After a rather original start of the series for a shojo with its awkward male protagonist, A boyfriend too perfect? begins to fit into the usual more classic mold of romances. With this sixth volume, Mizuki Hoshino tackles much more mature themes. Living together as a couple, sex and the risk of getting pregnant are brought lighter than usual, but without losing impact.
A move in fraught with pitfalls
The previous volume ended with Iroha proposing to her boyfriend, Kusakabe, to live together at home. Sure of his uncle's answer, they start preparations for moves for Christmas Eve. What was the cold shower when the latter told them of his refusal. The choice of Iroha's guardian is understandable, especially when he puts on the table his fears that the young couple rub shoulders on a daily H24 basis. A multitude of twists and turns, as well as the help of an unexpected character, will allow the couple to begin their long-awaited life together. For Iroha, it is the desire to know Kusakabe better and especially to erase his constant loneliness. For the young man, it is above all the opportunity to stick the one he loves, to know everything about her. But above all, it is to forget the jealousy he felt with the arrival of Iroha's childhood friend a little too clingy.
A most predictable love triangle
When Momo appears, there is a fear that A boyfriend too perfect? becomes a more classic and overly predictable shojo. With this second handsome kid crazy in love with the protagonist, the sacrosanct love triangle, typical of romances of this genre, points the tip of his nose. Fortunately, even if the triangle is there, Momo's personality will make things more original and fun. Iro's childhood friend hasn't changed much despite years abroad away from her. He cries for nothing, gets lost easily and demands constant attention from his friend. Behind his playful smiles and his puppy-like character, he is a wolf who manipulates others to get what he wants: the one he loves. He is not afraid of anything and turns out to be very similar to Kusakabe in his most deranged love obsession. Surprisingly enough, or out of habit by dint of being fooled by her boyfriend, Iroha does not let herself be fooled by Momo. His two friends quickly realize that the newcomer is not a nice boy. He looks a lot like the "pervert" who takes over Iroha. Kusakabe also watches over the grain, ready to respond in his own way as soon as his rival takes action.
The importance of secondary characters
The plot may revolve around the romantic relationships of the trio, it is other people who will have the keys to the events. Iroha's uncle reveals himself through a flashback essential to the explanation of his choice. We also learn some pretty amazing things about this extraordinary family that always helps people in need. Iroha's grandmother was a strong woman who commanded respect and was still mysterious. However, the one that stands out and gains importance in the story is undoubtedly Momiji. Iroha's little sister does not have her tongue in her pocket and seems much more mature than her elder at times. She is the one who will have the last word on the move, but also on the revelation of Momo's false attitude. Like the two boys, she is crazy about her sister. She is something of another love rival for Kusakabe. A Boyfriend Too Perfect remains a fun and successful series that reads very quickly. Moreover, many things happen in this sixth volume, although it is in a short period of time. Mizuki Hoshino achieves this thanks to his personal touch that innovates this kind of shojo seen and reviewed. Between jealousy and doubts, the smiles and joy of the couple endure for our greatest pleasure.