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MANGA: Bitter Cigar
Bitter Cigar – Panda/Kumaneko
Go to work, go home. Go to work, go home. That’s the daily routine of 26-year-old Wataru Toyohashi. One night, he heard a terrible groan coming from next door, so he rushed over, only to find his neighbor, Takatsuki, on the verge of tears and slumped on the floor. The reason? Hunger. Takatsuki said he forgets to eat when he gets caught up in his work, which he does from home. Toyohashi, unable to ignore the situation, decided to treat Takatsuki to dinner since he was in the middle of cooking anyway. Overjoyed by the simple home-cooked meal, Takatsuki exclaimed, “I want to eat this every day!” And that’s how their weekly weekend dinner parties started. At the small dining table with Takatsuki and his own two cats, Toyohashi’s days change bit by bit…
Bitter Cigar is a gentle tale of home‑cooked meals and good company.
Toyohashi, a game developer, discovers his neighbor Takatsuki weak with hunger and begins feeding him. When Takatsuki delights in his cooking, they establish a weekly dinner routine. Toyohashi finds Takatsuki irresistibly cute, and his neighbor is thrilled to hear it.
One day, however, Toyohashi bumps into Takatsuki in the hallway and is surprised when Takatsuki avoids him. Embarrassed by his disheveled appearance, Takatsuki grows increasingly awkward about meeting again. Yet Toyohashi, invested in their blossoming friendship, does his damnedest to reconnect.
The story shines with beautiful non‑binary representation. Takatsuki, with long hair and soft, loose clothing, enjoys being cute without wanting to be a girl, simply loving what he loves. His novel Bitter Cigar reflects the forbidden things he longed for growing up.
Told mostly from Toyohashi’s perspective, the narrative captures how he slowly falls for Takatsuki, wooing him with delicious food and heartfelt praise. It’s ridiculously sweet, swoony, and pure squee! The subtle reveal of Toyohashi’s sexuality ties everything together like the perfect cherry on top.
Overall, a pure, uplifting comfort-food connection!
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MANGA: Sotomura Tanteisha no Manekarezaru Kyaku
Sotomura Tanteisha no Manekarezaru Kyaku – Sakae Kusama
Matsuda Kei is a private investigator who specializes in quirky cases centered on his local neighborhood around the shopping arcade. He’s recently taken on a new roommate (and lover) named Kamiko who is unemployed, ruthlessly horny, and was actually a classmate from his past. While the two work together to solve cases, they carry on in what starts as a strictly physical relationship… until Matsuda finds that this temporary situation he has entered with Kamiko might be turning into something more.
The Troublesome Guest of Sotomura Detective Agency is a story about a private detective and a houseguest he can’t get rid off.
Matsuda is hired to investigate a freeloading ex-boyfriend who turns out to be his HS classmate Kamiko. Kamiko promises leave if Matsuda lets him stay with him for two days. The days stretch into weeks, then months, as Kamiko mooches, seduces, and occasionally assists with cases, while Matsuda grumbles yet continues to feed and sleep with him.
The plot is a slice-of-life detective work alongside the slowly evolving, rather steamy relationship between Kamiko and Matsuda.
Matsuda is a grouchy serial do-gooder the entire neighborhood relies on from changing lightbulbs to investigating creepy stalkers. He’s a super competent, resourceful investigator with a hero complex who’s bad at technology. I loved watching him work, coming up with clever solutions to unusual dilemmas. His grumpy exterior hides a marshmallow heart that’s both funny and endearing.
Kamiko was harder to like. I didn’t actively hate him since he has some redeeming qualities. Though he contributes with tech skills and is a fairly ok assistant, there’s always an undercurrent of him eventually disappearing. This sense of impermanence, freeloading, and not paying his debts made me think Matsuda deserves better.
The ending is a barely there HFN. I didn’t feel a firm commitment from Kamiko but he did have some character development. Perhaps a sequel?
Overall, promising but maybe a better payoff next time.
