Kiss Shite Sugar-kun!
Satou is a famous child actor transitioning into more adult roles, in particular one for a school play. Taking a literal approach to being a naked manservant he was rehearsing sans clothes in a quiet locker room when archery ace, Yanagawa entered. Suddenly, Satou trips into Yanagawa who is shocked to find his arms full of a soft naked body. Tightening his arms, they both savour the rightness of feeling the other in their embrace. Indeed, for this pair, that hug became something to inspire. This ridiculously adorable story follows these seeming opposites as they fall in love. Both MCs are extremely focused and dedicated to their craft, something that they see and respect in each other. Their skinship is beautiful and how they happily ‘recharge’ irrespective of an audience is both hilarious and adorable. I loved the story and the surprising depth to both guys. Their mutual innocence was sweet and understandable given how much of their lives are dedicated to their craft. Satou was so gifted I actually teared up at his opening night performance lol. Another highly recommended read.
Ohayou, Ibarahime
This isn’t the kind of story that you want to reveal too much of and spoil. The fact that my pillow was drenched in tears shouldn’t be off putting simply because the story was so beautiful. Satoshi and Shizu were complex, well contrived characters that were totally endearing. The art was so well done too. Give it a read.
Shichakushitsu No Midara Na Shinshi
I have read this story a few times now. The devastatingly handsome Kurosawa has his ideal career as a shoe fitter for a luxury brand. Ideal because this refined and elegant gentleman has a secret, consuming fetish for legs. He can remember people perfectly by their feet and legs and takes an interest in the rather ordinary salaryman with perfect legs, Yuichi. I love how the mangaka really caught some of the desperation of Kurosawa’s fetish and how Yuichi was so accepting and interested.
Nande Neteru Ore no Chinko Nametano
This manga was a total gem! Exuberant and extroverted, Daiya is an university student who really wishes to have a girlfriend. He spends his days studying and playing around, often ending up to spend the night Ohashi's appartment after a long night out. Quiet and good looking, Ohashi is drawn to his expressive friend but is reluctant to share his feelings with the ladies man that is Daiya. Instead, while Daiya sleeps, Ohashi decides to try a more hands on approach. I loved this manga so much. The art was so good, both MCs had their distinctive personalities shine through, especially Daiya, who was a man whose every thought was shared on his face. I loved the taboo aspect of Ohashi’s secret nocturnal touches that was balanced by the tortured and longing expression that Daiya glimpsed. A definite favourite for me, I loved it.
Sumanai!! Masumi-kun
What a lovely age gap story. Novelist Shiraishi Shoutarou has a 21yo daughter who is engaged to his editor-in-charge, Osanai Masumi. When she runs off on her wedding day, the two men stay living together. The gentle kindness and warmth of Masumi winds it’s way around Shoutarou’s heart. I won’t divulge more and give spoilers. Suffice to say this is a sweet, feel good story that is worth a read.
Hontou wa Suki na no ni
Neighbours and best friends since kindergarten, Natsuki and Naoto have changed a lot over the years but their bond of friendship remains strong. The once small crybaby Naoto has grown to be tall, popular and athletic, while the protective, older (by 6 months) Natsuki ended up short (though don’t tease him about that) and cute (he will deny this). When romantic feelings arise they are suppressed in order to not cause disgust and ruin a valued friendship. That is until a good looking and likeable senpai takes an interest in Natsuki. I loved the art and I loved the story. Childhood friends to lovers is one of my favourite tropes and in this one I really appreciated that the outside romantic interest was such a lovely senpai.
Honey Maple More More Sugar
Proudly out, gay university student Mukai Tsumugi enjoys spending his time on a gay social site where he shares his hobby of creating cute things. It’s also the perfect pickup place for the cute “Bee” (as he is known on the site). One of his favourite people to talk to is Chiitan, and the two eventually set up a meeting. But the man who turns up is nothing like Bee expected. This towering, intensely intimidating man must be a yakuza! And so begins this wonderful story of opposites attract; a beautiful young man with a bit of a slutty nature and a scary faced man with a heart of gold. I loved it!
Subarashii Kiseki ni Yasashii Kimi to
A wonderful Yaoi that ticks all the boxes for adorable characters, great art, romance, sexy scenes and still having a fluffy, wholesome vibe. Socially awkward and a classic nerd, Enoki is anxiously recruiting for his engineering club. The short little 1st year student catches the attention of the school heartthrob, fellow 1st year Shirataki who was seeking something new. The tall, sporty “normie” joins the club and an unlikely friendship based on mutual admiration slowly develops between these polar opposites as Enoki’s bubbly kindness breaks through Shirataki’s aloofness. It’s really a great story with some lol moments sprinkled throughout. Highly recommended.
Living With Him
Read the official translation: Things are in better order and it has the Yaoi chapter. Natsukawa Ryouta had always been a bit of a ‘house husband’ growing up. He liked caring for his mom and sister, but was looking forward to living alone in college. That was until his mom and her good friend decided that their boys could live together and save money. Now Ryouta’s childhood friend, the ex baseball player with a sparkling aura has moved in and it doesn’t take long to reestablish the bonds between Ryouta and Tanaka Kazuhito. Their story is full of honesty and heart. This sweet, fluffy feel good story is one to add to the favourites pile.
Kunkou Schale