Pinnacle Novels of Quality! Immerse yourself~
Pinnacle Novels of Quality! Immerse yourself~
Sequence is CN- JP- KR- Fluffy- (Comedy)- Exceptions- To-reads. Not ranked by number.
My descriptions varies greatly from a gist, polished review, impressions, or explains key points.
[Flexible Preferences]
A. Protags are somehow mostly male but I read both!- interesting, has compelling qualities, flawed with development
B. Entertaining, Distinct, & Creative
C. Steady premise, no TERRIBLE plot hole
D. Romance: good execution, pacing, build-up, & evokes emotion; no bullsh!t drama & brain-dead denseness
E. Vital, relevant, fleshed-out characters
F. Comedic & Fun
G. Danger, Wars, Battles, Strategy, Tactics, Trials, Fights, Thriller, Suspense
H. Lore, Culture, Kingdom, Worldbuilding
I. Political Intrigue, Schemes, Mind Games, Manipulation, Mystery
J. Pure tragedies rarely - it hurts!
K. No BL/GL(yet?)
L. Can be R-18
M. Polygamous-like IF great story | even if you're averse consider my recs. ;)
[Criteria]
1. These are (mostly) 4/5 stars in story, translation and enjoyment according to my flawed evaluation that is mainly 3/10 objective, 7/10 subjective.
2. I have perused the novels or adaptation before sharing my thoughts.
3. Writing must be consistent, coherent and engaging and the ending must at least not be sh!t. Clichés to a point are fine however it needs to be purposeful & executed well.
4. I will keep adding books that are promising, satisfying, translated.
My descriptions varies greatly from a gist, polished review, impressions, or explains key points.
[Flexible Preferences]
A. Protags are somehow mostly male but I read both!- interesting, has compelling qualities, flawed with development
B. Entertaining, Distinct, & Creative
C. Steady premise, no TERRIBLE plot hole
D. Romance: good execution, pacing, build-up, & evokes emotion; no bullsh!t drama & brain-dead denseness
E. Vital, relevant, fleshed-out characters
F. Comedic & Fun
G. Danger, Wars, Battles, Strategy, Tactics, Trials, Fights, Thriller, Suspense
H. Lore, Culture, Kingdom, Worldbuilding
I. Political Intrigue, Schemes, Mind Games, Manipulation, Mystery
J. Pure tragedies rarely - it hurts!
K. No BL/GL(yet?)
L. Can be R-18
M. Polygamous-like IF great story | even if you're averse consider my recs. ;)
[Criteria]
1. These are (mostly) 4/5 stars in story, translation and enjoyment according to my flawed evaluation that is mainly 3/10 objective, 7/10 subjective.
2. I have perused the novels or adaptation before sharing my thoughts.
3. Writing must be consistent, coherent and engaging and the ending must at least not be sh!t. Clichés to a point are fine however it needs to be purposeful & executed well.
4. I will keep adding books that are promising, satisfying, translated.
197 Followers
Created: Sep 14th, 2020, Updated: May 3rd, 2021
Created Sep 14th, 2020
Updated May 3rd, 2021
325 Chapters Every 17.6 Day(s) 13186 Readers 36 Reviews 05-04-2024
Set in an ancient times dynasty, it has a interesting plot with a capable protagonist who is cute yet hiding her appearance. I loved this novel but I put it on-hold for now. ... more>>
#27Gekkou
15 Chapters Every 111.9 Day(s) 3329 Readers 27 Reviews 01-16-2016
Complete novel. Sometimes I even forget that normal novels only have one volumes because of my preferences. This is one of those books despite being short is amazingly entertaining and satisfying. It's like what would happen if some japanese romcom novels weren't stretched unnecessarily and it has a entertaining plot of it's own... more>>
1 Chapters Every 4521 Day(s) 3318 Readers 23 Reviews 12-21-2011
I read this some 2 years ago. I remember it being one such harem-romance focused novel executed well, with it's own uniqueness and relatable 3 dimensional characters. It only comes with 2 caveats, the overly descriptive and long writing. It is filled with character interactions and characters who grow on you, and you can read it despite your gender.... more>>
355 Chapters Every 34.6 Day(s) 13992 Readers 217 Reviews 04-14-2024
It's isekai, and while not amazingly good it is very fun and above-average. Has some influences here and there from past isekai stories but it isn't generic nor is it your typical jp cut-and-print novel. It has it's personality making it have some depth and detailedness while being casual, and has action and adventures but relaxing every now and then. If I should describe it, it engages and excites you at the same time it relaxes and makes you smile. It too has made me invest in the story mostly because it's refreshing in it's plot, flow, and characters that it stands out in it's own way from other isekai stories. ... more>>
42 Chapters Every 183.9 Day(s) 9643 Readers 28 Reviews 11-14-2016
Very promising. It's a tier higher than most reincarnation transmigrations. It has it's interesting lifelike characters, vitality-filled world and setting, politics and wars> fighting, strategy, action, diplomacy, negotiation<, and some aspects that are more defined compared to most generic isekai (like non-cliche religion, ideologies, and distinct races). As the title says, the protagonist is a former human and while without a doubt he is influenced by this, he is a bona-fide werewolf and this fact is explored and used in the story well -- making it interesting as well as exciting. ... more>>
