I wanted to begin by saying that I genuinely appreciated "Akuma to Love Song" at the start. Maria stood out as an intriguing character, distinct from typical shoujo heroines. She was outspoken, blunt, and occasionally insensitive, yet it was clear that these traits were her way of shielding herself. Deep down, she detested who she had become.
It was captivating to witness her gradually breaking down her barriers and opening up to the world.
I also enjoyed her eclectic group of friends, who were a fantastic bunch. They would call out Maria on her bluntness but simultaneously provided her with a strong support system, helping her navigate her emotions and evolve.
However... the story unraveled. We discover the reasons behind Maria's behavior, turning the narrative into a soap opera. This isn't inherently negative—soap operas are popular for a reason and have long been a staple in shoujo and josei storytelling. But when characters act in ways that defy expectations, it can be detrimental.
Rather than progressing, it felt like the characters stagnated for the sake of the soap opera elements. For a manga so driven by its characters, this is a travesty. Not only did our female lead become a shadow of her former self, but the male lead made me actively root against him. The second and even third male leads were far more appealing, and their struggles grew monotonous, especially since they could have been resolved much more easily.
As for Maria's female friends, they essentially disappeared in the second half of the manga. Instead of Maria evolving with the assistance of both her male and female friends, the story shifted to focus solely on Maria's trauma while three male friends, all enamored with her, loomed around broodingly.
Again, there are countless stories similar to this, some of which I've enjoyed, but the initial premise didn't hint at this direction, and the shift hindered the characters rather than allowing them to flourish.
Regrettably, I stopped reading at chapter 71 because I couldn't endure it anymore. I did come across comments about subsequent chapters, and I'm relieved I quit before encountering the absurdities mentioned. (One reviewer mentioned having "Usagi Drop" flashbacks, and I don't want to experience that, so it's better I dropped it now.)
I'm disappointed because I initially liked the story and its characters, but eventually, I just grew frustrated.
Story//<br />
"Akuma to Love Song" offers a refreshing take on the usual shoujo genre, as it addresses traumatic events and their aftermath with realism. Maria's reactions are convincingly portrayed, and although some simplifications occur, this manga handles the subject matter better than most others in the shoujo category. However, I found it difficult to accept how effortlessly John Cross was forgiven (mild spoilers).<br /><br />
Art//<br />
While I typically prefer realistic art styles like those of Naoki Urasawa in "Monster," I was captivated by the character designs in this manga. Despite not being a fan of the big eyes art style generally, I thought Maria was stunning. Additionally, the 'sloppy' aesthetic applied to Meguro was something I really appreciated.<br /><br />
Character//<br />
Maria stands out as an invigorating protagonist in the often repetitive world of shoujo heroines who tend to be portrayed as foolish and insecure. She is a remarkable lead who consistently confronts her problems and strives for greatness, occasionally receiving support from male characters but never depending solely on them. The rest of the main cast and supporting characters were enjoyable too, due to their evolving understanding of one another and the significant transformations in their relationships throughout the series. The only characters I struggled with until the end were Anna and John Cross, as I cannot overlook his actions.<br /><br />
Overall/Enjoyment:<br />
This series was solid overall and highly engaging. I devoured it within 24 hours, and although I wished for more insight into their future, the conclusion was satisfying. It was intriguing that the author chose to shift to Yuusuke's perspective in the final chapter, making for a distinctive and bittersweet ending.
"Devil and Her Love Song" stands out as a refreshing shoujo manga because it skillfully sidesteps the common stereotypes often found in this genre. The protagonist, Maria Kawai, is an unconventional heroine in the world of shoujo. She's known for her brutal honesty, complete lack of tact, and an intense seriousness that can be intimidating. Her demeanor might also come across as harsh and rude. Having been expelled from the prestigious St. Katrina's school (she claims it was due to assaulting a teacher), Maria finds herself at a regular high school, where her reputation precedes her.
