Norikazu Akira is one of my favourite
mangaka; I’ve read everything she’s created and she is an amazing artist with a
knack for drawing gorgeous semes. Her ukes can be too over-the-top effeminate
at times, but the semes she’s got down pat. And, I mean, I’ve got to grab a fan
and waft my face for a while. She’s known for her love of cats and stories
about the Yakuza, which includes the powerful male leads. Where she lacks is
when she creates fragile airheaded ukes, the type that make you want to hurl,
and love scenes that aren’t masculine enough. There is nothing wrong with
romance, but it can be perceived as cheesy when the main characters do things
that don’t necessarily suit their personalities or status in life. And, the old
cliché “love at first sight” and within the first few pages isn’t good either.
But, aside from those weaknesses that can
be overlooked, Norikazu Akira has written some great stories with stunning
characters. I just wish she’d lengthen the stories, make more in-depth series
like Haru wo Daitieta or Viewfinder. Because, honestly, some of her characters
really deserve it. And one yaoi that immediately comes to mind is Heart
Strings.
BCB:
Due to unexpected events, Sakaki ends up
being Yuki's "customer" and he's touched by Sakaki's words... but
after discovering that a sweet fleeting kiss was just a game, what will Yuki
do? Never fear; keep strong and keep believing! A love battle showdown between
a yakuza and his wife!
Yuki is a host at a club. While he’s out with
a client a host from another club physically assaults Kenji, a friend and
co-worker. He steps in to help and is punched in the face. Then Sakaki, the
owner of the other club shows up and wants to know what’s going on. The
naturally bold and straightforward Yuki confronts Sakaki and tells him he can
come to his place of work any time to discuss it. After that Sakaki goes to the
club; basically atones for what his hosts did and buys Yuki and Kenji each a
bottle of expensive champagne. Sakaki and Yuki become taken with each other and
Sakaki begins to make regular visits.
Yuki is attractive, strong willed and out
spoken, and even though he ends up as the uke, he doesn’t come across as one.
He’s more of a seme, or at least an uke that acts like a seme. He’s well built
and has a good head on his shoulders, and he doesn’t whine and snivel or act
stupid like many ukes. And that’s probably why I like him so much. Sakaki’s an
intimidating and cool customer, but extremely kind and generous with Yuki.
Heart Strings is one of Ms. Norikazu’s best
Yakuza stories—the characters are sexy, beautiful and have interesting
personalities. And the sex scenes are some of her best; very addictive. I wish
she’d expand this manga. *sad face* If you read HS I think you’ll enjoy it.
Five stars!
Happy Yaoi Hunting!
Blak Rayne
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