Customer Reviews

Love Mode: Vol. 3 (v. 3)

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This Yaoi series is a gem.
Vol 3 focuses on Izumi (B&B no. 1 host, not the younger school kid Izumi) finding love and happiness and is fittingly titled Sanctuary. Izumi's story is heart wrenching and laced with angst and emotions, certain scenes bringing lumps to my throat. We are told of this beautiful host's tragic and tormented past and the rape scenes which left scars on Izumi are painful to read. It is nice to have Kiichi (Reiji's elder quirky doctor brother) plays a significant role here, helping the vulnerable Izumi finds his way. Izumi is paired with a younger student, Arashi. Arashi is an immensely likable seme, with a maturity and understanding beyond his age. His family and background could not have been more different from Izumi's. As I do not favor sad stories, Vol 3 is not an easy read. Fortunately it ends on a happy note and I hope there is happier times for Izumi in future volumes, like the ready acceptance of Arashi's family?.
This mangaka's artwork may not be the best out there but her deeply emotional stories and individually appealing characters simply make this series shine.
There is a bonus story on Reiji and Naoya spending the new year in Reiji's family home with a surprisingly nice revelation of Kiichi's lover (Hope this couple has their own story). Here the aloof Reiji continues to show his affection for Naoya and one feels the mangaka is teasing her readers with their still innocent love. Yup, Reiji has not made Naoya his yet! This short bonus story is a delightful contrast to the heavier and deeply emotional "Sanctuary".
Definitely looking forward to Vol 4 which switches back to Reiji and Naoya, the most likable couple in this series.

The entire Love Mode series is beyond sweet, and Love Mode Vol. 3 is no exception. Plus, the short story in the end is to die for. I highly recommend it!

This is one of my favorite series ever! This latest volume, three, didn't let me down. It just keeps getting better and better. I can hardly wait to get the next one!