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イケオジモンスターと絶対零度男子 [Ikeoji Monster to Zettai Reido Danshi] #1
The Dashing Zaddy and His Icy Protégé 1
The second sales division at Itsuboshi Trading Company is headed up by Mr. Takanashi, one of the firm's top performer and a charismatic knockout at age 40. One of his subordinates is the equally hot, cool and calculating 26-year-old, Hiwatari. Practically every woman at the company has attempted to stir up an office romance with the magnetic Takanashi, but this dashing zaddy has turned them all down, because...he secretly has ED! Meanwhile, Hiwatari seems like a scary robot on the outside, but he's actually looked up to Takanashi since he started working with him four years ago. When Hiwatari gets a chance to spend the evening with Takanashi, he reveals more than he means to! An irresistible love comedy between a hot older man with a shameful secret and a cunning underling who becomes an unlikely confidant in his quest to once more stand proud and, ahem...erect!
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First published June 11, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
May 11, 2025
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
A ridiculous but fun boss vs employee yaoi manga.
The ‘icy prince’ has a crush on his boss, the ‘dashing zaddy’. Their secrets might just bring them closer…
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
A ridiculous but fun boss vs employee yaoi manga.
The ‘icy prince’ has a crush on his boss, the ‘dashing zaddy’. Their secrets might just bring them closer…
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
April 13, 2025
I adore the trope of the younger character spending years totally gone for the older one, and in here it's done both sweetly and hilariously. This is somehow both developing quickly and a slow burn, and I'm absolutely here for the ride.
April 1, 2025
I love my two idiots 😂❤️ cart wait for next volume.
May 16, 2025
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
After being pleasantly surprised by Senpai is an Otokono, I was hoping I would enjoy this, but it really wasn't for me.
The title says it all and there is very little more to it beside the surprisingly sexless constant talk of erectile dysfunction and boners...
The author's note at the end is explicit that older men are their kink and they used to work in a similar job as shown here. I love that for them and I'm glad they are following their bliss. However, for me this just wasn't as cute and fun or even as gay as I was hoping.
I get that this is a fantasy, but I am clearly just too much of a anarcho commie to feel anything but revulsion for CEOs and the Red, White, and Royal Blue of it all.
Also, I'm not sure about the whole 'erectile dysfunction because you don't know you're gay'
The short at the end, 25 and 11, shows the characters in a tutor and schoolboy situation with the older falling asleep during a session and bringing the child in to snuggle with him, which...YIKES.
After being pleasantly surprised by Senpai is an Otokono, I was hoping I would enjoy this, but it really wasn't for me.
The title says it all and there is very little more to it beside the surprisingly sexless constant talk of erectile dysfunction and boners...
The author's note at the end is explicit that older men are their kink and they used to work in a similar job as shown here. I love that for them and I'm glad they are following their bliss. However, for me this just wasn't as cute and fun or even as gay as I was hoping.
I get that this is a fantasy, but I am clearly just too much of a anarcho commie to feel anything but revulsion for CEOs and the Red, White, and Royal Blue of it all.
Also, I'm not sure about the whole 'erectile dysfunction because you don't know you're gay'
The short at the end, 25 and 11, shows the characters in a tutor and schoolboy situation with the older falling asleep during a session and bringing the child in to snuggle with him, which...YIKES.
May 5, 2025
This manga was hysterical and I loved every minute of it. The art is crisp and well drawn and the story is hilarious. Takanashi-san has struggled with ED for a year now and Hiwatari-kun has been secretly in love with him for ages. The dynamic between these two is great and feels natural and I honestly cannot wait to read the next volume!
Thanks to netgalley and Kodansha for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review
Thanks to netgalley and Kodansha for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review
May 2, 2025
4.5⭐️
It’s been a shitty day and I really needed something light hearted, quick and fun to keep my mind occupied and this was such a good pick! I really ended up liking this! It was cute and a lot more funny than I expected. Very excited to see how the story and the ranch will progress.
Really enjoyed the art style and our characters. I will absolutely read volume 2!
Thank you NetGalley and Kondansha Comics for the digital copy! All opinions are my own!
It’s been a shitty day and I really needed something light hearted, quick and fun to keep my mind occupied and this was such a good pick! I really ended up liking this! It was cute and a lot more funny than I expected. Very excited to see how the story and the ranch will progress.
Really enjoyed the art style and our characters. I will absolutely read volume 2!
Thank you NetGalley and Kondansha Comics for the digital copy! All opinions are my own!
