Book Review: Anyhow, the Rabbit is Infatuated With the Puppy by Nie

 

Anyhow, the Rabbit is Infatuated With the Puppy       

Author: Nie

Publisher: Seven Seas

American release date: November 28, 2023

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Yaoi Manga//234 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Usagi Akira is a 25-year-old man who works in an office and loves shojo manga. He also loves playing in the MMO Tail Earth. He plays a female character, a bunny named Usaco. In the game, she is in love with a wolf character named Gakuto. The couple are adorable! The two players talk outside of the game, and Gakuto is aware that Usaco is a guy, but he’s cool with that. When he wins tickets to a Tail Earth convention, he invites Usaco to come with him!

At work, Usagi has an annoying boss named Suzumiya, who is always nagging him to come drinking with the other employees after work. But Usagi isn’t interested, although he is finding it increasingly difficult to avoid such events.  Usaco and Gakuto meet up at the convention, and they really click! After the convention closes for the day, they go to a nearby internet café… and they not only click, they kiss!

Even after the convention ends, their relationship only grows deeper. Gakuto invites Usaco to the apartment where he lives with his uncle, who is conveniently gone for the night. Naturally they discuss their characters and decide that an in-game wedding would be wonderful! They start marking preparations for the event. But then things start to get hot and heavy between the two, when all of a sudden Gakuto’s uncle comes home unexpectedly – and turns out to be Usaco’s annoying boss! Can things get any worse?  The answer is… yes! A new girl shows up on Tail Earth, and she seems to have her eyes on Gakuto. Does Usaco have competition for Gakuto’s affection?

This is an incredibly sweet and very hot story of two people who find each other through a shared interest in an online game. They begin as friends, but their friendship develops into something more, and they have to navigate the strange new waters of their romance. I love the artwork and the characters! I highly recommend this book if you enjoy seeing cute boys in love!

Book Review: Your Honest Deceit, Vol 2 by Sakufu Ajimine

 

Your Honest Deceit, Vol 2        

Author: Sakufu Ajimine

Publisher: DramaQueen LLC

American release date: April 1, 2000

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Yaoi/200 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★

 

Just when Kuze thinks he can relax because he has Kitahara all for himself, another rival rears his ugly head!  Tsutsumi is a former classmate who invites Kitahara out, gets him drunk and takes him back to his hotel room. When Kuze calls to see where he is, Tsutsumi gives the appearance that something is going on, to Kuze’s intense dismay. When he does get home, Kitahara explains that Tsutsumi was only teasing, but Kuze doesn’t quite see it that way.  Things go from bad to worse when Tsutsumi decides to drop in to the law office because he just has to see what Kuze looks like. And then he drops a hint of something about Kuze’s father! Will this be the straw that breaks the camel’s back?

In a side story, Kurosawa is faced with a dilemma when a client dumps a cat at the office and won’t come back to claim it. Someone has to take it in, but that’s not in Kurosawa’s  temperament to do so… or is it?

In another side story, a young man shows up at the law office demanding to see Kitahara. When he does, he disdainfully calls him a bear, which provokes Kuze to anger while Kitahara is dumbfounded.  After he leaves, Kitahara calls Tsutsumi to substantiate the young man’s claim. Turns out to be true – Yuki is Tsutsumi’s nephew. And he came to face Kitahara because he is jealous of his uncle’s interest in him. Turns out he has a crush on his uncle!

The last side story is The Covetous Man. Naoto and his older brother Niichan are very close. While most people despise their siblings hand-me-downs, Naoto lovesto have things that belonged to Niichan. He becaomes interested in anything that Niichan expresses an interest in, including his girlfriends. Niichan would laugh and say Naoto could have whatever it was. But then comes something that Naoto cannot find an interest in, or rather someone – Akihiro! After expressing his hatred of Akihiro to Niichan, he is shocked to learn that his brother dumped the other boy! Akihiro approaches Naoto and wants to know why he hates him. Can Naoto remedy the situation, and will he want to?

I love Kuze and Kitihara as a couple but after a while the constant vying with other men because they are going after Kitihara gets old. I would rather see them in other situations, including more work situations. Maybe even the courtroom. I know the series is over, but one can dream, right? As for the side stories, they’re okay. Kurosawa’s story is cute. Be aware of the uncle/nephew dynamic in that one, if incest bothers you, you should probably skip it. The brothers’ story is okay too. I would have liked more Kuze and Kitihara, though. All in all, a worthwhile read.

 

 

Book Review: Your Honest Deceit, Vol 1 by Sakufu Ajimine

 

Your Honest Deceit, Vol 1        

Author: Sakufu Ajimine

Publisher: DramaQueen LLC

American release date: April 1, 2000

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Yaoi/200 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

While a law student, Kuze crushed on guest lecturer Kitahara. But the man was married, so he saw no future and no reason to attempt anything. Fast forward seven years. Kuze ends up working in Kitahara’s law office. He can’t help but notice the wedding ring is gone. Dare he hope? Kuze grows jealous when a friend from college, Asso, barges in on Kitahara-sensei whenever he wants, even though Asso was the one who introduced Kuze to the office. Another former classmate, Kurosawa, also works at the office, and drops the bombshell that Kitahara is getting back together with his wife. Kuze is beyond crushed! When Kuze blurts out his feelings to Kitahara, the older man has a lot to think about. He invites Kuze to dinner. Is it possible he could feel the same way, even though he’s never been interested in men before?

They begin a relationship, but it has its ups and downs, its misunderstandings, which are exacerbated when someone from Kuze’s past shows up.  Can they be professional at work and steamy at home, or will people suspect they are together?

