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千葉教官はなびかない [Chiba Kyoukan wa Nabikanai] #1
My Instructor Won't Yield
A fun and moving one-shot BL romance that’ll have you hugging the turns! An elite driving instructor who's sworn off love and a handsome client with a secret get behind the wheel. But will they go the distance?
Chiba’s kind manner, clear guidance, and pretty face make him easily the favorite driving instructor of every female student at the school where he works. But, while he’ll play up his charms to get good reviews, Chiba is diligent about politely but firmly rejecting all romantic advances. Yet his well-crafted persona will be put to the test when he's matched up with the mysterious Yaotome, a new student gaining a reputation of his own as the "Sharp-Suited Prince," because he comes to every driving lesson way overdressed. Despite his cool looks and demeanor, Yaotome can hardly compose himself when Chiba begins their lesson. An after-hours encounter reveals that Yaotome is actually a manga artist...and that's not his only secret!
Runner-up in the "BL Sommelier" category of the 2025 ChillChill BL Awards in Japan, this light and funny love story is perfect for fans of Old-Fashioned Cupcake and Love on the Horizon!
Chiba’s kind manner, clear guidance, and pretty face make him easily the favorite driving instructor of every female student at the school where he works. But, while he’ll play up his charms to get good reviews, Chiba is diligent about politely but firmly rejecting all romantic advances. Yet his well-crafted persona will be put to the test when he's matched up with the mysterious Yaotome, a new student gaining a reputation of his own as the "Sharp-Suited Prince," because he comes to every driving lesson way overdressed. Despite his cool looks and demeanor, Yaotome can hardly compose himself when Chiba begins their lesson. An after-hours encounter reveals that Yaotome is actually a manga artist...and that's not his only secret!
Runner-up in the "BL Sommelier" category of the 2025 ChillChill BL Awards in Japan, this light and funny love story is perfect for fans of Old-Fashioned Cupcake and Love on the Horizon!
192 pages, Paperback
First published March 5, 2024
11 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 259 reviews
October 1, 2025
This manga tells me that it's apparently not uncommon to fall in love with one's driving instructor, because of the more adult student-teacher situation and the close proximity. Well, I can't relate to that. I hate driving and I was stressed out visibly during every single lesson and my instructor was like three times my age, so yeah. Still, I was grinning like an idiot while reading about two grown men blushing at each other inside a car. There's Chiba, the driving instructor, and his new student Yaotome, a manga artist. I don't really know what the English title is supposed to mean, because both men are not that reluctant to start a relationship with each other after spending some time together. They were pretty cute and although there was a bit of an unnecessary misunderstanding, they felt mature in a way that was refreshing. I've already read Strange Happenings at Nekomachi Shopping District (no official English release so far, sadly) by the same mangaka, and now I can say that her art style is pretty recognizable. I really like the way characters are drawn, but the backgrounds were more sparse this time. It's nothing special, but it's still a nice BL with a somewhat unusual setting. I thought that it was a one-shot and it also reads like one honestly, but apparently it's a series. On hiatus in Japan, though. I'm not uninterested in continuing, but I have to wait and see what happens.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2025
⭐️ 3 stars ⭐️
This was very sweet, but too short!
A one-shot BL romance between driving instructor Chiba and his new intriguing student.
Really loved the art style and the characters.
Overall, super cute and fun.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
This was very sweet, but too short!
A one-shot BL romance between driving instructor Chiba and his new intriguing student.
Really loved the art style and the characters.
Overall, super cute and fun.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
July 10, 2025
Thank you Kodansha for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was super cute and funny - although it is techiinically an ongoing series, this first volume can absolutely be read as a standalone and I would imagine it started out as one. It's actually pretty well paced for such a short book and was a more satisfying read than most similar stories have been.
The premise is fairly simple, Yaotome wants to learn how to drive and falls for his driving instructor Chiba. It's pretty straight forward, but I liked all the little elements that were added in such as Yaotome being a mangaka, both their backstories, some nerdy car things and at the very least some brief mention of cats (I really do wish they'd have been featured more though!). The art is pretty and both lead characters are likeable. It may not be anything groundbreaking and it probably won't deliver as much as a longer running series, but there's really nothing to complain about here.