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MANGA: Blue Ill Dope Kiss
Blue Ill Dope Kiss – Suzuku Koma
Tobashi, a handsome and popular college student, is constantly dumped due to his overly passive personality, leaving others disillusioned. While nursing a broken heart and searching for a part-time job, he unexpectedly falls for a man he spots in town—Ichikawa—at first sight, unaware of his own feelings. Ichikawa’s striking blue hair flowing in the breeze and his beautiful face leave an unforgettable impression on Tobashi. Desperate to see him again, Tobashi tracks down the unique, stylish clothing shop where Ichikawa is the manager.
When Tobashi interacts with Ichikawa during a visit, he discovers that the man is a former delinquent with a slightly rough way of speaking but a reliable and cool personality, making Tobashi’s feelings grow even stronger. Mustering up his timid courage, Tobashi successfully lands a job as a part-time worker at the shop! He enjoys his days working there, but Ichikawa misinterprets Tobashi’s enthusiasm as a romantic advance and takes him to a hotel, where they end up having sex!!!!
However… Tobashi is a virgin!? Realizing he mistakenly took the virginity of a straight guy, Ichikawa feels remorse and declares, “You’re promoted to part-timer and friends with benefits!”
Blue Ill Dope Kiss is a sweet, smutty bi‑awakening romance between an earnest young man and his boss.
Tobashi, often dumped for being too passive, falls in love at first sight with blue‑haired store manager Ichikawa, though he doesn’t recognize it as love at first. His desire to be close to Ichikawa was so strong he overcame his shyness and applied for a part‑time job.
Tobashi frequently expresses his admiration that Ichikawa thinks he is flirting and so proceeds to take him to a love hotel. Only to find out that Tobashi is a virgin.
Burned by a past relationship, Ichikawa is determined to keep things physical, but then Tobashi keeps showering him with care and affection. Soon, Ichikawa’s carefully constructed walls are starting to crumble and he doesn’t know what to with the tsunami of love coming his way.
Tobashi is the purest soul to ever walk this plane, so wholesome that others had to shield their eyes from his glow. The side characters, especially Ichikawa’s fujoshi friends, add hilarious advice and over‑the‑top reactions. The gags were a riot, and the inner thoughts are laugh‑out‑loud funny.
Tobashi has a dog personality, loyal and devoted but I appreciate that he wasn’t too pushy or dubcon-y. He’s naive and candid about his feelings and so ridiculously sweet and earnest, Ichikawa stood no chance whatsoever.
Ichikawa was formerly in a gang who’s cool, stylish personality belies a strong fighter. I loved the scenes where his inner delinquent comes out. Even funnier is when he tries to one-up Tobashi in bed only to have the tables effortlesly turned by his supposedly less experienced lover who doesn’t even realizing he’s doing it.
This manga radiates love so brightly it’s pure joy to read. Overall, resistance is futile, radiant boys will win you over!
Ichikawa’s ex is gorgeous and needs his own manga. Maybe with his bodyguard?
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MANGA: Hanatabakara Kuchizuke
Hanatabakara Kuchizuke – Niyuki Makoto
Ever since the first time flower designer Sena Nakagiri laid eyes on international supermodel Jun Asakura, ” the human embodiment of a flower,” he’s been captivated by him. When Jun personally requests him for another photo shoot, Sena finds himself increasingly flustered by Jun’s closeness and his openly adoring gaze. After the shoot, Jun whisks Sena away in his car for ramen at his favorite local spot, eager for Sena to get to know him better despite his supermodel status. There, their tender and beautiful romance starts to bloom.
A Kiss From a Bouquet is a sweet romance between a florist and a supermodel.
Sena’s world revolves around flowers, and working with international supermodel Jun Asakura, he can’t help but see Jun as a flower himself. Meanwhile, Jun is crushing hard on the florist, using the photoshoot as an excuse to get closer. As they spend more time together, Jun confesses his feelings. Sena thinks the supermodel is far out of his league, yet he’s irresistibly drawn to him.
This one-shot took the all flower metaphors and ran a marathon with it. After learning Sena thinks of him as the embodiment of a flower, Jun really leans into it. It was too on the nose that even during sex it’s all he can talk about.