Yuu had a crush on Konno, who was a teacher when he was in high school. But only for a year. Now they live together, and Yuu still calls him sensei, which Konno finds strange. Konno makes sure Yuu adheres to a strict schedule, which he tolerates. But what he doesn’t like is Konno’s obsession with cute things, particularly the stuffed rabbit he cuddles when he sleeps!  Yuu wishes it were him, but he can’t seem to do anything to change that, no matter how hard he tries. He’s afraid Konno sees him only as another cute thing, and not for himself.  It’s Yuu’s twentieth birthday and he wants to celebrate with Konno, so he hurries to where he works, only to find him with another man.  Even though Konno leaves with him and not the other man, Yuu is unhappy and accidentally slips up and calls him by his first name -Toru.  Konno is delighted and finds Yuu utterly cute, as always. When a large stuffed rabbit arrives at the apartment, Yuu is dismayed to find it’s for Toru from an old classmate. Yuu follows Toru when he goes to have dinner with the man. Why a gay bar? What’s the story here, and does Yuu have anything to be worried about?

I  really love Kuze and Kitahara and I especially love that she didn’t draw Kuze to resemble a child, as too many yaoi artists do. I like May-December romances also, perhaps because my crushes have generally been on older men.  But after a while the jealousy storyline gets old, to be honest. I liked the second story  too, and I’m glad their romance didn ‘t begin while Yuu was still in high school.  Good first volume, look forward to the second.

 

 

Book Review: Love Control, Vol 2 by Ai Hasukawa

 

Love Control, Vol 2      

Author: Ai Hasukawa

Publisher: Digital Manga Publishing

American release date: August 4, 2009

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Yaoi/200 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★

 

The path of true love never did run smooth…  Yamashiro is jealous of everyone he sees Okumura with, including the lovely Ishikawa.  And now there is a new young bartender, Sasatani, and Kei is afraid he is after his lover, which only feeds his insecurities. It doesn’t help when Takashi confesses that he scouted out the young man and lured him into his employment. Even back at the office, Kei can’t get away from the admiring comments about Okumura, from men and women alike. Frustrated, he calls him and suggests they meet at the bar.

An argument leads to a misunderstanding, and Kei gets drunk. It’s not until Sasatani puts him into a cab because of his inebriated state that he realizes he has totally misjudged who is the object of the bartender’s affection. Sasatani keeps working on Kei’s low self-esteem, and lies to him about what Takashi said, widening the gulf between the lovers. He promises to treat Kei better than Takashi, says he would never hurt him. Will Kei be swayed by his pretty words?

Ichinose has a meeting at the bar with a new client. Although he tries to explain that he doesn’t really drink, his words fall on deaf ears. The client orders a blue drink from the sexy bartender, but it’s stronger than Ichinose expected so he excuses himself to the bathroom. The client follows him and the situation grows ugly when Sasatani unexpectedly intervenes and kicks the older man out, making sure he will never be admitted again. Ichinose blacks out, waking some time later to find he’s never left the bar and Sasatani has been with him all night.

Ichinose is grateful for what the bartender did for him, even if he does make fun of him for being such a lightweight when it comes to drinking. He wants to thank the owners, as well, but Sasatani says he doesn’t come in all the time. Even so, Ichinose is determined, so he keeps coming back to the bar in order to properly thank him. At least, that’s what he tells himself.  But he still doesn’t drink and is thinking of requesting tea when Sasatani fixes him a drink that looks like a cocktail but is non-alcoholic.

Sasatani continues to tease Ichinose and he responds. They develop a strange back-and-forth relationship.  Ichinose has never felt this way about a man before, and he is confused, his feelings only compounded by Sasatani’s hot-and-cold behavior. Will they ever be on the same page and admit their true feelings to one another? And can Ichinose make Sasatani forget the man who broke his heart.

In the last story, Takashi makes a cheese dish for Kei.

I was hoping to see Kei and Takashi again, and I wasn’t disappointed, as they work their way to a better understanding of their relationship and themselves. I liked the second story, but I didn’t feel the same chemistry between Ichinose and Sasatani as I did Kei and Takashi. Maybe it’s because Sasatani stated out as something of a villain lol Interesting series, definitely worth a read.

Book Review: Love Control, Vol 1 by Ai Hasukawa

 

Love Control, Vol 1       

Author: Ai Hasukawa

Publisher: Digital Manga Publishing

American release date: May 6, 2008

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Yaoi/200 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★

 

Love Control

Kei Yamashiro and his company have been hired to remodel the Italian restaurant Jiri by its owner Takashi Okumura. When Okumura arrives to the meeting, he immediately begins to hit on Yamashiro.  This man apparently doesn’t take no for an answer when he calls Yamashiro for a dinner meeting, tells him where and when they’lll meet, and then hangs up! Turns out the place is a secret bar, very private, members only. The reason for the meeting is that the owner of Jiri wants to hire Yamashiro to decorate his apartment. Yamashiro agrees but comes up with a plan of his own to get Okumura back for his flirtatious attitude. He vows to make the man fall in love with him and then he’ll break his heart.

But at some point, the game becomes real, and Kei isn’t sure whether to believe Takashi’s sweet words or not. Has he actually fallen for the man, and can anything good come from that? Or has he become a victim of his own game?

Near the Rainbow and You

Seno is in charge of the planning division of his company. He is very driven, a hard worker.  One day he receives an unexpected email asking him to come find them at the end of the rainbow. What does that even mean? When he passes by a rather beautiful fountain, he spots what appears to be a high school kid. Could this be the prankster? He approaches the kid and discovers he sent the same email to a number of addresses, just for fun. Seno asks the kid if he’s searching for a sugar daddy, and the kid tells him to take him somewhere private. Against his better judgment, Seno takes him to his apartment. There he takes the kid’s wallet and discovers his name is Yuu. Seno forces his attentions on an unwilling Yuu, who then leaves, but the next day he shows up at Seno’s work, claiming to be a relative.  Yuu tells Seno that he won’t stop pestering him until he admits he fell for Yuu first, so Seno retaliates by taking him to an amusement park.

