8/10 +Extremely likeable male lead with positive change +Avoids common genre cliches and relationships move at steady pace +Pleasant, cutesy artwork that adds to dreamy atmosphere -MC carries story alone; features cookie-cutter supporting cast that fades into the background -Favors shallow interactions over deeper character work It’s hard to forget the feelings of first love. For some, the experience truly shapes one’s identity. For others, it’s a nightmare. Hatsu*Haru presents a unique perspective on this transformative period through the eyes of Kai, a womanizer who is unexpectedly captivated by the tomboyish Riko. What’s great about the manga’s presentation is that it’s a simple story that avoids common pitfallsof the genre; there are no love triangles, fan-service, or outrageous drama to be seen. Kai’s eccentric, passionate, and sensitive personality truly carries the manga as he transforms from a stuck up snob to a sensitive lover. Unfortunately not much can be said about the supporting cast, with dull cookie-cutter archetypes that ultimately fade in the background.

Like blossoms that bloom in the spring, you’ll feel the high and lows while reading Hatsu*Haru. It may lack the emotional depth and complexity of others stories in the genre, but still evokes warm feelings nonetheless.