However, there's more to this story than meets the eye, as the manga encourages readers to delve deeper into its characters. One of the most intriguing aspects of Maria is her apparent inability to grasp the intricacies of social norms... In reality, she's so genuinely transparent that she struggles to conform to what society deems acceptable. Just as complex as she is, the other main characters are equally multifaceted: Yuusuke, who appears friendly and cheerful but hides another side beneath his surface; and Megumu, the abrasive, reclusive loner who, despite his best efforts, keeps getting entangled with Maria... At least in the first two volumes, we only catch fleeting glimpses of the true selves hidden beneath their exteriors, making the narrative all the more fascinating. This isn't your typical "bad girl/boy who is actually good-hearted" storyline. I'm eager to see where the story will lead, but bear in mind that this (at least for now) is a character-driven plot. There isn't much action or conflict yet. So far, it's primarily focused on revealing the true essence of its characters, executed beautifully with stunning artwork enhancing the experience. It's an enjoyable read that promises even greater entertainment as the story unfolds.
I initially had high hopes for this manga, especially with the introduction of the strong, sassy, and "different" main female lead, Maria Kawai.
"Akuma to Love Song" does manage to break away from some of the typical stereotypes found in shoujo manga, but unfortunately, those pesky cliches still linger within the plot. The story arcs are heavily focused on drama, making them agonizing to endure as utterly unlikable and absurd antagonists appear and disappear.
The main characters truly shine; Maria, Meguro, and Yuusuke are brilliant. Despite all the obstacles preventing it from progressing, I find myself cheering for the romance in this story.
However, beyond these leads, the supporting characters are hard to tolerate. There's little incentive to like the other students, and the teacher's unbelievable behavior lacks proper justification. They all seem to dislike Maria, and this becomes incredibly tiresome over time.
I began reading this manga expecting it to be a solid romance story. I couldn't have been more mistaken.
The plot summary was promising, and the artwork is exceptional, but the story itself didn't engage me as I had hoped, and I simply couldn't continue.
Maria started off as a strong protagonist, but when she began trying to alter herself (Lovely Transformation) based on one guy's opinion, she lost some appeal.
The teacher doesn't listen to Maria and even blames her for things she didn't do.
In short, I found myself somewhat let down by this manga. It felt like something was missing, though I did appreciate the art.
I distinctly recall enjoying this manga when I stumbled upon it on a site (likely manga reader dot com) at least a decade ago, but unfortunately, I never got to see how it concluded since it was still in progress. However, as time has passed, I've grown far beyond the intended demographic for this kind of story.
The protagonist is incredibly straightforward, which quickly lands her in a bullying situation at her new school. While her bluntness can be seen as rude in some instances, I found it rather superficial overall. The same applies to the side characters and love interests, particularly the "main" love interest. His manner of expressing himself and his thoughts were incredibly frustrating to read. Sure, they're teenagers in high school, but even at 16-18 years old, people aren't typically that shallow. Additionally, the author relies heavily on clichéd misunderstandings reminiscent of old K-dramas...
The artwork was considered appealing ten years ago, but now, I'm not so sure. It evokes the same sensation I experienced when attempting to read older manga from the '90s or early 2000s back then.
I made a sincere effort to finish it, having already read over 60 chapters out of 91, but I simply couldn't bring myself to continue. Perhaps I'll muster the courage to hate-read it sometime within the next three years.
Only read Akuma to Love Song if you're into over-the-top melodrama.
On the plus side, it begins quite strongly by daring to be unconventional. Instead of the usual nice but insecure protagonist, Maria Kawai is so forthright and abrasive that she's described as having an "acid tongue." Rather than a typical romance, the first half primarily centers on Maria's interactions with her classmates. Naturally, she ends up irritating many of them, but eventually, she manages to win them over in her unique way. It does get pretty melodramatic at times, especially with its portrayal of their teacher, who is absolutely atrocious to his students. However, this didn't personally bother me too much.