I really liked the first story, watching Kei and Takashi get caught up in their own games until what they had pretended became real. I enjoyed watching them fall in love, and hope they’ll be back in the next volume. However, then we have the second story, and there’s the problem.  I don’t know how old Yuu really is, but he looks like a kid, which gave off all sort of bad vibes. But then the dubious consent. Very cringe. I am not fond of certain types of yaoi where one protagonist resembles a child, and often a very feminine on at that.  I wish they hadn’t included that second story in this volume, but they did. So I am giving the first story 4 Stars and the second story 2 Stars, for an average of 3 stars. I would suggest skipping the second story, the first is good.

Book Review: Future Lovers, Vol 2 by Saika Kunieda

 

Future Lovers, Vol 2          

Author: Saika Kunieda

Publisher: Deux Press

American release date: March 24, 2009

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Yaoi/192 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Akira has taken a permanent position with the school where he began as a sub due to the other teacher’s retirement. So now he and Kento work together every day. They keep their relationship from the people at school. Although Kento has introduced Akira to his grandparents, he has yet to meet Akira’s family. Then one day a flashy woman in a fur coat and sunglasses is standing outside the school when they leave, and Kento is finally introduced to Akira’s mother! That’s when he learns that Akira has a mommy complex, and actually calls her Mommy! Seriously?

She’s come to tell him she’s getting divorced… again. Akira isn’t even sure how many times that makes. It’s clear the pair dote on one another, but Kento is beginning to suspect the relationship is unhealthy. Turns out Akira’s mother had him when she was seventeen and he has no idea who his father is. When Akira leaves school early one day and doesn’t tell him, Kento searches for him, asking his mother if she’s seen him. She hasn’t, but she quickly guesses the nature of their relationship.

Kento finds Akira, who is hungover, and down, concerned unnecessarily about Yukie, whom Kento says is already in a new relationship and Kento doesn’t care because he has Akira. Akira is a complex man and Kento doesn’t always know how to take him. He realizes he’s had a hard life with his unstable mother and his childhood must have been difficult. And sometimes he and Akira seem poles apart. For example, when they end up going to a spring festival together, each is aghast at what the other is wearing. Still, no matter what happens between them, they seem to solve their problems in bed, making everything right once more.

They decide to take a Golden Week vacation but get off to a bad start. Apparently, Akira is a terrible navigator.  To make matters worse, when Kento picks up Akira at his apartment, he finds another man there with him – his art teacher from middle school! And the man not only doesn’t leave, he comes with them! He and Akira sit in the back seat together, with Kento playing chauffeur. This is not what he bargained for at all! Not surprisingly, they get lost! When Akira spots someone and goes to ask for directions, the art teacher tells Kento about what Akira was like as a child, and how much he has changed for the better.  When they finally reach their destination, they find they are all to stay in one room! Not exactly conducive to lovemaking. Kento and Akira become worried when the teacher disappears, which is compounded when his wife shows up looking for him and explains what is going on with him. Now they are even more concerned that he might do something drastic!

Akira’s mother is getting married… again! Kento starts bringing up the idea of marriage to Akira, and they fight over that. Kento wants a future with Akira, but he seems to be less than receptive to the idea. Akira provokes Kento, and finds himself in the nurse’s office with Yukie. Things get worse when Akira thinks Kento’s grandfather has died and Akira gets drunk and crashes the gathering. Will these two ever be on the same page?

I love these two guys, they are so sweet together. I like that they have their ups and downs, like any couple, which is exacerbated with the societal difficulties of being in a same-sex relationship.  The picture of Akira as a sweet little angel is priceless!  So is Akira’s dream of the future.  What a wonderful ending! I am a sucker for a happy ending. I would definitely recommend this book series.

 

Book Review: Love Mode, Vol 6 by Yuki Shimizu

 

Love Mode, Vol 6      

Author: Yuki Shimizu

Publisher: Blu

American release date:  August 14, 2007

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Yaoi Manga/200 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Kiichi takes Naoya shopping and insists on buying him lots of clothes, despite his protestations. He even insists that Naoya needs a ring, considering his newfound relationship with Reiji and takes him to a jewelry store. He was just kidding, though, and buys a watch instead. They are unaware that trouble lurks nearby. As they are leaving the store, two armed men force them back in and demand money and jewels! And they are going to take Naoya as a hostage. Kiichi refuses to let that happen, so that’s how he ends up in the back seat of the getaway car along with Naoya.

Haruomi, who was only gone for a moment, returns to discover what has happened and immediately phones Reiji, who is visibly upset at the news. He tells his subordinates to contact the phone company so they can trace Kiichi’s cell phone, no matter what it takes.  Meanwhile, the robber realizes the story about them is on the news as they listen to the radio. But what do they care, as they intend to kill the hostages anyway. Kiichi tells Naoya to open the door so they can escape, but when he does, he pushes the younger man out, into the river, to keep him safe. The robbers hurt him for his trouble, while Naoya finds a pay phone (good luck doing that now lol) and phones Reiji. Now it’s time to rescue the doctor!

Seiichi works at B&B, Reiji’s male escort service. He’s been assigned to a new client. But, to his dismay, when he arrives at the client’s home, he finds what appears to be a little kid. However, looks can be deceiving.  The client’s name is Tomoki, and Seiichi is his first.  When Seiichi sees Tomoki taking pills, he gets upset and makes him throw them away. They have a lot of sex over the next couple of weeks. But when something happens, and Seiichi learns the truth about Tomoki, his world will never be the same again.

I love how Reiji is learning to care about someone other than himself, though I did miss seeing Izumi and Takamiya in this volume and hope they will be back soon. Kiichi and Haruomi have grown much closer too. The story of Seiichi and Tomoki made me cry.  The biggest complain I have with some yaoi is the tendency to either make one of the guys looks like a kid or like a girl. I would rather see two men who look like men.

Good volume, looking forward to the next one.

