Rain Kiss

Story: Typical shoujo stuff; girl asks for boy's help and both end up falling for each other. The story is a little dull because it is so predictable, but fans of shoujo school romances will enjoy this one-shot. I'm not really big on school romances anymore, especially when they are so cliche, but I did mildly enjoy this one because it wasn't too long (being a one-shot), and the female character did have some redeeming qualities, and there were some funny moments. It's fine, but nothing exceptional. Art: I really like Takeuchi's art, so I really liked the art in Rain Kiss. However, I have to admit herart is rather plain with little to no detail. The characters do look better then the backgrounds, and overall her art has a very wispy feel to it. You will either love it or hate it. I happen to love it, so it gets an 8 from me. Character: It's a one-shot, so there isn't much characterization. Shigure, the main female lead gets the most characterization, but it's still rather weak. Also characters are rather shallow and stereotypical. Ujo is the good looking boy genius who is a little mean to the heroine, yet still helps her out. Shigure is dumb and in need of help to pass her school exams and graduate. Yet she isn't spineless, thankfully, and does stand up for herself. Takeuchi seems to really like dumb, but spirited girls for some reason...most of her heroines fall into this category (just an observation, neither a criticism or a compliment). Overall, characters are there to serve a purpose in the story, but are nonetheless likable. Conclusion: ok, so you can probably tell that I'm not too fond of stereotypical, shallow, or weak characters/stories. However, since this is a one-shot, I tried to be a little more lenient and for a very stereotypical school romance, Rain Kiss wasn't half bad, especially because Shigure turned out less stereotypical overall. Even though she was suppose to be the meek, in need of help girl, she is actually quite vocal about her concerns, and isn't a pushover or lacking common sense, for which I am very thankful. I think I would have enjoy this more if the story had some twist, but sadly it doesn't and it is painfully predictable. Overall, it's decent. I recommend it to Takeuchi fans, as well as fans of school romances. Shoujo readers looking for a decent and quick read should also check it out. Everyone else will probably find it boring.