There's now 60+ chapters so it's time for an update to this review!
At first glance, it starts with the typical yaoi starter: r*pe. In this case, blackmail. Nemugasa is so emotionally and physically abused it makes me wonder HOW did this relationship start and how the HECK did it become like it is today. But as much as I HATE this, the character development is very flushed out and developed enough for me to let it slide.
Now for the art. When I first wrote this review (IN 2014??!!) I said the art was "hot" but "hot" isn't enough to describe the art. Going back to the beginning to catch up with the recent releases, I can physically SEE and FEEL the improvements and maturing of the art that directly translates to the maturing of the two main characters, Maya and Nemugasa.
I really enjoy the realistic depiction of the stress of taking college exams and trying to get into the school of their choice while maintaining a relationship. There's a lot of juggling around with rash decisions, sacrifices, losing sleep to study, having your future being decided in one moment... These are things that a lot of people can relate with. And when you thought the story ends when they graduate high school... it doesn't stop there! Enter college, with new struggles!
Before, I had rated this a 9 however, further into the story there's drama and misunderstandings in every volume which became exhausting especially for binge reading.
I was tempted to drop it to 7 HOWEVER there was a moment later in the manga that made me stop and think about lgbt experiences are like in Japan. I wish I could talk more about it but... that would be going into spoilers.
Maybe it's the fact that the characters feel like they're maturing or because it's been so long I matured, that this manga... resonates... with me more than I thought it would. I hope I was able to convey how much I enjoy this manga without giving away too much. And please give this manga a chance. Even if the beginning sucks.
(07/2014)
I have finally lost track on the amount of times I have reread this manga and everything single time, it has left me crying AGAIN AND AGAIN! I keep on promising myself to write a review but everytime I end up reading the manga all over again.
At first glance, It starts with the typical yaoi starter: r*pe. In this case, blackmail (like we've never seen that one yet). But above all else, the character development is what really sets itself apart from most yaoi.
Let me tell you a thing. The art in this is ABSOLUTELY ADORABLY AMAZING!!! It's detailed yet cute in a way that cute can become sexy and sexy to HOT (chibis are adorable too!)
I mentioned before character development. It's (or at least I think) realistic with the whole dealing with a relationship both being the lover and the loved one and the stress of the future after highschool and into adulthood.
I have read and reread this manga x times and I keep falling in love all over again.
Why would you not read it?
It's funny, adorable, sexy, meaningful, and heartwarming.
Now GO AND READ IT
