Sekaiichi Hatsukoi – Yokozawa Takafumi no Baai

My Thoughts on Sekaiichi Hatsukoi – Yokozawa Takafumi no Baai

This spin-off focusing on Yokozawa from Sekaiichi Hatsukoi really grabbed me. I went in expecting just another side story, but I found myself surprisingly invested in Yokozawa's journey and his relationship with Kirishima. It's definitely a different flavor than the main series, and honestly, I think I might even prefer it in some ways!

First Impressions

Initially, I wasn't sure how I'd feel about Yokozawa as a protagonist. He's portrayed as quite abrasive in the main series, a bit of a "gruff bear," as some might say. However, this novel really delves into his softer side, revealing a tsundere character with depth and vulnerability. It's a testament to the writing that I quickly warmed up to him and found myself rooting for his happiness.

What Works Well

The dynamic between Yokozawa and Kirishima is fantastic. Kirishima's easygoing nature and genuine affection for Yokozawa perfectly complement Yokozawa's stubbornness. Their romance feels incredibly wholesome and comforting. I especially enjoyed seeing Kirishima's dedication and how he loves Yokozawa "perfectly," accepting him for who he is. The inclusion of Hiyori, Kirishima's daughter, adds another layer of warmth to the story. Seeing Yokozawa adapt to being a part of their family is genuinely heartwarming. This series really shines when it explores the found family aspect and the challenges of navigating life as a single parent. The office setting, familiar to fans of Sekaiichi Hatsukoi, provides a comfortable backdrop for their relationship to develop.

Areas of Concern

My only real concern stems from the fact that the series appears to be ongoing, with long gaps between releases. It leaves me worried about whether certain plot points, like revealing everything to Hiyori, will ever be fully resolved. The covers are also a little odd, I think, since they feature a cat instead of Hiyori, who is far more important to the story.

Final Verdict

Despite my slight concerns about the release schedule, I wholeheartedly recommend Sekaiichi Hatsukoi – Yokozawa Takafumi no Baai. It's a heartwarming and engaging story with well-developed characters and a satisfying romance. If you're a fan of the Sekaiichi Hatsukoi universe, or if you're just looking for a sweet and comforting BL novel, this is definitely worth a read. I'm eagerly awaiting the next installment!