Like a lot of other folks here, I don’t really know how to rate this one. The real kicker is that I was all-in on giving this high praise until the last few pages. It’s one of those deals.

Here’s the good: Tagame’s art is exquisite. I love the way he draws his characters and puts so much emphasis on masculinity. I can’t really eloquently describe it other than that it’s art that ‘feels’ gay in the best way possible.

Another good thing: everything between the gay male lead and the girl childhood friend was done really well. I always love seeing healthy, supportive friendships with that undercurrent of occasional bumpy conflicts.

Until the last few pages, I really liked the mentor character, and it pains me that I have to refrain from recommending this one to people because of the ending. Considering everything that comes before it, it just doesn’t sit right with me.

(also, other commenters are right about the premise being flawed from the get-go: this takes place in a year with smartphones. I feel like there could have been more done with that? Better yet, have this take place in the early 2000s. It already feels like it does based on how the characters talk/act)