Manga title: Merry Checker
Manga artist: Suzuki Tsuta
Manga cover picture:
(
http://i.imgur.com/XoNmh7j.jpg)
Review:
Suzuki Tsuta is the
BL goddess of original set ups.
Although I was well aware of this fact when I picked this title up; it completely knocked my socks off (!), and I decided I needed to sing its praises.
PROS:
1)
Story: intriguing, different, realistic. It revolvs around the blogger Shio, who runs a popular internet site and spends most of his spare time online. When he receives the news that a new (supposedly female) star, currently on the rise within the cyber world under the nickname ‘Miya’, will attend a IRL-meet up, he’s excited to see what she’s like. Behind the beautiful, soft words of Miya however—hides someone whose physical appearance doesn’t match that of a high school girl at all.
2)
Characters: original, quirky, believable. Shio is a gemstone among
BL characters. I haven’t encountered his type before, yet never found it easier to identify with a character. Whilst naturally observant and sarcastic (blunt to a point it’s cruel, really), with a somewhat detached outlook on life; he’s forced to deal with stronger emotions and a less controlled part of himself upon meeting ‘Miya’. In essence, he’s a multifaceted and unique character in every aspect—which is probably why I see myself and the people around me reflected in his behaviour.
3)
Comedy: point-blank, fresh, prominent. Particularly hilarious to those who’re active around forums/have online friends, I suspect.
4)
Art: neat, captivating, g-o-r-g-e-o-u-s.
5)
Smut: subtle, sexy, unpredictable.
CON(s):
1)
Length: well, it’s too short. There are so many more things I would like to see. This story is bubbling with potential; no one would be bored would Suzuki-sensei decide to write another volume. Or four.