To those who read Suzuka, it can seem very similar. For example; Suzuka is about a someone from Hiroshima that goes and explores Tokyo while ATWYL is someone from Tokyo coming to Hiroshima. Although they are the same in that aspect, it still tells an enjoyable story
The characters in ATWYL are just great. The MC meets new people who are likeable and have different personalities. The characters who grew up with the MC are really great as well and have very good synergy with not just the MC but with each other in a group. I really cared for the characters and felt invested with them because they all have their own goals and those who don't, push themselves to find their goals.
Suzuka's themes and messages change throughout the story but ATWYL takes this to another level. This manga is romance story but it's also a coming of age story about the MC and his friends who try to figure out who they are as they do different things in the story which is something great. Just like Suzuka, this manga is not static and character motivations, struggles and relationships change quite often, probably more than Suzuka but it does not feel rushed in any matter and makes you become more attached to the characters since it feels really realistic.
Although I don't think it's a problem, ATWYL has slightly less tension and suspense than Suzuka but when something negative or tense happens here, it does affect the story.
I gave this a high score because this coming of age story really resonated with me and I enjoyed everything about it. Also for the Suzuka readers, there might be little moments that will grab your attention.
In the end, if you liked Suzuka and enjoy a good romance manga and want to read a coming of age story that could perhaps resonate with you and leave you satisfied and with a smile, then A Town Where You Live is a definite must read for you, although I would read Suzuka first then ATWYL since the story takes place after it.
