You could start by trying to understand the motives of your character. Maybe the villainess is not truly evil but just misunderstood. Try to find moments in the story where you can show her softer side. For example, if there's a scene where she's supposed to be cruel to the protagonist, instead, you could offer a small kindness. This would start to shift the perception of your character and potentially change the plot in a more positive direction.
First, figure out the key turning points in the novel that lead to the anticlimactic ending. As the villainess, you might be able to disrupt those points. Say, if there's a planned betrayal that sets off a chain of bad events, you could choose not to betray. Another way is to form unexpected alliances. Maybe team up with the protagonist against a greater common enemy. This would completely change the dynamics of the story and avoid the anticlimactic ending.
One way to change the plot is to introduce new elements into the story. Since you're the villainess, you have a certain amount of power and influence within the world of the novel. You could start a new trend or cause a stir in the society depicted in the book. For instance, if it's a historical - like setting, you could introduce a new form of art or a different way of thinking that challenges the status quo. This would draw the attention of other characters and divert the plot from its original, anticlimactic course.
Well, you could start by trying to befriend the protagonist. Maybe offer her help instead of causing trouble. This might change the course of the story and how others perceive you.
Try to make allies. Even if you're the villainess, there might be some characters who can benefit from an alliance with you. It could be someone who also wants to change the current state of affairs in the novel. Working together can increase your chances of survival. Also, don't be too obvious in your actions. The other characters might be expecting you to act in a certain way, so do the unexpected to keep them on their toes.
Start a new conflict that isn't part of the original boring plot. Maybe create a rivalry with a new character or find a new goal for your character that goes against the status quo. This can add a layer of excitement to the story. Another thing you could do is to reveal some secrets about your character or other characters in the story. Secrets always make things more interesting and can lead to unexpected developments.
To survive as the villainess in such a novel, you need to understand the power dynamics. Figure out who has the real power in the story and try to align yourself with them. Also, don't be too obvious with your villainous deeds. In an anticlimactic setting, small, sneaky actions might be more effective than grand evil plans. And always have a backup plan in case things go wrong.
I would try to rewrite my story. I would look for ways to change my actions and motives so that I don't have to be the villainess in the traditional sense. Maybe I could find a way to work with the protagonist instead of against them.
One way could be to try and form alliances with some of the other characters. Maybe find a character who is not directly involved in the main plot against you and convince them to help you. For example, if there are side characters who are neutral, offer them something in return for their support.
To survive as a villainess in a deadly novel, you need to be smart. Try to figure out the key events and avoid getting involved in the dangerous ones. For instance, if you know there's a big battle coming up where the villainess is supposed to die, find an excuse to be elsewhere.
Surviving as the villainess in such a novel could involve changing your character's actions. Instead of being mean and conniving as the original villainess, start being kind. This can change the way other characters perceive you. Also, use your knowledge of the story to your advantage. If you know there's going to be a war, you could start preparing for it in advance, like stocking up supplies or training secretly. It's all about outsmarting the plot.
If I became a villainess in a deadly novel, I would first try to understand the plot and the reasons behind my character's villainous actions. Maybe I was misjudged or there were some misunderstandings. Then, I would attempt to change the course of the story. I could start by being kind to the protagonists and trying to form alliances with them instead of opposing them. This way, I might be able to avoid the 'deadly' end that was originally set for my character.
A common trait is also being manipulative. The villainess will try to manipulate the situations and the people around her to get what she wants. She might manipulate the male leads by lying about the protagonist or creating misunderstandings between them to drive a wedge in their relationship.