A Promise Of Romance · review
Story: I enjoyed the plot/summary a lot. I will say there are some things that are predictable, regarding love rivals and jealousy, but what yaoi book haven't you see these types of situations. hehe I could certainly look past the predictable aspectts of it just as long as its a good story, you know? Art: Even for very little art in the book, you really didn't need that much art considering Kyoiko Akitsu was very descriptive as she wrote. I did enjoy what illustrations were found in the book that helped support some of the more dramatic scenes. There was only one illustration in color towardsthe front and there was probably about 6 other images within the 178 pages pf story. For me, i'll rate it an 8.
Character: I really liked that this particular novel didn't take place in japanese surroundings like most japanese manga. The characers in the story therefore were much different from the main characters lifestyle, which makes Satsuki's character stand out more in the story.
(I had to chuckle when a few characters question the main character if he/she is chinese. Realistically, i think that is generally what most people who arent familiar with japanese think when they meet someone of an asian background. Chinese is very common. Considering many authors write stories after their own personal experiences in their travels, I bet they were asked that same question often when writing this book. lol)
Enjoyment: This book kept me entertained all the way to the end. I didn't expect a certain something at the end of the book and was kind of glad that the book kind of left me suprised at one part. (since there were many predictable scenes.) I rate this a 9. It would be a 10 if the ending didn't go really fast.
Overall: I will have to say I certainly wish this book was longer because it all ended really fast as it approached the wedding ceremony... however, getting past the sudden conclusion of A Promise Of Romance, I'm definately glad I picked this book up. It has inspired me to read more novels based off of japanese characters, considering this was my first... ya im usually one of those who prefer regular manga's because I enjoy looking at the illustrations as I read. I rate this novel, a 9! I could definately see myself reading this book again sometime in the future.