The absolute only thing I could mention would perhaps be a matter of translation. I personally prefer when manga translations don't use Western titles e.g. the main characters are always referred to as Mr Chiba and Mr Yaotome. I feel it would be more approrpiate to either drop it altogether of to simply stick to Japanese titles, the majority of readers should be more than familiar enough with those.
June 22, 2025
3.5 stars!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Kodansha Comics for providing me with an advanced readers copy!
Not gonna lie this was low-key a bit unmemorable now that I'm writing this the night after I finished this. I don't think it's forgettable per se but I don't think it's gonna stick with me? Either way, this was a really nice BL with fairly good chemistry between the two mmc's, really good artwork, a decent plot to follow and also mentions of a cat (I swear we get to see like two shots of the mmc's cat but I love that fucking cat that cat is so cute and I think him wanting to get driving lessons for his cat was EVEN CUTER LIKE HELL YEAH GET A FUCKING CAR AND LICENSE BECAUSE YOU LOVE YOUR CUTE ASS CAT SO MUCH). I would say that my favorite thing about this manga is that the love interests are actually respectful and kind to each other, which we love to see in a world full of enemies to lovers and disrespectful mmc's, and which is partly why I've bumped it a half star. I also really liked the general dynamic between the two characters of one being really friendly, empathetic, and outgoing, and the other being fairly shy, and nervous, and easily flustered. WE LOVE SHY MEEEEENNNNN.
But yeah! Since this was a manga it was obviously a quick read, I enjoyed the dynamic, and the romance was simple and cute, but not necessarily swoon worthy for me. I'm not sure if I'll be checking out the second volume cause I don't really think I have the motivation to, since I don't feel too attached to the plot to continue this story? But if you really love BL and you love finding new BL to read then I'd definitely recommend this one. I just wouldn't recommend it in a general sense and moreso in a "if this is your thing" sense. But either way I'm still glad that I checked this one out and if you're looking for a short BL to read with no spice and a nice dynamic then this is one is for you!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Kodansha Comics for providing me with an advanced readers copy!
Not gonna lie this was low-key a bit unmemorable now that I'm writing this the night after I finished this. I don't think it's forgettable per se but I don't think it's gonna stick with me? Either way, this was a really nice BL with fairly good chemistry between the two mmc's, really good artwork, a decent plot to follow and also mentions of a cat (I swear we get to see like two shots of the mmc's cat but I love that fucking cat that cat is so cute and I think him wanting to get driving lessons for his cat was EVEN CUTER LIKE HELL YEAH GET A FUCKING CAR AND LICENSE BECAUSE YOU LOVE YOUR CUTE ASS CAT SO MUCH). I would say that my favorite thing about this manga is that the love interests are actually respectful and kind to each other, which we love to see in a world full of enemies to lovers and disrespectful mmc's, and which is partly why I've bumped it a half star. I also really liked the general dynamic between the two characters of one being really friendly, empathetic, and outgoing, and the other being fairly shy, and nervous, and easily flustered. WE LOVE SHY MEEEEENNNNN.
But yeah! Since this was a manga it was obviously a quick read, I enjoyed the dynamic, and the romance was simple and cute, but not necessarily swoon worthy for me. I'm not sure if I'll be checking out the second volume cause I don't really think I have the motivation to, since I don't feel too attached to the plot to continue this story? But if you really love BL and you love finding new BL to read then I'd definitely recommend this one. I just wouldn't recommend it in a general sense and moreso in a "if this is your thing" sense. But either way I'm still glad that I checked this one out and if you're looking for a short BL to read with no spice and a nice dynamic then this is one is for you!
June 5, 2025
bland and boring, but readable
August 24, 2025
So cute, I enjoyed it a lot! It felt too short, but I am happy for them nonetheless. I just wish we could see more.
September 1, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book.
This was a very nice read, but nothing too crazy. The art was beautiful and the story sweet and light without too much drama. I can't find many faults about it hence the 4 star rating but I definitely would have liked the story to be a little longer. I guess thats why I usually read series!
This was a very nice read, but nothing too crazy. The art was beautiful and the story sweet and light without too much drama. I can't find many faults about it hence the 4 star rating but I definitely would have liked the story to be a little longer. I guess thats why I usually read series!
July 22, 2025
THIS WAS SO CUTE
July 10, 2025
My instructor won’t yield by Deme Kingyobachi
Have you ever taken a driving test or classes? If yes, then this book might be of interest to you.
