Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Always Ending Up as an Animal Cub
"Always Ending Up as an Animal Cub" definitely threw me for a loop, in the best way possible. Going in, I was expecting a fluffy, lighthearted transmigration story filled with cute animal antics. What I got was a suspenseful, often dark, and surprisingly complex mystery with a healthy dose of psychological thrills. It's safe to say, this novel subverted my expectations at every turn.
First Impressions
The initial chapters hooked me immediately. The mystery surrounding the MC and ML, their relationship, and the MC's mission to save the "villain" were instantly intriguing. I found myself constantly trying to piece together the fragmented memories of the MC and understand the true nature of the ML. The title is definitely misleading, and I was initially caught off guard by the darker themes and the surprisingly cunning personality of the MC.
What Works Well
The plot is a standout, with each arc presenting a unique world and a compelling challenge for the MC and ML. The author excels at creating suspenseful and sometimes horrific situations, making the journey to the eventual happy ending feel earned and impactful. I particularly enjoyed the morally grey nature of both the MC and ML. They aren't paragons of virtue, and their methods are often extreme, which adds a layer of complexity and realism to their characters. The comedic undertones, especially in the system's quirky design, provided welcome moments of levity amidst the darker themes. The world-building is also noteworthy, with each setting feeling distinct and well-developed.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, let's address the elephant, or rather, the chick in the room. The second arc, where the MC transmigrates as a baby chick, seems to be a source of both amusement and potential translation woes. Depending on the translation, some scenes could be unintentionally hilarious or even disturbing. Proceed with caution, and maybe a good sense of humor, if you venture into that arc!
Final Verdict
Despite the potential translation quirks and the darker themes that might not appeal to all readers, I highly recommend "Always Ending Up as an Animal Cub". It's a well-written, engaging, and thought-provoking novel that defies expectations and keeps you guessing until the very end. If you're a fan of mystery, psychological thrillers, and BL with complex characters and morally ambiguous protagonists, this might just be your next favorite read. Just be prepared for a wild ride!
