In the Walnut 2 and Cafe Latte Rhapsody

I just LOVE Toko Kawai's books. She just knows how to tell a story and does it with great expressive artwork. It's a winning combination.

In the Walnut volume 2 is the continuation of the eccentric and anti-social Tanizaki and his lovable, naive but incredibly sweet Nakai. Volume 2 is less of a romance and more about what goes on at the shady 'In the Walnut' gallery. What is really Tanizaki up to? This sloppy guy really knows his stuff, and has an incredible eye for spotting art forgeries.

This gets him into some interesting predicaments!

A fun series, and especially for me, since I have an art background. I really enjoy these stories and while there isn't a lot of romance in this volume, I didn't mine. Tanizaki cares for Nakai and it shows in small ways, and is really sweet how much he cares what Nakai thinks of him. I love how Toko Kawai can create a closed-up, hard alpha male and give him enough softness to melt a person's heart.

Now, Cafe Latte Rhapsody is a totally SWEET romance - all sugar and spice...it's so sweet, it will give you a tooth ache. Oh, but it works somehow. I just couldn't help but root for cute Hajime and tall and awkward Keito.

Usually shy semes with constant tears in their eyes make me want to throw the book across the room, but it works with this couple. And I love Hajime's freckles! He's nice and patient with Keito.

If you like an innocent and light romance, this book if for you.

Rating: 16+ June Manga - http://www.junemanga.com/