25 Chapters Every 276.3 Day(s) 10054 Readers 214 Reviews 09-07-2020
At the start, you can see the rise to power of a scumbag, manipulative protagonist with some truly unique fellows (with some craziness and depth going on) when they were caught in a mass transportation another world. And I like it! It is leading to something truly interesting with it showing it's quirks and potential in the writing and setting. Lots of dialogue, schemes, politics, world building, psychology so beware.... more>>
0 Chapters Every 2135 Day(s) 21455 Readers 441 Reviews 07-03-2018
Action Adventure Comedy Drama Fantasy Mature Mystery Psychological Sci-fi Seinen Supernatural Tragedy
Shines and stands out from books in the same genre as a breath of fresh air. Fascinating and unique in it's style and premise, consisting of game-like elements and a power system that is totally distinctive. It has excellent execution and course of events with lore that meshes well with the story and the setting. One of my most favorite weak-to-strong, action-adventure novel with a cast you'll love, and excitement or subversion that comes in the most satisfying ways. Maybe some would think there are low/weak points, but for me it's all fine because while sometimes it is too fast-paced or the arcs are long it does not become boring and stale at all -... more>>
520 Chapters Every 64.3 Day(s) 22606 Readers 194 Reviews 11-24-2021
Read til volume 50 but still stocking up on chaps. Well you'll either love this or think it's overrated. Admittedly, there are flaws like some common korean tropes at the start, weed's (mc) not much character development, game-system inconstencies yada yada... But then I again I really enjoyed the action, the game world, kingdom-building, comedy, romantic-subplot and think that at least the plot and the setting holds up throughout 50 chapters - and the fact that it reached so many books proves that it may be worth your time.... more>>
40 Chapters Every 90.9 Day(s) 2998 Readers 37 Reviews 08-12-2020
A video game transmigration. At first glance of the first <<edit> hundred <edit>> chapters, it may seem like it is generic and trope-filled. Yet thinking deeply, these so-called 'tropes' are surprisingly refreshing distinct, and detailed and the writing of the characters make them consistent to themselves with interesting interactions. We see different standpoints, ideologies, limitations of their perspectives, and imperfect characters -- this is well done and it's wonderful for the story. ... more>>
55 Chapters Every 178.7 Day(s) 23808 Readers 316 Reviews 11-26-2017
Not minding some inconsistencies and flaws (which I think was deliberately written by the author, and if you want to know, yes, some are later proven to be on purpose. It's not really a deal-breaker for the kind of book it is), it's truly one of my topmost favorite korean novels that I became really amazed in, mainly for 3 things! (Do note the protagonist is a borderline sociopath, hypocrite, and a rational villain with hard limits) ------>... more>>
#36Ending Maker
0 Chapters Every 1392 Day(s) 11349 Readers 172 Reviews 07-17-2020
Power couple, game world, comedy, action, weak to strong, and makes you invest in the story with feels and happiness. >> I'll write a more comprehensive explanation later. The strength dynamic between the two feel like SAO's Asuna and Kirito. It has tension but it's pretty smooth sailing while remaining interesting. I haven't read far, but the story doesn't feel much sexist because both the leads have their own specialties, and I never considered the male lead to have been forced to triumph nor have I ever seen him as 'better' or 'rightfully stronger'. They are both capable and very lovable, but I should reserve some more judgement for the later chapters, but at least... more>>
757 Chapters Every 1.2 Day(s) 18340 Readers 212 Reviews 05-05-2024
Principled but subtly twisted protagonist in a tower-hunter korean genre story. It is different from similar stories and features very interesting abilities and events.... more>>
#38Isaac
214 Chapters Every 35.7 Day(s) 8149 Readers 131 Reviews 02-24-2023
Overall, the schemes, plots, worldbuilding is at an acceptable level and doesn't feel that much forced. The characters are likable and are integral to the story. The main reason you should read this is how the sleeping dragon, but truly crazy and dangerous mc reacts (if it is well-done and becomes a challenge), how the characters are involved, and how the story proceeds. I have somewhat of a good expectation for this. Also, it is somewhat of a harem, wherein the mc is not a lecher but there are friends-love interests. Explores the darkness of people, in a complex, immersive way.... more>>
0 Chapters Every 1410 Day(s) 3405 Readers 18 Reviews 06-27-2020
Fluffy #1
0 Chapters Every 174.6 Day(s) 4326 Readers 27 Reviews 04-25-2017
Exception #1: Don't see this story as bad, it's only because it's been some time since I last read the LN so I should re-read it before recommending. This was a fun and cohesive story I read during my "Harem and Reverse-harem phase" just like everyone else (What? Just me? ehehe). ... more>>
