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春を抱いていた / Haru wo daiteita #1
Embracing Love, Vol. 1
This is a love story about Iwaki and Kato - two impossibly gorgeous looking actors that feel an immediate attraction to one another, but don't know how to express their love. Gradually, they nurture and embrace their feelings, and begin the most romantic relationship of their lives!
216 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 1999
22 people are currently reading
1050 people want to read
About the author
Youka Nitta
105 books142 followersYouka Nitta (新田祐克 correct pronunciation: Yuuka Nitta) is a Japanese manga artist.
Her illustration debut was in 1994, in 小説Charade.
She is one of the few Boys' Love manga-ka whose works are enjoyed by both straight women (the main target audience) and gay men.
Her manga debut was Be-Boy's 1995 release of "Groupie."
Recently she temporarily quit writing manga after a scandal involving her plagiarism of many magazine photographs.
According to The Yaoi Review (2009-12-31), she is back with a continuation of an ongoing manga to be released in English in February.
Her moe point is older ukes.
Her illustration debut was in 1994, in 小説Charade.
She is one of the few Boys' Love manga-ka whose works are enjoyed by both straight women (the main target audience) and gay men.
Her manga debut was Be-Boy's 1995 release of "Groupie."
Recently she temporarily quit writing manga after a scandal involving her plagiarism of many magazine photographs.
According to The Yaoi Review (2009-12-31), she is back with a continuation of an ongoing manga to be released in English in February.
Her moe point is older ukes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 25, 2018
I consider this manga the GOD of all yaoi mangas(and one of my favourite), I think this was one of the first yaoi mangas I have ever read, and one of the most beautiful. I just couldn't stop loving Kato(u) and Iwaki from the start, and the mangaka was a real master in keeping me interested in the story, and let's not lie the sex scenes were damn good and hot, and the fact that they were seke was a plus. The MCs were perfect for each other.
Youka Nitta is a genius and this manga is her best. The story is beautiful and full of love. No cheat, and almost no rape(some attempted?). Well you need to read it to understand what I mean with "almost".
I'm putting this as read on Feb 2011 but I started reading this manga long before that day, probably not much after it was released by the mangaka...
This was just soooo good.
Youka Nitta is a genius and this manga is her best. The story is beautiful and full of love. No cheat, and almost no rape(some attempted?). Well you need to read it to understand what I mean with "almost".
I'm putting this as read on Feb 2011 but I started reading this manga long before that day, probably not much after it was released by the mangaka...
This was just soooo good.
July 24, 2011
This is a review for the whole series.
After finishing the first volume, I rated it three stars, and I wasn't sure it deserved even that. Sure, Iwaki and Katou were nice enough and the story wasn't horrible, but I admit I thought it was overhyped. But I still read on. And on. And it got better with every volume, although it wasn't until volume 7 that I really loved it.
The great thing about this series is that it really is about a long-term relationship, which is a rare thing in any medium. And while I really disliked both Iwaki's and Katou's behavior at the beginning of the series, they both really grew up over time, and their relationship is one of the loveliest I've ever read about or watched. Here is a couple that actually talks about their problems in a sensible manner.
Yes, some of the plot lines are a bit ridiculous, but overall their story was really really really lovely. They are too sweet. And dear god, they have *incredibly* hot sex sometimes. And! I think this was the first time I read about a yaoi couple who actually switch their positions sometimes.
So to sum it all up, this series really deserves its praise. I loved it.
After finishing the first volume, I rated it three stars, and I wasn't sure it deserved even that. Sure, Iwaki and Katou were nice enough and the story wasn't horrible, but I admit I thought it was overhyped. But I still read on. And on. And it got better with every volume, although it wasn't until volume 7 that I really loved it.
The great thing about this series is that it really is about a long-term relationship, which is a rare thing in any medium. And while I really disliked both Iwaki's and Katou's behavior at the beginning of the series, they both really grew up over time, and their relationship is one of the loveliest I've ever read about or watched. Here is a couple that actually talks about their problems in a sensible manner.
Yes, some of the plot lines are a bit ridiculous, but overall their story was really really really lovely. They are too sweet. And dear god, they have *incredibly* hot sex sometimes. And! I think this was the first time I read about a yaoi couple who actually switch their positions sometimes.
So to sum it all up, this series really deserves its praise. I loved it.
May 11, 2017
Cuando comencé a interesarme por el yaoi, vi la primera OVA de este manga y me dije "ufff, esto huele a viejuno". Ayer, en un tarde tonta de lluvia, y tras leer un par de reseñas en GR, le di una oportunidad al manga, y sorpresa, nada mal.
Este primer tomo me sigue pareciendo que no hace justicia a lo que viene detrás, el plot que es interesante, me parece fatal explicado, pero el dibujo me ha cautivado, son unas líneas muy finas, puras y ellos guapísimos.
Ya estoy enganchada a Kato e Iwaki (a sus estilismos NO xDDDD), que nos regalan momentos muy hot (y explícitos e.e) y sigo con la serie feliz cual perdiz ;)
Este primer tomo me sigue pareciendo que no hace justicia a lo que viene detrás, el plot que es interesante, me parece fatal explicado, pero el dibujo me ha cautivado, son unas líneas muy finas, puras y ellos guapísimos.
Ya estoy enganchada a Kato e Iwaki (a sus estilismos NO xDDDD), que nos regalan momentos muy hot (y explícitos e.e) y sigo con la serie feliz cual perdiz ;)
August 22, 2013
It was so much fun to watch clueless Iwaki san being manipulated by crafty Kato san. Kato can be very assertive especially when it comes to pursuing what he has set his mind on. I like his directness too. To Iwaki, Kato resembles a sticky pot of goo he had no way of getting off him.
How I love the delicious sexual tension between them with Iwaki trying his hardest to push Kato's amorous attention away. Poor Iwaki needs lotsa time to adjust to being loved by a man AND being a bottom at that. Lol. He is straight after all. Not that sure about Kato primary sexual preference tho. He seems to be bisexual from what I could deduce. I just love how smitten he is with Iwaki. Why does he have such a fixation on Iwaki apart from his good looks was a mystery to me, maybe to Kato himself too. Perhaps we would get our answers in the next volume. :D
November 6, 2022
Farei una recensione dell'intera serie, ma sono ancora al primo terzo... tuttavia: come ho fatto a non leggerla prima?