Still, Jun and Sena make an endearing pair, cheering each other on in their work. Jun loves Sena’s arrangements, always requesting him for shoots, while Sena’s thoughtful designs highlight Jun’s striking looks even more. Their healthy dynamic shines like sunlight through petals.
Overall, it’s blooming boys and flowers!
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MANGA: Sakura-kun no Hatsukoi wa Natsuiro ni Saku
Sakura-kun no Hatsukoi wa Natsuiro ni Saku – Kaketama
Ever since he quit his job, Sakura Hare has been a shut-in, and spends his days getting by lethargically.
On the other hand, Hare’s childhood friend, Takehana Sakura, is an adventurer who travels around the world with a smile on his face.
“Even though he was so timid, I was the one who gave him the push…” As Hare’s thoughts turn more and more somber, Sakura suddenly returns…Sakura-kun’s First Love Blooms in a Summer Hue is a light-hearted opposites attract romance between childhood friends.
Hare grew up protecting his smaller friend Sakura, cheering him on throughout their school days. As adults, Hare became a shut‑in from burnout, while the now taller Sakura chased his dream of traveling the world as a vlogger.
Growing increasingly despondent, Hare missed Sakura badly but couldn’t bear watching his videos. One day, Sakura came home but would their friendship be the same or would it be something more?
This one-shot is as bright and uplifting as a summer day. While Hare angsted, the vibe remained light with Sakura’s warm affectionate personality sweeping our boy off his feet. A past memory kick things into gear then it was all ridiculously sweet confessions and breathless kisses.
I loved how Sakura inspired Hare to be a better person, and the manga closed on a hopeful note filled with promises of happier days ahead.
Overall, a beautiful summertime reunion!
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MANGA: Fake Fiction
Fake Fiction – Yuitsu
Actor Arashi was deeply drawn to the acting of the popular star Tōru Ōtaki, even while harboring jealousy toward him.
One day, after watching a movie starring Tōru, Arashi found himself unable to shake his frustration and headed to a members-only club he frequented to clear his mind.
In that place—where everyone hid their true faces and prying into personal identities was forbidden—Arashi met a man who exuded a dangerously alluring aura.
The moment their eyes met, Arashi felt an overwhelming attraction, and the two spent a passionate night together.
Their physical compatibility was incredible, and the next morning, as Arashi woke feeling utterly satisfied, he discovered that the man sleeping beside him was none other than Tōru Ōtaki…?
Still stunned by the revelation, Arashi then received a call from his manager informing him that he and Tōru had been cast together in a drama.
What was supposed to be a one-night encounter ends up continuing as a friends-with-benefits relationship, thanks to their mutual interests aligning…?
Fake Fiction is a hook-up-to-boyfriends romance between the country’s hottest actors.
Frustrated after watching a film by fellow actor Toru Otaki, Arashi spends the night at a discreet blindfolded club. The chemistry he shares with a stranger is electric, until the morning reveals his partner was none other than Toru.
Right after, Arashi learns the two of them are cast together in a new drama. To Arashi’s surprise, Toru suggests they continue what began that night. As their relationship deepens, Arashi discovers the unexpectedly endearing side of the solitary Toru.
If you like steamy, this is sure to fog up your windows. Highlighting both the emotional journey and spectacular sexual chemistry between the characters, this has plenty of heart along with the heat. The plot is pretty straightforward, the conflict minimal, yet the story is compelling, especially with the such nuanced characters.
I loved the character designs! Toru looks like a Japanese actor whose name I forgot. The way the mangaka drew his expressions, looking gorgeous, seductive or vulnerable were beautiful. Arashi is the energetic, sociable one, his expressions radiating his passion so clearly.
The manga thrives on off‑script sparks and in‑character intimacy. Overall, an unexpected yet charming connection between two stars who shine brightest together.
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MANGA: Chiguhagu na Kiss
Chiguhagu na Kiss – Suehiro Machi
With graduation on the horizon, pure-hearted Kumai has only one thing on his mind— getting a girlfriend! He hasn’t been able to put himself out there due to a past heartbreak, but seeing all his fellow classmates beginning relationships, Kumai’s decided it’s time to take a step forward. He shoots his shot with a mutual over text, and to his delight, she agrees! They even plan to have a lunch date the very next day! But, uh…why did Sasahara, the hottest guy in school, show up instead? And why’s he acting like they’re dating…?
