Reviews

Anti-Romance: Special Edition Vol. 1 by Shoko Hidaka

evann's review

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hopeful reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

unfocusedcuriosity's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

 Describing the manner in which this book carved itself a cozy corner in my mind feels impossible. Ryou and Suou's relationship grows organically and shines through the care they both have for one another. Both are complex characters who bring well defined and interesting personalities to create an incredibly complementary duo.

The two men are childhood best friends who became roommates (*gasp' they where roommates) when they left for university. we see how the4y've fallen into a certain routine and have  grown even closer than they were in high school. Understandably both characters are afraid of confront their feelings for the other for fear of ruining the bond they have. As it goes, unforeseen circumstances force the roommates to address the chemistry between them. 

I will definitely be reading the next manga in the series. It's a manga I absolutely recommend!

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kkquite's review against another edition

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4.0

I like the emotional moments and I like that the romance is acknowledged early on even if there is still obstacles.

keikoreadsmanga's review

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4.0

Rip the band-aid and cry! We're going down unrequited love lane!

Phew! That was painful. I kind of liked this one a lot. Gorgeous art style, huh! It reminds me of Boy meets Maria art!!

This series revolves around the reality of getting stuck in the middle of being best of friends, other one having feelings with the other; the other not being quite sure what to do, and the idea of eventually becoming lovers but can't move forward because of routine and habit they can't get past through after so many years of practicing it. It was really good, although there are some parts lacking taste, like the I'm-going-to-move-out-tomorrow-if-you-don't-want-a-relationship-with-me trope. Leave some time to breathe with that life-changing confession! It's going to hurt, and it needs a little more time for adjustments. For sure, Suou needs that a lot. Still, this is quite good. I love how unpredictable and unexpected Suou is. I was laughing when he suddenly went berserk about the mess in the room when Ryou was talking about wanting to be in love with someone else. That is so freaking hilarious! Ryou has to figure out what he really wants to happen, though he became too comfortable.

madmoiselleyaelle's review against another edition

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4.0

it was so cute! not one of my fav fav but i really loved it !!<3

helterskelliter's review

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4.0

Suou and Ryou have been friends for a long time.

They grew up together, went to high school together, and became roommates after. While Suou went to school for hair styling, Ryou went to college and got an office job.

Now, it’s been six years.

They aren’t dating but their relationship isn’t exactly platonic, is it?

Both Ryou and Suou certainly understand that they see the other in something more than a friendly light. But, neither is willing to take the next step — for fear of ruining the tenuous balance they’ve maintained.

But, this stalemate can’t go on forever either, can it?

Will these two get the push they need to finally realize how they feel about each other?

This is a delightful and sweet little story about two young men learning not just what direction they want to take their individual pursuits but, also, what direction they want to move in together.

Definitely recommend! This mangaka duo are fantastic storytellers who really put a lot of thought into character development and interpersonal relationships~

bazalex's review

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3.0

I really wanted to love this one, but I couldn’t really connect with the characters or get invested in their relationship. I love friends to lovers and it’s one of my favorite tropes but with this one I just couldn’t see a whole lot of chemistry. It wasn’t bad by any means, but I just didn’t enjoy it as much as I wanted to. I loved the art, however, and I’d be willing to give the next volume a try!

nitzanschwarz's review

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3.5

Honestly, I didn't feel much of this. I don't get these characters, their emotions, or their relationships. 

kersia_1412's review against another edition

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emotional lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No

2.75

dreamerfreak's review

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emotional hopeful sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25


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