“Having eased her doubts about Haruma, Yoh starts to relax around him, not realizing that he was actually behind the stalker incident. But when Yoh begins to assist the University Students' Union, she finds herself in trouble once again. The group's vice president, Kunie-senpai, has a grudge against her—and he's threatening to take it out on Sawako if she doesn't do as he says! In desperate need of help, can she bring herself to rely on Haruma?” (Yen Press)
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Three volumes in, “Love and Heart” proves to be a deceptively disturbing tale bordering on psychological horror. The first volume posed that Haruma may be a threat to Yoh, eliciting a constant sense of unease as he manipulated his way into her life as a roommate. However, now that the mysterious manipulator has embedded himself into Yohs' everyday existence, he is now able to maintain more dominate control over the woman's emotions. Friend of foe, everyone has their use and are seen as disposable – as long as they can be used to strengthen the bond that Haruma has meticulously crafted.
The only major narrative shift in volume 2 and 3 comes from taking away the primary focus on Haruma by introducing a new antagonist, Kunie. However, it is the treatment and resolution of Haruma to destroy this person's life for daring to attempt to manipulate (The very thing he does himself) his precious Yoh that expands on the moral boundaries the troubled teen is willing to cross to reach his goal. Kunie, though an evil force himself, comes across as childish in the distorted resolve of Haruma to gain control of all aspects of Yoh's life. In addition to this dominate arc, Kaido plants a few awkward scenarios through minor conflicts that feel they will have a greater impact as the series progresses – apparently the intense narrative is still transforming into something more sinister.
Despite the ominous tone of the work, Kaido's aesthetic feels inspired by contemporary romance manga. The characters look flawless and move in a manner that captures a sense of grace/purity – a stark but welcome contrast to the narrative. In another sample of effective contrasting, the use of plant textures and light reflection brings a certain calm and serenity to the art. Arguably, the only thing the project lacks is the use of single or double page single panel spreads to allow the beautiful art of Kaido's to be more evident. Regardless, the artistry still comes through in a complimentary light in the panel and text heavy layout.
If there is anything holding the series back at this point is its indulgence in misery and undesirable characters. Yoh is the protagonist, yet, she is merely a bouncing off point for others to indulge in manipulative behavior. Consequently, there is a focus on corrupted individuals that fans of titles like “Scum's Wish” (also from Yen Press) will find morbidly appealing. Perhaps not as bleak as the previously mentioned title, “Love and Heart” falls close in tone by showcasing a peculiar moral corruption that is heavily reliant on manipulating the perceptions of others. Overall, the title carves its own little niche that is not overtly present in manga tropes, yet, is intrinsically fascinating for those that like exploring characters who are deeply corrupted morally.
“Love and Heart” is certain to find a limited, yet, dedicated fanbase – as long as it does not derail itself in the closing volumes. Chitose Kaido certainly makes a statement with their debut English release, proving to be a master of psychological manga – a meditation on dark desires and broken personalities. If you are the type of reader searching for such an experience, do yourself a favor and give this one a read.
