Fox and Puppy by Nayuta Nago

[reviews_and_ramblings]

 

A sweet & spicy spinoff of Star and Hedgehog, featuring Harukiyo's big brother, Akihiko!

Laid-back novelist Akihiko and his earnest new editor, Aiichirō (a.k.a. Ai-chan), are faced with an unexpected dynamic shift when Ai-chan walks in on Akihiko in bed with a man— and bursts into tears.

Ai-chan confesses his feelings for Akihiko, but since Akihiko has no interest in anything serious, the best he can offer Ai-chan is a steamy, semi-professional friendship with decidedly unprofessional benefits.

In spite of Akihiko's efforts to keep things casual, Ai-chan slowly begins to unearth the details of Akihiko's mud-caked romantic past, doggedly pawing his way to the wounded heart of the elusive fox he fell in love with...

My Rate: 7 (amzn.to/4875kLh)

Just like the previous manga in the series, Star and Hedgehog, the cover of Fox and Puppy by Nayuta Nago was also changed to make it look more innocent. However, unlike the previous manga, Fox and Puppy is actually very much centered on the physical relationship between Akihiko and Aiichirō, so I feel the previous cover was a better fit for the story. That said, even the new cover, featuring an image of Akihiko languidly sitting on the couch (the bare feet and soft sweater give that sense of languor—it's the details that count!) while Aiichirō serves him (as his character essentially does throughout the book), is still appropriate for the plot. I have to say I really love the character of Akihiko, especially because I appreciate how completely open he is about his sexuality and his enjoyment of sex. Yet, he is also aware that Aiichirō has a more romantic attitude about the topic, and in a way, Akihiko genuinely tries to respect Aiichirō and his feelings. Of course, in addition to the beautiful artwork, you will find plenty of sex in this yaoi manga, but it’s portrayed in a healthy, joyous, and not at all vulgar way.