50 Chapters Every 219 Day(s) 630 Readers 12 Reviews 03-26-2019
Exception #2. Honestly, this isn't quality writing and has tons of plot holes. I just really recommend reading this as a pasttime. Though flawed, if you don't get all nitty-gritty it is wildly entertaining in terms of action, comedy, side-characters and their antics, and all-around MC's OP-ness with at least a level of consistency and cohesiveness. It's Harem is basically pandering, and leaves much to be desired but the main heroines did get explored within many chapters and did satisfy so just don't expect anything amazing - the mc is a playboy, yet honest. ... more>>
0 Chapters Every 2000 Day(s) 29929 Readers 379 Reviews 12-01-2020
Exception #3: If you had read this, most likely you will love it to the skies and beyond, or just think it's overrated, overhyped, and garbage. For me, I'm in the middle. When I was reading, I was just looking for something fun when this came along. It's not good as a story and I can even call it a wish-fulfillment, self-gratifying, everything-goes-right-for-mc story. But why did I put it here as an exception? Well. It is pretty damn interesting, fun, and comedic with trope satire. I won't deny that, despite the deus ex machina, cheat overpoweredness, and predictable writing.... more>>
21 Chapters Every 98.9 Day(s) 3806 Readers 85 Reviews 04-26-2020
Exception #5:... more>>
981 Chapters Every 3.3 Day(s) 37861 Readers 587 Reviews 05-06-2024
Exception #7:... more>>
0 Chapters Every 1438 Day(s) 8022 Readers 127 Reviews 05-30-2020
Exception #8:... more>>
193 Chapters Every 47.1 Day(s) 4058 Readers 102 Reviews 10-11-2022
Pending judgement:... more>>
360 Chapters Every 6.7 Day(s) 8089 Readers 68 Reviews 05-04-2024
I have only read the start. ... more>>
Comments (27)
I agree with everything except ORV(Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint) the last arc of that novel and the epilouge was really bad in my opinion.
Also BTW, the Web Novel for Dungeon Defense is currently being translated and can be found here:
https://www.novelupdates.com/series/dungeon-defense-wn/https://www.novelupdates.com/series/dungeon-defense-wn/
Thanks :)
Yeah. I haven't read ORV's last 50 chapters but I heard that it was 'bad' from other's opinion. Still top quality and unique in enjoyment and story among webnovels though.
Also I read Dungeon's Defense WN but it's so different. For me, LN and WN have same title, but different stories right from the beginning - both versions are like the difference between the original fairytale books and disney adaptation. I'm waiting for translations to pile up but it's not a priority as I really, really like the LN. My reason is that the writing is lower in quality than the later written LN, aspects are toned down, and a favorite character of mine had tragic things done to her which hurts my heart
@Sleep-deprived-enthusiast
I also recommend that you read this novel:
https://www.novelupdates.com/series/the-editor-is-the-novels-extra/
It's a much more serious version of "tr*sh of the Count's Family". Be warned though, the first 30 or so chapters are pretty boring as they are mostly just set-up for the actual story, so I suggest you read until chapter 60 before you decide to drop it or not.
GREAT! Finally someone who read House of Horrors! Also Gekkou! Im guessing you too have been a reader before fan translations become popular since Gekkou is in Baka tsuki. Im just a bit disappointed about Rakuin no Monshou not being in this list. That novel to me is on the same level as lord of the mysteries and house of horrors, the highest level for me.
Ive read everything on this list except the legend of Sun Knight and most of the last 10(i will check them out now) on the list and i would say I pretty much agree with every thing you said. This is a great list.
Hahaha yeah I did start with baka-tsuki novels, starting with old titles. Also thanks for the praise :) It's something I made purely because of wanting to share my enjoyment to other people like you.
I'll read Rakuin no Monshou. I was previously hesitant because nobody talked to me about it.
For Legend of the Sun Knight, for all of the things I don't like about it, it's what could I say, something I enjoyed for it's comedy and adventure aspects though I did not finish it yet.
Glad we agreed with My House of Horrors. Top-favorite of mine and I got hooked right from the start and did not regret binging all available chapters at the time.
Thanks for the suggestions
-Kumo Desuga and The Novel's Extra -- Great starts, lowers in quality. TNE went from great to good, I kept reading even when people said one of the arc is similar to HxH but then I stopped reading at around chapter 300 because it was skipping all details and fights. Kumo was great for the first parts when there was evolution, and I still read it throughout the war arc. I lost interest in the story of Kumo though in the middle of the story because of the muddled direction. Maybe one day I'll re-read it but I'll definitely watch the anime adaptation, as well as read the manga adaptation because I saw it had a revised story.
