.
Never did I think I would find myself saying sounds of praise to a story featuring neoliberal economic theory, international geopolitics, corporate conglomerates and domestic bureaucracy. I guess that just tells how enjoyable of a read it was ))
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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