Book Review: Love Mode, Vol 5 by Yuki Shimizu

 

Love Mode, Vol 5      

Author: Yuki Shimizu

Publisher: Blu

American release date:  May 8, 2007

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Yaoi Manga/216 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

After moving in with Reiji, Naoya’s life has changed for the better, including a new school. On the first day of school, Reiji and his brother Kiichi pick up Naoya to celebrate. As usual, Reiji seems irritated by the close relationship between Kiichi and Naoya, and his brother accuses him of being jealous. Naoya keeps his part-time job, intending to reimburse Reiji for at least some of the money the man has spent on him.

The relationship between Naoya and Reiji is beginning to subtly shift, with each man thinking of the other a lot, even if neither one admits to it. However, forces are at work that threaten to tear them apart. On his way to school, Naoya is stopped by a man who asks if he is Shirakawa Naoya. Upon learning that he is, the man says he has orders to bring him to the mansion where his grandfather awaits. Grandfather? Seriously? Meanwhile, Reiji learns that one of his clients is being blackmailed.

Naoya opts to live with his grandfather, but for altruistic reasons, believing himself to be a burden to Reiji. Reiji accepts his decision, although he leaves him with something to remember him by before he goes. Life with his grandfather isn’t always easy either. All of Naoya’s stuff is disposed of, anything which connected him to his former life, including the keys to Reiji’s apartment, which is thrown out into the enormous garden. Try though he might, Naoya can’t locate them. On top of that, young Wataru, who was supposed to be the heir to Naoya’s grandfather, is angry at Naoya’s arrival and jealous that he has been supplanted in his adopted father’s affections.

Reiji pretends to be unaffected by Naoya’s absence, but even Kiichi can see the truth about Reji’s feelings for Naoya. He and Naoya reconcile, but an unexpected crisis threatens to tear them apart permanently.

This volume of Love Mode brings the love story of Naoya and Reiji to a dramatic climax – literally and figuratively. Naoya does a lot of maturing, and learns to be his own man and make his own decisions. The scene we’ve all been waiting for between Naoya and Reiji finally happens, so yay for that! There’s a lot of drama between Naoya and Wataru, who not surpriisingly feels abandoned in favor of the “true” heir. Reiji is forced to examine his own feelings for once and not hide everything away beneath his oh so cool exterior. Things should be smoother from here on out.

Another great volume, look forward to the next!

 

Book Review: Love Mode, Vol 4 by Yuzi Shimuzu

 

Love Mode, Vol 4      

Author: Yuki Shimizu

Publisher: Blu

American release date:  October 31, 2006

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Yaoi Manga/192 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Naoya’s life is finally becoming more settled. He is back in school, working part-time, and living with Reiji, who is determined to teach the young man basic civilities. Reiji’s doctor brother, Kiichi, organizes a dinner with Naoya’s guardian, Kajiwara. The idea is to show him how well Naoya is doing, and to persuade him to allow Naoya to remain in Reiji’s household. A chance meeting with the man who took over Naoya’s father’s company, Aizawa, leads to hard feelings when the man displays his true colors in front of a businessman he is trying to impress. Unfortunately for Aizawa, the man is a friend of Reiji and Kiichi and is appalled with Aizawa, saying he will not do business with him. Afterward, in private, a shocking revelation is made.

Naoya has a bad dream that night, one he’s had before, about the accident that took the lives of his family. Reiji comforts him. After work the next day, Naoya runs into Kajiwara, who invites him back to his home. Naoya wants to know why he is against his staying with Aoe, and Kajiwara reveals all. Afterward, Reiji find Naoya in a horrible state, and cares for him. Together, Reiji and Kiichi confront Kajiwara and finally lay certain demons to rest.

Bonus story: Takamiya is not shy about telling Izumi that he loves him, but so far, Izumi has never reciprocated those words. Takamiya proposes they get together in two days and have a date playing billiards. Why that paticular day? It’s a special anniversary for them! Thanks to a chance encounter, they end up spending time with Reiji and Naoya, like a double date! Izumi is incredulous that anyone could live with grumpy old Reiji, but Naoya defends him as a good man. Meanwhile, Takamiya is needling Reiji for bringing home a stray when he supposedly hates cats. Izumi, tired of Reiji’s patronizing attitude, begs Takamiya to play a game of pool with him and clean his clock for him. He promises that if he does that, Takamiya can have anything he wants from Izumi. Yes, anything! Challenge on!

In a second bonus story, a young man is living with a foster family for certain reasons, and he realizes he cares about his foster brother a little too much. A sinister man seems to be stalking him, but can he save him?

Naoya’s past is out in the open now, and the truth has finally been revealed. Now he can let go of the ghosts that haunted him and move on with his life, whatever that may bring.  Will his relationship with Reiji heat up? Does he want it to? Only time will tell. I enjoyed the bonus story very much. I think Izumi and Takamiya are a cute couple! The second bonus story was more bittersweet than sweet. Another great volume, looking forward to the next one!

 

Book Review: Kiss All the Boys, Vol 1 by Shiuko Kano

 

Kiss All the Boys, Vol 1      

Author: Shiuko Kano

Publisher: Deux Press

American release date: April 1, 2008

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Yaoi manga/192 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★

 

Tetsuo is 32 years old. He writes a porn comic for his best friend Michiro. He is also the father of a 15-year-old son named Haruka, whose mother is Michiro’s sister. Tetsuo hasn’t exactly been a hands-on father. But when his ex is offered a long-term opportunity in Paris that she just can’t pass up, Tetsuo finds himself playing father full-time. On top of that, Tetsuo has another kind of problem  - he can’t seem to get it up, which makes dating difficult and frustrates him to no end.