Clumsy Kiss is a sweet high school romance about two boys eager to step into the springtime of their lives.
Kumai, dumped for being too pure and passive, longs for a girlfriend before graduation. When he texts a girl who seems interested, he’s thrilled she agrees to a date, only the popular Sasahara shows up instead.
When Sasahara said he was happy that Kumai confessed, he didn’t have the heart to tell Sasahara of his mistake. And just like that, Kumai has a boyfriend.
It might have started with a miscommunication, yet their relationship blossoms naturally. Sasahara and Kumai did all the right steps with the boyfriend thing. As the more experienced one, Sasahara let’s Kumai set the pace, taking him on fun dates and practicing kissing.
It was all ridiculously cute and wholesome with Kumai slowly realizing he’s falling in love for real except how to tell Sasahara about the text? His internal conflict gave the story depth, leading to a heartfelt climax.
The shift to Sasahara’s POV is poignant. Scarred by a past relationship, he found the courage to take a chance on Kumai when he discovered he’s one of the good guys. Sasahara appear cool and composed but showing his vulnerable sides to Kumai makes him more endearing.
After they cleared the air, Sasahara and Kumai were even more adorable! Miscommunication aside, I loved how they communicated openly and cheered for each other’s dreams. Overall, spring has sprung and it’s here to stay.
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MANGA: Kunieda-kun ha Kouzuki-san no Tokubetsu ninaritai
Kunieda-kun ha Kouzuki-san no Tokubetsu ninaritai – Sakaomi Yuzaki
Takaki Kozuki is a seasoned software coder who’s afraid to take chances. Yuichiro Kunieda is good-looking, half-Caucasian, and super-serious. He’s introduced to Takaki as a new addition to the planning department and they start working together. Contrary to his lovable looks, Yuichiro doesn’t make friends easily because of his excessively square ways, but for some reason, he’s taken to Takaki. Takaki is also fond of the younger man for his sincere attitude. One day, they go out drinking with colleagues, and Yuichiro gets terribly drunk. He leans in and kisses Takaki before he can figure out what’s happening…
Kunieda-kun Wants to be Special to Kouzoki-san is indeed extraordinary!
Yuichiro meets software coder Takaki through a project and the two hit it off. Their friendship takes a more intimate turn when one drunken night, Yuichiro kisses Takaki. And the next day, he boldly confesses.
First of all, the pansexual rep! So rare to see this in BL and the representation here was well-executed. There is some past trauma stemming from people questioning how Takaki can like both girls and boys. But for him, he likes who he is attracted to. I loved that he and Yuichiro can talk about this openly.
Yuichiro is the gold standard for semes. He treats Takaki with respect, moves at Takaki’s pace, and is deeply conscientious about consent. So much so that he drafts a sexual consent contract. A first in BL!
I always hesitate to use the phrase “refreshingly healthy” when describing relationships because healthy shouldn’t be something novel. A healthy relationship should be the norm. A seme who treats his uke with care never fails to make me swoon. And Yuichiro and Takaki’s dynamic is beyond healthy. It’s practically glowing with so much wholesome goodness!
Overall, consent makes cuddles even more kawaii.
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MANGA: Omaede Dame Nara Moudameda
Omaede Dame Nara Moudameda – Sonoo Michiru
Best friends turned lovers in a single night…?
“The only one who can ever be with someone like me is you!!” Office worker Isejima suddenly goes down on his knees to propose to bar owner Yakumo, his best friend of ten years.
Jilted by his bride-to-be before their wedding, Isejima pleads his case about being single for the rest of his life and his fear of dying alone. Taken aback by Isejima’s ardent words, Yakumo nonetheless feels moved enough to unthinkingly accept!
If You Can’t Do It, It’s No Good Anymore is a best-friends-to-lovers romance with understated charm.
