This is an enjoyable, quick read with unique worldbuilding that mixes ABO and animal people. Or was unique for me, who hasn't read too much of either. The pacing is even, so nothing feels too fast-paced, and the relationship upgrade between the leads doesn't feel rushed. I do agree it gets dark in a few spots, with two attempted assaults (not enacted by our ML, but MC is the victim in both) and "do you want to eat me out or up" theme, but it was never graphic. I'm not sure if the previous reviewer ever got around to ch5 since that incident gets explained, not hand-waved or anything.
Both leads are relatable and endearing. The ML, Ukano, is your well-known fox character, who hides behind teasing, amiability, and ambiguity
but is secretly yearning and in love with our MC
, which I'm learning is my favorite type of love interest. He genuinely worries for our mouse MC but can't help pushing his buttons or evading our MC's blunt remarks. Our mouse MC, Saicho, would be cute even if he weren't a mouse. Thanks to his mangaka career, he constantly looks like he's on the brink of collapse (and has, in the past) which!! I loved. He's a grumpy omega guy who has more anxiety about being eaten than being raped. His priorities over it are somewhat questionable, but it's funny? Exasperating? His editor Ukano sure is exasperated, either way. The fact that Saicho ends up
! confessing to Ukano "yeah you may end up eating me one day, Editor boy, but if it's you, I'll allow it, because I love you, also I have a new kink"
should frustrate me, on principle, but I found it hilarious. And sweet. Isn't that what love is, baring your vulnerable neck to the teeth of your beloved? And Ukano responding by
! 1st embracing Sachio, and 2nd demanding Sachio buy him a fashionable muzzle was just the icing on the cake. And a good response. What do you say when the person you love admits they're fine with the one thing you absolutely fear! He goes "Alright, but muzzle me."
I am deceased over this love confession.
I wish there was more of a follow up after
the we-just-got-together sex
, since I want to know how these two are living differently and how Sachio's old friend is doing. That was the only reason the ending felt abrupt to me--I seriously thought for a second that I'd missed a page or two once I reached the final page and found that was it! I'd appreciate even just one more chapter, if not a full sequel or spin-off.
But either way, I liked this manga immensely, and have already reread twice now.