Tetsuo accidentally discovers Haruka is gay (if you consider snooping accidental) and doesn’t know what to make of that so he confides in Michiro, who is also gay. Michiro advised Tetsuo to simply accept his son for who he is and to be a better father. Seems like good advice. When Tetsuo leaves Michiro, he happens upon a porn theater and decides to clear up one problem before tackling another. But outside the theater, a strange man unexpectedly crumples on top of him, seemingly terrified by the thought of going in. Deciding to play Good Samaritan, Tetsuo helps him in (basically to avoid embarrassment on the street) and they end up sitting together. The man is aghast when he finds himself hard, although Tetsuo assures him that is natural for where they are. But when Tetsuo suggests he head to the bathroom and take care of the issue, the man says he is afraid to get up. But then the unexpected happens when Tetsuo takes the “problem” in hand.

Afterward, Tetsuo is confused about what occurred. Luckily, he’ll never see that guy again. Except that’s not how life works. And the man – whose name is Momoyama – turns out to be Tetsuo’s new neighbor!  He seems smitten with Tetsuo, and offers to return the favor! One thing leads to another and Haruka unexpectedly catches them in the act (guess who’s confused now!) and he runs off. Turns out there is a guy he likes named Tamaki and he doesn’t know what to do about it.

Complications continue to arise as Tetsuo tries to deal with the idea that he gets hard with Momoyama (who he nicknames Homoyama) and he is also working through the problems with his gay son, while Momo just wants to get Tetsuo to acknowledge him. Momo ends up being confronted by Michiro, who tries to tell him it was just the alcohol, but he accuses Michiro of being in love with Tetuso himself!

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I began this yaoi manga, but I quickly found myself engaged with the characters and the story. Tetsuo has a tendency to be a rather clueless and selfish prick but I think he has a good heart and hope he will get better. I see a triangle brewing, maybe even more if I correctly read Tamaki’s reaction to something he unexpectedly witnessed. I’m a little conflicted about Haruka because he’s only 15, and I hope he doesn’t get any sex scenes, even with Tamaki. Guess we’ll see. Enjoyed the first volume and looking forward to the next!

 

Book Review: Love Mode, Vol 3 by Yuki Shimizu

 

Love Mode, Vol 3       

Author: Yuki Shimizu

Publisher: Blu

American release date:  July 3, 2006

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Yaoi Manga/184 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Because of a bike accident that caused him to miss a lot of class, Arashi should be in summer school. In trying to get out of it, he finds that he has been volunteered to do some volunteer work instead! So much for summer vacation! Oh well, what can he do? He ends up helping a 69-year-old man named Maryuma Kantaro in his home. First order of business – fix the roof!

Izumi is the number one host at Reiji’s male escort club. Recuperating at home due to some health issues, he is bothered by a persistent former member of the club. He knows members are not allowed to meet escorts in private, much less former members, but he doesn’t seem to take no for an answer. Reiji’s doctor brother is concerned, as is Reiji. At one time Izumi had feelings for the owner, but realizes he has found love with someone else. He worries that he will never be loved and accepted for who he really is.

And then a man unexpectedly drops into Izumi’s backyard – literally. Turns out, Arashi was working on Kantaro’s roof and he is Izumi’s neighbor, and Arashi lost his balance and fell. Unfortunately, he collided with Izumi and got bond in his hair! The poor man was forced to get a haircut! Appalled, Kantaro forced Arashi to go with him next door and apologize profusely to Izumi. Izumi wasn’t flustered, said he needed it anyway because of the time of year.

Arashi has to agree with the old man’s assessment that Izumi is indeed a beauty. But Arashi does something that gives him reason to think Izumi hates him, and when he goes next door to explain, he sees another man there and grows jealous, unaware that it’s just the doctor. When the unthinkable happens, and the old man ends up in the hospital, they run into each other again.

There is certainly an attraction there, but Izumi is worried that he won’t be accepted because of what he does for a living. He receives an opportunity to travel with abroad with one of his clients. Reiji says it’s strictly up to him. Izumi can’t help but think it would be best for Arashi if he were out of his life. The path of true love never does run smoothly.

We met Izumi previously, when our young Izumi was mistaken for him and thus began his relationship with Takamiya. Izumi longs for love but doesn’t believe in himself. He’s never met anyone like Arashi, who seems to genuinely like him.  But Izumi believes himself to be tainted and not worthy. While I don’t like this couple as much as the first two, I do like them, and their story is very sweet. Good volume, look forward to more.

 

Book Review: Love Mode, Vol 2 by Yuki Shimizu

 

Love Mode, Vol 2     

Author: Yuki Shimizu

Publisher: Blu

American release date:  March 7, 2006

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Yaoi Manga/192 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Naoya is a young man who has lost everything, including his parents. It seems to him that winter only brings bad things, and this year is no exception when his foster father says he can’t keep him any longer. Aoe Reiji catches his cheating girlfriend in the act in the apartment they share. Despite her tears and protestations that he neglected her, he walks out even as he tells her to vacate the premises. Leaving the building, he almost collides with a young man. Just then, his now ex-girlfriend hurls a potted plant from above him. It misseds Aoe but hits the boy. Aoe takes the boy to the hospital where his older brother, Kiichi, works as a doctor.

While Aoe and his brother stand in the boy’s room and talk, another man appears who says he is the boy’s foster father. The boy is Naoya, and he tells the two men about the death of Naoya’s parents. He has come to check on him, but not take him home, unfortunately. When Naoya is ready to leave the hospital, Aoe offers to take him home. First they go by Naoya’s place of work, where Naoya finds he’s been cheated out of his paycheck. Things just seem to go wrong for him all the time. Then he goes to his apartment, only to find it’s burned up and the landlord is accusing him of causing the fire!

Aoe takes the now homeless Naoya back to his own apartment and they become roommates. Well, somewhat. Naoya is always angry and he doesn’t trust Aoe, who never reveals how he really feels at the best of times. Naoya finds Aoe to be strict, but he’s honestly just looking out for him, making sure he eats right, sleeps right, and gets to school and studies. Aoe’s brother Kiichi, the doctor, seems amused by Aoe’s interest in the boy and encourages Naoya to get Aoe to spend lots of money on him, telling the boy that his brother can afford it.