January 1, 2026
Made me laugh a lot, so it gets 5 stars
April 16, 2025
3.15⭐
I really enjoyed it but what can I say, it's only the first volume, nothing much happens and if the whole series is about being impotent, I don't really care about that.
Another thing that bothered me a little bit is that, okay, a 40-28 age gap is totally fine, I don't care, but MMC1 knew MMC2 since he was 11 so... I wish this part of the story didn't exist. Yes, it was one-sided from the younger MMC only but it's bothering me, what can I say.
I think it'll be good only if the main plot (MMC1 being impotent) doesn't last forever.
Thanks to NetGalley, Kodansha Comics and Fumito for the free copy.
I really enjoyed it but what can I say, it's only the first volume, nothing much happens and if the whole series is about being impotent, I don't really care about that.
Another thing that bothered me a little bit is that, okay, a 40-28 age gap is totally fine, I don't care, but MMC1 knew MMC2 since he was 11 so... I wish this part of the story didn't exist. Yes, it was one-sided from the younger MMC only but it's bothering me, what can I say.
I think it'll be good only if the main plot (MMC1 being impotent) doesn't last forever.
Thanks to NetGalley, Kodansha Comics and Fumito for the free copy.
April 14, 2025
I don’t have much to say about this mostly because I somehow expected this to be freakier than it ended up being forgetting that this is just volume 1. The ending does give me hope tho and I’m so excited for volume 2 especially bc the assistant is clearly so obsessed and the boss is very much oblivious. Add in the fact that the assistant is also very protective, this was cute,The art was nice, it made me laugh and I generally had a fun time.
April 24, 2025
If you want a good age gap workplace romance manga, this one is for you! I love the characters so much. I really like the pace of which their relationship was developing and just the general pace the book. It wasn't too slow and it wasn't too fast in my opinion. The ending of this book makes me want to reading volume 2 so much more. I'm happy I gave this a chance and I'm excited to continue on with the series.
August 17, 2025
This was a fun and comedic read filled with laughter and a few embarrassing moments throughout. Definitely a good one to pick up!
Honestly, I picked it up solely for the blue cover and men in suits because I enjoy romantic stories about office workers. Yes, it’s a new discovery for me too, so recommendations are appreciated. Anyways, this is an age gap story where the younger character is pursuing the older character. I liked how it took a comedic approach while being laughably awkward. That said, it’s not easy sailing and there are a lot of words left unsaid.
Hiwatari is an interesting character. He comes off as rude and strict because he’s serious about his work but he’s mainly just shy. Most co-workers avoid him but Takanashi reaches out to him when a complaint is filed against Hiwatari. Outside of working, Hiwatari is very expressive in his mind which makes this story all the more enjoyable. He’s been holding back a lot and I commend his self-control, especially with the many dangerous moments he’s put in with Takanashi.
Takanashi is a genuinely good employee and his looks sometimes put him in questionable situations with everyone trying to hit on him. He’s the same person outside of work but I enjoyed how he started embracing his feelings for Hiwatari instead of questioning them. I just hope they both clearly tell how they feel about each other and we can see them spending time together outside of working in the next volume.
I enjoyed how this story portrays Hiwatari’s feelings. He loves Takanashi but also feels unsure at times. I love how he is always reflecting and taking a step back to ensure Takanashi isn’t feeling uncomfortable. That said, there are quite a bit of misunderstandings but it works, because they both are trying not to hurt the other or ruin their current relationship. Although the ending hints at hopeful progress!
There is no drama or potential love triangle in this volume. It’s a fairly simple story with a lack of communication and unsure feelings at its core. Personally I enjoy stories like this because similar to this one, they focus on other things such as the Makoto Tower.
The artwork is amazing! Let me start by saying that the pun used for Makoto Tower was genius. I also enjoyed how the characters are expressive not just facially but it’s evident in their body language and the speech bubbles. The changing font, bubble type and shape was effective, and is something I don’t see used very often. I loved the use of iconography because it added to the comedic and awkward moments creating a fun, and light-hearted vibe! And lastly, this is a business manga so I definitely enjoyed seeing the varying suit styles.
Overall this was a fun read but it wasn’t very memorable for me. It’s enjoyable, comedic and slightly cliche, so I will be continuing it as I liked Takanashi and Hiwatari’s cute moments together! They were very scenic and spoke to the rising tension growing between them. I would definitely recommend giving this series a read because the story is fun but the artwork is amazing!
