If It's You, I Might Try Falling in Love: Vol. 1 Review
The tender boys' love manga If It’s You, I Might Try Falling in Love, Vol. 1 by Maru Kubota and published by Yen Press blends heartfelt emotion with a touch of everyday realism, offering a sweet and relatable romance set in the coastal town of Enoshima. And for being the first volume, the story is off to a charming start in its exploration of healing, friendship, and the tentative steps toward love.
Plot
The narrative centers on Amane, a high schooler who’s just transferred to a new school in Enoshima after a painful middle school rejection left him wary of love. On his first day, he meets Ryuuji, a kind and outgoing classmate, when Ryuuji’s cat, Taru, leaps onto Amane in a chaotic introduction. This chance encounter sparks a quick friendship, with Ryuuji inviting Amane to his family’s restaurant as an apology.
As they spend more time together—bonding over school life and casual hangouts—Amane’s guarded heart begins to stir. The volume unfolds at a gentle pace, focusing on Amane’s internal struggle to reconcile his growing feelings with his past trauma. It’s a slice-of-life tale with a romantic undercurrent, setting the stage for deeper developments in future volumes.
Characters
Amane and Ryuuji are the beating heart of this manga. Amane is introspective and jaded, carrying the weight of being mocked for his confession of love in middle school. His vulnerability shines through his attempts to brush off his attraction to Ryuuji with humor, making him endearing and real.
Ryuuji, by contrast, is a breath of fresh air—warm, accepting, and effortlessly likable, with a sincerity that chips away at Amane’s walls. Their chemistry feels natural, built on small, authentic moments rather than forced drama. And when the two get to connect on a deeper level (like sharing stories while sick), the story really shines.
Art
Maru Kubota’s artwork is clean and inviting, with a soft touch that suits the story’s tone. The characters’ expressive faces—Amane’s flustered blushes, Ryuuji’s bright smiles—carry the emotional weight effortlessly. Enoshima’s coastal backdrop is sketched with enough detail to ground the setting, particularly when utilizing a memorable ocean reveal, a shared sunset, or even Amane’s grandmother’s home.
The panel layouts also flow smoothly, with occasional bursts of dynamic energy (particularly stemming from Amane) adding a playful edge. It’s a visually pleasant style that complements the manga’s quiet charm without overshadowing the narrative.
Themes/Symbolism
This volume explores themes of healing from past rejection and the courage to embrace new feelings. Amane’s journey reflects the fear of vulnerability, especially for someone who’s been hurt for being himself.
Ryuuji’s unconditional kindness serves as a subtle counterpoint, symbolizing a safe haven where Amane can rediscover trust. The seaside town of Enoshima mirrors this idea—a fresh start away from old wounds. Taru, the cat, acts as a quirky symbol of connection, literally jumping into Amane’s life to bridge him to Ryuuji. It’s not heavy on symbolism just yet, but these elements lay a foundation for a deeper emotional arc.
Verdict
If It’s You, I Might Try Falling in Love, Vol. 1 is a gentle, heartfelt read that sets a new standard for young budding love. If you’re looking for a story that feels like a warm sea breeze, this one’s worth adding to your collection.
