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Hatsukoi Note by mangaka Amekiri was serialized in Japan from January to August 2021 in the boys' love magazine Dear+. This marks the mangaka's first published work. While the volume can be read as a standalone one-shot, a spin-off featuring side characters from the story, titled Hatsukoi Note: Love’s Luster, is set to be released in February 2025.
What’s it about?
The story of Hatsukoi Note begins with Shouya, an outgoing and curious high school student who has shown little interest in romantic relationships so far. His daily life takes an unexpected turn when he stumbles upon an anonymous online diary. The author of the blog poetically and intimately expresses his feelings for a fellow classmate. Shouya becomes particularly intrigued when a photo in the diary suggests that the writer might be none other than Tsubame—a reserved classmate with piercings, bleached hair, and an intimidating demeanor.
Assuming that Tsubame's crush is their mutual friend Ryuu, Shouya decides to play matchmaker and bring the two together. Driven by his desire to help, he starts spending more time with Tsubame, trying to mediate. However, the more time he spends with Tsubame, the more he uncovers the boy’s softer, more vulnerable side. At the same time, Shouya begins to question his own feelings—especially why his heart races whenever Tsubame is near.
Hatsukoi Note is a delicate and heartfelt coming-of-age story that explores the highs and lows of first love. The characters are the heart of the manga, lending emotional depth to the narrative. Shouya is an approachable and optimistic protagonist whose desire to help others draws him into the emotional world of his classmate. His empathy and openness make him a character readers can easily relate to.
Tsubame, on the other hand, is a complex and vulnerable character. His reserved demeanor and tough exterior serve as defense mechanisms stemming from traumatic experiences during middle school. A particularly distressing event has left him distrustful of physical closeness. The manga sensitively addresses Tsubame's past, especially his fear of touch and need for control in intimate situations. These themes are portrayed respectfully and add to the authenticity of the characters. Shouya emphasizes that physical intimacy is not a priority if Tsubame is not ready. He finds joy simply in spending time with his friend and sharing small gestures of affection, such as kisses, as long as Tsubame feels comfortable. This focus on communication and consent sets Hatsukoi Note apart from other works in the genre and makes the protagonists’ relationship all the more believable.
Readers can expect a compelling and effective teenage romance. Without unnecessary distractions, the story focuses on two young people falling in love and exploring their feelings and physical attraction for one another.
The blossoming love between Shouya and Tsubame is shaped by open communication and mutual respect. This approach makes their relationship authentic and relatable, especially in light of Tsubame's challenging past. The manga successfully combines serious themes like trauma and healing with the sweet uncertainty and enthusiasm of first love, without losing its sincerity.
One minor critique is the fast pacing of the plot. The relationship quickly progresses from resolving misunderstandings to physical intimacy, at the expense of showing more everyday moments between the characters. Additional scenes deepening their connection and showcasing the evolution of their feelings could have added even more depth to the story. A closer look at their shared experiences would have made their emotional bond even more tangible for the reader.
Is Hatsukoi Note worth it?
Hatsukoi Note is a warmhearted story that delves into the nuances and challenges of first love. While the plot could have benefitted from a bit more depth in some areas, Hatsukoi Note remains a highly enjoyable read for fans of boys' love manga and romantic tales.
Hatsukoi Note Vol. 1
€11,24
€14,99
A Boys' Love manga that shows how playing matchmaker can lead to a mess of feelings!Shouya, a high school boy whose heart has never known romance, comes across an internet diary filled with wistful whispers of love toward the writer’s… read more
