Orange Chocolate · review
I really enjoyed reading this manga. In fact, part of me wishes I hadn't read it at all to avoid the sheer disappointment of realising only the first 31 chapters are translated and not the whole thing! After getting used to the fun and loveable characters and wanting to see what happens next among them at the end of each chapter, it was a blow to find out that was all I could read. The story itself doesn't always seem much more than your typical romance/slice-of-life. Basically; the two main characters have a faint desire to live as the other and have the other's strengths.Their 'wish' is granted and they end up occasionally switching bodies at the most inconvenient times, which at times strains their relationship but also brings them closer. The pace is generally smooth and relaxed. The romance is very very slow (understandable for two characters who have grown up as close friends), there isn't really any serious drama, it's quite lighthearted, and the pace is nice and relaxed.
The art is very nice and pleasant to look at. Not overly 'cutesy' like a lot of other romance manga, it almost has a somewhat 'mature' feel to it, definitely suiting the traditional side, while still using fun and comedic expressions.
The characters are great. They really add to the story to keep it from getting boring. I really loved Ritsu and Chiro's relationship - how close and comfortable they are together. It's a very sweet relationship and the main reason I kept turning the pages. It's also a nice change to have a long-haired male lead.
All in all, a warm, enjoyable read, but very very sad to reach the last available chapter.