What ultimately ruined it for me was the second half, when the focus shifts to Maria's various romantic entanglements. The melodrama became overwhelming when a plot twist forced Maria and her love interest apart in a way that simply doesn't happen in real life. Everyone takes it so seriously, never really questioning it, but I found it infuriating because the story lost all sense of realism or plausibility. It reminded me of Fushigi Yuugi, where there was a similarly silly melodramatic twist to separate Miaka and Tamahome. However, as a fantasy, Fushigi Yuugi had a fantastical explanation for the drama. Akuma to Love Song, on the other hand, is supposed to take place in the real world. Additionally, it's a glaring retcon because the issue they're all worried about had already occurred before, yet nothing happened as a result.
This also makes the story objectively weaker because Akuma to Love Song was mostly good initially for being different from other shoujo series, thanks to its unique protagonist. But at this midpoint, it devolves into the standard love triangle antics, and Maria's character becomes less prominent as she's shoehorned into the role of the typical shoujo heroine at the center of these romantic complications. Such a storyline wouldn't work if Maria were allowed to act exactly as she did before, since her abrasiveness would make it incredibly difficult for anyone to maintain a relationship with her, even if they understand her. The author might have intended for Maria to undergo a character arc where she changes, but if so, it didn't come across that way to me—it just felt like her character was becoming inconsistent.
This manga was one of the first I ever read, and after almost 50 others, it still ranks in my top five. It's also one of the few mangas to which I've given a perfect 10 points overall.
The story is truly unique. A girl named Kawaii Maria transfers to a new school after being expelled from her previous prestigious one. Despite her striking beauty, she struggles to make friends because she speaks her mind without filter. Her honesty, combined with her sharp judgment of others, often alienates those around her.
As a result, she finds herself universally disliked, even though she genuinely wants to befriend everyone. The romance aspect develops slowly, but that isn't the core focus. Instead, the main theme revolves around how an unconventional and socially awkward girl learns to form meaningful connections. (It might sound dull when summarized like that, but trust me, it's captivating.)
The artwork is breathtaking, often making me pause to admire it and even attempt to replicate it myself. If you give it a chance, you'll discover just how incredible *Akuma to Love Song* truly is. (Though, unfortunately, it remains relatively underrated.)
My issue with this manga revolves around the high expectations I had for it and the subsequent major disappointment it delivered. Initially, I found the first part of the manga quite enjoyable (though there were some hard-to-believe scenarios, particularly regarding the teacher's behavior), but eventually, it began to make no sense at all. From here on, there will be significant spoilers, so please stop reading if you wish to avoid them. (The conclusion is spoiler-free.)
You could summarize this story as "look, these people are navigating difficult situations; watch how they change and learn to become better individuals," yet it fails in its execution. I simply cannot comprehend how the mangaka managed to damage the characters so severely. At first, we're introduced to a girl who makes for an intriguing protagonist, distinctly different from the typical shoujo manga heroine—someone unafraid to voice her opinions and clearly burdened with issues that would develop throughout the narrative. But then, she falls in love, and all that fades away, leaving us with yet another plain protagonist. I'm not arguing against her transformation from a cold-hearted individual; in fact, it could have been a compelling development—if only it had been well-executed.
As for the male lead, Megu, I initially appreciated how his character was crafted and their interactions. However, when that other girl from the music school appears, he starts making a series of poor decisions. While I understand that everyone can act foolishly when faced with unfamiliar circumstances, his actions felt utterly unbelievable and ultimately turned me off.
Additionally, I struggle to grasp how such a pivotal backstory for the plot and character development can be resolved so simplistically. Are you really trying to convince me that a teenage girl, upon suddenly remembering her mother's suicide in front of her and the reasons behind it, manages to overcome that pain in just one chapter? This was the most crucial aspect of the story, and we deserved to witness Maria's recovery with the support of those around her—it's not something that can be wrapped up in a few panels.
