Knot · review
Spoiler warning
This review may discuss plot details.
"Knot" tells the story of a long-standing, yet treachery relationship between Tou and Shizuka from primary school up to university. First, I'd say the art grows on me, and I love it when the mangaka has a distinct artstyle! Very charming in a way. It's also great to see how tenacious their connection is (hence the title) despite the hardhitting obstacles thrown at them. And Tou himself said something along the line of "it was the memories we shared that kept me going" when they reunited after a period of drifting apart. It's a mix of angst and cuteness with a heartwarming ending. What I likeabout the story is the support Shizuka offers to Tou upon knowing his abused past and how they resolved conflicts to breathe a new life into their relationship.
Although the story features multiple instances of abuse, it also includes characters who are kind to Tou, whose resilience is equally admirable. This somewhat cushions the blow, allowing the whole experience to end on a positive and hopeful note.
Overall, it's a nice read that adds a color of its own to the BL landscape.