Here, we meet Mr. Chiba, a thirty-year-old polite, diligent, yet detached driving instructor at a driving school. He’s sworn off love, but this promise, sadly, doesn’t last long when Mr. Yaotome becomes his next student. Shy and nervous, but excited, Mr. Yaotome wants to overcome his nerves and learn to drive so that he can take his lovely cat to the vet more quickly and comfortably. Outwardly, he is the definition of composed and serious due to his formal attire, but with Mr. Chiba, the composure and seriousness abandon him. An accidental after-hours meeting reveals an unexpected side of Yaotome to Chiba, and what follows is an uplifting and heart-warming story which you will have to read for yourself to feel good.
Honestly, I was kind of scared that I wouldn’t like this book due to a particular part of the plot at the beginning, but luckily, I was proven wrong. I ended up finishing this manga in one sitting and devoured it. I was smiling almost the whole time, and my cheeks were hurting by the time I was done reading. This isn’t a heavily plot- or character-driven book, but it is the kind that gives you hope and a little energy to get through the day, which, for me, is totally worth it.
This book has a good balance of light-heartedness without being too saccharine or unrealistic. The overall story had good pacing, but I did feel that the ending could’ve been fleshed out more and that we got to see more of the main characters’ relationship. But I’ve heard that there is going to be a next volume, so I hope that we get to see more of their relationship and lives. The fact that the relationship was built on mutual respect and kindness with no unnecessary drama, miscommunication, or angst, made this book an extremely enjoyable read. And good art with realistic body proportions and setting added to the feel-goodness of the book. The efforts and attention to detail by the author are really commendable, which can especially be seen in the translation notes.
I adored both Chiba and Yaotome, though I’m a bit more partial towards Chiba. He was my favorite character. The characters were well-developed with distinct personalities, and I loved how their passion was highlighted in their careers. There aren’t many side characters, but the ones that were present were equally good. While the characters were well-developed, I couldn’t help but wish they had more emotional depth and that we could see their growth as their relationship progressed. But it doesn’t deter your reading experience in any form, so no worries there.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to people who want something lighthearted or a palate cleanser, which will leave them feeling good.
Rating-4.25/5
Thank you to Kodansha Manga and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this fun manga.
Have you ever taken a driving test or classes? If yes, then this book might be of interest to you.
Here, we meet Mr. Chiba, a thirty-year-old polite, diligent, yet detached driving instructor at a driving school. He’s sworn off love, but this promise, sadly, doesn’t last long when Mr. Yaotome becomes his next student. Shy and nervous, but excited, Mr. Yaotome wants to overcome his nerves and learn to drive so that he can take his lovely cat to the vet more quickly and comfortably. Outwardly, he is the definition of composed and serious due to his formal attire, but with Mr. Chiba, the composure and seriousness abandon him. An accidental after-hours meeting reveals an unexpected side of Yaotome to Chiba, and what follows is an uplifting and heart-warming story which you will have to read for yourself to feel good.
Honestly, I was kind of scared that I wouldn’t like this book due to a particular part of the plot at the beginning, but luckily, I was proven wrong. I ended up finishing this manga in one sitting and devoured it. I was smiling almost the whole time, and my cheeks were hurting by the time I was done reading. This isn’t a heavily plot- or character-driven book, but it is the kind that gives you hope and a little energy to get through the day, which, for me, is totally worth it.
This book has a good balance of light-heartedness without being too saccharine or unrealistic. The overall story had good pacing, but I did feel that the ending could’ve been fleshed out more and that we got to see more of the main characters’ relationship. But I’ve heard that there is going to be a next volume, so I hope that we get to see more of their relationship and lives. The fact that the relationship was built on mutual respect and kindness with no unnecessary drama, miscommunication, or angst, made this book an extremely enjoyable read. And good art with realistic body proportions and setting added to the feel-goodness of the book. The efforts and attention to detail by the author are really commendable, which can especially be seen in the translation notes.
I adored both Chiba and Yaotome, though I’m a bit more partial towards Chiba. He was my favorite character. The characters were well-developed with distinct personalities, and I loved how their passion was highlighted in their careers. There aren’t many side characters, but the ones that were present were equally good. While the characters were well-developed, I couldn’t help but wish they had more emotional depth and that we could see their growth as their relationship progressed. But it doesn’t deter your reading experience in any form, so no worries there.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to people who want something lighthearted or a palate cleanser, which will leave them feeling good.