Read more reviews @ Mystic's Review Shelf
Honestly, I picked it up solely for the blue cover and men in suits because I enjoy romantic stories about office workers. Yes, it’s a new discovery for me too, so recommendations are appreciated. Anyways, this is an age gap story where the younger character is pursuing the older character. I liked how it took a comedic approach while being laughably awkward. That said, it’s not easy sailing and there are a lot of words left unsaid.
Hiwatari is an interesting character. He comes off as rude and strict because he’s serious about his work but he’s mainly just shy. Most co-workers avoid him but Takanashi reaches out to him when a complaint is filed against Hiwatari. Outside of working, Hiwatari is very expressive in his mind which makes this story all the more enjoyable. He’s been holding back a lot and I commend his self-control, especially with the many dangerous moments he’s put in with Takanashi.
Takanashi is a genuinely good employee and his looks sometimes put him in questionable situations with everyone trying to hit on him. He’s the same person outside of work but I enjoyed how he started embracing his feelings for Hiwatari instead of questioning them. I just hope they both clearly tell how they feel about each other and we can see them spending time together outside of working in the next volume.
I enjoyed how this story portrays Hiwatari’s feelings. He loves Takanashi but also feels unsure at times. I love how he is always reflecting and taking a step back to ensure Takanashi isn’t feeling uncomfortable. That said, there are quite a bit of misunderstandings but it works, because they both are trying not to hurt the other or ruin their current relationship. Although the ending hints at hopeful progress!
There is no drama or potential love triangle in this volume. It’s a fairly simple story with a lack of communication and unsure feelings at its core. Personally I enjoy stories like this because similar to this one, they focus on other things such as the Makoto Tower.
The artwork is amazing! Let me start by saying that the pun used for Makoto Tower was genius. I also enjoyed how the characters are expressive not just facially but it’s evident in their body language and the speech bubbles. The changing font, bubble type and shape was effective, and is something I don’t see used very often. I loved the use of iconography because it added to the comedic and awkward moments creating a fun, and light-hearted vibe! And lastly, this is a business manga so I definitely enjoyed seeing the varying suit styles.
Overall this was a fun read but it wasn’t very memorable for me. It’s enjoyable, comedic and slightly cliche, so I will be continuing it as I liked Takanashi and Hiwatari’s cute moments together! They were very scenic and spoke to the rising tension growing between them. I would definitely recommend giving this series a read because the story is fun but the artwork is amazing!
Read more reviews @ Mystic's Review Shelf
May 6, 2025
I liked the style in which this was drawn and enjoyed the story in general. It's a lighthearted comedy read.
What attracted me to this story was the age gap and the forbidden aspect of them working in the same office.
What put me off was finding out that the leads met when the youngest was a child (11) and the elder was 23. I couldn't get past that. The storyline surrounding the erectile dysfunction is very prominent, so much so that the story doesn't have much to offer besides that as all situations lead back to the ED and miscommunication, but the jokes didnt land for me. I guess I was hoping for more secret pining and cute (secret) dates and just getting to know both men past who they are in the office.
This story has potential if it moves past the ED storyline and doesn't make it primary for the entire run.
What attracted me to this story was the age gap and the forbidden aspect of them working in the same office.
What put me off was finding out that the leads met when the youngest was a child (11) and the elder was 23. I couldn't get past that. The storyline surrounding the erectile dysfunction is very prominent, so much so that the story doesn't have much to offer besides that as all situations lead back to the ED and miscommunication, but the jokes didnt land for me. I guess I was hoping for more secret pining and cute (secret) dates and just getting to know both men past who they are in the office.
This story has potential if it moves past the ED storyline and doesn't make it primary for the entire run.
April 17, 2025
Kodansha Comics provided a galley for review.
Manga often comes up with interesting premises or titles. This is a case of both, and that's what got my attention to check it out.
The story is very much a work-place romantic drama with some comedic moments. As often is the case, open communication would clear up most of the situations but what fun is that? Some of the situations dance along the lines of traditional tropes (i.e. finding ways to get the protagonists in situations of undress) but again that is expected in a story such as this.
The art is fantastic. Fumito brings that sense of style and fashion that I always enjoy in manga. A few nitpicks: on the cover Hiwatari is portrayed with black hair but the art inside really implies something lighter (blonde or a very sandy brown), and I also found that Mr. Takanashi comes across a lot younger than 40 (yes, he's supposed to be a knockout "zaddy" but I was not getting older male vibes off of how he was portrayed - some well-place wrinkles and graying temples would easily show the man has lived four decades).
Manga often comes up with interesting premises or titles. This is a case of both, and that's what got my attention to check it out.
