Like other titles by SAKIRA, this one leaves nothing to the imagination. Boyfriend in Heat is the perfect title for the men in the novel who are always in hot pursuit of their adorable partners, and like all other works by this authoress, this one is just as sensual and absurd as the others. From a ghost possession, a custom manssiere, to a steamy onsen trip, and more, it’s no wonder why these men are in heat as often as they are.
Joining the newest lovey-dovey crew are the popular couples from the first installment, Keitatsu and Ran, as well as Tsubaki and Seisuke. Himura-sensei is also included as he finally finds love in the most unexpected physical form. The development of their relationships is viewed throughout the novel in vivid detail.
Keitatsu and Ran, who are now happily in love, go on a one-night autumn field trip to an onsen. During their trip, Ran and Keitatsu reaffirm their feelings for one another repeatedly until they both are satisfied. This isn’t the last of their unrelenting behavior though, as the two are shown again in another chapter. After having escaped from the bustling streets of the Obon Festival, the enthusiastic couple are at it again hidden away from viewing eyes. Before anything can develop though, a visiting ghost spots the couple and decides to see if he can join in on the fun. He possesses Keitatsu and begins to try and coerce Ran. Before he can start making him moves on Ran, however, Keitatsu quickly punches himself and the ghost leaves. The two once again reaffirm their feelings for one another and prove just how sappy and infatuated a couple they really are.
Tsubaki and Seisuke are no better in their own sequel, as they are just as lovey-dovey as the previous couple. Seisuke, the ever persistent lover who can’t take ‘no’ for an answer, creates a unique manssiere for his senpai. Being the principled man he is, Tsubaki puts on the item. In a moment of intense feeling, Seisuke concludes to Tsubaki that what he’s feeling is none other than love. Expressing a sudden sense of understanding and acceptance, the humorous moment happens when Tsubaki’s breaks the manssiere and the truth comes to light. This is just another comedic moment in the lives of this couple though, as right afterwards, the exploitation of Tsubaki’s male breasts occurs. All that needs to be said at this point is thank you for babysitting duty, neighbors. Thank you.
Unlike the other two couples, Himura-sensei has not found anyone yet to fall in love with. That is, until the arrival of Ashiya Takami, a physical education student teacher, who comes in daily for unexplained wounds. The secret behind his true identity is revealed soon after his initial arrival and after many unexpected events, Himura-sensei finally finds someone he loves.
The rest of the couples are just as absurd, and many times, a particular scene cannot be taken too seriously thanks to the unique comedic and dramatic charms of each character. It still is as hardcore and zesty as it sounds, but the couples all counter-balance out the chemical R-rating found in this type of novel. The ukes are either shy or hot-tempered, but the semes always manage to win over their hearts and somehow get their way.
While some themes may seem cliché, the stories and artwork for each chapter are a welcome staple in any fan’s diet. The relationships may be either unrealistic or overly idealistic most of the time, but that is a large part of what gives each character their charm. If you ever want to see a fantasy fulfilled, just pick up one of SAKIRA’s books. There’s always at least one scenario for everyone.
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©2011 SAKIRA/ Digital Manga, Inc. All rights reserved. Original Japanese edition published by JUNET.
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