Rating-4.25/5
Thank you to Kodansha Manga and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this fun manga.
August 10, 2025
Thank you to netgalley and Kodansha Comics for providing and eCopy of this manga!
This was a cute little story. The artwork was alright. I thought the drawings themselves were nice, but the sketchiness of them almost made it look unfinished. It might have just looked that way though since I was reading a digital arc on my computer? Anyway, the story was a cute quick read. A couple different conflicts arise, but they are all solved quickly and easily.
I wasn't really a fan of the story order (or timeline, I guess?). For the first main issue, Chiba learns that he is the main inspiration for Yaotome's manga. Chapter 2 ends with Chiba confronting Yaotome about it and them separating. Only for chapter 3 to start with Chiba and Yaotome together in a car on a road trip. Then we get a flashback explaining what happened and how they reconciled a couple panels later. This flashback picked up right after chapter 2. I feel like this is a common structure in manga and I have never liked it. If you are going to reveal the flashback right away then just tell it the story in order. I'm sure they do this because the chapters are often released on a weekly or monthly basis, but it makes the completed volumes feel super segmented.
Anyway though, I really enjoyed the scenes where we actually got to see them talk and get to know each other. I recommend this manga if you are looking for a cute read with not a lot of drama.
This was a cute little story. The artwork was alright. I thought the drawings themselves were nice, but the sketchiness of them almost made it look unfinished. It might have just looked that way though since I was reading a digital arc on my computer? Anyway, the story was a cute quick read. A couple different conflicts arise, but they are all solved quickly and easily.
I wasn't really a fan of the story order (or timeline, I guess?). For the first main issue, Chiba learns that he is the main inspiration for Yaotome's manga. Chapter 2 ends with Chiba confronting Yaotome about it and them separating. Only for chapter 3 to start with Chiba and Yaotome together in a car on a road trip. Then we get a flashback explaining what happened and how they reconciled a couple panels later. This flashback picked up right after chapter 2. I feel like this is a common structure in manga and I have never liked it. If you are going to reveal the flashback right away then just tell it the story in order. I'm sure they do this because the chapters are often released on a weekly or monthly basis, but it makes the completed volumes feel super segmented.
Anyway though, I really enjoyed the scenes where we actually got to see them talk and get to know each other. I recommend this manga if you are looking for a cute read with not a lot of drama.
July 28, 2025
This is a cute and over-the-top manga about a driving instructor and his student. The student has a reason for choosing Chiba as his instructor, making for an interesting read with a few "reveals." I'm not sure if this is just a standalone or will be a series, but as is, it makes for a complete story.
This is very over the top in the confessions and reactions. If you hate that ridiculousness in anime or manga, then I'd skip this. I personally found it funny and endearing here. I found myself rooting for them! This does not have any spice, just brief kissing.
I'd recommend this if you're looking for a cute, romance-first, not spicy / explicit MM romance.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy for review!
This is very over the top in the confessions and reactions. If you hate that ridiculousness in anime or manga, then I'd skip this. I personally found it funny and endearing here. I found myself rooting for them! This does not have any spice, just brief kissing.
I'd recommend this if you're looking for a cute, romance-first, not spicy / explicit MM romance.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy for review!
July 31, 2025
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ 3 stars ˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
this was a sweet and fun one shot manga! i liked the characters, and the art style was very cute! the fact that the mmc wanted to start having driving lessons to get his license for his cat is the sweetest thing ever. simple and lighthearted manga that i would recommend!
˗ˋˏ ୨୧ thank you to NetGalley, Kodansha Comics, and Deme Kingyobachi for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review! ୨୧ ˎˊ˗
this was a sweet and fun one shot manga! i liked the characters, and the art style was very cute! the fact that the mmc wanted to start having driving lessons to get his license for his cat is the sweetest thing ever. simple and lighthearted manga that i would recommend!
˗ˋˏ ୨୧ thank you to NetGalley, Kodansha Comics, and Deme Kingyobachi for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review! ୨୧ ˎˊ˗
July 13, 2025
3.5 stars. I thought this was a cute and lighthearted manga. The main characters, Chiba and Yaotome, were really good leads and had some nice chemistry. The plot flows smoothly, but the end left me wanting more because it wraps up so fast. So I will read the next volume to see what happens next.