The story is very much a work-place romantic drama with some comedic moments. As often is the case, open communication would clear up most of the situations but what fun is that? Some of the situations dance along the lines of traditional tropes (i.e. finding ways to get the protagonists in situations of undress) but again that is expected in a story such as this.
The art is fantastic. Fumito brings that sense of style and fashion that I always enjoy in manga. A few nitpicks: on the cover Hiwatari is portrayed with black hair but the art inside really implies something lighter (blonde or a very sandy brown), and I also found that Mr. Takanashi comes across a lot younger than 40 (yes, he's supposed to be a knockout "zaddy" but I was not getting older male vibes off of how he was portrayed - some well-place wrinkles and graying temples would easily show the man has lived four decades).
April 26, 2025
5/5 stars ⭐️
Let me just say (or yell) I NEED THE NEXT PARTS OF THIS STORY ASAP!!!
A wonderful and hilariously heartwarming story about a CEO and his downstairs problem that is no longer a problem when a chance encounter with another employee at the company has his “tower” rise again. LMAO
Great great great art work!!!
Thank You NetGalley and publishing for the chance to read this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Let me just say (or yell) I NEED THE NEXT PARTS OF THIS STORY ASAP!!!
A wonderful and hilariously heartwarming story about a CEO and his downstairs problem that is no longer a problem when a chance encounter with another employee at the company has his “tower” rise again. LMAO
Great great great art work!!!
Thank You NetGalley and publishing for the chance to read this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2025
***I received a free eARC of this book from Kodansha Comics through Netgalley. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.***
I enjoyed this first volume a lot! When I found out a major part of the plot is that the older man has ED, I was a little worried this would be annoyingly raunchy, but it was actually fairly tame and takes the time to develop a relationship between the two men. I'd absolutely continue in this series!
I enjoyed this first volume a lot! When I found out a major part of the plot is that the older man has ED, I was a little worried this would be annoyingly raunchy, but it was actually fairly tame and takes the time to develop a relationship between the two men. I'd absolutely continue in this series!
January 7, 2026
Picked this up solely because of the ridiculous title. Initially, I enjoyed how ridiculous and over the top it is, but all the jokes revolve about erectile dysfunction and it gets old so quick. On top of that, the characters are dull and have little chemistry together. Can't see myself reading anymore of this.
May 6, 2025
I loved the art and the story, however the ML knowing Hiwatari when he was a child and not just a brief meeting but actually being in his life threw me off. I couldn’t really enjoy it because I couldn’t get passed the idea that he knew Hiwatari at 11 when he was 23.
April 14, 2025
Hilarious age gap romance manga...give me 14 more
May 11, 2025
you know what, I NEEDED THIS
September 23, 2025
Cute and hilarious. I had to look up the term “zaddy” LOL but It’s piqued my interest…
May 2, 2025
I got an arc, but my rating/review are my own!
Thank you NetGalley for a review copy!
There isn't much happening in this volume yet so there isn't much I can say :(
the way one of the mmcs is oblivious is kinda cute 🤧 i want to know what happens next because that last panel???😳😳🫣🫣 yesss!!! that is actually what I want🫣🤣🫣
the side story is so helpful to understand how this possessiveness started 🫣🫣
Thank you NetGalley for a review copy!
There isn't much happening in this volume yet so there isn't much I can say :(
the way one of the mmcs is oblivious is kinda cute 🤧 i want to know what happens next because that last panel???😳😳🫣🫣 yesss!!! that is actually what I want🫣🤣🫣
the side story is so helpful to understand how this possessiveness started 🫣🫣
May 12, 2025
The Dashing Daddy and His Icy Protege is a BL that follows Makoto, our titular Zaddy, who has erectile dysfunction, and Ren who seems to have cured his ED.
This was just pure fun, quick and light-hearted. It certainly has it's humorous moments as well as some more wholesome.
Despite certain events, this volume ends before Makoto even entertains the idea that he might not be straight, but I think I'm in it for the long haul. Can't wait for the next volume to see how the story progresses.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for providing an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
This was just pure fun, quick and light-hearted. It certainly has it's humorous moments as well as some more wholesome.