Naoya is very reluctant to trust Aoe, and he fears he is a burden to the older man. But he’s also naïve, and gets himself into a dangerous situation. Luckily, it’s at one of Aoe’s clubs, and Aoe quickly comes to the rescue.  After that, Aoe hires Naoya as a companion for “Izumi”, his best escort, and he becomes friends with the lovely man, who is still recovering from surgery. But due to unfortunate circumstances, Naoya moves out, but he isn’t happy. And another Christmas has come and he’s alone…again.

This volume introduces us to Naoya, and sees the return of Aoe, who you’ll recall is Takamiya’s sometimes less-than-charming friend who was so hard on Izumi in the first book. Naoya is a boy who’s lost everything and trusts no one. Aoe puts on a hard front, but he is really sweet inside (just don’t tell him that). The two end up together (and just for the record, Aoe is the same age as Takamiya, 28, and Naoya is 17, like Izumi. If this bothers you, don’t read).

I like them as a couple, but I like Takamiya and Izumi the best. There is a bonus story about Takamiya and Izumi and Christmas. Really love this manga, wish there was an anime!

Book Review: Love Mode, Vol 1 by Yuki Shimizu

 

Love Mode Vol 1         

Author: Yuki Shimizu

Publisher: Blu

American release date: November 8, 2005

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Yaoi Manga/216 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

High schooler Izumi is surprised to receive a call from a friend he hasn’t spoken to in awhile, Konno. Konno tells him that a friend has asked to meet Izumi, and offers to set him up on a blind date. He says the friend is older and good-looking. What’s not to like? Izumi jumps at the chance. Following instructions, he arrives at the meeting place and waits, wondering what the mystery woman looks like, anticipating the date that is to come. While he waits, he notices a man standing near to him collapses and is taken away by ambulance. He picks up the single red rose the man dropped, and continues to wait. When a voice speaks his name, he eagerly looks up to see what his date looks like, only to be confronted by the face of… a man? What is going on here?

The man’s name is Takamiya, and he seems pleased with Izumi, and says he is looking forward to their day together. Izumi tries to explain there’s been some mistake, but when Takamiya mentions horses, he catches the younger man’s attention. Real horses? And thus their day together begins. During dinner, Izumi drinks a little too much and doesn’t remember leaving the restaurant. He wakes to find himself in a strange bed. But why is he naked? Why is Takamiya naked? What is going on here?

After they have sex, Takamiya tries to offer Izumi money. The incensed teenager yells at him, and that is when Takamiya realizes there has been a case of mistaken identity. But he can’t undo what has been done. Poor Izumi passes out again, and when he wakes, he is in his own bed, thank goodness. But when he goes to find his mother, he finds Takamiya in the kitchen and his mother gone shopping! Apparently, since Takamiya brought Izumi home, she trusts him? What the heck?

Thus an unusual relationship begins. Despite the fact that he knows he isn’t gay, Izumi finds that he does enjoy spending time with Takamiya, and sometimes he even finds him attractive. What does that mean? Things go from strange to worse when he meets Takamiya’s friend, Aoe Reiji, who owns the club where the actual escort he was to meet works. Aoe clearly does not think highly of Izumi and calls him a brat. When Takamiya takes Izumi away for golden week to a resort, Izumi is excited, until he learns that the place is actually Aoe’s, and that man has no compunction about just walking into a room without knocking first.

This series first came out in 1996, and I think I read it for the first time then. So, there are things to be taken into consideration before you rush to judgment. First, although Izumi is sixteen, that is the age of consent in Japan. Takamiya and Aoe are 28, but that is not considered inappropriate there either. Then there is the issue of dubious consent. That was a big thing back then, not sure about now, as I don’t read as much yaoi as I once did. However, I think it was considered to be okay if the couple ends up together and in love, that the ending excuses the means. But if you are triggered by dubious consent, you might want to reconsider reading this series. I’m not saying I think it’s right, just that it is what it is.

That being said, I love these books, and have read them a couple of times already, although this is my first time reviewing them.  Keep in mind, also, as you read, that attitudes toward gay people were still often derogatory, so take Izumi’s comments with a grain of salt and remember he is just becoming aware of his own sexuality. Plus he’s sixteen.

Takamiya is sweet and gentle and ever patient. He will need that patience with Izumi, who is young and hot-headed and impulsive. They do balance each other very well. Aoe comes across as something of an a**, especially with the stunt he pulls on Izumi, but I know he becomes more human as the series continues. All in all, I think this series stands the test of time, which is why I am reading it again. I do highly recommend it if you enjoy reading gay romance.

Book Review: Blue Morning, Vol 8 by Shoko Hidaka

Blue Morning, Vol 8       

Author: Shoko Hidaka

Publisher: SuBLime Publishing

American release date: November 12, 2019

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Yaoi/282 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

The time is fast approaching for Akihito’s departure for England, and there is so much to be done, arrangements to be made. Knowing the feudal system is dying, Akihito is building the future of the Kuze house on much firmer foundations, such as the railroad and various industries. He and Katsuragi must fit in as much time together as they can, knowing they will be separated for two long years.

Meanwhile, Soichiro has been coerced at least into the arranged marriage he never wanted, his heart belonging to a geisha he can never have. He girds himself to meet his intended, only to find that Katsuragi works in mysterious ways.

Their time together drawing to a close, Katsuragi bares his soul to Akihito and tells him two years away from him is too long. In talking to Amamiya, Soichiro expresses his gratitude for what Katsuragi has done for him, and wishes him and Akihito the same good fortune. Akihito has had matching watches made for him and Katsuragi, which he presents to him just before he asks would he like to come to England with him.

What will Katsuragi’s response be?

