If that’s you, I might try to fall in love, vol. 1
Story and Art: Kubota Maru
Publisher: Yen Press (Print & Digital)
Translation: Avery Hutley
Lettering: Elena Pizarro Lanzas
Publication date: March 25, 2025
Rating: Older teen
Genre: Manga, BL
Since returning to middle school, no one has ever really liked Amane. He learned how painful it is to be laughed at to share your feelings, and has vowed ever since. Now, Amane has just transferred to a new high school in Enoshima, where he meets Ryuji, the boy in his class. A fast friend, disgusted Amane, quickly warms up to an enthusiastic Ryuji, but the warmth continues to grow into much deeper emotions than friendship. Follow the boys through an annoyingly authentic journey through high school romance.
This review contains light spoilers for whether it’s you or not. 1. I received a free copy from Yen Press in exchange for a review.
If that’s you, I might try to fall in love, vol. 1 by maru kubota is a sweet, healthy BL story that draws readers to heartfelt stories easily.
On his first day in Enoshima, Amanekun, who is moving with his grandmother, has an unexpected encounter. This small, chaotic moment begins with an introduction to Taru’s owner, Ryujikun, and triggers a chain of positive changes in his life. In an apology for Taru’s behavior, Ryujikun invites Amanekyun to the family restaurant for dinner. Immediately attracted to Ryujikun’s good looks, Amanekun regrets not asking him what he was later. Fortunately, fate intervenes, and the two end as classmates, and their friendship blossoms. Ryuuji-kun’s easygoing and kind nature helps Amane-Kun feel comfortable enough to come out as a gay person, but he immediately tries to downplay it and is afraid of being laughed at. Instead, Ryuuji-kun scolds him heartily and slowly scoos him by teasing himself, beginning his journey to self-acceptance, and perhaps marks love.
If that’s you, I might fall in love with you Manga | PC: Hayame Kawachi
The storytelling of this manga is fascinating. The pacing was excellent and I was quickly invested in Ryujikun and Amanekun dynamics. Ryuuuji-kun’s “Mr. Nice Guy” persona is more than just a front line. It is clear that his kindness towards Amanekun is genuine. Meanwhile, Amanekun is battling unresolved trauma, especially with regard to love. One of my favourite moments was when Ryuuji-Kun called out to him to come out and joke. Amane-Kun’s response felt deeply and friendly. Many of us instinctively laugh at ourselves before others can, as if to ease the blow of potential judgment. But why do we need to reduce ourselves to make others comfortable? We all need ryuuji-kun in our lives. Some remind us that we are sufficient and we deserve love just as much as we do.
The artwork is stunning and has a nostalgic charm reminiscent of the classic shojo manga. Expressive illustrations perfectly complement the warmth and integrity of the story. Ryuuji-Kun and Amane-Kun’s relationship, whether they remain a deep friendship or evolve into something, can’t wait to see where their journey leads. This manga is a pleasant, healthy reading about friendship, healing from the past, and embracing self-love. And I would definitely recommend it.
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