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.

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 read both, although I read a lot more light novels and just pick up "regular" novels if I get one recommended by friends.