This is the final volume of Blue Morning. So much going on, so much up in the air. I grew hopeful and anxious by turns the farther I read. This is the culmination of what Akihito and Katsuragi both have been working toward, even if it didn’t always appear so. This is a story very rich in both plot and character development, as well as beautiful artwork. I invested my heart in the story of these two men, followed their relationship through good times as well as hard times. Cheered, laughed, and cried. I’m sorry the story has come to an end, yet in my heart it isn’t over, and I know it will go on forever.

Beautiful finish to a lovely story.

Book Review: Blue Morning, Vol 6 by Shoko Hidaka

Blue Morning, Vol 6       

Author: Shoko Hidaka

Publisher: SuBLime Publishing

American release date: September 13, 2016

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Yaoi/250 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Katsuragi has become uncertain, both of himself and his relation with Akihito. He thinks himself weak and useless because Akihito no longer blindly obeys him—so what purpose does he serve? While dressing the morning after, at Akihito’s hotel, he notices ragged garments in the closet and wonders why they are there. And why won’t Akihito get the haircut Katsuragi keeps telling him he needs?

Akihito meets with Ishizaki at a hot pot restaurant, which irks Ishizaki because it’s a hot day. Akihito says he is about to retire to Kamakura, under the pretense of his fake illness. Much has changed since the evening at the Moriyama’s, and thanks to the reporters Katsuragi arranged for, is common knowledge. For example that Ishizaki has become the Kuze house guardian. Madam Kayoko’s trip to France and her estrangement from her husband. Akihito’s “lung illness.” One reporter asked Akihito about the importance of producing an heir, but that won’t happen, not while he has Katsuragi. Ishizaki muses that things would be easier if Katsuragi were a woman.

Master Ishizaki informs Katsuragi that he has purchased a mill and wishes him to become the president and make a profit. He accepts the position. When he tries to drop off some papers with Amamiya, the new Kuze butler insists he deliver it to Akihito himself, and also deliver something from Katsuragi’s brother, Takayuki, who Akihito has entrusted with the financial affairs of the Kuze house. Katsuragi goes to the hotel and wakes Akihito, informing him the government railways have finally given their approval. Now Akihito can set up a railway in the old fief.

Ishizaki returns home from a late night out to find Katsuragi in his room. Katsuragi tells Ishizaki to not see the geisha he’s been seeing, and if he must continue the relationship, then he must allow Katsuragi to buy her out of bondage in his own name. Akihito meets with Katsuragi’s brother, who also remonstrates with him about his unruly hair. Akihito reiterates that he will be leaving for Kamakura, as planned. When Akihito says that he wishes Tomoyuki and Takayuki, as brothers, were closer, Takayuki responds with the comment that they are not related by blood, to which Akihito enigmatically replies, “Do you really think so?”

Katsuragi calls on Saionji and catches up with him. It seems his former lover knows him pretty well, including the fact that he loves Akihito. Saionji is happy himself, with his wife and new baby. Saionji gives Katsuragi some advice on what he should do. Later, Katsuragi goes to the mill. His employees are apprehensive about what their new boss will be like, fearful they will be blamed for past failures and be let go, but Katsuragi is not what they expected.

Even as Akihito makes plans to study abroad, he is concerned with Katsuragi, knowing he wishes to know about his origins, whether he voices his desire or not. Akihito and Amamiya visit Kiku’s old house, and Amamiya wonders what might have been, know that he knows about Akihito and Katsuragi. Akihito confides his plans for the future, once the railway is in place. Despite what Katsuragi may think, he does have the best interests of the Kuze house in mind, as well as his future with Katsuragi. Will he be able to persuade Katsuragi to come with him to Kamakura?

Each volume of this series is wonderful, I can’t get enough of these characters, even as I am left on the edge of my seat, wondering when they will finally be in sync with one another. The only way I will be happy is if they end up together at the end, nothing less will do. The artwork is superb, both men are very handsome, especially Katsuragi. She is very expressive in portraying their emotions in their faces. I can see the lust that glazes Katsuragi’s eyes, feel Akihito’s own wonder and joy as he gazes at the man he loves during their intimate moments. As to who will end up with the house of Kuze, I would not venture a guess. There is a whole lot going on, and the plot just keeps on getting deeper.

Can’t wait for the next one, one of the best yaoi manga ever!

Book Review: Ten Count, Vol 5 by Rihito Takarai

Ten Count, Vol 5       

Author: Rihito Takarai

Publisher: SuBLime Manga

American release date: August 8, 2017

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/mangaGLBT/162 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Shirotani and Kurose are rescued from their elevator ordeal and emerge into falling rain. Cabs are scarce, so Kurose says he’ll walk, but Shirotani speaks up and offers to share a cab with him, which is a major step for him. Once inside the cab, Kurose prompts Shirotani to continue with what he began to say earlier, but Shirotani claims not to remember what that was, when the reality is he doesn’t feel comfortable bringing it up in that place. A disappointed Kurose has the driver pull over and gets out, since they are right by his apartment.  As he waits for the elevator, he’s surprised to hear his name and turns to find Shirotani there. Shirotani gives him an obviously fake story as to why he’s there before finally making what is a major admission for him, even if it’s phrased hypothetically. They go up to Kurose’s apartment and Shirotani requests that Kurose “make him dirty inside”.

As a child, Kurose’s parents were very busy, and he was left on his own most of the time. He strikes up an acquaintance with an older man named Nishigaki, and begins to hang out with him, even if the man claims Kurose is a pain. Kurose doesn’t understand Nishigaki’s idiosyncrasies, why he makes Kurose follow certain rules. Too late, he begins to understand what Nishigaki’s problem is. When Nishigaki disappears, Kurose blames himself. He studies all he can about germophobes, and makes a promise to himself to save the next Nishigaki.

