Okay, so weird... I will look into this. Have you tried starting a new game btw? I know you shouldn't have to but just wanted to see.
I haven't tried another new game since I had to restart with the update, but I can.
I can't imagine this is likely to be relevant, but I am on android specifically.
It might be xD I have added to the list of bugs that absolutely need to be addressed for V0.5.3.X In the meantime, I appreciate your patience. This has been a rather elusive one 0_0