Illustrated by Coma Hashii
Translated by Jocelyne Allen
3.5 stars
I have really loved this series, but I’m conflicted on the last volume.
There are so many wonderful characters in this series and I have really enjoyed getting to know them and watching them grow. The ending was so sweet. I love how things wrap up imperfectly perfect.
Great artwork.
And then there’s the whole Hide plotline, which has always kind of marred the series. We learn a bit more about Hide and Sanada’s past relationship and yeah, Hide still gives me the creeps. Hide plays a bigger role in this volume. I like the idea of him being a mentor for the teens but that role is always going to be a bit tainted since he is known to date high schoolers.
The original webcomic started in 2009 when Japan’s age of consent was 13, so fair enough. The print manga came out in 2017 and the age of consent wasn’t increased to 16 until 2023. So it all checks out, but it’s good to know that context when going into the series. It definitely comes across as creepy in a modern context and that taints some of the moments in this volume.
Still, I have loved watching Sanada and Noshiro figure things out. They have really come into themselves. There are also so many great side characters. Ayumi Yamamoto will always be my favorite.
There are some big steps in this volume from dating to intense self-reflection to some tough conversations.
Loved the trajectory of this volume and the series as a whole, but the Hide storyline just didn’t age well.