Shirotani wakes the next morning in a strange bed. Kurose is already up and is very attentive to him, anticipating his every need. Shirotani tells Kurose he’s filled in number ten on his list and wants him to guess what it is, so then Kurose has to tell him why he is doing this. Kurose says he has feelings for Shirotani, but Shirotani knows there is more to the story than that, that it has to do with his being a germophobe. Will Kurose come clean with Shirotani?

The story is almost done, one more volume to go, and it’s so good as Shirotani and Kurose’s relationship grows stronger and stronger.  Now we know more about Kurose, and why he was initially drawn to Shirotani. It almost feels like closure for him with regard to Nishigaki. But he also says that Shirotani being a germophobe is not the only reason he is drawn to him, that he would love him anyway. Shirotani hasn’t told Kurose about his father, and what he witnessed that helped to make him the germophobe he is now. Hopefully he’ll do it in the next volume.  Ideally, I would love to see them move in together, and have an open and loving relationship. I think they can heal each other. I’m crossing my fingers for them.

Only one more to go, can’t wait!

Starting With a Kiss Volume 2 Review

Starting With a Kiss, Vol 2    

Author: Youka Nitta

Publisher: Sublime Publishing

American release date: November 13, 2012

Format/Genre/Length: Manga/Yaoi/192 pages,

Publisher/Industry Age Rating: M (Mature), Parental Advisory – Explicit Content

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Domoto’s accidental discovery of the continuing relationship between Tohru and Matsumi, via evidence left at the scene of a spontaneous tryst in the stairwell, does not bode well. He made it clear to Matsumi that he was not to touch Tohru in that way, and in his eyes the younger man has flagrantly disregarded his instructions. He bides his time and makes his move against Matsumi. When Tohro catches on to the fact that Matsumi is in trouble, he races to his father and wants to use some of the boys to find out where Domoto’s taken Matsumi. His father tells him to be patient, they’re grown men and they’ll work it out. I think this shows that Tohru cares for Matsumi more than he lets on, or he wouldn’t be so concerned about his welfare, and despite his almost cavalier attitude toward the other man at times.

This volume concentrates on Tohru and Matsumi’s growing relationship, which is obviously more than just the physical aspects, although they are certainly not suffering in that department either. At the same time, they must deal with their respective roles within the Yazuka organization, and their future, whether they end up together or not. Tohru fears Matsumi becoming a Yazuka because of him, and doesn’t accept that the decision comes from Matsumi’s deep feelings for him. Matsume tries to make him see he’d do anything for Tohru, to be with him.

There are forces working against them, and the arrival of Tohru’s cousin Asato only throws oil on the fire. Matsumi thinks there’s more to him than meets the eye, especially when he starts to plant certain ideas inside of Tohru. Who will have the greater influence on Tohru, and who will he trust more?

The characters are evolving nicely, and there is definite plot development, as well as plenty of sex. I liked this volume a little better than the first, although I enjoyed that thoroughly. The artwork is beautiful, as always. The sex is hot, and I love the chemistry between Tohru and Matsumi. I can’t wait for the next volume, although there’s no indication when it will be released. Not soon enough for me!

Yakuza Cafe Review

 Yakuza Cafe  

Author: Shinano Oumi

Publisher: Digital Manga Publishing

American release date: November 22, 2011

Format/Genre/Length: Manga/Yaoi/200 pages, also emanga

Publisher/Industry Age Rating: Older Teen, 16+

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★

After the death of his mother and grandmother, Shinri Irie receives an offer from the father he’s never met. Daigo Inrie wishes to make amends, and he wants Shinri to come live with him. So Shinri agrees to move in with the former Yakuza—at his café!

Synopsis:

Shinri isn’t sure what to expect when he arrives at the Fujisaki Café. Certainly not the fierce looking men that greet (and scare off) prospective clients. When they learn Shinri’s identity, they welcome their young master enthusiastically. One of them, a very large, very handsome man named Mikado, seems strangely familiar to Shinri. His emotional father greets Shinri with open arms; he is happy to see him and wishes to make amends for the past. While sampling what the café has to offer, Shinri learns its awful secret, and the undoubted reason that the café is not doing well (other than the former yakuza scaring people away)—the tea is atrocious! Lukcily, Shinri is an expert on teas, thanks to his upbringing by his grandmother, with her English heritage. He offers to take charge of making tea and bringing the café back to where it should be. Mikado is uncertain about this, but Zaouji, who handles the business side of the café, is positive that Shinri is just what the café needs.

Shinri finds Mikado mysterious and strangely attractive—and very familiar. He inadvertently comes upon him in the bath, and spies the large tattoo upon his back. And when he touches it, he accidentally releases the Dragon inside of Mikado, triggering memories, and propelling their relationship to a new level. When a former rival clan threatens the café, will Mikado be able to handle it on his own and keep his beloved Young Master safe?

The second story, The Crimson Seal, is a back story concerning Yaouji and his relationship with a Yakuza named Kurahashi, and tattoos.

In the last story in this volume, Two Roads Diverged, Shinri seems distracted by something. When he accidentally burns himself, Mikado questions his value in Shinri’s life.

Commentary:

I really enjoyed this book. It was sweet and romantic and fun. I liked the artwork pretty much. It’s not perfect, but it’s pretty good, especially Shinri and Mikado (who is really handsome). Mostly, I enjoyed watching the unfolding relationship between Shinri and Mikado. It’s not your typical uke/seme relationship, which I enjoyed, especially the scene where Shinri knocks the much larger Mikado down and sits on him to get his attention. Something to be aware of is the use of non-con sex, but consider that in the yaoi context it isn’t what it appears to be, i.e. rape. In yaoi mangas, it’s generally used as a device to bring characters into a physical relationship where one appears to be unwilling but deep down inside isn’t.  Shinri even admits to himself afterward that he certainly didn’t hate it.

From the way it ended, I’m thinking there will be more of this book. I certainly hope so. It’s a good, enjoyable read, well worth the effort, and I’d love to see more of it.