Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Asteroid
"Asteroid," with its blend of comedy, drama, romance, and a dash of the ABO universe, certainly took me on a ride. It's a story about second chances, fame, and navigating a world where pheromones and compatibility scores supposedly dictate destiny. While it has its charming moments, some aspects left me feeling a bit conflicted.
First Impressions
The premise immediately grabbed my attention: Xu Tangzhou, an amnesiac Omega, reunites with his Alpha ex-boyfriend, Ling Che, a famous musician. The amnesia trope always has potential for angst and humor, and I was curious to see how "Asteroid" would handle it. The initial chapters were promising, setting up the central conflict and introducing a world where ABO dynamics are more integrated into society.
What Works Well
Many readers, including myself, found the overall tone to be lighthearted and comedic, making it an easy and enjoyable read. I appreciated the glimpses into both Xu Tangzhou's and Ling Che's perspectives, allowing me to empathize with their individual struggles. The side characters added depth to the story, preventing it from solely focusing on the main couple. I particularly enjoyed the natural progression of the plot and the absence of overly dramatic rivalries, which is a refreshing change in the entertainment industry setting.
Areas of Concern
While I found the story generally enjoyable, some elements didn't quite land for me. The "misunderstanding" that fueled much of the conflict felt drawn out, and I agree with some readers who pointed out that better communication could have resolved many issues sooner. Also, the age gap between the main characters in their younger years raised some eyebrows, even though the story primarily focuses on them as adults. Finally, the sudden shift to 100% compatibility felt a bit contrived, undermining the narrative's initial message that compatibility isn't everything.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several reviews mentioned significant plot points, so be aware that the following contains spoilers.
The biggest issue I had with the novel was how the ML treats the MC before he finds out:
The MC didn't actually break up with him. He only finds this out in like, the last 5ish chapters though.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, I found "Asteroid" to be a worthwhile read. It's a sweet and entertaining story with enough humor and romance to keep you engaged. While the plot may be a bit cliché and the characters occasionally make questionable choices, the overall journey is enjoyable. If you're a fan of ABO stories with a lighthearted touch and don't mind a bit of a slow burn, "Asteroid" might just be your cup of tea. I'd give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.
