Smell Fetish
Popular Shirogane is a high school boy who suffers from extreme sensitivity to odours. When he discovered that the prickly Tokuro had a soothing aroma, he latched on to him and inserted himself in his life. However, Tokuro was gay and misunderstood Shirogane’s motives. This feisty pair battled their way through misunderstandings, the constant intrusion of a younger sibling, and the quest to be on top (both seme). Tbh, despite the title being about a smell fetish, the main plot driver between these MCs was the battle of “insertion”. It was chaos but it was an enjoyable read.
Baka ni Koi toka Shoujiki Muri ja ne?
Such a perfect pair! The somewhat gloomy and intelligent Nanase, who has secretly loved his best friend for 5 years. And ofc, Hina, the object of his affections and a national treasure level idiot who's a delinquent but isn't scary. I can totally understand why Nanase loves Hina even though he is clueless. He’s just adorable. Adorably clueless, adorably honest and genuine, adorably adorable. Beautiful art, a fun storyline and the support of the friends was a nice bonus, this manga ticked all my boxes.
Virgin Star
Two interconnected stories set in the world of acting. They were both entertaining and worth a read.
Girl Got Game
Kyo Aizawa is very excited about getting to attend Seisyu Academy. That is, until she realises that her basketball obsessed father has enrolled her as a boy so that she can live his dream. So begins Aizawa’s chaotic freshman year of high school where she gets to do all the fun and awkward things boys do, and one thing that is all for her girls heart. The story is often laugh out loud hilarious but there are also plenty of serious moments to tug the heartstrings.
Mouken Darling to Donkan-chan
Akitaka is the tallest guy in his grade. He can be scary and dangerous, but at heart he yearns to fall in love. The petite Hina is the shortest in her grade. She can be a bit clueless in matters of love, but when the tough looking Akitaka confessed to her and held out a trembling hand, she found him irresistible and happily accepted. The story follows their romance from awkward first kisses to dealing with a healthy teenage boy’s libido. I liked how for all that Akitaka was possessive and protective, it took just a gentle touch from Hina for him to melt into puppy like obedience and adoration. I also liked his honesty and openness about his love for her. Plenty of sexy scenes (I did mention that adolescent libido) and not all in the confines of a bedroom. Very cute overall
Hanyuu-sensei No Ryou Seikatsu
Hanyuu is 22 years old with the face and build of a high schooler. Which is unfortunate because he is desperately seeking a teaching position. On the verge of giving up, Hanyuu is offered a position at a prestigious private school. Only, it’s not quite the role he anticipated. Kirimura Raiga (that’s Raiga-kun to Hanyuu) is a rebellious problem student forced to share his dorm with the new transfer, Hanyuu. The pair immediately clash in a barrage of tears, alarms, and no holds barred chaos. It’s many moments of hilarity as these opposites clash and the beginning of an attraction and respect that is sweet and sexy at the same time.
Barbarities
Top tier story for me. -Montague Joel Letreux, Lord Judiciary Montague. Serious, hard working, advisor to the king and law maker. -Viscount Adam Canning. Hired by the queen mother from her birth country Xehana to be a bodyguard for Lord Judiciary Montague. A beautiful, hedonistic charmer who has always been more focused on living for pleasure until he meets Joel. This story is well written, with interesting characters and a great background of political intrigue that lets both characters shine. I loved the Georgian fashions, and the friendship between the king and Prince Luca was adorable. I could rave more, but suffice to say it’s a favourite.
Strawberry Combat