And if so, why or why not?
Is it the setting, the way it is written, the themes, or the illustrations, or a combination of them?
Do you read ‘regular’ books as well?
For me, it is the fact that they don’t follow typical western novel themes and tropes that appeals to me.
This is somewhat due to the JP cultural background of Lightnovel authors, so they would inherently have a different perspective.
I like reading Murakami too but it’s a much heavier read. Light novels are a bit like junk food. It’s not very nutritious but sure is addictive.
This. I’m actually Korean light novels fan due to Japanese LN translations having problems with describing who is talking, and CN LN being too long and too repetitious.
Them being like junk food is a perfect analogy.
Of course there are exceptions as well, but they are generally easier to read and don’t require as much energy to read.
also the feel is just totally different like you said. The themes and tropes are so much more weirder and more specific than western novels.
Depends on my mood, I suppose? When I’m less busy IRL, I would have the brain capacity to read nonfictions and meatier novels (including 86…I lost count on the number of times I’ve opened it and stared at the same page for 5 minutes). But during busier times I can handle nothing more than copious amount of comfort reading LNs.
I get that. It’s difficult to enjoy a deep or difficult topic when you are exhausted yourself.
The only 2 light novels that made me binge them and get hooked instantly were Spider and COTE
I read both, although I read a lot more light novels and just pick up “regular” novels if I get one recommended by friends.