Youka Nitta porta protagonisti credibili, le situazioni sono divertenti, profonde e ben realizzate. Non vedo l'ora di continuarlo! (ora sono al quarto volume)
Youka Nitta porta protagonisti credibili, le situazioni sono divertenti, profonde e ben realizzate. Non vedo l'ora di continuarlo! (ora sono al quarto volume)
October 2, 2011
OMG where to begin...Embracing Love is written and drawn by Youka Nitta, another fine manga artist! This lady has also produced Sound of My Voice, Kiss Ariki and so on. But for now I'm sticking to my fav out of her collection, Embracing Love.
This yaoi is about two male pornography (AVI) actors who fall in love while attempting to break into mainstream acting. The main characters are Kyousuke Iwaki (black hair) a reserved and self-conscious man who puts his career ahead of his personal life. He's at odds and isolated from his family. And he feels very much alone and depressed. Youji Katou (blond) is a bold and outgoing man. He's an up-and-coming actor, younger than Iwaki and quite self-confident. In the beginning Iwaki appears to be the seme, but it quickly reverses when Katou takes charge and demands a relationship as well as sex with the older man. Of course as in most yaoi Katou relentlessly pursues Iwaki until he gives in. What I find interesting and different with this story is that neither Katou or Iwaki have had a relationship with a man previous. They never profess to be homosexual. They're just two people that fell in love. Iwaki is stumped in one scene, he can't understand why Katou has fallen for him (a man). He assumes it's because of their love scene in front of the camera and that Katou has clouded reality with fantasy. Katou's response is kind of comical, the acting may have brought them together, but he doesn't see Iwaki as a man instead the person he loves.
These men battle through some interesting challenges. Iwaki, like I said, is more reserved and he doesn't want anyone to know they're together as a couple. His denial, and sometimes almost rude behavior in public is at times very hurtful, but Katou seems to rise above it all. I'd say in this relationship Katou is my favourite. He's strong, tenacious and yes, sometimes immature with how he handles things. But he also loves Iwaki like no other. It's Katou's passion and unconditional love that keeps me reading.
On the other hand, it took time to really appreciate Iwaki. He's older, has certain ideals and his family life is a bit of mess. But now I can honestly say, I've grown fond of him and he does compliment the relationship.
HWD is another yaoi manga series and I'll warn you, it's a very long one. I believe the chapter count reaches into the forties and is still on going. The sex is very explicit. I'd call it a five flame. Not for kids! LOL Overall HWD is awesome and will keep your attention. Katou and Iwaki develop as characters with the storyline as does their relationship. I'd classify this yaoi as another romantic drama with strong, enchanting characters. HWD is hugely popular and has a growing fan base!
This yaoi is about two male pornography (AVI) actors who fall in love while attempting to break into mainstream acting. The main characters are Kyousuke Iwaki (black hair) a reserved and self-conscious man who puts his career ahead of his personal life. He's at odds and isolated from his family. And he feels very much alone and depressed. Youji Katou (blond) is a bold and outgoing man. He's an up-and-coming actor, younger than Iwaki and quite self-confident. In the beginning Iwaki appears to be the seme, but it quickly reverses when Katou takes charge and demands a relationship as well as sex with the older man. Of course as in most yaoi Katou relentlessly pursues Iwaki until he gives in. What I find interesting and different with this story is that neither Katou or Iwaki have had a relationship with a man previous. They never profess to be homosexual. They're just two people that fell in love. Iwaki is stumped in one scene, he can't understand why Katou has fallen for him (a man). He assumes it's because of their love scene in front of the camera and that Katou has clouded reality with fantasy. Katou's response is kind of comical, the acting may have brought them together, but he doesn't see Iwaki as a man instead the person he loves.
These men battle through some interesting challenges. Iwaki, like I said, is more reserved and he doesn't want anyone to know they're together as a couple. His denial, and sometimes almost rude behavior in public is at times very hurtful, but Katou seems to rise above it all. I'd say in this relationship Katou is my favourite. He's strong, tenacious and yes, sometimes immature with how he handles things. But he also loves Iwaki like no other. It's Katou's passion and unconditional love that keeps me reading.
On the other hand, it took time to really appreciate Iwaki. He's older, has certain ideals and his family life is a bit of mess. But now I can honestly say, I've grown fond of him and he does compliment the relationship.
HWD is another yaoi manga series and I'll warn you, it's a very long one. I believe the chapter count reaches into the forties and is still on going. The sex is very explicit. I'd call it a five flame. Not for kids! LOL Overall HWD is awesome and will keep your attention. Katou and Iwaki develop as characters with the storyline as does their relationship. I'd classify this yaoi as another romantic drama with strong, enchanting characters. HWD is hugely popular and has a growing fan base!
January 15, 2021
Review for the series.
2020 Review: 2016 me was 100% correct -- Embracing Love has absolutely become a total comfort read.
2018 Review: I've been keeping up with the slooooooooooow pace of the sequel title since I first read this, and I guess the most recent pages were on my mind because I got the itch to re-read. Thing is, there's not a lot of established relationship romance out there, whether you're reading western or eastern books, manga or comics or novels, het or gay or slash or any combination of sexuality. It's just not a popular trope, which is a shame, because it's probably my topmost trope of all the tropes out there. If it was engaging and well written I genuinely would read a story about a couple buying curtains. So acknowledging that "Embracing Love" is one of the best/better yaoi titles out there, what really sells the book to me is that its about a couple who gets together, stays together, and figures out life's ups and downs together.
It is jarring to see imagery so dated, and there was more than one point in this re-read where I was like, "Uh, are you not talking or texting all the time? Why aren't you calling him?" when I had to forcibly remember that, hey, I didn't actually have my own mobile until 2004, and long-distance/international calls and texts used to be outlandishly expensive. So there's that. But such a negligible point for how entertaining I find the title.
It's definitely a gem, and the historical story-within-the-story set during the Meiji Restoration is just heart-rending and beautifully done. And you can see the creator, Nitta, becoming a stronger mangaka year on year as she produces more work and becomes so popular. So even though I still think the first volume, maybe the first two volumes, are rocky and by far weaker than the subsequent volumes, they're still better than a lot of shitty yaoi I have read and by a wide margin.