-Ouroboros Record was dropped in LN and hiatus in WN so I'd rather not try because I don't know if it'll ever get continued. Delve's reviews where overwhelmingly telling they enjoyed it but the plot didn't have any major direction past chapter 100 so I will let chapters stock first before diving into it in case it get better.
-The Wandering Inn, To be a Power in the shadows was in my to-read and I guess I'd put it higher in priority ;)
- The Gate of Good Fortune, the Magus of Genesis, and Hakai no Miko -- thanks, first time knowing of these so I'll put it in my to-read. Reviews are mixed though, but I'll definitely try The Gate of Good Fortune looks pretty great, which I only had the chance of hearing of because of you.
Thanks again!
4. The Beginning After The End [tapas] - exploration of transmigration-reincarnation, interesting power systems and abilities, schemes and wars, action, conflicts, overarching plot, romantic subplot, realistic characters and character development, sacrificial and intelligent and flawed protagonist. -- has some flaws but good for a webnovel.
6. The Oracle Paths - this is so good. My gripes with this is the author keeps on making the main character tolerate some characters with a bad personality most readers don't like (not that I really hate it, it just gets much reaction for the audience), for now the main romance feels like its affecting mc's other possible relationship with love interests because of the circumstance but main romance and mc haven't met except for the start and there is no bullsh*t as of now that made the mc not want to have a fling/relationship because of 'main romance fate', and maybe the protagonist's notion of strategy and battle tactics are sometimes hindered by the widespread 'system' (oracle in this case, as the title says) but it does get handled properly, and while his intelligence does really develop and used properly to think of creative means, achieve goals and do things for his own growth, he's not the ultimate scheming/strategist types.
Time travelers guide to feudal japan is definitely good, especially those who are extremely familiar with the sengoku era. This is the only novel where i paid my way to the latest chapter in just 2 days. Highly recommended to those who play Shogun Total War.
The Beginning After the end - the tags you’ve written piqued my interest, i will add it to my reading list/bookmark.
The mech touch- sadly mechs are not my taste anymore.
@Buskervile the mech touch is currently.... yeah, some things are just ruining the enjoyment. The author at least written it well enough with things for the future so I hope it get better when I get back to it a few months later, edit: just seen some chapters, not free of annoyances and flaws, but still good and enjoyable enough.
For TBATE, it is by no means perfect and has some cliches, but it's execution is good enough that its way above other reincarnation stories do (looking at you generic isekai JP novels) and the plot is thought-out. It's especially memorable to me as it is one of the first stories of this genre I read. I recommend going into it knowing the mc is interesting and has relatability while also having flaws, shortcomings, and conflicts that add some value to the story without you questioning or wanting to beat the mc like in other stories. One of the things I liked about it the most is the protagonist growing stronger as a child because of his reincarnation advantage.
@animefan4004 Really? That's a shame, I put it on hold and it was still good at that point. I heard about that opinion in the past but my reading tastes were still immature and inexperienced back then to judge it properly.
I like female protags... but the beginning after the end is really good IMO. I anxiously await each upload of the manhwa.
Besides the text on the description, I hate shock-value forced ntr and ntr vibes;
I can handle r//a//p//e for darker stories but I hate it when it happens outta nowhere to characters we are invested in or especially to any female lead;
main protagonists that are cookie-cutter and have no personality and their terrible qualities don't add any value at all to the story;
past a certain point bad kr, jp, and cn mc's are turn-off: examples are carefree non-questioning isekai push-over, and lone wolf edgy power-leveler, emotionless mu*der hobo villainous assaulter of the opposite sex;
lastly usage of popular tropes to pander are tasteless. This includes s*ave harems, jade beauties, unentertaining grandpa or subordinate admirers, uber lucky deus ex machina etc.
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World-building is one of my topmost priority in a story
I can read any genre, but generally nothing too classic (but I am planning to read some soon) or too teen-like or for childish audience, as in something like twilight (correct me if I'm wrong as I have not read it) or idealistic wattpad books for teen/young adults, or for-fun anime fanfic. I'm not insulting those as those have value to who reads them, it's not just for me.
Premise, emotions, storyline, entertainment, writing quality, and length are things that hook me in, but I'm picky about 'quality' but not picky if I truly enjoy something.
side note: why do I read harem? I am aware they are pretty unrealistic and only 1% can be considered realistic, it's just pretty fun. What I enjoy is the dynamics that are pretty entertaining, the bloodshed funny, and romantic moments exciting, the shipping and fluff lighthearted, and sometimes the heroines can be a protagonist on their own right. Just like how I enjoy evil, grey, and even non-human/monster protagonists, it doesn't have to be realistic for it's fiction. It only needs to hook my interest and soothe my boredom.