you've heard of "my shayla," now get ready for "my ilya." jokes aside, ilya is a beautiful manga regardless of its length. the message is integrated beautifully in the story and explores love and loss through a simple yet impactful lens. while the supernatural aspect of this manga is but a plot tool to explore these themes, it's done in a very poignant way that allows you to empathize with our main lead, aisei, without making it seem too fantastical or whimsical. the art-style is simple and brings in together the plot of the story, treading delicately with presenting a story of love and loss thatis known all too well by many people.

if you're a yearner, you just may find yourself enjoying this.