Isejima views marriage as social security. Freshly dumped by his fiancee and terrified of lifelong loneliness, he begs his best friend Yakumo to date him with marriage in mind. Having been a steady, reliable presence for a decade, he claims Yakumo is the only one for him. Isejima earnestly proposes, and Yakumo agrees.
This is a refreshingly straightforward story of two adults approaching dating and marriage with clear heads. Despite having no experience with men, they tackle hurdles and expectations sensibly, treating dating as a natural extension of their bond.
What will hit you straight to the kokoro are the zingers of care and affection, dropped so casually you’d almost miss it. For two men who had never been in love, these two aced the boyfriend roles effortlessly.
One zinger is how Isejima quietly makes sure not to repeat his past relationship mistakes, ensuring his ring and proposal to Yakumo is perfect. He even organized a flashmob for the occasion when he learned Yakumo loves them. The way he always declares Yakumo is the only one, or else he’s doomed, completely slays!
Another is how Yakumo prepares elaborate bento boxes for the workaholic Isejima. He even surprised Isejima by showing up in his office dressed to the nines, delivering bento when he learned Isejima’s co-workers gossiped about an “ugly boyfriend”.
Everything is done in a matter-of-fact, slice-of-life style, which only highlights the depth of Yakumo and Isejima’s connection. The third-person commentaries add a layer of humor, either showing how clueless Isejima could be or Yakumo’s hidden intentions.
Their relationship speaks of long years of friendship and trust. It’s a comfortable companionship and a blossoming passion. It’s the perfect example of the joys of dating one’s best friend.
Bonus couple is Iku, a fellow bartender, and Mito, his hikikomori artist boyfriend. These two have a unique dynamic, and I want their story.
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MANGA: Koh-Boku
Koh-Boku – Michiru Sonoo
From good morning to good night, working like a horse, aiming for the betterment of Japan’s tomorrow… that is the duty of a civil servant (Koh-Boku), a public official of Kasumigaseki. One such Koh-Boku, Kyuu-san, has Kashiwagi by his side, a super-elite who is a dozen years his junior. Even though he thinks that he really should push his junior to stand on his own, he couldn’t bear to be parted from the pleasure of working passionately every day with Kashiwagi… but one day, their cozy relationship changed…?!
Civil Servant turned one of the most boring jobs into a setup for the most ridiculously endearing romance ever!
Imamiya works at the Ministry of Economics, Trade, and Industry, supported by his fiercely devoted second-in-command, Kashiwagi. Kashiwagi’s loyalty is legendary, he prepares Imamiya’s lunch, fixes broken fingernails, offers his lap for naps, and bombards him with reminders to take care of his fragile health.
Colleagues affectionately compare Kashiwagi to a loyal dog, and looks upon the two men’s relationship fondly. They would even go so far as to warn those interested in Kashiwagi not to bother because he has eyes only for Imamiya
That is to say, Kashiwagi and Imamiya were boyfriends even before they started dating. They just don’t know it yet.
The opening chapters may feel dry with policy talk, but I found them irresistibly charming. Amid the paperwork, Kashiwagi dotes on Imamiya with seamless care, heating meals, brewing tea, anticipating every need, spoiling his mentor so thoroughly that even Imamiya marvels at it.
The surly but reliable Kashiwagi is shaken to the core when Imamiya has a heart failure. His co-workers were so shocked when the normally unflappable Kashiwagi burst into tears. The second-in-command also clashed with Imamiya’s adopted son, adding another layer of tension.
When Imamiya returns to work and is temporarily transferred, Kashiwagi upped his already formidable devotion game even more. The transition from co-workers to lovers was a heartmelting scene of a very grouchy Kashiwagi with Imamiya coaxing him into hug because he knows the younger man badly misses him.
The koh-boku are hardcore workaholics, often in the office until 2 AM, quietly crafting policies for Japan’s future. Kashiwagi and Imamiya’s personal lives intertwine with their work, not effortlessly, but with dedication and fulfillment. Their romance mirrors that same commitment: low-key yet passionate, understated yet deeply impactful, and purely a desire to make each other happy.
I’m sorry, but this old men yaoi completely has me in a chokehold.
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