What truly undermined the story for me was how the father issue was handled. He raped your mother, bringing immense despair to your family, and yet, you're able to converse with him and within a few chapters, act as though it's normal for him to meet your family and accept his declaration of love for your mother??? And you're even okay with him visiting your grandparents' house and you support it, WHATTTT????? Even your friend (the kouhai) has the audacity to say, "I'd like if you and he get along," WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU ASKING YOUR FRIEND TO DO?????? What infuriates me further is her response, as if what he's saying makes perfect sense.
The way this part of the story is written, failing to give it the gravity it deserves, and portraying this man as not entirely bad despite raping a 14-year-old and ruining her life, makes it seem as though it's not a big deal for anyone involved. If you intended to tackle such a serious topic and sought to make readers empathize with this man, there were countless alternative approaches—but not this one, where the characters' decisions and actions lack any semblance of logic.
SPOILERS END HERE
Conclusion: Although the story and characters weren't exactly my preference (goodness, even the manga's ending was disappointing), I must admit the art was stunning, and I genuinely loved Maria and Megu's designs. Additionally, if you're searching for a dramatic shoujo manga, this wouldn't be my top recommendation, as there are many others with superior storytelling. Nevertheless, it was entertaining enough to keep me engaged through 90 chapters, driven by my curiosity about its conclusion, so it deserves some credit for that.
<p>Akuma to Love Song starts off as a fairly good, albeit melodramatic, story about a girl who is unapologetically blunt and straightforward. The initial volumes were engaging and offered a unique perspective, with characters like Shin being particularly entertaining. However, the narrative gradually takes a turn for the worse. Introducing the rapist of a 14-year-old girl as a sympathetic character, one who faces no consequences for his crime and is readily forgiven by everyone, was a deeply troubling choice. To make matters worse, this character pontificates about how he "loved" his victim. While the theme of forgiveness might have been acceptable if it involved genuine effort and repentance, the overall presentation feels not only repulsive but also glaringly false and artificial. It utterly shatters any suspension of disbelief and, in my view, completely ruins the series.</p>
In all the manga I've encountered, I have yet to come across another character like Maria. No heroine has ever been labeled or perceived as arrogant and 'the devil,' not because she's merely mischievous but for far deeper reasons. Maria is a complex individual. In her own words, "I can only be myself." She embodies the part of you that remains hidden, out of reach from others because you fear they won't accept it. At least, that's my perspective. All she wants is to be saved, to feel worthy of salvation. However, she doesn't understand kindness or friendship, and to someone like her, these concepts can feel suffocating.
"To me, Kawai-san is like a mirror. A mirror that reflects all the bad parts about you. A devil-like mirror that contaminates your heart."
Meguro notices her, not due to her beauty, though she is renowned for it, but because of her 'darkness.' He sees through to her core sometimes, to the part of her that she herself isn't even aware of. He appreciates her for everything she is, including the aspects others despise.
Yuusuke, he's the one who has the "Lovely Transformation" figured out as if it were a science. Honestly, he's the character most curious about her. He believes that beneath the 'beautiful devil' lies her true self waiting to resurface. He wants to know her, likely because she was the one who saw through his cheerful facade...
Something that caught my attention about the characters is that they all serve a purpose within the story. Throughout the narrative, even when they're just in the background, each plays a significant role. This manga features numerous antagonists, and if asked, Maria would probably admit she considers herself one of them. What makes this story unique is that all the characters experience emotions beyond love. There is love, albeit sparingly, but hatred permeates the narrative. Throughout the manga, readers get a glimpse into the minds of most characters and what lies hidden behind the masks they wear.
The art is stunning. Maria is beautifully depicted, and her expressions and posture perfectly align with her elegant persona. The same applies to all the other characters. I must say, if you can make tears look three-dimensional and evoke goosebumps with a character's expression, that earns you major points in my book—not all, but more than most.
In life, to truly succeed and remain true to yourself and the person you aspire to become, you need honest individuals who challenge you. Every day, they influence you and help shape you into the person you'll be tomorrow. If you have someone like that, or if you are someone like that, you'll enjoy meeting Maria Kawai and her "friends."
