Are there any fantasy novels where the protagonist is reincarnated as a disliked character, like a villain, and has to navigate that role?

Yes, the concept of reincarnating into a villain or a less-than-ideal character is a popular trope in fantasy webnovels, offering a unique perspective and challenge for the protagonist. These stories often explore themes of redemption, fate versus free will, and the struggle to forge one's own path when burdened by a pre-written negative destiny. The protagonist must grapple with the expectations and animosity directed towards their new identity, while often possessing knowledge from their past life that can help them either change their fate or understand the world around them more deeply. This can lead to complex character development as they try to reconcile their original personality with the role they've been thrust into.

One example of this kind of narrative can be found in novels where the protagonist finds themselves in the body of someone who is destined for a terrible fate or is universally hated. They might have to actively work against the established plot points to survive or even to protect others who are also targeted due to their association with the character they now inhabit. The tension arises from the constant threat of exposure or failure, and the internal conflict of whether to embrace the villainous persona or fight against it, often with surprising results. This allows for creative storytelling as the author can subvert typical expectations of a hero's journey.