Despite certain events, this volume ends before Makoto even entertains the idea that he might not be straight, but I think I'm in it for the long haul. Can't wait for the next volume to see how the story progresses.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for providing an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
April 24, 2025
The mangaka herself best sums it up: "A manga plot that centers around a sexy old man in a legal way". Is it a 5-star read? Absolutely not. Will I keep my rating as is? Absolutely. It genuinely took me by surprised how much I enjoyed these idiots. With that final page, you just know I need the next volume like NOW.
received as an ARC from NetGalley
received as an ARC from NetGalley
January 4, 2026
I haven't cringed this hard in a long time. I loved it 😍
April 16, 2025
Book Review: The Dashing Zaddy and His Icy Protégé by Fumito
Overview:
The Dashing Zaddy and His Icy Protégé is a bold, comedic Boys’ Love (BL) manga series by Fumito, published by Kodansha in April 2025. The story follows Takanashi, a charismatic 40-year-old leader of a high-performing team, and his aloof, younger subordinate, forming an unlikely duo set against the backdrop of workplace antics and personal revelations.
Plot and Characters:
Takanashi, described as being in the prime of his life, is a confident and stylish manager—earning the affectionate moniker “zaddy.” His world is upended by the arrival of his new protégé, a cold and enigmatic young man whose icy demeanour masks deeper vulnerabilities. The narrative explores their evolving dynamic, blending office comedy with moments of genuine emotional depth as the two navigate professional challenges and personal boundaries.
Themes:
The manga stands out for its playful take on workplace culture, intergenerational friendship, and the awkwardness of intimacy—both emotional and physical. It doesn’t shy away from addressing “problems down there,” using humour to tackle sensitive topics and normalize candid conversations about sexuality and masculinity.
Art and Style:
Fumito’s art is expressive and dynamic, capturing both slapstick humour and subtle emotional beats. Character designs are distinct, with Takanashi’s suave presence contrasting sharply with his protégé’s frosty exterior, visually reinforcing their personality clash.
Strengths:
• Humour: The series excels at balancing outrageous comedy with heartfelt moments, making it engaging and accessible even for readers new to BL manga.
• Character Chemistry: The interplay between Takanashi and his protégé is both entertaining and touching, driving much of the story’s appeal.
• Representation: The manga provides a refreshing look at mature queer relationships and the complexities of age-gap dynamics in a respectful, light-hearted manner.
Potential Drawbacks:
• Outrageous Tone: Its comedic, sometimes risqué approach may not suit readers seeking a more serious or traditional romance.
Conclusion:
The Dashing Zaddy and His Icy Protégé is a standout addition to the BL manga genre, offering a mix of workplace comedy, unlikely friendship, and queer romance. Fumito’s series is recommended for fans of character-driven stories who appreciate both laughter and genuine emotional connection in their manga
Overview:
The Dashing Zaddy and His Icy Protégé is a bold, comedic Boys’ Love (BL) manga series by Fumito, published by Kodansha in April 2025. The story follows Takanashi, a charismatic 40-year-old leader of a high-performing team, and his aloof, younger subordinate, forming an unlikely duo set against the backdrop of workplace antics and personal revelations.
Plot and Characters:
Takanashi, described as being in the prime of his life, is a confident and stylish manager—earning the affectionate moniker “zaddy.” His world is upended by the arrival of his new protégé, a cold and enigmatic young man whose icy demeanour masks deeper vulnerabilities. The narrative explores their evolving dynamic, blending office comedy with moments of genuine emotional depth as the two navigate professional challenges and personal boundaries.
Themes:
The manga stands out for its playful take on workplace culture, intergenerational friendship, and the awkwardness of intimacy—both emotional and physical. It doesn’t shy away from addressing “problems down there,” using humour to tackle sensitive topics and normalize candid conversations about sexuality and masculinity.
Art and Style:
Fumito’s art is expressive and dynamic, capturing both slapstick humour and subtle emotional beats. Character designs are distinct, with Takanashi’s suave presence contrasting sharply with his protégé’s frosty exterior, visually reinforcing their personality clash.
Strengths:
• Humour: The series excels at balancing outrageous comedy with heartfelt moments, making it engaging and accessible even for readers new to BL manga.
• Character Chemistry: The interplay between Takanashi and his protégé is both entertaining and touching, driving much of the story’s appeal.
• Representation: The manga provides a refreshing look at mature queer relationships and the complexities of age-gap dynamics in a respectful, light-hearted manner.
Potential Drawbacks:
• Outrageous Tone: Its comedic, sometimes risqué approach may not suit readers seeking a more serious or traditional romance.
Conclusion:
The Dashing Zaddy and His Icy Protégé is a standout addition to the BL manga genre, offering a mix of workplace comedy, unlikely friendship, and queer romance. Fumito’s series is recommended for fans of character-driven stories who appreciate both laughter and genuine emotional connection in their manga
May 2, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for this ebook.