I know it's just a manga. Most of the time, I read for fun, but occasionally, alongside the enjoyment, you gain a glimpse into life.
Summary: The story revolves around Maria, who is infamous and recognized by students everywhere. After being expelled from a prestigious school for "violence against a teacher," Maria transfers to a lower-tier school. She doesn't make friends easily; rather, she doesn't care to and neither do they care for her. Many feel that Maria looks down on them, while others are envious of her appearance. Despite pranks and being picked on, she handles everything with an aloof demeanor, stating, "It seems that I'm hated." She is honest and speaks her mind at all times. Everyone hates her, or do they? Can anyone get close enough to uncover her truth?
The "Devil and her Love Song" is a captivating story. Even though I haven't completed it yet, I'm thoroughly enjoying it so far.
The artwork is stunning and polished—in my opinion. Particularly the main character, Maria, stands out beautifully.
The characters appear quite diverse and intriguing. Each one is fascinating and carries their own backstory.
However, the one thing I can't quite grasp is the intense animosity the teacher has toward Maria—seriously? That teacher is so immature.
Overall, the story is very engaging, and I appreciate how it's character-driven with unexpected twists. Details are gradually revealed as you continue reading. The narrative begins when the protagonist, Maria, transfers to a new school. She meets new people but quickly makes some enemies with her sharp tongue. The story unfolds from there, as Maria isn't the type to sit back and stay silent. (I don't want to spoil it, so I'll stop here haha)
I wouldn't recommend this to those who prefer action-heavy genres, as the pacing might feel slow for some. Personally, I loved the story and would recommend it in general.
---UPDATE---
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
I've finished the manga, and while going through it, I experienced mixed feelings. The part where the manga started to decline for me was the introduction of *spoiler* Maria's father—who had raped her mother when she was ONLY 14 YEARS OLD! While it was an interesting plot point, portraying him as a sympathetic character is absurd. The only victims here are Maria and her mother! Additionally, the central romance felt lacking, and Maria's character began to change. Instead of being the wild, open-minded, strong individual she once was, after she and Shin officially become a couple, her personality does a complete 180.
Her thoughts revolve entirely around Shin...her mindset could be summed up with these statements, all centered on Shin: "Oh, I hope Shin likes my outfit," "I love Shin!" "I hope Shin and I can sing together again..."
What happened to the independent character from the beginning? Romance shouldn't cripple someone so much that they lose all the personality and fire they had before. She should have ended up with one of the other two guys—I think especially Yusuke.
In the manga, there's even a scene where a guy from a record company tells her that her singing seems like "she's always singing to one person"...and guess who that person is? *DING DING DING* Shin!
I know my update might seem critical, but it's because I had such high hopes for this story (it was one of my favorites at the start—not anymore because of the second half). I didn't find the main romance convincing, which ruined what I considered to be a great character, and it was a major letdown. I still managed to enjoy the manga (just no longer one of my favorites), and my earlier statement about its lack of action remains unchanged.
Popular Reviews
I wanted to begin by saying that I genuinely appreciated "Akuma to Love Song" at the start. Maria stood out as an intriguing character, distinct from typical shoujo heroines. She was outspoken, blunt, and occasionally insensitive, yet it was clear that these traits were her way of shielding herself. Deep down, she detested who she had become.
It was captivating to witness her gradually breaking down her barriers and opening up to the world.
I also enjoyed her eclectic group of friends, who were a fantastic bunch. They would call out Maria on her bluntness but simultaneously provided her with a strong support system, helping her navigate her emotions and evolve.
However... the story unraveled. We discover the reasons behind Maria's behavior, turning the narrative into a soap opera. This isn't inherently negative—soap operas are popular for a reason and have long been a staple in shoujo and josei storytelling. But when characters act in ways that defy expectations, it can be detrimental.
Rather than progressing, it felt like the characters stagnated for the sake of the soap opera elements. For a manga so driven by its characters, this is a travesty. Not only did our female lead become a shadow of her former self, but the male lead made me actively root against him. The second and even third male leads were far more appealing, and their struggles grew monotonous, especially since they could have been resolved much more easily.