Thank you, NetGalley and Kodansha, for providing a digital copy in return for an honest review.
Thank you, NetGalley and Kodansha, for providing a digital copy in return for an honest review.
July 16, 2025
This was cute and pretty fast paced! I really loved the art style and the story as well. I will say the chemistry was a bit lacking, and the romance felt a bit one sided given the circumstances, but it was still an enjoyable read! I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a short and sweet story :)
Thank you so much to netgalley & the publisher for providing me with this arc!!!
Thank you so much to netgalley & the publisher for providing me with this arc!!!
July 23, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Really short and sweet manga about a charming driving instructor and a very nervous student. I loved how comical it was and the banter between them, even though at the end it felt very insta-lovey, but it can be understood due to it being a single-volume story. Really enjoyed the drawing style and the "bonus contents" at the end, explaining some parts of the manga that could've been lost in translation.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Really short and sweet manga about a charming driving instructor and a very nervous student. I loved how comical it was and the banter between them, even though at the end it felt very insta-lovey, but it can be understood due to it being a single-volume story. Really enjoyed the drawing style and the "bonus contents" at the end, explaining some parts of the manga that could've been lost in translation.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
September 9, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
My Instructor Won’t Yield by Deme Kingyobachi
⭐️ 4/5
This was a sweet and fun one-shot BL with a nice balance of humor and heart. I really liked the idea—a popular, charming driving instructor who keeps everyone at arm’s length, suddenly paired with a mysterious student who shows up overdressed for every lesson. Their dynamic was cute, and the story slowly peeled back the layers of Yaotome’s secrets in a way that kept me curious.
The manga drawings were beautiful—expressive, detailed, and they definitely added to the charm of the story. It felt lighthearted, with just enough depth to make me care about the characters and want to see where they’d end up.
That being said, it didn’t completely pull me in. The romance was sweet but not the kind that fully wrapped me up and made me forget everything else. Maybe because it’s a one-shot, there wasn’t enough time to dive as deep into the relationship as I’d have liked.
Final thought: A charming, quick BL read with lovely art and a cute romance. I enjoyed it a lot, but it didn’t quite hit me as hard as some other stories do. Still, worth the read if you want something fun and light.
My Instructor Won’t Yield by Deme Kingyobachi
⭐️ 4/5
This was a sweet and fun one-shot BL with a nice balance of humor and heart. I really liked the idea—a popular, charming driving instructor who keeps everyone at arm’s length, suddenly paired with a mysterious student who shows up overdressed for every lesson. Their dynamic was cute, and the story slowly peeled back the layers of Yaotome’s secrets in a way that kept me curious.
The manga drawings were beautiful—expressive, detailed, and they definitely added to the charm of the story. It felt lighthearted, with just enough depth to make me care about the characters and want to see where they’d end up.
That being said, it didn’t completely pull me in. The romance was sweet but not the kind that fully wrapped me up and made me forget everything else. Maybe because it’s a one-shot, there wasn’t enough time to dive as deep into the relationship as I’d have liked.
Final thought: A charming, quick BL read with lovely art and a cute romance. I enjoyed it a lot, but it didn’t quite hit me as hard as some other stories do. Still, worth the read if you want something fun and light.
September 10, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the digital copy!
A lighthearted and funny slice of life manga about a driving instructor and his student.
Yaotome is very cute! I love his character. He’s cute, nerdy and shy. He loves manga and is a manga artist by trade! He wears a SUIT to take a driving class when he literally works from home in PJs, I’m obsessed with his awkward nerdiness!!
They have a cute date to the zoo! Ahh!
The fact that Chiba is the one that asks Yaotome out after all the pining has me SEATED.
I really enjoyed this one. I’ve read quite a few one shot BL manga and this one was just so adorable! Recommend for those who already love the genre and also those new to it.
A lighthearted and funny slice of life manga about a driving instructor and his student.
Yaotome is very cute! I love his character. He’s cute, nerdy and shy. He loves manga and is a manga artist by trade! He wears a SUIT to take a driving class when he literally works from home in PJs, I’m obsessed with his awkward nerdiness!!
They have a cute date to the zoo! Ahh!
The fact that Chiba is the one that asks Yaotome out after all the pining has me SEATED.
