Review 8: Shitsuren Mania

Plot: 8.5
Characters: 9
Sex: 9

Shitsuren Mania (Unrequited-Love Mania) centers on Atsuya, our 'uke' who manages a bar (for once, not a gay bar) and has difficulty falling in love with people who have the ability to love him back. Because of this, he's oblivious to the man who has been by his side for a long time, always waiting for him to realize his feelings. This guy, Yamazaki, is our seme. Eventually, Yamazaki makes it very clear that he wants to date Atsuya, and the two become lovers and face all the usual problems, and some unusual ones.

The plot is great. The pacing of the story is enjoyable, and the relationship progression is also satisfying. The dramatic elements of the story really make sense, unlike in other stories where they seem to have been randomly thrown in there like extra soy sauce. Some of the scenes are, in fact, very heartfelt and quite touching.

The characters are brilliantly deep here, which is a huge plus. Atsuya's issues with love, Satoshi (wow, a real side character for once!) and his whole-hearted devotion to Nagura (another side character and Atsuya's ex), and even Yamazaki's multi-faceted personality make for a great reading. When even the side characters have personalities that go beyond surface appearance, you know you've found a good yaoi.

The sex is quite good, to keep up with the other categories. I almost gave it a 9.5 because it's just so much more REAL than in other yaoi. Atsuya is extremely hesitant to get into a deep relationship at first, and accordingly the first time he and Yamazaki have sex it isn't your usual feverish-lovemaking. Instead, the two make progress throughout the manga until Atsuya is emotionally capable of the more wild sex scenes. Here is definitely a yaoi where realistic reactions plays an essential part.

Overall, a 26.5/30. Very good! Obviously, this is one of my favorites. I'll also add that I adore the art in this one. It isn't that the style is more imaginative in any way from other yaoi, but the look of the characters, specifically Atsuya, is really stunning at times, especially in the emotional scenes.

Recommendation: Pretty much anyone would enjoy this one with enough patience. Of course, if you're just in the mood for mindless sex, you can always go for something else. Maybe Junk!Boys.