As for Maria's female friends, they essentially disappeared in the second half of the manga. Instead of Maria evolving with the assistance of both her male and female friends, the story shifted to focus solely on Maria's trauma while three male friends, all enamored with her, loomed around broodingly.
Again, there are countless stories similar to this, some of which I've enjoyed, but the initial premise didn't hint at this direction, and the shift hindered the characters rather than allowing them to flourish.
Regrettably, I stopped reading at chapter 71 because I couldn't endure it anymore. I did come across comments about subsequent chapters, and I'm relieved I quit before encountering the absurdities mentioned. (One reviewer mentioned having "Usagi Drop" flashbacks, and I don't want to experience that, so it's better I dropped it now.)
I'm disappointed because I initially liked the story and its characters, but eventually, I just grew frustrated.
"Akuma to Love Song" offers a refreshing take on the usual shoujo genre, as it addresses traumatic events and their aftermath with realism. Maria's reactions are convincingly portrayed, and although some simplifications occur, this manga handles the subject matter better than most others in the shoujo category. However, I found it difficult to accept how effortlessly John Cross was forgiven (mild spoilers).<br /><br />
Art//<br />
While I typically prefer realistic art styles like those of Naoki Urasawa in "Monster," I was captivated by the character designs in this manga. Despite not being a fan of the big eyes art style generally, I thought Maria was stunning. Additionally, the 'sloppy' aesthetic applied to Meguro was something I really appreciated.<br /><br />
Character//<br />
Maria stands out as an invigorating protagonist in the often repetitive world of shoujo heroines who tend to be portrayed as foolish and insecure. She is a remarkable lead who consistently confronts her problems and strives for greatness, occasionally receiving support from male characters but never depending solely on them. The rest of the main cast and supporting characters were enjoyable too, due to their evolving understanding of one another and the significant transformations in their relationships throughout the series. The only characters I struggled with until the end were Anna and John Cross, as I cannot overlook his actions.<br /><br />
Overall/Enjoyment:<br />
This series was solid overall and highly engaging. I devoured it within 24 hours, and although I wished for more insight into their future, the conclusion was satisfying. It was intriguing that the author chose to shift to Yuusuke's perspective in the final chapter, making for a distinctive and bittersweet ending.
However, there's more to this story than meets the eye, as the manga encourages readers to delve deeper into its characters. One of the most intriguing aspects of Maria is her apparent inability to grasp the intricacies of social norms... In reality, she's so genuinely transparent that she struggles to conform to what society deems acceptable. Just as complex as she is, the other main characters are equally multifaceted: Yuusuke, who appears friendly and cheerful but hides another side beneath his surface; and Megumu, the abrasive, reclusive loner who, despite his best efforts, keeps getting entangled with Maria... At least in the first two volumes, we only catch fleeting glimpses of the true selves hidden beneath their exteriors, making the narrative all the more fascinating. This isn't your typical "bad girl/boy who is actually good-hearted" storyline. I'm eager to see where the story will lead, but bear in mind that this (at least for now) is a character-driven plot. There isn't much action or conflict yet. So far, it's primarily focused on revealing the true essence of its characters, executed beautifully with stunning artwork enhancing the experience. It's an enjoyable read that promises even greater entertainment as the story unfolds.
<p>
"Akuma to Love Song" does manage to break away from some of the typical stereotypes found in shoujo manga, but unfortunately, those pesky cliches still linger within the plot. The story arcs are heavily focused on drama, making them agonizing to endure as utterly unlikable and absurd antagonists appear and disappear.
The main characters truly shine; Maria, Meguro, and Yuusuke are brilliant. Despite all the obstacles preventing it from progressing, I find myself cheering for the romance in this story.
However, beyond these leads, the supporting characters are hard to tolerate. There's little incentive to like the other students, and the teacher's unbelievable behavior lacks proper justification. They all seem to dislike Maria, and this becomes incredibly tiresome over time.
