🪄 Book Review: Disowned but Not Disheartened! Life Is Good with Overpowered Magic: Volume 1 by Riko Saiki (Kindle Edition)
A charming blend of cozy fantasy and overpowered magic, this light novel kicks off a feel-good isekai adventure with heart, humor, and a heroine who refuses to be defined by her past.
🧠 Overview
Published in August 2023 by J-Novel Club, Volume 1 introduces readers to Tafelina Lowell Lera Duval, a noble girl disowned at age three—only to be adopted by the kind Earl of Peylon and raised in a monster-filled forest where she hones her magical talents and invents tools based on memories from a previous life. As her thirteenth birthday approaches, Lera must leave her peaceful home to attend a noble academy in the royal capital, where new challenges, social intrigue, and magical mysteries await.
This isekai-style light novel combines slice-of-life comfort with fantasy adventure, offering a refreshing take on the “overpowered protagonist” trope.
✨ Key Highlights
- 🧙♀️ Overpowered but humble: Lera’s magical abilities are extraordinary, but her personality remains grounded and endearing
- 🏞️ Cozy world-building: The forest of Ozeria and the Earl’s estate offer a warm, pastoral setting before the shift to the bustling capital
- 🎒 Academy arc begins: Volume 1 sets the stage for Lera’s transition into noble society, with hints of rivalry, mystery, and political tension
- 👧 Strong female lead: Lera is resourceful, emotionally intelligent, and resilient—making her easy to root for
💬 Reader Reception
- ⭐ Goodreads rating: 4.16/5 from over 160 readers
- 📖 Readers praise the story’s light tone, creative magic system, and character-driven narrative
- 🧾 Some note that the pacing is gentle, with more emphasis on setup than action in this first volume
- 💬 “Lera’s optimism and ingenuity make this a delightful read. It’s not just about power—it’s about heart.” — Goodreads reviewer
⚠️ Considerations
- 📄 Introductory volume: Focuses on world-building and character setup; major conflicts are just beginning
- 📚 Light novel format: Includes illustrations and episodic pacing typical of the genre
- 🧾 Best for fans of wholesome fantasy: Less combat-heavy, more focused on relationships and personal growth
🏁 Final Verdict
Disowned but Not Disheartened! Volume 1 is a gentle, uplifting fantasy that offers a refreshing twist on the isekai genre. With a likable protagonist, creative magic, and a cozy yet intriguing setting, Riko Saiki’s story is perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven adventures with a touch of whimsy and empowerment.
