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Ao Haru Ride, Vol. 5 by Io Sakisaka
4.0

~4 Stars

Just when we think they're growing closer, something comes up to ruin it all. Such a shame.
Futaba grow closer and further in this volume—they make steps, but other people keep coming up to invade their space. It's personally very offensive.
I can't be too upset, though, because we officially get to meet Kikuchi, and he starts making his presence known. I want to be upset about this for the romance, but he's also just a pretty great character. I liked him in the previous volume, even knowing he was going to start causing problems. And as he starts to get to know Futaba more, he starts showing up more; I really appreciate how he puts himself out there even when it embarrasses him. I'm a fan, despite myself. He's just too great.
It's funny to see Kou get upset about it, too, and it also helps progress the bromance between Kou and Kominato, which is also great.
More drama is coming in the next volume. I'm curious to see what happens at the festival, with this new girl, but also wary. I want FutabaxKou.