After I Became a Zombie, My Face Is Paralyzed Novel Review

My Thoughts on After I Became a Zombie, My Face Is Paralyzed

"After I Became a Zombie, My Face Is Paralyzed" is a quirky blend of genres that I found myself surprisingly charmed by. It’s a romance, a slice-of-life, a supernatural tale, and a yaoi novel all rolled into one post-apocalyptic package. While it might not be the most logically consistent story out there, it's definitely a fun ride if you're looking for something lighthearted.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the unique premise. A zombie protagonist with facial paralysis? It's definitely not your typical romance setup. The early chapters introduce us to the MC as he's undergoing zombification and his first meeting with the ML. The comedy and misunderstandings that arise from the MC's inability to express himself are immediately engaging.

What Works Well

The biggest strength of this novel is the relationship between the MC and ML. It's a devoted, fluffy romance with plenty of sweet moments. The story shines in its slice-of-life aspects, detailing their everyday interactions, their adventures with friends, and even their adopted pets. I particularly enjoyed the MC's inner monologues; they're hilarious and give great insight into his character. The humor is definitely a highlight, and the author does a good job of making the MC a lovable "foolish" character without being annoying.

The novel also cleverly inverts some common ABO tropes, which I appreciated. The MC is a zombie beta, and the ML is a gentle alpha, avoiding the often-problematic "rapist alpha" trope. The story is relatively short and sweet, preventing it from overstaying its welcome.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the novel, I can't ignore some of the inconsistencies that bothered other readers. The zombie setting sometimes lacks internal logic. For example, the MC can eat, sleep, and kiss without consequences, which doesn't quite align with typical zombie lore. Also, the ABO dynamics can be confusing. The MC is labeled a beta but exhibits traits more commonly associated with omegas, and the explanation for this isn't entirely clear. The translation can also be a bit rough in the earlier chapters, with some unedited MTL, but it improves as the story progresses.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, "After I Became a Zombie, My Face Is Paralyzed" is a charming and enjoyable read. If you're willing to overlook some inconsistencies and plot holes, you'll find a heartwarming romance with plenty of humor and fluffy moments. It's a perfect choice when you need a mental break from heavier stories. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a lighthearted, unconventional BL novel.