The Blackened Ex Can’t Be Shaken Off

My Thoughts on The Blackened Ex Can’t Be Shaken Off

"The Blackened Ex Can’t Be Shaken Off" is a wild ride through a zombie apocalypse with a heavy dose of shounen ai drama. I went into this novel expecting a typical post-apocalyptic survival story, but it quickly became clear that the romance, specifically the push-and-pull dynamic between the MC and ML, takes center stage. While the world-building is intriguing, it’s the relationship that will either hook you or drive you away.

First Impressions

The premise is definitely unique. The MC transmigrates into his past self just before a zombie apocalypse, only to be confronted by his obsessive ex-boyfriend, who happens to be the most powerful person around. The initial chapters set up an interesting conflict, with the MC struggling to reconcile his past life with his present reality and desperately trying to avoid the ML’s unwanted advances. It's a blend of familiar tropes with a twist that piqued my interest.

What Works Well

The unique blend of zombie apocalypse and cultivation elements creates a compelling backdrop. The world-building is a definite strength, offering a different take on the survival genre. I found the MC's initial denial and resistance to the ML's advances to be a relatable starting point. The novel shines in its exploration of power dynamics within a relationship set against the chaos of a world overrun by zombies. The action scenes are well-written, and the cultivation aspect adds a layer of depth to the characters' abilities and the overall conflict.

Areas of Concern

The repetitive nature of the MC and ML's interactions can become frustrating. The constant back-and-forth, with the MC pushing away and the ML relentlessly pursuing, felt like it dragged on a bit too long. Also, the ML's behavior can be problematic. Some readers might find his actions veer into obsessive and even harassing territory, which can be off-putting. The pacing could also be improved, as the focus seems to heavily favor the romance, sometimes at the expense of plot development.

Final Verdict

"The Blackened Ex Can’t Be Shaken Off" is a mixed bag. If you're looking for a unique take on the zombie apocalypse genre with a strong focus on a complicated (and potentially problematic) romance, this might be worth a read. However, be prepared for a repetitive dynamic and potentially triggering character behavior. The world-building and action elements are solid, but the success of the novel ultimately hinges on how you feel about the central relationship. I'd recommend going in with an open mind and a willingness to navigate the complexities of the characters' interactions.