Jun 4, 2013
Firstly I have to say that I've always been a huge fan of the yaoi stories set in the real world - or, the 'slice of life' type as many like to call it. 'Soko ni Suwaru na' fits exactly in this category, when it comes to the realistic way of portraying the characters, their relationships and environment.
The first story develops rather slowly, but it's worth waiting until the end. The characters are very well shown: it's easy to understand both honest but little unsure Namikawa and afraid to get close Hayama. This story sure has some magical moments, such as waiting near the window
...
or others, that you will have to 'catch'.
The second story, although only one chapter long, is in my opinion even better. Junpei and Tsutomu are childhood friends who pretend to be a couple due to an event taken place in the class during probably primary or middle school (judging by their looks). The story shows the time when they are in high school and start to be aware of their true feelings. It's easy to understands character's actions and their personalities are also well portrayed
The big advantage of this manga is mentioning how homosexuality is treated in Japanese society and not putting the characters in the mysterious world when everybody is gay. The doubts of Namikawa, who has never dated a guy before and the school scenes from the second story only make this manga more realistic. There isn't also a strict line between who is seme and uke. It is true that one of the characters in both stories tends to have more features poses by uke-type, but they are still both men and it's really visible.
The plot focuses mostly on the relationships between main protagonists, but there are also some second-stage characters that are worth remembering, especially considering this manga has two stories in only one volume.
The art is pleasant, simple and not really outstanding, just enough to portray the plot. The sex scenes, as it is obvious that they are some, are very well drawn, quite gentle and really enjoyable.
To be honest, the only thing I didn't like was the chapter about Maki, the previous lover of Hayama. It was short and in my opinion totally unnecessary.
So, if you are looking for some 'slice of life' yaoi story, I certainly recommend this one, as they really aren't any cons. Still, the manga offers a little too less to be called a masterpiece. The different story is if you are looking for a big-eyed crying uke and almost-raping seme, then please, go check somewhere else.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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