The Dashing Zaddy and His Icy Protégé, Vol. 1 kicks off with a strong visual identity and a dynamic that’s ripe with tension. This series blends sharp banter, fashion-forward aesthetics, and a mentor-protégé relationship that teeters between playful and emotionally charged.
In a twist on expectations, it's actually the "zaddy" character who is more aloof. While he can’t seem to fully explain his own reactions—especially the more intimate or confusing ones—toward his younger protégé, he frequently shows care and tenderness that almost crosses into romantic territory. There’s a push-pull here that’s intriguing, but also occasionally hard to pin down emotionally.
One issue that pulled me out of the story a bit was the subplot involving the zaddy’s ED (erectile dysfunction). It’s played for awkward humor and character development, but I honestly hope it doesn’t linger throughout future volumes—it’s already wearing thin, and I’m not sure it adds much beyond surface-level jokes.
The bigger reason I dropped this to a 3-star rating is a storyline choice that made me uncomfortable: it’s revealed that the protégé has known the zaddy since childhood and has harbored a crush on him for years. While the zaddy hasn't explicitly returned those feelings or expressed discomfort, that kind of dynamic—where one character knew the other as a child and becomes their romantic interest later—has always felt off to me. It introduces a power imbalance and familiarity that complicates the romance in a way that feels unnecessary and distracts from the otherwise promising emotional beats.
On a brighter note, the artwork is top-tier. The character designs are stunning—clean lines, expressive faces, and perfectly styled outfits that really bring the fashion-forward vibe to life. The contrast between the zaddy’s reserved coolness and the protégé’s bold presence is beautifully done through body language and panel composition. Visually, it’s sleek, modern, and hard to look away from.
Overall, this was a fun and stylish start with some strong elements, but certain narrative choices gave me pause. I’ll keep an eye on how the story develops, but I’m hoping future volumes steer away from those questionable dynamics and lean more into the emotional and character-driven potential that’s already there.
The Dashing Zaddy and His Icy Protégé, Vol. 1 kicks off with a strong visual identity and a dynamic that’s ripe with tension. This series blends sharp banter, fashion-forward aesthetics, and a mentor-protégé relationship that teeters between playful and emotionally charged.
In a twist on expectations, it's actually the "zaddy" character who is more aloof. While he can’t seem to fully explain his own reactions—especially the more intimate or confusing ones—toward his younger protégé, he frequently shows care and tenderness that almost crosses into romantic territory. There’s a push-pull here that’s intriguing, but also occasionally hard to pin down emotionally.
One issue that pulled me out of the story a bit was the subplot involving the zaddy’s ED (erectile dysfunction). It’s played for awkward humor and character development, but I honestly hope it doesn’t linger throughout future volumes—it’s already wearing thin, and I’m not sure it adds much beyond surface-level jokes.
The bigger reason I dropped this to a 3-star rating is a storyline choice that made me uncomfortable: it’s revealed that the protégé has known the zaddy since childhood and has harbored a crush on him for years. While the zaddy hasn't explicitly returned those feelings or expressed discomfort, that kind of dynamic—where one character knew the other as a child and becomes their romantic interest later—has always felt off to me. It introduces a power imbalance and familiarity that complicates the romance in a way that feels unnecessary and distracts from the otherwise promising emotional beats.
On a brighter note, the artwork is top-tier. The character designs are stunning—clean lines, expressive faces, and perfectly styled outfits that really bring the fashion-forward vibe to life. The contrast between the zaddy’s reserved coolness and the protégé’s bold presence is beautifully done through body language and panel composition. Visually, it’s sleek, modern, and hard to look away from.
Overall, this was a fun and stylish start with some strong elements, but certain narrative choices gave me pause. I’ll keep an eye on how the story develops, but I’m hoping future volumes steer away from those questionable dynamics and lean more into the emotional and character-driven potential that’s already there.
April 7, 2025
Probably more like 3.5 stars, but I'm going to put it at 4 just because it was funny and I enjoyed it. It's not exactly what I was expecting from this series, although the title probably should've clued me in enough. It's like a joke version of
Old-Fashioned Cupcake
, which I'd loved but which put a lot more emphasis on the serious side of an age gap workplace romance.
This one is kind of hard to predict. Since it's a multi-volume series, it may turn into something I like more as it goes on, or something I get tired of. So far, I'm not entirely buying the romantic side of it - the touchy-feely situations they get into seem super unlikely to happen in an actual work environment, so some of it strained credulity a little bit. It's very obviously just BL nonsense to have a subordinate rip his shirt off and try to hug his naked boss to "warm him up." I like stories that are a little more realistic and plausible.