I really enjoyed this one. I’ve read quite a few one shot BL manga and this one was just so adorable! Recommend for those who already love the genre and also those new to it.
July 24, 2025
Super fun sweet romance,I really enjoyed this one-shot. The driving school setting had me thinking about all my panicky driving lessons when I too was terrified of driving. I really enjoyed the characters relationship and dynamic as well as the elements of their backstories we learn about, they feel like likeable, realistic characters albeit with quirks. I like that the conflict elements of the plot felt well handled and not overly dramatic as it made the story as a whole feel more realistic, as well as the pacing and conversation generally given the short length of the story overall.
Overall, a great read with fun, sweet BL romance presented in an enjoyable artsyle that matches the characters and setting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kodansha for the ARC
Overall, a great read with fun, sweet BL romance presented in an enjoyable artsyle that matches the characters and setting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kodansha for the ARC
July 9, 2025
3,5 ⭐
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a really cute story with lovely characters, and I enjoyed the art style.
While the romance plot isn't particularly original and felt a bit predictable, the characters themselves were refreshingly distinct—which I loved.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a really cute story with lovely characters, and I enjoyed the art style.
While the romance plot isn't particularly original and felt a bit predictable, the characters themselves were refreshingly distinct—which I loved.
July 21, 2025
— 2.5 ✷
A very linear and surface-level story that'd be great as a palate cleanser or a light read to sneak in when you're tight for time. There's not much going on so there's not much I can praise or nag about it; it's just a book that I'll probably forget about some time later.
Thank you to Kodansha Comics and Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
A very linear and surface-level story that'd be great as a palate cleanser or a light read to sneak in when you're tight for time. There's not much going on so there's not much I can praise or nag about it; it's just a book that I'll probably forget about some time later.
Thank you to Kodansha Comics and Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2025
***Graphic Novel gifted by US publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review/reaction***
September 8, 2025
3.5 (rtc)
July 14, 2025
I just finished reading it. It was a cute, quick read. It was alright. It reminded me of Heartstopper. I don't love it, but I don't hate it either. It's just not my thing.
August 21, 2025
The title doesn't make any sense with the story, but I enjoyed this one-shot. Being set in a driving school - an intensive training course that differs quite a bit from American driver's ed - makes the setting unique and pretty interesting.
It was inspired by the mangaka taking late-in-life driving lessons, a more common experience in a country where driver's licenses are more expensive and difficult to get, and public transit is readily available. "My driving instructor spent the entire time telling jokes; it was very draining," Kingyobachi says, spurred by this experience to think of a story where two characters are similarly trapped in a small space for a long period of time, but with much better results.
I liked the added twist of Yaotome having met his driving instructor, Chiba, two years earlier, and developing a crush on him that had no expectation of turning into reality until they wound up in the same car. Their dynamic is cute; Yaotome is awkward and shy but earnest, and Chiba is layers of professionalism and self-protection over a pretty sensitive core.
There were some nicely angsty elements, handled pretty well considering the space. The only thing that felt unresolved with Chiba's ex-boyfriend - who cheated on him with a female student and then married her - was that he and Chiba had met at work. But other than the guy popping up again at the end of the volume to demonstrate that Chiba was truly over him, there was no mention of them still working together. Did Chiba switch to a different driving school? That seemed like a plot gap.
Chiba forgiving Yaotome for using his face and actions as inspiration for his shoujo manga was also pretty fast-paced, but I didn't mind it. Chiba is a fairly easygoing guy who was just hurt by what he saw as Yaotome using him - much like his ex had. But once he understood the circumstances better and remembered that Yaotome wears his heart on his sleeve, he was okay with it.
It's just a nice story about two people meeting at the right place and the right time, and realizing they can be truly themselves with each other.
It was inspired by the mangaka taking late-in-life driving lessons, a more common experience in a country where driver's licenses are more expensive and difficult to get, and public transit is readily available. "My driving instructor spent the entire time telling jokes; it was very draining," Kingyobachi says, spurred by this experience to think of a story where two characters are similarly trapped in a small space for a long period of time, but with much better results.
I liked the added twist of Yaotome having met his driving instructor, Chiba, two years earlier, and developing a crush on him that had no expectation of turning into reality until they wound up in the same car. Their dynamic is cute; Yaotome is awkward and shy but earnest, and Chiba is layers of professionalism and self-protection over a pretty sensitive core.
