Four BL fans from Renta!'s localization team have picked out some of their favorite titles from TOKYOPOP's BL collection. Let's check out their impressions!
For readers looking for something fantastically fluffy (literally)!
The God and the Flightless Messenger
Japanese Culture
Fantasy
An unbelievably cute read with just the right touch of bitterness. Shin is so cute, and while it was sad watching him struggle with being different, it made it more satisfying to see a happy end where he found a kindred spirit. A wonderful Japanese-style fantasy!
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For readers who like a mix of fantasy, comedy and a dash of complexity.
The Treasure of the King and the Cat
Fantasy
Fun and enthralling story from start to finish! I was charmed by the antics of Volks, the cool, aloof manner of O'Feuille and the naive but noble King Castio. Gorgeous art and a cleverly intertwined story will have you turning page after page until the end!
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For readers who seek life-changing love within the everyday humdrum of reality.
Cut-Over Criteria
Businessmen
Younger Tops
Just as Seto broods over entering his uneventful, dull thirties, genius Hagiwara joins his system engineer team and turns Seto's life upside down! Koala Omugi's crisp, adorable art delivers a most heart-warming story, unfolding within a realistic and familiar setting. From urging him to buy furniture to challenging his monotone, lone-wolf lifestyle, Hagiwara shows Seto that life is more than a software program and, even more, it's worth coding in some "love" too.
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For readers who want something that will tug at their heartstrings.
The Flower That Seems to Truly Dance
Childhood Friends
Millionaires/Billionaires
Japanese_Culture
This slow-burn tale of childhood friends plays out like a historical drama, all packed into one volume! It’s satisfying to watch Soutaro and Haruomi grow closer as they come to terms with their feelings, even as they face challenges from the world around them. Though some misunderstandings delay their reconciliation, the mutual pining is very tangible. Saki Tsukahara’s breathtaking art transports you right into 1940s Tokyo, and the scenes spotlighting Haruomi’s dancing are especially captivating. Definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a more serious romance with a distinct setting!
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