2016 Review: Okay, look, the first volume is not great. I mean, in the context of yaoi setups, it's on par with the average, but it does very little to prepare you for how absolutely lovely and charming this series is. The slow burn of Iwaki and Katou's relationship earns itself as over the course of the fourteen volumes the characters confront jealousy, commitment, planning for the future, family relations, and more.
Each volume builds on the previous one (even the first volume is boosted on the re-read from all that was built out from it) and, to borrow a phrase from fandom, it's wonderful, long curtainfic.
I know for sure that this is a series I'll be coming back to again and again for comfort and amusement and honestly some very effecting sex scenes (though still with the mandatory glowing cock).
2020 Review: 2016 me was 100% correct -- Embracing Love has absolutely become a total comfort read.
2018 Review: I've been keeping up with the slooooooooooow pace of the sequel title since I first read this, and I guess the most recent pages were on my mind because I got the itch to re-read. Thing is, there's not a lot of established relationship romance out there, whether you're reading western or eastern books, manga or comics or novels, het or gay or slash or any combination of sexuality. It's just not a popular trope, which is a shame, because it's probably my topmost trope of all the tropes out there. If it was engaging and well written I genuinely would read a story about a couple buying curtains. So acknowledging that "Embracing Love" is one of the best/better yaoi titles out there, what really sells the book to me is that its about a couple who gets together, stays together, and figures out life's ups and downs together.
It is jarring to see imagery so dated, and there was more than one point in this re-read where I was like, "Uh, are you not talking or texting all the time? Why aren't you calling him?" when I had to forcibly remember that, hey, I didn't actually have my own mobile until 2004, and long-distance/international calls and texts used to be outlandishly expensive. So there's that. But such a negligible point for how entertaining I find the title.
It's definitely a gem, and the historical story-within-the-story set during the Meiji Restoration is just heart-rending and beautifully done. And you can see the creator, Nitta, becoming a stronger mangaka year on year as she produces more work and becomes so popular. So even though I still think the first volume, maybe the first two volumes, are rocky and by far weaker than the subsequent volumes, they're still better than a lot of shitty yaoi I have read and by a wide margin.
2016 Review: Okay, look, the first volume is not great. I mean, in the context of yaoi setups, it's on par with the average, but it does very little to prepare you for how absolutely lovely and charming this series is. The slow burn of Iwaki and Katou's relationship earns itself as over the course of the fourteen volumes the characters confront jealousy, commitment, planning for the future, family relations, and more.
Each volume builds on the previous one (even the first volume is boosted on the re-read from all that was built out from it) and, to borrow a phrase from fandom, it's wonderful, long curtainfic.
I know for sure that this is a series I'll be coming back to again and again for comfort and amusement and honestly some very effecting sex scenes (though still with the mandatory glowing cock).
September 19, 2020
This is a review for the whole series. I just finished it and I have so many feelings. I think this is my favorite BL that I’ve ever experienced, second maybe only to Yūri on Ice! This was just so good, so many deep examinations of what it means to love and what is important in life and working in a way that you can be proud of. Katou and Iwaki were rivals at first and very antagonistic to each other, but as they slowly fell in love their squabbles and arguments just became adorable. And then they always had sweet makeup sex!!
I really liked the way this series handled a lot of issues, but I’m hesitant about one. The attempted rape of Iwaki was a little difficult for me to accept. I would love to see a detailed analysis by someone who is an expert at Japanese culture and literature of this story arc though. It wasn’t the usual brushing under the rug or pretending it wasn’t rape but just “extreme feelings” that so often you get in Japanese media (and lets be honest, western media too). There was a lot of nuance to the handling of this arc between all the characters, even if sometimes I didn’t agree with the nuances. There were definitely some cultural differences at play with this narrative!
As for a favorite character, I would have to say Katou. He was just so silly and fun and loving, always bringing Iwaki out of his head and bringing a smile to Iwaki’s face. Even jealous Katou was adorable. Plus I’m a sucker for a man with long hair. Though when Katou cut his hair he was still super hot! Get you a man who can do both!
Finally, I really appreciated a series where the main BL couple switched positions. It’s really rare to find that in this genre, and I think Nitta did it really well, even exploring some of the feelings and relationship dynamics of the switches. They had a way they “usually” did things, but they also changed sometimes for various reasons and to express different emotions with each other.
This is really an important work, and I’m disappointed it never got the recognition in the US market that it deserves! This series should be more known among BL fans in the west! Everybody read it!
I really liked the way this series handled a lot of issues, but I’m hesitant about one. The attempted rape of Iwaki was a little difficult for me to accept. I would love to see a detailed analysis by someone who is an expert at Japanese culture and literature of this story arc though. It wasn’t the usual brushing under the rug or pretending it wasn’t rape but just “extreme feelings” that so often you get in Japanese media (and lets be honest, western media too). There was a lot of nuance to the handling of this arc between all the characters, even if sometimes I didn’t agree with the nuances. There were definitely some cultural differences at play with this narrative!
As for a favorite character, I would have to say Katou. He was just so silly and fun and loving, always bringing Iwaki out of his head and bringing a smile to Iwaki’s face. Even jealous Katou was adorable. Plus I’m a sucker for a man with long hair. Though when Katou cut his hair he was still super hot! Get you a man who can do both!
Finally, I really appreciated a series where the main BL couple switched positions. It’s really rare to find that in this genre, and I think Nitta did it really well, even exploring some of the feelings and relationship dynamics of the switches. They had a way they “usually” did things, but they also changed sometimes for various reasons and to express different emotions with each other.
This is really an important work, and I’m disappointed it never got the recognition in the US market that it deserves! This series should be more known among BL fans in the west! Everybody read it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2013
Review for entire series
"Haru wo Daite Ita" or HaruDaki as it's known, is reputed to be one of the breakout works in the manga world. Having finished 14 volumes in a 2 week express read, what a journey it was!
The story takes us along with two AV actors, Iwaki Kyousuke and Katou Yoji, as their debut movie "Haru wo Daite Ita" catapults them to instant success, and their uphill climb to build a career for themselves.
