Unsung Epics of the Hero’s Journey: Volume 1

Unsung Epics of the Hero’s Journey Light Novel #1

by Hachigatsumori, mpt (Translator), Nat. (Illustrator)

A hero has been chosen by the divine blade! She's due to set out on a journey to defeat the archfiend, leaving the city abuzz. But from the shadows dawns a prophecy that the hero will be cut down before she ever reaches the archfiend's stronghold. To avert this tragedy, the temple dispatches Rhuys Ferme to redirect the stream of events leading to the hero’s death and to keep the omen secret. Only problem is that this is a job for two. Enter Araigné (in)famously skilled adventurer who’s willing to help—for a price. And no one said it'd just be money that Rhuys had to pay.

Genres: Light Novel

351 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 7, 2024

Reviews

[Pieter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting concept: what if somebody behind the scenes sets things up for the hero (of the JRPG) to make the tropes make sense (e.g. the hero cannot access the higher level area)? The somebodies being in this case a somewhat naïve and idealistic cleric with limited oracle powers and an world weary fighter with a dark secret (and yes, this is a yuri story, although the romance is not the main plot). It sounds like a fairly typical partnership, but it is not as straight forward as say a police action drama. For one thing, both are young women and both have their baggage. I am not too sure on the world building though, intrinsic evil demons and corrupt churches are tropes that require a bit of work for me to tolerate (let alone enjoy) them and we don't get enough details for me to get a feel on it. It is a fairly dark and brutal story and at least the corruption seems to be a bit more thought out than just "church evil". So, I enjoyed the book, but I am a bit uncertain about where the story is going. For now I am cautious optimistic.