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Two unlikable individuals gradually learn how to be human when they fall for a mysterious boy. If the translation had been smoother this probably would make it onto my five star list, not because of the romance arc (which isn't that amazing) but because of how the backstory and character growth add up beneath the surface.
Gentle, sweet, and natural. This story manages to carry unexpected depth due to well placed flashbacks and firm social connections. Both of the main characters allow their perceptions of love to transform based on their experiences with each other.
The flower at the end is "nirinsou" which apparently means "I'll never let go." http://harukazenoetranger.tumblr.com/post/143575727697/flower-meaning
This is one of those stories where even though terrible things happen (including rape and child abuse) I can still rank it high, because they're shown in context and not turned into pseudo-positives or skimmed over too lightly. Finally, the character makes it through, learns how to build healthier relationships, and creates a worthwhile life. The story isn't without flaws, but it's still good in spite of them.
I rate this manga as best in use of time travel to make what would otherwise have been an imbalanced attraction into mutuality and equality that feels quite natural. Even in fiction, incest between consenting, self-aware, mature adults is rare. I usually find myself questioning the balance of power in the relationships. This story is ingenious in avoiding that particular problem without making the relationship too easy to be believable.
Sequel to Kikoenai Koe. I wanted to follow these two through college and into their future!
This sweet exploration of first love would be on my five star list if there was just a little more depth to the surrounding friendships and backstory. It's definitely on my re-read list, though. I love the way these two work through the realization that your mind can trick your body into a form of honesty that is far more awkward (and potentially destructive) than just admitting your feelings and facing the consequences. Read Mienai Hoshi to see where they go from here.
This story demonstrates the saying, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." Funny, sweet, and both characters have a solid group of friends that aren't just in the story for show.
Social, business, and family expectations play a significant role in this story, including the way the social system can betray us even when it promises support in exchange for compliance. I was surprised at the depth the author managed to achieve by the end.
Prequel to 23:45 re Falling in love with a ghost,... I love the way the author handled the transition from supernatural encounter to reality. It gave the story much more depth than it would have had otherwise. Both stories together = 4 stars. Neither would rank so high alone.
Sequel to 23:45 ... I love the way the author handled the transition from supernatural encounter to reality. It gave the story much more depth than it would have had otherwise. Both stories together = 4 star Neither would rank that high alone. If the translation is too rough to follow, check the comments for a clarifying overview. http://www.mangago.me/home/mangatopic/1629582/
Crush on You