.png)
In today's review, "What He Who Doesn't Believe In Fate Says" brings a touch of romance. The manga, originally titled "Unmei wo Shinjinai Kare ga Iu ni wa" in Japan, started as a concept on Twitter by the Mangaka on May 2019. On April 2020, the official continuation began in the online magazine pixiv Sylph, published by Kadokawa-Imprint ASCII Media Works.
For Mangaka Omu the Rice, this is her third romance series, having previously published "Wakeari Bukken ni Wakeari" (3 volumes) and "Ai wo Kataru nara Hisoyaka ni" (3 volumes).
The protagonist Kosuke possesses the unique ability to see the mysterious "red thread of fate" that connects soulmates. He has secretly harbored feelings for his friend Yuka for a long time, but his gift reveals that their threads do not lead to each other. Fearing to jeopardize their friendship and be rejected, he suppresses his own emotions.
One day, Yuka learns about a mysterious fortune-teller who claims to see the future. Determined to get closer to her soulmate, she books a session and takes Kosuke along. To his surprise, the fortune-teller describes traits that match Kosuke, leading Yuka to believe he may be her future lover.
It is another manga in the genre exploring the red thread of fate that binds soulmates together. The romance has its charm but has yet to stand out.
Kosuke is a protagonist who is unsure of what he truly wants. Despite his ability to see the red thread of fate, he convinces himself not to believe in destiny if it doesn't lead him to the person he wants to share his life with.
Yet, he doesn't take substantial actions to defy fate or deepen his connection with Yuka. He has long been in love with her but is frustrated that she hasn't noticed his feelings.
The manga beautifully portrays the atmosphere between Kosuke and Yuka. When they are together, they appear relaxed and comfortable, especially during their casual evening gatherings at a bar.
It has a simple art style. Omu the Rice avoids cluttered backgrounds and focuses on the characters, creating a sharp, clean, and appealing aesthetic.
The panels are well-arranged, making it easy for the reader to follow the story. Omu the Rice skillfully uses elements that seem to break out of the panels or are not confined by frame lines, providing a dynamic and lively representation.
Notably, the use of color elements is striking when opening the black-and-white manga. The recurring red thread of fate is printed in bright red, forming a strong contrast with the black-and-white style and emphasizing the destiny theme. Additionally, there is a colored page at the beginning of the volume.
In conclusion, "What He Who Doesn't Believe In Fate Says" introduces a straightforward romance in its first volume, revolving around the theme of fate. The two main characters have contrasting views on destiny, resulting in an interesting dynamic between them. After a particular event, they find themselves in a complicated situation that could permanently alter their relationship.
The series is still searching for its standout element, and some developments are predictable. However, I am personally curious to see where the characters' journey will lead in the second volume. I recommend this series to fans of romances with older characters and intricate love stories.
What He Who Doesn't Believe In Fate Says Vol. 1
€11,24
€14,99
In this romance with a supernatural edge, a guy who can see the fated ties between soulmates falls for a woman who's destined to be with someone else...or is she? The "red string of fate" that appears throughout this black-and-white… read more
