“Thanks to Rintarou, Maria now sees both herself and the world around her in a new light—and is even entertaining thoughts of a genuine courtship! But as the two seriously consider taking the next step, not everyone is eager to see it happen. Between Maria's worried mother, stifling social mores, and a suave womanizer ready to ruin a storybook romance, can Maria and Rintarou's love over come all obstacles?” (Yen Press)
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The first two volumes have seen a slow building courtship between Marai and Rintarou, with both unable to confess their feeling due to class divide. The third volume finally realizes the inevitable, and the two finally confess their love for one another. However, the difficulties of their social differences continue to permeate the relationship and the two are forced to undergo challenges in order to gain acceptance among their respective families. Avoiding spoilers, the third volume picks up the pace from the previous two, all the while packing a strong emotional punch. The series, it seems, has hit its stride as a masterfully told traditional romance story with gripping dialogue and picturesque visual direction.
Notably, Miyasaki's writing shows the mangaka navigating the complex emotions of youth that come with a whirlwind of emotions tied to a dizzying romance. Lines such as; “can something out of a dream really happen to me” or “even if its something that can never be, I'm free to go on thinking of you” capture the youthful desires and innocence (inexperience?) of the characters with astute sincerity. Examining the work as a ‘coming-of-age' romance story, Miyasaki exemplifies how to capture the outbursts of emotion from the important developmental period of one's life.
Complimenting the emotional narrative, the visuals act as a perfect punctuation to the best moments of dialogue between Maria and Rintarou. The book had already proven to carry a strong and complimentary aesthetic that speaks to the best of the romance genre, but the series has hit its stride for matching defining panels with poignant dialogue. Furthermore, it captures the beauty of the era in both landscape and fashion with gorgeous double page panels that will draw the reader into the era.
Culminating in what is, easily, the most enthralling volume in the series, there is no better time to catch-up to the story in checking out its previous entries. Conversely, those who have already been following will find this release particularly rewarding. Closing with the tease of upcoming conflict, the series is certain to get more emotionally charged as the couple begins to face their first challenge. Under the artistry of Miyasaka in combining visual and narrative to punctuate the complex emotions of her characters, the inclusion of additional conflict is more than welcome.
“Golden Japanesque” is a picturesque romance title that will appeal to those who hold a fondness for the classics in the genre. In addition, the lush visual direction and passionate dialogue makes for captivating read for manga fans in general. An exemplary entry in the historical romance genre that is both striking and engaging – don't miss out.
