Akaneshinchi Hanaya Sange
Huh. That was a very strange, very convoluted manga. There were things I actually liked about it, despite all of the weirdness inserted here and there. I think the ending confused some people because it's so abrupt, then it's followed by a bunch of "afterwards" type stuff. The story ends with both of the original couple realizing they were both in love, and the asshole one deciding to leave everything behind. It also means the new couple stays together. Everything after that is snippets of things in the past, or personal introspection. I actually kind of love "second love" stories with all the heartbreak that comes from the loss of a first love, then the healing that comes after with a person who actually treats you right. This is such a weird story, and it's all over the place, so I can't say that it was as satisfying as it could be, but I did appreciate seeing those themes. They're rare in yaoi. Most of the time the unhealthy relationship wins in a love triangle. The art was strange and the visuals were seriously disgusting at times, but I don't know, I think this was worth the read. I can see why a lot of people wouldn't like it, but I give it a solid B. I hope someone translates the sequel, though I worry about what might be revealed then, given how damaged everyone is in this one.
Akuma-chan wa Momoiro
Damn, that took a turn. XD I had guessed the general concept from the start, but it was still pretty jarring to see what that calm, neutral face could actually do. Holy fuck. XD I fully approve. I love things like this where the more you read, the more the story transforms. Very glad I read this.
A Breeze of Kanome
Just a mild little story about learning to love and accept yourself despite the obstacles you face. I think the relationship with the brothers is very touching, and the fact that he could find strength through someone he loves is very sweet. Nothing amazing, but it was a nice story.
Tonde Hiniiru Yarimokunonke
Inside Full Bloom
So heartbreaking, and the fact that it hasn't been picked up again yet makes it worse, since it's left hanging. I wish I could read and understand the raws! The only thing is, the rape bullshit pisses me off, though it's nothing new. Plus I hate that the seme is openly gay and also predatory, like being out means he's automatically a rapist. So gross. But I care a lot about the healing process for the main character, which is why I want more. So rarely does yaoi actually dive into the pain and struggles of someone growing up in a very rigid and homophobic environment. I mean, I love stories where homophobia doesn't exist and a lot of people seem to be into the same sex, but it's nice to see real issues examined, for the catharsis if nothing else. Hopefully we get chapter two in the near future.
Twilight (Nishimoto)
I have mixed feelings about this story, but there's still another chapter to go, so I guess we'll see by then. It has a lot of potential, and part of me likes it, but I feel like it's also sort of executed in an odd, rushed, or maybe clumsy way. I wish we could have seen more of the bullying in high school. All of the emotional stuff was just glossed over, and now the story is focusing primarily on misunderstandings, which I hate. But I am hoping the conclusion really pulls it all together.
Ai O Kou Kemono
I mostly skimmed it, but it has a downer ending and way more incest in it than I can tolerate. Not a fan of it in general, and this was just creepy to the max. I always forget what manga this is until the ending with the fire. I don't know why.
Yagiza no Yuujin
Wow. This was really beautiful and sad, and I loved it. I really love a focus on male/male friendship, too. It's so rare to see. Even with the lingering hints of feelings one of them had for the girl, that was never the focus, so it didn't take away from the power of the story. The cat stuff--NO. Fucking hell. I hated it so much. I wish I could erase that from my mind. I know it's only pretend, but it was so drawn out and awful, and one of my cats looks like that cat, so even worse. But other than that, this was a really good manga. I wish that scene would exit my brain, but I'm glad I read the story. I do wish that there'd been more emphasis on the healing of the survivors, especially someone who's been so brutally bullied and mistreated for so long, but at least he said that sweet thing at the end about how he feels hopeful being with the other boy. Very sad but a very good story.
Me wo Tojite Yume wo Miru
So sad! It made me cry, but I'm so glad they could be together in the end. I know the age gap makes it weird, but since the guy didn't know, I'll forgive it a little. I wish we could have seen more of what happened with that whole thing, and the choice to not show his face at the end is a little odd, but I guess it's leaving it open to just let us know he's happy and healthy. Finally someone loves him and wants to take care of him.
Boku To