Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Old Injury
"Old Injury" is a rollercoaster of emotions set in a unique ABO world, and honestly, I'm still processing everything I just read. The story dives deep into themes of trauma, societal prejudice against betas, and the complexities of family, all wrapped up in a dog-blood melodrama that kept me hooked despite myself. While it's not a perfect novel, its exploration of morally grey characters and the slow-burn redemption arc of the male lead made it a memorable read.
First Impressions
Going in, I was a bit wary of the "wife-chasing crematorium" tag. These stories can often feel repetitive and rely on tired tropes. However, "Old Injury" surprised me with its atypical alpha/beta pairing. The world-building, with its blood-type-based social hierarchy, was surprisingly well thought out, adding a layer of depth I wasn't expecting. The initial chapters are a bit rough, throwing you headfirst into the MC's tragic past, but stick with it.
What Works Well
What truly shines in "Old Injury" is the character development, especially the male lead's slow transformation. He starts as a callous jerk (and honestly, borderline abusive), but the author gradually reveals the reasons behind his behavior, making his eventual redemption feel earned, even if it takes a while to get there. I also really enjoyed the dynamic between the MC and ML's son, Momo. Their heartwarming relationship provided a much-needed dose of sweetness amidst all the angst. The story also tackles the question of the status of betas in the ABO universe but how the As and Os can be adversely affected from being bound to pheromones.
Areas of Concern
The novel definitely has its flaws. The pacing can be uneven at times, with the "wife-chasing" portion feeling a bit rushed. Also, the lack of communication between the main characters can be frustrating, although the author does a decent job of justifying their misunderstandings. Finally, be warned that this story contains heavy trigger warnings, including rpe and child abse.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several reviewers have mentioned key plot points that could spoil your reading experience. These include details about the MC and ML's shared past, the circumstances surrounding the birth of Momo, and the tragic events that led to their initial separation. If you prefer to go in blind, I recommend skipping the reviews and diving straight into the story.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws and heavy themes, I found "Old Injury" to be a compelling and ultimately satisfying read. The unique ABO world, complex characters, and slow-burn romance kept me engaged from beginning to end. If you're a fan of angst-filled melodramas with a touch of redemption, this novel is definitely worth checking out. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