<p>
The plot summary was promising, and the artwork is exceptional, but the story itself didn't engage me as I had hoped, and I simply couldn't continue.
Maria started off as a strong protagonist, but when she began trying to alter herself (Lovely Transformation) based on one guy's opinion, she lost some appeal.
The teacher doesn't listen to Maria and even blames her for things she didn't do.
In short, I found myself somewhat let down by this manga. It felt like something was missing, though I did appreciate the art.
<p>
The protagonist is incredibly straightforward, which quickly lands her in a bullying situation at her new school. While her bluntness can be seen as rude in some instances, I found it rather superficial overall. The same applies to the side characters and love interests, particularly the "main" love interest. His manner of expressing himself and his thoughts were incredibly frustrating to read. Sure, they're teenagers in high school, but even at 16-18 years old, people aren't typically that shallow. Additionally, the author relies heavily on clichéd misunderstandings reminiscent of old K-dramas...
The artwork was considered appealing ten years ago, but now, I'm not so sure. It evokes the same sensation I experienced when attempting to read older manga from the '90s or early 2000s back then.
I made a sincere effort to finish it, having already read over 60 chapters out of 91, but I simply couldn't bring myself to continue. Perhaps I'll muster the courage to hate-read it sometime within the next three years.
<p>
On the plus side, it begins quite strongly by daring to be unconventional. Instead of the usual nice but insecure protagonist, Maria Kawai is so forthright and abrasive that she's described as having an "acid tongue." Rather than a typical romance, the first half primarily centers on Maria's interactions with her classmates. Naturally, she ends up irritating many of them, but eventually, she manages to win them over in her unique way. It does get pretty melodramatic at times, especially with its portrayal of their teacher, who is absolutely atrocious to his students. However, this didn't personally bother me too much.
What ultimately ruined it for me was the second half, when the focus shifts to Maria's various romantic entanglements. The melodrama became overwhelming when a plot twist forced Maria and her love interest apart in a way that simply doesn't happen in real life. Everyone takes it so seriously, never really questioning it, but I found it infuriating because the story lost all sense of realism or plausibility. It reminded me of Fushigi Yuugi, where there was a similarly silly melodramatic twist to separate Miaka and Tamahome. However, as a fantasy, Fushigi Yuugi had a fantastical explanation for the drama. Akuma to Love Song, on the other hand, is supposed to take place in the real world. Additionally, it's a glaring retcon because the issue they're all worried about had already occurred before, yet nothing happened as a result.
This also makes the story objectively weaker because Akuma to Love Song was mostly good initially for being different from other shoujo series, thanks to its unique protagonist. But at this midpoint, it devolves into the standard love triangle antics, and Maria's character becomes less prominent as she's shoehorned into the role of the typical shoujo heroine at the center of these romantic complications. Such a storyline wouldn't work if Maria were allowed to act exactly as she did before, since her abrasiveness would make it incredibly difficult for anyone to maintain a relationship with her, even if they understand her. The author might have intended for Maria to undergo a character arc where she changes, but if so, it didn't come across that way to me—it just felt like her character was becoming inconsistent.
The story is truly unique. A girl named Kawaii Maria transfers to a new school after being expelled from her previous prestigious one. Despite her striking beauty, she struggles to make friends because she speaks her mind without filter. Her honesty, combined with her sharp judgment of others, often alienates those around her.
As a result, she finds herself universally disliked, even though she genuinely wants to befriend everyone. The romance aspect develops slowly, but that isn't the core focus. Instead, the main theme revolves around how an unconventional and socially awkward girl learns to form meaningful connections. (It might sound dull when summarized like that, but trust me, it's captivating.)
The artwork is breathtaking, often making me pause to admire it and even attempt to replicate it myself. If you give it a chance, you'll discover just how incredible *Akuma to Love Song* truly is. (Though, unfortunately, it remains relatively underrated.)
