Everyone's Getting Married Vol. 5by Sheena McNeilReviews may contain information that could be considered 'spoilers'. Readers should proceed at their own risk. Publisher
Credits Grade: 7 Akito makes a few moves to convince Asuka of his serious desire to marry her. Ryu gets jealous and ends up doing something special for Asuka. Asuka finds she loves Ryu more, but Akito's words and actions are always on her mind, as is the beginning of a fear about giving up her dream to stay with Ryu.This volume is a strong build on the previous one. I continue to have a growing hope that Akito and Asuka will work out, but even in all his jealous possessiveness and frank discussions, he prioritizes himself over her or their relationship. And I'm really not pleased with Ryu talking about Asuka as an object to be claimed. His biggest upside in this volume is the plethora of panels that depict him as handsome, concerned, and without his professional mask. Akito is equally hit-and-miss for me. On the one hand, he crosses some lines. The kiss was slightly manipulative on his part, even if he was in earnest. Blackmailing Asuka into a date is not cool, nor is more-or-less forcing her to accept an expensive gift (though I love that she sneakily paid for part of it herself). On the other hand, he later confesses that he loves her, saying that he will wait for her. It seems he has growing and genuine feelings for her, which adds to his appeal beyond the ideal marriage relationship he offers, so I can't help but hope he finds a way to keep reminding her of how well they could work together without crossing more lines. The conversation between Akito and Ryu opens this volume, and it gives us much insight into how each views Asuka -- each considering some of her feelings but not all, and differing on which points they consider. The outcome, interestingly, seems to set Akito on a better path (eventually) rather than Ryu. I enjoy seeing Asuka living in the moment with Ryu, but I very much appreciate that she's still struggling with how her dream fits with this relationship and what she makes of Akito's persistence. My favorite part of this volume is the cliffhanger that sends her home to her mother -- the inspiration for Asuka's own dream. I'm really looking forward to where their conversation might steer Asuka's mind and heart, and how the two men will react to that. Written: May 13, 2017
|
|
|
Home | Features | Columns | Culture Vultures | Report Card Tart Store | Indicia | Contact | Archives © Sequential Tart, 1998 – 2020 |