There were some nicely angsty elements, handled pretty well considering the space. The only thing that felt unresolved with Chiba's ex-boyfriend - who cheated on him with a female student and then married her - was that he and Chiba had met at work. But other than the guy popping up again at the end of the volume to demonstrate that Chiba was truly over him, there was no mention of them still working together. Did Chiba switch to a different driving school? That seemed like a plot gap.
Chiba forgiving Yaotome for using his face and actions as inspiration for his shoujo manga was also pretty fast-paced, but I didn't mind it. Chiba is a fairly easygoing guy who was just hurt by what he saw as Yaotome using him - much like his ex had. But once he understood the circumstances better and remembered that Yaotome wears his heart on his sleeve, he was okay with it.
It's just a nice story about two people meeting at the right place and the right time, and realizing they can be truly themselves with each other.
September 19, 2025
Thank you Netgalley for the arc!
I was so happy to get approved for this manga. It was such a fast, and cute read with likeable characters.
Chiba is a driving instructor who is always patient, calm and collected. He has a new student, Yaotome who is his age and is determined to learn how to drive. Why, you ask?
He has a cat and the vet is far away, so he wants to be able to drive in case of an emergency.
It's a very noble cause, and Chiba is happy to help! He's also a bit relieved to have an older student that he has more in common with for once.
Yaotome is a manga artist and likes to work on his own stories. They're not super popular, but the one he's working on hints at a deeper connection between the two.
The only thing is, the more time they spend together, they get closer to each other. Their lessons fly by, but will they be able to admit their feelings before their time runs out?
I thought this little one shot was cute, I liked the characters and the unique setting as well as plot.
I think it would have maybe worked out better for me if it was dual pov or drawn out a bit longer.
The pacing definitely felt like a lot of the romance was weighted towards the latter half of it.
There's nothing wrong with that, I think if you likenend it to a dam breaking under pressure, it would be accurate.
When they did eventually communicate, you can tell that they both have strong feelings, but didn't want to cross the line while they were teacher and student.
I respect that, as much as it bums me out.
I was so happy to get approved for this manga. It was such a fast, and cute read with likeable characters.
Chiba is a driving instructor who is always patient, calm and collected. He has a new student, Yaotome who is his age and is determined to learn how to drive. Why, you ask?
He has a cat and the vet is far away, so he wants to be able to drive in case of an emergency.
It's a very noble cause, and Chiba is happy to help! He's also a bit relieved to have an older student that he has more in common with for once.
Yaotome is a manga artist and likes to work on his own stories. They're not super popular, but the one he's working on hints at a deeper connection between the two.
The only thing is, the more time they spend together, they get closer to each other. Their lessons fly by, but will they be able to admit their feelings before their time runs out?
I thought this little one shot was cute, I liked the characters and the unique setting as well as plot.
I think it would have maybe worked out better for me if it was dual pov or drawn out a bit longer.
The pacing definitely felt like a lot of the romance was weighted towards the latter half of it.
There's nothing wrong with that, I think if you likenend it to a dam breaking under pressure, it would be accurate.
When they did eventually communicate, you can tell that they both have strong feelings, but didn't want to cross the line while they were teacher and student.
I respect that, as much as it bums me out.
July 20, 2025
Chiba is a driving instructor who is popular for his kindness and pretty face, things he takes full advantage of for good reviews while also doing his best to avoid romantic advances from students. When he's assigned new student Yaotome, known as the "Sharp-Suited Prince" for showing up to lessons in a suit, Chiba finds himself charmed by the mysterious man, especially when after-hours meetings reveal that being a manga artist isn't his only secret.
It's a very short-and-sweet romance that slowly reveals things about both Chiba and Yaotome in unexpected ways. You get moments of sadness, whimsy, seriousness, and joy. A little bit of everything to make it an engaging story that you'll walk away from with a smile.
The art is nothing particularly noteworthy, but it tells the story in clear lines and expressive faces on characters easily told apart, which is sometimes an achievement on its own.
Delighted thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the sweet read!
It's a very short-and-sweet romance that slowly reveals things about both Chiba and Yaotome in unexpected ways. You get moments of sadness, whimsy, seriousness, and joy. A little bit of everything to make it an engaging story that you'll walk away from with a smile.