But the characters are funny and charming, and there are other elements that hold promise. I particularly liked the bit of honesty in the public bath, with Takanashi telling Hiwatari that he's just a regular middle-aged man who gets depressed about negative comments and struggles with the high expectations put on him at work. So having a coworker he's accidentally told his biggest secret, and feels like he can be himself with now, frees him from some of his inhibitions.
Likely to be a favorite? Probably not. But it seems cute and fun so far. I'm curious whether Takanashi remembers his interactions with Hiwatari when Hiwatari was young? You'd think he would remember his name, but so far it doesn't seem like he's aware that he's been working with the ex-colleague's son he'd helped mentor some in the past.
This one is kind of hard to predict. Since it's a multi-volume series, it may turn into something I like more as it goes on, or something I get tired of. So far, I'm not entirely buying the romantic side of it - the touchy-feely situations they get into seem super unlikely to happen in an actual work environment, so some of it strained credulity a little bit. It's very obviously just BL nonsense to have a subordinate rip his shirt off and try to hug his naked boss to "warm him up." I like stories that are a little more realistic and plausible.
But the characters are funny and charming, and there are other elements that hold promise. I particularly liked the bit of honesty in the public bath, with Takanashi telling Hiwatari that he's just a regular middle-aged man who gets depressed about negative comments and struggles with the high expectations put on him at work. So having a coworker he's accidentally told his biggest secret, and feels like he can be himself with now, frees him from some of his inhibitions.
Likely to be a favorite? Probably not. But it seems cute and fun so far. I'm curious whether Takanashi remembers his interactions with Hiwatari when Hiwatari was young? You'd think he would remember his name, but so far it doesn't seem like he's aware that he's been working with the ex-colleague's son he'd helped mentor some in the past.
April 30, 2025
I read this via Net Galley
Volume 1 of The Dashing Zaddy and His Icy Protégé probably isn't a 5 star read, but I'm bias and enjoyed it enough to still give it 5 stars.
This is a comedic office romance featuring Makoto Takanashi (40) and his subordinate Ren Hiwatari (26). Takanashi is handsome, popular, and top salesperson at work but he has a secret... he's been dealing with erectile dysfunction for about a year. Meanwhile, Hiwatari is a hard worker but has resting bitch face which scares his coworkers. He's also got a huge crush on his team leader Takanashi. Through a series of silly moments, these two men grow closer and get to see another side of one another.
Somehow their relationship feels like it's moving fast but also slow, which I think works given it's a comedy. There are shirtless/naked scenes and a bit of suggestive moments but no "spice"
There are some flashbacks which might turn off some readers so I will post it as a spoiler.
Volume 1 of The Dashing Zaddy and His Icy Protégé probably isn't a 5 star read, but I'm bias and enjoyed it enough to still give it 5 stars.
This is a comedic office romance featuring Makoto Takanashi (40) and his subordinate Ren Hiwatari (26). Takanashi is handsome, popular, and top salesperson at work but he has a secret... he's been dealing with erectile dysfunction for about a year. Meanwhile, Hiwatari is a hard worker but has resting bitch face which scares his coworkers. He's also got a huge crush on his team leader Takanashi. Through a series of silly moments, these two men grow closer and get to see another side of one another.
Somehow their relationship feels like it's moving fast but also slow, which I think works given it's a comedy. There are shirtless/naked scenes and a bit of suggestive moments but no "spice"
There are some flashbacks which might turn off some readers so I will post it as a spoiler.
April 23, 2025
The cover totally caught my eye — suave older guy X cool and collected younger coworker? Yes, please! Or so I thought...
The story follows Mr. Takanashi, a 40-year-old star employee at Itsuboshi Trading Company, who’s known for his charisma, success, and, well, being a total zaddy. Practically every woman in the office has tried to shoot her shot — but Takanashi turns them all down due to a rather personal secret: he has ED. Enter Hiwatari, his 26-year-old subordinate, who's all ice on the outside but has secretly admired Takanashi for years. When they end up spending the evening together, things… escalate — and not just emotionally.
I really wanted to enjoy this, but the story felt kind of messy. The POV switches back and forth between Takanashi and Hiwatari in a way that made it hard to tell who was thinking what. The internal monologues didn’t always line up with the scenes, and the pacing was a bit off.
