Spoiler Explanation of the Plot for “I’m in Love with the Villainess”: A Review of the Yuri × Reincarnation Novel and Manga
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“I’m in Love with the Villainess” began as a web novel published on platforms such as “Shousetsuka ni Narou.” It was later adapted into a published novel, and subsequently, a manga and anime. This article will summarize and spoil the manga version’s plot, the original work’s final episode, and include reviews and interesting attractions of “I’m in Love with the Villainess.” It also explains the main characters, so please use this as a reference.
What is “I’m in Love with the Villainess”?
Overview of the “I’m in Love with the Villainess” Narou Novel and Manga
“I’m in Love with the Villainess” is a novel posted on novel submission sites like “Shousetsuka ni Narou.” The official title is “I’m in Love with the Villainess,” followed by a comma, indicating its formal notation. The author is Inori, who refers to their work with the abbreviation “WataOshi.” The serialization of “I’m in Love with the Villainess” began in 2018, with part one concluding in 2019.
Serialization of part two started in 2020 and ended in 2021, marking the completion of the series. Concurrently with the end of part one, an e-book version was released by GL Bunko. The e-book version has been translated into eight languages, including English and Korean, leading to the decision to publish a print version. The print novel is published by Ichijinsha Novels.
The manga adaptation began serialization in Comic Yuri Hime in 2020, and as of March 2024, seven volumes have been released. The character design for the manga is by Hanagata, with the artwork by Aonoshimo. “I’m in Love with the Villainess” has also been adapted into a TV anime, which aired from October to December 2023 on TOKYO MX and other stations.
The Author of “I’m in Love with the Villainess”
As mentioned earlier, the original author of “I’m in Love with the Villainess” is Inori. After graduating from the Department of Sociology at Hitotsubashi University, Inori made it to the third round of the 14th Fujimi Fantasia Grand Prize. Inori then made their debut as a novelist with “I’m in Love with the Villainess.” Inori has written several novels and webtoon scenarios, focusing on many Yuri works. From Dengeki Bunko, “The Girl Who Wants to Be a Hero <I> and the Girl Who Should Be a Hero <You>” has been published.
Spoiler-Filled Synopsis of “I’m in Love with the Villainess”
“I’m in Love with the Villainess” can be enjoyed not only as an original novel on “Shousetsuka ni Narou” but also in manga form. The anime covers content from volumes 1 to 5 of the manga. Here, we will introduce spoiler-filled synopses of volumes 1 and 2 of the manga, which constitute the early part of the anime’s story.
Volume 1 Spoiler Synopsis
Let’s start with a spoiler-filled synopsis of the first volume of the “I’m in Love with the Villainess” manga. Rei Ohashi, an office worker drowning in overtime, finds solace in her one hobby: otome games. One day, while playing her usual otome game, Rei suddenly wakes up in a different world, realizing she has reincarnated as the game’s protagonist, Rei Taylor.
In the game, Rei, the heroine, is bullied by the villainess, Claire François. However, Rei, having been a fan of Claire in her previous life, is thrilled to be bullied by her. Claire, while initially creeped out by Rei’s joy at being bullied, gradually begins to accept Rei’s affections.
Volume 2 Spoiler Synopsis
Rei becomes Claire’s maid and spends more time with her than ever before. Rei, aware of the game’s storyline, knows that Claire has a crush on one of the targets, Prince Sein. Thus, she schemes to bring Claire closer to Sein, supporting Claire’s romance.
However, as Rei spends more time with Claire, she realizes that her feelings for Claire are of romantic love. Rei openly expresses her feelings, although she does not expect Claire to reciprocate them. Suppressing her emotions, Rei continues to support Claire’s love for Sein.
Is “I’m in Love with the Villainess” Concluded? What Happens in the Final Episode?
The original work of “I’m in Love with the Villainess” posted on “Shousetsuka ni Narou” has already concluded. Here, we will summarize the spoiler-filled synopsis of the final episode available on “Shousetsuka ni Narou.” The original work is divided into two parts. In the latter stages of part two, it is revealed that the world of “I’m in Love with the Villainess” is not actually a game world.
Earth was once in a crisis of human extinction, and scientists created a loop system to save it. Rei Ohashi and Claire François were the ones who created this loop system. The Rei existing in this world is an AI-created being, separate from Ohashi. To live forever in love with Claire, Ohashi initiates a loop each time Claire dies. However, after looping over 100 times, their love begins to distort.
Although Rei and Claire had been lovers in every loop, the freshness of their relationship faded with each repetition. Rei wishes to end the loop but cannot bring herself to erase Claire’s existence. Thus, she creates the concept of a Demon Lord, intending to have the demons kill Claire. The Demon Lord Rei commands humanity to surrender Claire to avoid world destruction.
However, Rei and Claire, refusing to submit to the Demon Lord’s demands, prepare for a battle against him with their allies. After overcoming numerous hardships and the worst crises, Rei and Claire return to their home where their beloved daughters await. They open the front door together. Despite a major crisis threatening humanity’s extinction, the story concludes with a happy ending.
The Fascinating Appeal and Criticisms of “I’m in Love with the Villainess”
So far, we have summarized spoiler-filled synopses for volumes 1 and 2 of the “I’m in Love with the Villainess” manga, as well as the final episode of the original web novel on “Shousetsuka ni Narou.” Next, let’s take a closer look at the reviews and feedback on “I’m in Love with the Villainess.” The series has garnered both praise for its interesting appeal and criticism for being considered dull by some.
However, it’s normal for any work to receive both positive and negative feedback, and “I’m in Love with the Villainess” is no exception. Here, we’ll explore both the intriguing attractions and the reasons some may find it lacking, based on the feedback from “I’m in Love with the Villainess.”
