Title: Mr Flower Groom
Author: Lily Hoshino
Publisher: Yen Press
ISBN: 9780759529502
May Contain Spoilers
Following the Souda family tradition of marrying off its younger sons to male clan members, Ritsu and Kouichirou are in for a bumpy ride. Childhood friends, they are finding that misunderstandings lurk around every corner. Each carries baggage from the past and fears of the future. Can they live happily ever after?
I was disappointed with this continuation of the “Mr Flower Groom” short that was first introduced in Mr Flower Bride. We once again visit members of the Souda family, who have an unusual habit of marrying off younger sons together, all to ensure peace and clear lines of succession for the heirs. It’s an awfully weird tradition, but it seems to work for the Soudas. After the big ceremony, the couple is moved into the hanare, where they try to find a life of bliss together. Things don’t seem to run smoothly for Ritsu and Kouichirou, and their inability to communicate proves to be a trial on their relationship. Each is assailed by jealousy and self-doubt, and instead of confronting each other with their feelings, they shut down, causing a rift to grow between them.
The problems facing our couple aren’t very convincing, and the resolution of their differences are all a little too pat. There is a lack of tension and both characters have an irritating air of indifference that makes it hard to get behind them and cheer them on to happiness. I also find Lily Hoshino’s art awkward, but I think it’s because both Ritsu and Kouichirou look like they are wearing really bad wigs. I also don’t like that Ritsu looks too much like a girl. This guy must not have one iota of testosterone flowing in his veins to have that soft pale skin and wide heavily lashed eyes.
Mr Flower Groom is a quick read that doesn’t offer much in terms of being memorable. It’s worth a rent from the library, but it doesn’t have the staying power to deserve a purchase.
Grade: C
Review copy provided by Yen Press
September 11, 2009 at 7:39 am
[...] on vol. 6 of Goong (Manga Life) Shojo Flash on vol. 5 of Mixed Vegetables (Shojo Flash) Juile on Mr. Flower Groom (Manga Maniac Cafe) Tangognat on vol. 1 of Ooku: The Inner Chambers (Tangognat) Matthew J. Brady on [...]