The art is nothing particularly noteworthy, but it tells the story in clear lines and expressive faces on characters easily told apart, which is sometimes an achievement on its own.
Delighted thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the sweet read!
June 19, 2025
﹙ three stars ﹚
i really enjoyed the art style of this manga and found it made both of the characters so much cuter! their romance was quick but not without its small miscommunications, which made the final ending still feel satisfying. i love that both of them were not who they thought each other were based on first appearances, but once they saw a little deeper into each other, it only made them fall even more. though i didn't feel particularly connected to either of them, i thought this was a cute and sweet oneshot!
— thank you to kodansha comics for the e-arc via netgalley to review!
i really enjoyed the art style of this manga and found it made both of the characters so much cuter! their romance was quick but not without its small miscommunications, which made the final ending still feel satisfying. i love that both of them were not who they thought each other were based on first appearances, but once they saw a little deeper into each other, it only made them fall even more. though i didn't feel particularly connected to either of them, i thought this was a cute and sweet oneshot!
— thank you to kodansha comics for the e-arc via netgalley to review!
August 15, 2025
This was a great quick read! I was feeling down and looking for something quick and easy that would get my mood up and this definitely worked!
Is Yaotome slightly weird? Yep! That is kinda what it is not 5 star + the weird ex, who I just really disliked seeing here. But it was a great read otherwise!
I really enjoyed the art (the story is really short, seeing that it is a one-shot, but that is absolutely not an issue when you see how absolutely amazing the art style is. I would give up at least 10 volumes of a nothing plot line just to see art like this!) and I enjoyed how the characters worked together!
It was a great read!
Is Yaotome slightly weird? Yep! That is kinda what it is not 5 star + the weird ex, who I just really disliked seeing here. But it was a great read otherwise!
I really enjoyed the art (the story is really short, seeing that it is a one-shot, but that is absolutely not an issue when you see how absolutely amazing the art style is. I would give up at least 10 volumes of a nothing plot line just to see art like this!) and I enjoyed how the characters worked together!
It was a great read!
July 16, 2025
Thank you to Deme Kingyobachi, Kodansha Comics and NetGalley for giving me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to love this more than I did, but something about the translation from Japanese to English felt a bit off. It didn’t quite flow right and came across as a little cringy at times.
That said, the art style is lovely and clean, and it definitely leans more into the YA side of yaoi manga. So if you’re after something light, sweet, and toned-down, this might still be worth checking out.
I wanted to love this more than I did, but something about the translation from Japanese to English felt a bit off. It didn’t quite flow right and came across as a little cringy at times.
That said, the art style is lovely and clean, and it definitely leans more into the YA side of yaoi manga. So if you’re after something light, sweet, and toned-down, this might still be worth checking out.
August 26, 2025
thank you so much to Netgalley and Kodansha Comics for providing me with an advanced readers copy!
i love this mangaka and their art style. it feels somehow cozy and really cute. their stories are even better, it's what completes the perfection of their works.
the setting here is so inetersting. i've never read a BL about driving school which is where one of the character's in this manga works. our second character comes to the school to get lessons, and here on starts a story full of cuteness, awkwardness and communication (!!!).
i loved how the characters really behaved like adults. yes, they had some mishaps, as it happens in life, but there was no over-the-top drama. also, the humor in this manga is so great.
the topic of fear of driving is close to me so i was nodding to every moment of Yaotome's anxiety (because same).
overall, this work may seem as nothing special, just another cute one-shot BL, but for me the coziness and humor of the story with interesting setting and amazing art style made it one of my favorites. i will return to it for comfort for sure.
i love this mangaka and their art style. it feels somehow cozy and really cute. their stories are even better, it's what completes the perfection of their works.
the setting here is so inetersting. i've never read a BL about driving school which is where one of the character's in this manga works. our second character comes to the school to get lessons, and here on starts a story full of cuteness, awkwardness and communication (!!!).
i loved how the characters really behaved like adults. yes, they had some mishaps, as it happens in life, but there was no over-the-top drama. also, the humor in this manga is so great.
the topic of fear of driving is close to me so i was nodding to every moment of Yaotome's anxiety (because same).
overall, this work may seem as nothing special, just another cute one-shot BL, but for me the coziness and humor of the story with interesting setting and amazing art style made it one of my favorites. i will return to it for comfort for sure.
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