The Intriguing Appeal of “I’m in Love with the Villainess”
- Unconventional Setting Among Villainess Stories
There are countless stories featuring villainesses, particularly on platforms like “Shousetsuka ni Narou.” Typically, these stories involve a protagonist reincarnated as a villainess who strives to avoid a bad end. While each work varies, they often share similar themes.
“I’m in Love with the Villainess” also features reincarnation, but with a twist: the protagonist reincarnates not as the villainess but as the heroine of an otome game. Furthermore, she falls in love with the villainess, not the male targets, offering a unique yuri storyline uncommon in villainess narratives, providing a fresh take on the genre.
- Exquisite Worldbuilding
Initially, “I’m in Love with the Villainess” might seem like a typical school love comedy. However, as the main characters’ romance unfolds, the story gradually escalates in scale. As you progress through the story, it becomes evident that “I’m in Love with the Villainess” transcends the typical school setting.
The series tackles deep themes such as international conflicts and gender issues within a meticulously crafted world, enhancing the story’s intrigue.
- Rei’s Character
Rei, the protagonist of “I’m in Love with the Villainess,” has quite unusual hobbies. She revels in being bullied by her beloved Claire, celebrating every act of meanness. Rei’s unflappable nature not only brightens the mood for readers but also makes her an exceptionally charming character.
- Adorable Claire
In the game, Claire plays the role of a typical villainess who bullies the protagonist. However, the real Claire is a straightforward and endearing character with a pure heart. While she does bully Rei, she never crosses a line and always acts directly rather than manipulating others. Despite her role as a bully, Claire’s actions don’t leave the protagonist genuinely hurt, making her a villainess that’s hard to despise. Additionally, her typical tsundere character traits, especially when embarrassed, add to her charm.
Reasons Why “I’m in Love with the Villainess” is Considered Boring
- Reason 1: Creepy Protagonist
One of the reasons why “I’m in Love with the Villainess” is criticized is due to the protagonist Rei’s personality and actions. Rei is deeply in love with Claire and constantly chases after her. However, her affection is so intense that it sometimes borders on stalker-like behavior. Actions such as leering at Claire as if undressing her with her eyes are seen as creepy by many, even if it involves the same sex. Additionally, some readers feel repulsed by Rei’s persistent advances, especially when Claire shows clear disinterest.
- Reason 2: Lack of Yuri Elements
“I’m in Love with the Villainess” includes yuri elements. The manga version is published in “Comic Yuri Hime,” a magazine that features yuri works, and the original web novel on “Shousetsuka ni Narou” is explicitly described as containing “Girls’ Love elements.”
As such, it’s not uncommon for readers seeking yuri content to pick up “I’m in Love with the Villainess.” However, compared to other manga or novels, “I’m in Love with the Villainess” has more subdued yuri elements. Those who picked up the work hoping for a strong focus on yuri elements may find it lacking and deem the story “boring” as a result.
Character List of “I’m in Love with the Villainess”
Character 1: Rei Taylor
Rei Taylor, the protagonist of “I’m in Love with the Villainess,” is the reincarnation of Rei Ohashi, an overworked office lady, into the heroine of an otome game. She adores Claire, the villainess, and perceives Claire’s bullying as a form of reward, showcasing her unique personality. Despite this, as befitting the game’s heroine, she excels academically and possesses the rare talent of holding two magical attributes. Rei is conscious of her homosexuality and sees Claire as a love interest.
Character 2: Claire François
Claire François, the blonde villainess with signature ringlets, mocks Rei for her commoner background and frequently subjects her to spiteful acts. However, Claire is thrown off balance as Rei joyously accepts every harassment. Claire is prideful and clumsy, struggling to express her thoughts openly. Initially repulsed by Rei’s constant presence, she gradually comes to accept Rei’s feelings.
Character 3: Misha Yur
Misha Yur is Rei’s roommate at the royal academy. Once a noble, Misha has become a commoner due to her family’s downfall. She is a cool, intellectual beauty who quickly notices the changes in Rei after her reincarnation. Misha disapproves of Claire and worries about Rei’s obsession with her.
Character 4: Rhene Orso
Rhene Orso serves as Claire’s maid and has been working for the François family since Claire was young, acting almost like a sister to her. Rhene has a brother named Lambert, and despite being siblings, they were involved romantically. Knowing of Lambert’s machinations, Rhene still chooses to assist him. This collaboration ultimately leads to both being captured, and Rhene, along with Lambert, is exiled from the country.
Character 5: Rod Bauer
Rod Bauer is the crown prince of the Bauer Kingdom and one of the targets in the otome game. In the game, the heroine’s favorability increases by excelling academically. Rei deliberately performs poorly on magic tests to avoid Rod’s favor, but this action only piques his interest further. In the original story, Rod proposes to Rei, who bluntly rejects him, citing her love for Claire.
Character 6: Sein Bauer
Sein Bauer, the second prince of the Bauer Kingdom, is another target in the game and Claire’s love interest. Rei often tries to bring Claire and Sein together, but their relationship becomes strained due to Claire’s tsundere nature. Despite this, Sein does not despise Claire and has risked his life to save her in times of danger.
Spoiler Summary of “I’m in Love with the Villainess”
We have summarized the spoiler-filled synopses for the manga of “I’m in Love with the Villainess” and the final episode of the original web novel on “Shousetsuka ni Narou.” “I’m in Love with the Villainess” is a story that depicts the romance between the protagonist, a woman, and the villainess. It’s a popular work among those that include yuri elements, and its anime adaptation is also well-received. Since the original web novel on “Shousetsuka ni Narou” has already concluded, those curious about how the story ends for the two characters should definitely give the original work a read.
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