Also, the chemistry between the leads felt oddly forced. We’re told that Hiwatari has harbored feelings for Takanashi for years, but there’s no real explanation why. And Takanashi, who’s been pretty clearly established as only into women, suddenly… flips the switch? It didn’t really sell me on the romance — not because people can’t change, but because it just felt abrupt and unconvincing.
All in all, not quite what I hoped for. There’s definitely potential in the concept (older boss with a secret + cold protégé = spicy setup!), but the execution didn’t quite land for me. Might give volume two a try if I hear it improves, but for now, this one wasn’t for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the ARC!
The story follows Mr. Takanashi, a 40-year-old star employee at Itsuboshi Trading Company, who’s known for his charisma, success, and, well, being a total zaddy. Practically every woman in the office has tried to shoot her shot — but Takanashi turns them all down due to a rather personal secret: he has ED. Enter Hiwatari, his 26-year-old subordinate, who's all ice on the outside but has secretly admired Takanashi for years. When they end up spending the evening together, things… escalate — and not just emotionally.
I really wanted to enjoy this, but the story felt kind of messy. The POV switches back and forth between Takanashi and Hiwatari in a way that made it hard to tell who was thinking what. The internal monologues didn’t always line up with the scenes, and the pacing was a bit off.
Also, the chemistry between the leads felt oddly forced. We’re told that Hiwatari has harbored feelings for Takanashi for years, but there’s no real explanation why. And Takanashi, who’s been pretty clearly established as only into women, suddenly… flips the switch? It didn’t really sell me on the romance — not because people can’t change, but because it just felt abrupt and unconvincing.
All in all, not quite what I hoped for. There’s definitely potential in the concept (older boss with a secret + cold protégé = spicy setup!), but the execution didn’t quite land for me. Might give volume two a try if I hear it improves, but for now, this one wasn’t for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the ARC!
April 23, 2025
it’s ridiculous but what can I say I actually enjoyed it!
Characters: 5/5
Art: 5/5
Story/Plot: 4/5
This was a simple, lighthearted, and fast-paced manga—perfect for age gap romance fans looking for something silly and fun. If you read the blurb and thought it sounded like your kind of thing, chances are you’ll enjoy it.
Writing/Dialogue: 4/5
No complaints. While some parts were a bit cringe, the translation was really well done. I did find some of the sound effects/onomatopoeia pretty funny & bizarre
Giggles: 4/5
Pretty funny. I dunno, I think that stupid silly stuff mixed with a bit of dry humor is just totally my kind of humor. That’s probably why I’ve been so into manga lately—it just lines up with what I find funny.
Spice level: 1/5
I thought this was going to be a lot more explicit with how the first chapter went but it was actually much more on the wholesome side. Which is what I prefer so yay! That being said it looks like the ‘cure’ for being impotent will be implemented in the next volume so it’ll probably be a lot more spicy.
Secondhand Embarrassment: 5/5 ‼️‼️‼️
I had to stop, do something else, then come back and skip a few pages before I could keep reading lol. I mean, I knew it was gonna be a bit cringey just from the use of “zaddy,” but that one part—OMG 😭😭
tldr:
Cute, very silly, not too deep—a perfect light read, especially if you’re into older men.
[NetGalley provided an eARC copy in exchange for an honest review~]
Characters: 5/5
Art: 5/5
Story/Plot: 4/5
This was a simple, lighthearted, and fast-paced manga—perfect for age gap romance fans looking for something silly and fun. If you read the blurb and thought it sounded like your kind of thing, chances are you’ll enjoy it.
Writing/Dialogue: 4/5
No complaints. While some parts were a bit cringe, the translation was really well done. I did find some of the sound effects/onomatopoeia pretty funny & bizarre
Giggles: 4/5
Pretty funny. I dunno, I think that stupid silly stuff mixed with a bit of dry humor is just totally my kind of humor. That’s probably why I’ve been so into manga lately—it just lines up with what I find funny.
Spice level: 1/5
I thought this was going to be a lot more explicit with how the first chapter went but it was actually much more on the wholesome side. Which is what I prefer so yay! That being said it looks like the ‘cure’ for being impotent will be implemented in the next volume so it’ll probably be a lot more spicy.
Secondhand Embarrassment: 5/5 ‼️‼️‼️
I had to stop, do something else, then come back and skip a few pages before I could keep reading lol. I mean, I knew it was gonna be a bit cringey just from the use of “zaddy,” but that one part—OMG 😭😭
tldr:
Cute, very silly, not too deep—a perfect light read, especially if you’re into older men.
[NetGalley provided an eARC copy in exchange for an honest review~]
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