Before I go any further, the mangaka Nitta Youka has done a stellar job with the art. Each frame is lovingly and meticulously detailed- from elaborate movie sets to trendy night-time Tokyo to the smallest expression on the characters' face. Iwaki & Katou have physiques to die for, and gorgeous to look at.
What surprised me, is that there isn't a lot of drama going on. We follow Iwaki & Katou as they fall in love, enter into a long term relationship and struggle in the entertainment industry. But there is a genuine connect with the protagonists' and we cannot help but feel attached to them.
Admittedly, the initial volumes are full of oft-visited subplots- the acting-cold-but-desperately-in-love characters, the jealous rivals; but once they settle into a lasting relationship, the magic begins. Their relationship, for one, is cliche free- both are equal partners (in bedroom roles & otherwise), passionately in love, committed towards success and supporting their partner to grow. They deal with conflicts in a mature way- by communicating and being there for each other. Yes, their love at times is selfish, afraid, confused- but they always confessed to the other and took the right path ahead.
The characters evolved as the story progressed- Iwaki went from being slightly insecure and distant, to someone who is confident in his abilities and decisive. Their daily lives were handled realistically as well- the coming out to their families, the long lonely separations when away filming, making their reputations as true actors, to being afraid to take on harsh roles, to dealing with professional jealousies- for a long time manga fan, it was refreshing.
Giving the viewers a sneak preview into "Fuyu no Semi" was a mastertouch. The story gripped my heart; and we identified with Iwaki & Katou's effort, anguish and elation as they struggled to make their characters come alive.
At times goofy, at times heartbreaking, at times so sweepingly romantic- HaruDaki is one of a kind in originality and deserves all the praise that come its way. It's a keeper for sure.
"Haru wo Daite Ita" or HaruDaki as it's known, is reputed to be one of the breakout works in the manga world. Having finished 14 volumes in a 2 week express read, what a journey it was!
The story takes us along with two AV actors, Iwaki Kyousuke and Katou Yoji, as their debut movie "Haru wo Daite Ita" catapults them to instant success, and their uphill climb to build a career for themselves.
Before I go any further, the mangaka Nitta Youka has done a stellar job with the art. Each frame is lovingly and meticulously detailed- from elaborate movie sets to trendy night-time Tokyo to the smallest expression on the characters' face. Iwaki & Katou have physiques to die for, and gorgeous to look at.
What surprised me, is that there isn't a lot of drama going on. We follow Iwaki & Katou as they fall in love, enter into a long term relationship and struggle in the entertainment industry. But there is a genuine connect with the protagonists' and we cannot help but feel attached to them.
Admittedly, the initial volumes are full of oft-visited subplots- the acting-cold-but-desperately-in-love characters, the jealous rivals; but once they settle into a lasting relationship, the magic begins. Their relationship, for one, is cliche free- both are equal partners (in bedroom roles & otherwise), passionately in love, committed towards success and supporting their partner to grow. They deal with conflicts in a mature way- by communicating and being there for each other. Yes, their love at times is selfish, afraid, confused- but they always confessed to the other and took the right path ahead.
The characters evolved as the story progressed- Iwaki went from being slightly insecure and distant, to someone who is confident in his abilities and decisive. Their daily lives were handled realistically as well- the coming out to their families, the long lonely separations when away filming, making their reputations as true actors, to being afraid to take on harsh roles, to dealing with professional jealousies- for a long time manga fan, it was refreshing.
Giving the viewers a sneak preview into "Fuyu no Semi" was a mastertouch. The story gripped my heart; and we identified with Iwaki & Katou's effort, anguish and elation as they struggled to make their characters come alive.
At times goofy, at times heartbreaking, at times so sweepingly romantic- HaruDaki is one of a kind in originality and deserves all the praise that come its way. It's a keeper for sure.
March 18, 2009
I like when men are men in yaoi manga and when they wore suits and the drawing is as explicit as it is possible. I got those thing in this manga. The plot is easy going and perhaps even believable outside of yaoi world. Iwaki and Kato both started as AV actors aka porn stars in typical hetero porn movies, but one crucial thing changed their careers and lives forever. They were pretty popular so popular that certain writer decided to pick them for her/his movie oh yes Sawa-san was pretty transvestite who centered her/his novel on gay relationship and in this particular case he made up story about two AV actor who were fed up with the all AV hetero fake sex and found love with each other. The fiction became true and Kato fell in love with Iwaki at the almost first sight but nothing was easy and Iwaki simply needed to adjust. Lot of sex and lot of angst mixed with superb drawing.
December 9, 2010
You know, I think I love the potential this manga has more than the manga itself. Katou and Iwaki are two very intriguing characters but their interaction, the way they react, is so full of pathos it's slightly cringe-worthy. The sex is hot, though, that's true.
Didn't care one iota about the stand alone story at the end.
Didn't care one iota about the stand alone story at the end.
February 8, 2024
I love this series! So full of angst,yet sexy as hell. Arch-rivals in the adult film business, Iwaki and Katou are thrown together in a mainstream TV series about a gay couple. And all those passionate scenes on film turn to real life.
September 23, 2013
volumes 1 and 2 in re-issue.
Lovely to finally get to read this after having only seen the anime.
I adore this mangaka, love the storylines and the way they draw anatomy and facial expressions.
Lovely to finally get to read this after having only seen the anime.
I adore this mangaka, love the storylines and the way they draw anatomy and facial expressions.
August 28, 2022
Buenas buenas, hello there!
Para empezar, tengo que decir que AMO este manga! Es una de las mejores historias yaoi ever made, estaba dudando si ponerle 4 o 5 estrellas y creo que se merece ser una historia de cinco estrellas!
Este manga muestra una relación que a mí, personalmente, me gustaría tener. Creo que es tan saludable y sana, de verdad, es una inspiración.
En general, creo que la trama esta muy bien. Mi parte favorita es cuando graban Fuyu no Semi y todo lo que es el comienzo de la historia (obviamente que lloré con Fuyu no Semi, me dio pena el final TwT). El final creo que está bueno, pero llegó un momento en el que ya me había cansado, siento que lo estiro un poquito, pero la perdonamos a la sensei querida ajajjajaja La única trama que odie con todo mi ser fue la que el amigo de Kato casi viol@ a Iwaki, me pareció que lo manejo de una mala manera y que si iba a cerrarla así, entonces debería haber hecho algo más profundo y desarrollado, pero creo que le estoy pidiendo demasiado. En general, creo que las tramas son medio pedorras tho, porque hay partes que me parecen re cualquiera o no entendía bien todas las vueltas que daban, como por ejemplo, cuando Kato tiene que volver con todo lo de la agencia, lo del director que forzaba a Iwaki a "portarse mal" (jajajaja) o algunas peleas que tenían ellos dos. De todas formas, creo que Iwaki y Kato son tan hermosos y su relación es tan bella, que nada de eso importa (y por eso mismo le pongo 5 estrella, porque creo que es un manga que se diferencia de todos los mangas yaoi, pero nunca será algo que se pueda igualar al Quijote o 1984, en referencia a las estrellas).
Creo que una de las cosas que más me gustan de este manga es que, si bien ellos tienen relaciones en casi todos los capítulos y EN CUALQUIER LADO (era gracioso porque no les importaba nada y garchaban hasta en lugares donde tranquilamente podía aparecer una persona random caminando, digo teniendo en cuenta que estamos en JAPÓN, pero bueno), ser homosexuales no es lo único que define a estos personajes. Hay muchas historias yaoi en las que los personajes no tienen desarrollo, ni objetivos, metas, etc. Acá creo que ambos personajes crecen muchísimo y es algo que yo valoro muchísimo (eso que mi manga favorito es el de Deguchi, pero bueno, DEGUCHI ES MI GRAN DEBILIDAD, QUE PUEDO DECIR, me calmo jajajaja).
En cuanto a los personajes, la verdad es que salvo ellos dos, odio a casi todos jajajaja los amigos de Kato eran un asco y Sawa me daba ganas de morir (posta, el primo menor de edad, él siendo mujer, el bdsm... todo me daba mucha repulsión, trataba de terminar sus capítulos lo antes posible). Como mucho se salvan los agentes de ellos, pero eso deja mucho que desear. Igual, eso demuestra como Kato e Iwaki llevan toda la serie en sus hombros, ellos hacen que todo valga la pena.
Particularmente, yo me considero fan y enamorada de Iwaki, creo que la autora pensaba igual porque literal, lo demostraba con cada capitulo. Creo que es un hombre perfecto y amo que no lo denigre, el sigue siendo elegante, mayor y profesional. Para mi es la imagen perfecta de como un hombre g@y debería ser! Kato es muy bueno también, me fui enamorando de él a lo largo del manga, yo creo que, a pesar de ser fan numero uno de Iwaki, soy muy parecida a Kato (sacando su belleza y dinero jajaja). Pero siendo sincera, es muy insoportable pero leal, serio y divertido, celoso pero siempre orgulloso de Iwaki. Kato es un personaje que merece muchísimo la verdad. En conclusión, amo a los dos!
Bueno, en fin, creo que es un manga muy bueno y que merece las cinco estrellas. No tanto por la trama o personajes secundarios, pero sí por el desarrollo, crecimiento y relación saludable, de estos dos hombres. Es un yaoi poco frecuente y de los cuales deberíamos tener más! Orgullosa de esta historia y creo que siempre me va a acompañar. Espero tener la suerte de comprar los mangas en algún momento de mi vida <3
Para empezar, tengo que decir que AMO este manga! Es una de las mejores historias yaoi ever made, estaba dudando si ponerle 4 o 5 estrellas y creo que se merece ser una historia de cinco estrellas!
Este manga muestra una relación que a mí, personalmente, me gustaría tener. Creo que es tan saludable y sana, de verdad, es una inspiración.
En general, creo que la trama esta muy bien. Mi parte favorita es cuando graban Fuyu no Semi y todo lo que es el comienzo de la historia (obviamente que lloré con Fuyu no Semi, me dio pena el final TwT). El final creo que está bueno, pero llegó un momento en el que ya me había cansado, siento que lo estiro un poquito, pero la perdonamos a la sensei querida ajajjajaja La única trama que odie con todo mi ser fue la que el amigo de Kato casi viol@ a Iwaki, me pareció que lo manejo de una mala manera y que si iba a cerrarla así, entonces debería haber hecho algo más profundo y desarrollado, pero creo que le estoy pidiendo demasiado. En general, creo que las tramas son medio pedorras tho, porque hay partes que me parecen re cualquiera o no entendía bien todas las vueltas que daban, como por ejemplo, cuando Kato tiene que volver con todo lo de la agencia, lo del director que forzaba a Iwaki a "portarse mal" (jajajaja) o algunas peleas que tenían ellos dos. De todas formas, creo que Iwaki y Kato son tan hermosos y su relación es tan bella, que nada de eso importa (y por eso mismo le pongo 5 estrella, porque creo que es un manga que se diferencia de todos los mangas yaoi, pero nunca será algo que se pueda igualar al Quijote o 1984, en referencia a las estrellas).
Creo que una de las cosas que más me gustan de este manga es que, si bien ellos tienen relaciones en casi todos los capítulos y EN CUALQUIER LADO (era gracioso porque no les importaba nada y garchaban hasta en lugares donde tranquilamente podía aparecer una persona random caminando, digo teniendo en cuenta que estamos en JAPÓN, pero bueno), ser homosexuales no es lo único que define a estos personajes. Hay muchas historias yaoi en las que los personajes no tienen desarrollo, ni objetivos, metas, etc. Acá creo que ambos personajes crecen muchísimo y es algo que yo valoro muchísimo (eso que mi manga favorito es el de Deguchi, pero bueno, DEGUCHI ES MI GRAN DEBILIDAD, QUE PUEDO DECIR, me calmo jajajaja).
En cuanto a los personajes, la verdad es que salvo ellos dos, odio a casi todos jajajaja los amigos de Kato eran un asco y Sawa me daba ganas de morir (posta, el primo menor de edad, él siendo mujer, el bdsm... todo me daba mucha repulsión, trataba de terminar sus capítulos lo antes posible). Como mucho se salvan los agentes de ellos, pero eso deja mucho que desear. Igual, eso demuestra como Kato e Iwaki llevan toda la serie en sus hombros, ellos hacen que todo valga la pena.
Particularmente, yo me considero fan y enamorada de Iwaki, creo que la autora pensaba igual porque literal, lo demostraba con cada capitulo. Creo que es un hombre perfecto y amo que no lo denigre, el sigue siendo elegante, mayor y profesional. Para mi es la imagen perfecta de como un hombre g@y debería ser! Kato es muy bueno también, me fui enamorando de él a lo largo del manga, yo creo que, a pesar de ser fan numero uno de Iwaki, soy muy parecida a Kato (sacando su belleza y dinero jajaja). Pero siendo sincera, es muy insoportable pero leal, serio y divertido, celoso pero siempre orgulloso de Iwaki. Kato es un personaje que merece muchísimo la verdad. En conclusión, amo a los dos!
Bueno, en fin, creo que es un manga muy bueno y que merece las cinco estrellas. No tanto por la trama o personajes secundarios, pero sí por el desarrollo, crecimiento y relación saludable, de estos dos hombres. Es un yaoi poco frecuente y de los cuales deberíamos tener más! Orgullosa de esta historia y creo que siempre me va a acompañar. Espero tener la suerte de comprar los mangas en algún momento de mi vida <3
April 20, 2019
Otro gran manga bl con el que mi objetividad se va al traste.
Haru wo Daite ita (título original) cuenta la historia de dos actores porno: Iwaki y Kato, dos hombres con bastantes seguidoras a causa de su gran belleza (porque estos señores están para que te dé un infarto).
Después de la grabación de una peli hard,
Iwaki recibe un paquete con un libro que trata sobre una relación homosexual entre dos actores y la petición para hacer una prueba porque se quiere hacer una peli de dicho libro. Cuando Iwaki piensa que Kato (un novato en el sector, ya que Iwaki es mayor que él) también habrá sido convocado, decide ir para ganar.
Al llegar, el autor del libro (que también está metido en la producción de la peli) les dice que quiere que los dos tengan sexo real para decidir los papeles de los protagonistas, ya que uno hace de activo y otro de pasivo.
Los dos aceptan y, será a partir del momento en el que sus vidas, irremediablemente, quedarán unidas tanto a través del cine como a través del amor que se dará entre ellos.
Haru wo Daite ita (título original) cuenta la historia de dos actores porno: Iwaki y Kato, dos hombres con bastantes seguidoras a causa de su gran belleza (porque estos señores están para que te dé un infarto).
Después de la grabación de una peli hard,
Iwaki recibe un paquete con un libro que trata sobre una relación homosexual entre dos actores y la petición para hacer una prueba porque se quiere hacer una peli de dicho libro. Cuando Iwaki piensa que Kato (un novato en el sector, ya que Iwaki es mayor que él) también habrá sido convocado, decide ir para ganar.
Al llegar, el autor del libro (que también está metido en la producción de la peli) les dice que quiere que los dos tengan sexo real para decidir los papeles de los protagonistas, ya que uno hace de activo y otro de pasivo.
Los dos aceptan y, será a partir del momento en el que sus vidas, irremediablemente, quedarán unidas tanto a través del cine como a través del amor que se dará entre ellos.
January 28, 2023
Tenia moltes ganes de llegir-me aquest clàssic del yaoi, però he de reconèixer que aquest primer volum m'ha semblat un pèl confús ^^' Els sentiments dels protagonistes són molt extrems: el Katou s'enamora rapidíssimament i queda totalment corprès de l'Iwaki, que és una contradicció amb potes . L'Iwaki desconfia dels sentiments de l'altre i creu que només l'està utilitzant per promocionar la seva carrera, però llavors el Katou es muda sense permís a casa seva... veurem com avança! Per cert, la trama del paparazzi/stalker Urushizaki m'ha deixat descol·locada igual que el bolet d'història dels nois d'institut que fan atletisme...
January 31, 2023
I really don't know why the artstyle is so wacky in the first few chapters but if you just get through the first 5-6 then it really changes for the better! Embracing love, especially if we take into consideration that it was written and illustrated back in 1999-2009, is a very well-written story, not perfect but very enjoyable! The main characters (Iwaki and Katou) really draw you in with their personalities and you just can't put the story down. Of course, you'll have to keep in mind that this is a yaoi so many explicit scenes are included.
August 20, 2025
ARGH having read the whole thing, it's giving "How I met your mother" where you have 8 seasons of gold, then 1 season of ass. But I'll have to rate it a 5, because a 5 is how I felt when I first discovered this and read it through, and stayed up all night reading and couldn't get enough. Given those circumstances, it just wouldn't be fair of me to 1-star what I feel is a great injustice to what were once (and no longer, due to the ending! -- not a spoiler but I'm going to hide this review so it doesn't stop anyone continuing) my favorite bl couple.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2018
This was a hard to get series for a long time, everybody wanted it! I only got the first volume or two before dropping the series. Good but dated artwork is all I really recall.
June 17, 2022
La serie empieza muy bien, me está gustando bastante, pero quiero más drama en la historia (•ө•)♡
July 22, 2022
Morí con el finl
April 12, 2024
I didn't love it. I could quite put a finger on why. It could be it was an other series and some of those feel a little off to me at times. I love the softer stories.
July 26, 2016
I've stumbled over this ages ago, but I was never into old drawings.. but now, I was sick of those typical feminine ukes, and I am so glad I found this. But I could have read it long ago if it weren't for this cover. *felt the guilt of the moment when you judge the book by its cover...*
So, I finished this series (14 books) in 4 days and it was absolutely worth it. The bestest and most realistic yaoi series that I've ever read to the point that I don't want to see it end. The relationship between Iwaki and Katou was incredible, the meaningful dialogues and the art really made you feel the real emotions. Everything felt very real. Iwaki and Katou are one of the best yaoi couples I've ever seen. Thanks to Youka Nitta for creating (yes, their story is still ongoing, not completed yet) this amazing story.
I've read hundreds yaoi manga. However, Haru wo Daiteita will forever be my most favorite. It's a masterpiece! I highly recommend every yaoi fans to read this. You won't get disappointed for sure! because this one is a 'MUST READ'. :) I myself will definitely read this again!
I guessed you might wonder why I gave 3 stars for the 1st volume if I fancy it so much... Honestly, the story plot of the 1st book is just so-so for me, not so great yet not so bad either. Sure, the artwork is good, the sex is so explicit and delicious (yum! ;p), but the plot was kinda flat and a bit boring for me. So I thought, why don't we take a look at the next volume before I drop this series for a while and read another book... And WOW, the plot was getting better and better starting from the 2nd volume. Thus 4 stars for 2nd book, 5 stars for 3rd book and the rest of the series. :)
This story is just so one of a kind... truly stands out from the rest of the list. It's such a rich story, encompassing all aspects of their life together. I love the way their love was portrayed and the sex scenes was so HOT as hell! Not only that, the character development was just fantastic! You can really feel how they both grow as time passes! I like the clash of their characters and how the mangaka portrayed their individual personalities, and how they complement each other so well, how they are very compatible with each other, indirectly supporting one another. And unlike any other yaoi mangas out there, they are willing to abandon their own pride for the sake of their partner. It just shows how great and deep their love is for one another. They are truly passionately in love with each other, so devoted to each other. I would love to see them grow old and pass away together happily in love forever. I love this couple so much!!! :D
I also like how both Katou and Iwaki play both great seme and uke. It's difficult enough to find a yaoi couple where they swap positions, but to find one that works as well as these two, even more difficult. I also noticed Iwaki becomes more sexier as their story progressing! The amount of pheromones that he exuding was enough to make a women get aroused when they saw his seductive looks or his sexy poses!! All in all, all guys in this manga are sooo hot!! Hail to Nitta sensei for this awesome manga! LOL.
Too bad this manga will never be released in Indonesia. I guess I have to buy the official print in English from VizMedia. And, yippie!!... O_O They (BookDepository.com) also offer free worldwide delivery to Indonesia too! :D
So, I finished this series (14 books) in 4 days and it was absolutely worth it. The bestest and most realistic yaoi series that I've ever read to the point that I don't want to see it end. The relationship between Iwaki and Katou was incredible, the meaningful dialogues and the art really made you feel the real emotions. Everything felt very real. Iwaki and Katou are one of the best yaoi couples I've ever seen. Thanks to Youka Nitta for creating (yes, their story is still ongoing, not completed yet) this amazing story.
I've read hundreds yaoi manga. However, Haru wo Daiteita will forever be my most favorite. It's a masterpiece! I highly recommend every yaoi fans to read this. You won't get disappointed for sure! because this one is a 'MUST READ'. :) I myself will definitely read this again!
I guessed you might wonder why I gave 3 stars for the 1st volume if I fancy it so much... Honestly, the story plot of the 1st book is just so-so for me, not so great yet not so bad either. Sure, the artwork is good, the sex is so explicit and delicious (yum! ;p), but the plot was kinda flat and a bit boring for me. So I thought, why don't we take a look at the next volume before I drop this series for a while and read another book... And WOW, the plot was getting better and better starting from the 2nd volume. Thus 4 stars for 2nd book, 5 stars for 3rd book and the rest of the series. :)
This story is just so one of a kind... truly stands out from the rest of the list. It's such a rich story, encompassing all aspects of their life together. I love the way their love was portrayed and the sex scenes was so HOT as hell! Not only that, the character development was just fantastic! You can really feel how they both grow as time passes! I like the clash of their characters and how the mangaka portrayed their individual personalities, and how they complement each other so well, how they are very compatible with each other, indirectly supporting one another. And unlike any other yaoi mangas out there, they are willing to abandon their own pride for the sake of their partner. It just shows how great and deep their love is for one another. They are truly passionately in love with each other, so devoted to each other. I would love to see them grow old and pass away together happily in love forever. I love this couple so much!!! :D
I also like how both Katou and Iwaki play both great seme and uke. It's difficult enough to find a yaoi couple where they swap positions, but to find one that works as well as these two, even more difficult. I also noticed Iwaki becomes more sexier as their story progressing! The amount of pheromones that he exuding was enough to make a women get aroused when they saw his seductive looks or his sexy poses!! All in all, all guys in this manga are sooo hot!! Hail to Nitta sensei for this awesome manga! LOL.
Too bad this manga will never be released in Indonesia. I guess I have to buy the official print in English from VizMedia. And, yippie!!... O_O They (BookDepository.com) also offer free worldwide delivery to Indonesia too! :D
May 21, 2010
If I mark this as containing spoilers, will that keep people from automatically seeing review content in the feed? I'd rather not blast people with review of an MforMature book. Seems it should be an opt-in-only kind of thing....
Explicit (hardcore) sex from the first plot page, but what else should one expect in a story of two men from the (straight) adult film industry who audition for roles in a movie about two porn stars falling in love with each other? Life inevitably mirrors art in this tale, but it's more classic than boring.
The main characters, Kyosuke Iwaki and Yoji Katou, are beautiful in a masculine model way, rather than the common androgynous or downright feminine tradition. There is no confusing gender with sexuality here, aside from the characters' own concern about who shall be the "woman"(=bottom) in the relationship--and this topic is one for internal analysis and some fluidity, rather than a rigidly defined divide. A queer approach.
The other important character, the author/director, provokes the two leads to question first hir gender (is that really a woman?!) and then, after he admits to crossdressing as a woman, his sexuality (surely he is gay?). Nagisa Sawa is always throwing the two for a loop.
Although I found a few moments confusing, Embracing Love (vol 1) read well and fairly believably on the whole. (One must almost always exclude some large plot elements/settings from believability analysis, and just go with them, so I'm speaking more to the development within its context than to the premise or situational devices.) I liked the story and the art, which is undeniably hot. Will definitely continue reading.
The..bonus story?.., Fence, was interesting enough. Naota Gyoubu comes across pretty clearly for a brief tale, while Masaki Joushima is a bit harder to read. Intriguing, yes, but his dead eyes at a choice moment or two threw me.
Explicit (hardcore) sex from the first plot page, but what else should one expect in a story of two men from the (straight) adult film industry who audition for roles in a movie about two porn stars falling in love with each other? Life inevitably mirrors art in this tale, but it's more classic than boring.
The main characters, Kyosuke Iwaki and Yoji Katou, are beautiful in a masculine model way, rather than the common androgynous or downright feminine tradition. There is no confusing gender with sexuality here, aside from the characters' own concern about who shall be the "woman"(=bottom) in the relationship--and this topic is one for internal analysis and some fluidity, rather than a rigidly defined divide. A queer approach.
The other important character, the author/director, provokes the two leads to question first hir gender (is that really a woman?!) and then, after he admits to crossdressing as a woman, his sexuality (surely he is gay?). Nagisa Sawa is always throwing the two for a loop.
Although I found a few moments confusing, Embracing Love (vol 1) read well and fairly believably on the whole. (One must almost always exclude some large plot elements/settings from believability analysis, and just go with them, so I'm speaking more to the development within its context than to the premise or situational devices.) I liked the story and the art, which is undeniably hot. Will definitely continue reading.
The..bonus story?.., Fence, was interesting enough. Naota Gyoubu comes across pretty clearly for a brief tale, while Masaki Joushima is a bit harder to read. Intriguing, yes, but his dead eyes at a choice moment or two threw me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2016
I wanna punch myself for not thinking of Haru wo Daite Ita the second I started adding my favorite BL/yaoi manga to my Goodreads list. Because let's be real here: Harudaki is the epitome of yaoi. There is no yaoi manga that embraces all yaoi tropes and plot twists as skillfully and beautifully as Harudaki.
I joined the yaoi train pretty late considering my age. At 24 years old I still only had read a hand full of BL manga and I never really had been into the fandom at all. Therefore old classics like Sekaiichi Hatsukoi and the like passed by me unnoticed and I never got to develop a taste for the old school yaoi artstyle. So when a friend of mine started gushing about Harudaki and I looked at the cover art I was very reluctant to try it. But her insistance that the drawing(of the butts) in this manga was superbe convinced me in the end and THANK GOD SHE DID. The artwork in this series is stunning. (especially the butts)
Like, holy cow, that woman can draw sexy men and have them have the steamiest of sexy times. JFC. *fans herself*
Yes, the manga is full of yaoi/romance tropes. Yes, the overall story structure is repetitive. Yes, there is a ton of sex in this series. But I fell in love with the characters. I fell so hard, I didn't care that all stories had the same overarching structure. The mangaka still manages to create wonderfully rounded characters who develop throughout this long series, and I can definitely say that both protagonists are lovely (and not aesthetically pleasing LOL).
(and yes, I took a look at the formatting tips just to do this manga justice)
I joined the yaoi train pretty late considering my age. At 24 years old I still only had read a hand full of BL manga and I never really had been into the fandom at all. Therefore old classics like Sekaiichi Hatsukoi and the like passed by me unnoticed and I never got to develop a taste for the old school yaoi artstyle. So when a friend of mine started gushing about Harudaki and I looked at the cover art I was very reluctant to try it. But her insistance that the drawing
Like, holy cow, that woman can draw sexy men and have them have the steamiest of sexy times. JFC. *fans herself*
Yes, the manga is full of yaoi/romance tropes. Yes, the overall story structure is repetitive. Yes, there is a ton of sex in this series. But I fell in love with the characters. I fell so hard, I didn't care that all stories had the same overarching structure. The mangaka still manages to create wonderfully rounded characters who develop throughout this long series, and I can definitely say that both protagonists are lovely (and not aesthetically pleasing LOL).
September 7, 2016
I loved this mainly because it was after going through some really intense yaoi, like Ai No Kusabi, and I needed a tender fix for all that angst. I've seen the two OVAs first, and read the manga later on, and I loved both the animation and the manga.
I've read more of Youka Nitta after that, but I think this is her best work. I love Embracing Love because it's love fulfilled. Angst is awesome, but can get tiring some times. If you ever find yourself too tired with the drama happening in your favorite yaois, like I did, I highly recommend this. It is funny, it is sweet, it shows the ups and downs of a relationship, and it will heal you.
Whenever I feel down, I pick this one up. I won't say it works for everyone, but, for me, it holds a special place.
5 stars for the entire series. It may not be perfect, but for me this is like an old friend. You no longer see their flaws.
I've read more of Youka Nitta after that, but I think this is her best work. I love Embracing Love because it's love fulfilled. Angst is awesome, but can get tiring some times. If you ever find yourself too tired with the drama happening in your favorite yaois, like I did, I highly recommend this. It is funny, it is sweet, it shows the ups and downs of a relationship, and it will heal you.
Whenever I feel down, I pick this one up. I won't say it works for everyone, but, for me, it holds a special place.
5 stars for the entire series. It may not be perfect, but for me this is like an old friend. You no longer see their flaws.
October 19, 2025
Repeated review.
Okay, back in the day, I loved this series. Why? Because gay. That’s literally the only reason I loved it, alongside a lot of other yaoi manga. But then, I got older, smarter, and learned some fucked up shit about life, and then, I returned to most of the yaoi manga I once read. And absolutely hated a lot of them.
All of them, that I ended up hating later in life, involved incest, toxic relationships, rape, borderline rape, slavery, underage, and cringe. You decide which of those fits best with this series.
Okay, back in the day, I loved this series. Why? Because gay. That’s literally the only reason I loved it, alongside a lot of other yaoi manga. But then, I got older, smarter, and learned some fucked up shit about life, and then, I returned to most of the yaoi manga I once read. And absolutely hated a lot of them.
All of them, that I ended up hating later in life, involved incest, toxic relationships, rape, borderline rape, slavery, underage, and cringe. You decide which of those fits best with this series.
October 6, 2008
I love this entire series. This first volume caught my attention by the mere fact that both men actually looked like men, which is definitely a refreshing change from the other yaoi mangas that I have read. The dynamic between Iwaki-san and Katou-kun is absolutely breath-taking. This is absolutely my favorite manga that I've ever read.
Those not looking for graphic sexual content should not read this under any circumstances. This is most definitely not for young ones to read. Trust me!
Those not looking for graphic sexual content should not read this under any circumstances. This is most definitely not for young ones to read. Trust me!
June 12, 2014
Life reflects art for Iwaki and Katou, two adult film stars who are considering retirement from their sordid careers. However, when they're invited to audition for a new erotic film, they realize that this may be their last chance to achieve mainstream success. Unfortunately, things sour quickly when the director asks them to make love to each other and determine who will get the lead role. What follows next is romance, and passionate sex that will alter their careers.
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