DASH Novel Review

My Thoughts on DASH

DASH is a sports romance that dives into the complexities of relationships, self-worth, and personal growth, all set within a unique ABO world. As a reader, I found it to be a compelling and engaging story, even with its occasional slow burn pacing.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the premise of a story that blends sports and the omegaverse, a combination that felt refreshingly different. The fact that it's been adapted into a drama CD and manhwa also piqued my interest. I quickly found myself invested in the characters and their journeys, eager to see how their relationship would unfold.

What Works Well

Many readers have praised the natural flow of the story, highlighting the exceptional character development and the author's ability to build a solid foundation for the characters' motivations. I particularly appreciated the complexity of the main characters. The MC, Jiheon, isn't a perfect protagonist, but his flaws make him relatable. His struggles with commitment, his anxieties, and his tendency to prioritize others resonated with me. The ML, Jaekyung, while sometimes blunt and lacking social graces, is undeniably devoted and supportive. His unwavering affection for Jiheon is endearing, and I enjoyed watching him grow and learn to express his feelings.

I also found the world-building to be well-executed. The ABO setting felt unique, with its focus on suppressed pheromones and legal protections for Omegas. The swimming context of the story was also well-integrated, adding depth and richness to the narrative.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the slow burn romance, I can see how it might frustrate some readers. The push-and-pull dynamic between the characters can feel repetitive at times, and the MC's internal struggles can be prolonged. Some readers might also find the ML's initial behavior off-putting, as he can come across as pushy and lacking in communication skills.

Final Verdict

Overall, I highly recommend DASH to readers who enjoy character-driven romances with a touch of sports and omegaverse elements. While it may not be a perfect novel, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. The compelling characters, the well-developed world, and the realistic portrayal of relationships make it a worthwhile read. I give DASH a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars.