Significantly better when it doesn't focus too much on philosophy or its attempts at arguments/discussions like between Saki vs the Professor in previous volumes. I didn't love everything about this though - I didn't think Yuuta finding a beef stew restaurant was some amazing surprise, even if Saki liked it as a child, and it's a bit convenient IMO how ex the movie date just happen upon them due to Yomiuri. I would prefer to see the two actively make plans to see a movie or just more proactive dates on their part beyond just dinner together.
The family trip together is fine, but I just don't find how Saki is wow'd by the MC's compassion to be that deep or particularly noteworthy. But these nitpicks aside, it was nice. They had a nice trip, celebrated birthdays, Christmas, and New Years together, and we got to see a bit more of Yuuta's family (though didn't like the two little cousins and their urging MC and FMC to cheek-kiss to make up, as it felt a bit forced since not many kids actually do that).
Both MC and FMC's main friends seem to be dating as well or so, so I suppose that'll be a future double date or plot point. And we do have some questions of what else will happen next. Maybe Valentine's Day in next volume?
I'm not sure, but I'll probably read it. I admittedly skimmed some parts of the descriptions of foods or such, but I like that this series has a semi established couple and that it shows the two together in their relationship (ex Oregairu ends as the two get together), and I'm curious how their relationship will progress or if they'll reveal it to others. Overall a decent LN volume, though I'm not sure how it compares to previous volumes - probably in the middle or so - not bad but not that good...just a decently time-passer of a volume.
EDIT: Oh, and something else I dislike - I think there's too much side teasing/pushing from outside parties about their relationship. I get that Narasaka and Yomiuri tease the two and push the two be a couple and do more dates and such, but I wish the story didn't rely on those two side characters SO much to instigate events between the main pair. It feels a bit more forced, a bit less genuine, and I would've liked the two to discuss their relationship more side by side and make plans as proactive protagonists together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I have continued to enjoy this series since book one.
It has a pleasant slow pace but the story still progresses unlike a lot of light novels. The world is vivid but described in an odd way that is enjoyable to read. The insight into the slightly odd main characters makes you feel like you start to know them despite how alien they are. The main focus is on the MCs but I feel the background characters still have enough presence and all in all I'm glad that I wasn't put off by the slightly creepy title/ premise as I have really enjoyed the series and look forward to each successive release.