You could summarize this story as "look, these people are navigating difficult situations; watch how they change and learn to become better individuals," yet it fails in its execution. I simply cannot comprehend how the mangaka managed to damage the characters so severely. At first, we're introduced to a girl who makes for an intriguing protagonist, distinctly different from the typical shoujo manga heroine—someone unafraid to voice her opinions and clearly burdened with issues that would develop throughout the narrative. But then, she falls in love, and all that fades away, leaving us with yet another plain protagonist. I'm not arguing against her transformation from a cold-hearted individual; in fact, it could have been a compelling development—if only it had been well-executed.
As for the male lead, Megu, I initially appreciated how his character was crafted and their interactions. However, when that other girl from the music school appears, he starts making a series of poor decisions. While I understand that everyone can act foolishly when faced with unfamiliar circumstances, his actions felt utterly unbelievable and ultimately turned me off.
Additionally, I struggle to grasp how such a pivotal backstory for the plot and character development can be resolved so simplistically. Are you really trying to convince me that a teenage girl, upon suddenly remembering her mother's suicide in front of her and the reasons behind it, manages to overcome that pain in just one chapter? This was the most crucial aspect of the story, and we deserved to witness Maria's recovery with the support of those around her—it's not something that can be wrapped up in a few panels.
What truly undermined the story for me was how the father issue was handled. He raped your mother, bringing immense despair to your family, and yet, you're able to converse with him and within a few chapters, act as though it's normal for him to meet your family and accept his declaration of love for your mother??? And you're even okay with him visiting your grandparents' house and you support it, WHATTTT????? Even your friend (the kouhai) has the audacity to say, "I'd like if you and he get along," WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU ASKING YOUR FRIEND TO DO?????? What infuriates me further is her response, as if what he's saying makes perfect sense.
The way this part of the story is written, failing to give it the gravity it deserves, and portraying this man as not entirely bad despite raping a 14-year-old and ruining her life, makes it seem as though it's not a big deal for anyone involved. If you intended to tackle such a serious topic and sought to make readers empathize with this man, there were countless alternative approaches—but not this one, where the characters' decisions and actions lack any semblance of logic.
SPOILERS END HERE
Conclusion: Although the story and characters weren't exactly my preference (goodness, even the manga's ending was disappointing), I must admit the art was stunning, and I genuinely loved Maria and Megu's designs. Additionally, if you're searching for a dramatic shoujo manga, this wouldn't be my top recommendation, as there are many others with superior storytelling. Nevertheless, it was entertaining enough to keep me engaged through 90 chapters, driven by my curiosity about its conclusion, so it deserves some credit for that.
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In all the manga I've encountered, I have yet to come across another character like Maria. No heroine has ever been labeled or perceived as arrogant and 'the devil,' not because she's merely mischievous but for far deeper reasons. Maria is a complex individual. In her own words, "I can only be myself." She embodies the part of you that remains hidden, out of reach from others because you fear they won't accept it. At least, that's my perspective. All she wants is to be saved, to feel worthy of salvation. However, she doesn't understand kindness or friendship, and to someone like her, these concepts can feel suffocating.
"To me, Kawai-san is like a mirror. A mirror that reflects all the bad parts about you. A devil-like mirror that contaminates your heart."
Meguro notices her, not due to her beauty, though she is renowned for it, but because of her 'darkness.' He sees through to her core sometimes, to the part of her that she herself isn't even aware of. He appreciates her for everything she is, including the aspects others despise.
Yuusuke, he's the one who has the "Lovely Transformation" figured out as if it were a science. Honestly, he's the character most curious about her. He believes that beneath the 'beautiful devil' lies her true self waiting to resurface. He wants to know her, likely because she was the one who saw through his cheerful facade...
Something that caught my attention about the characters is that they all serve a purpose within the story. Throughout the narrative, even when they're just in the background, each plays a significant role. This manga features numerous antagonists, and if asked, Maria would probably admit she considers herself one of them. What makes this story unique is that all the characters experience emotions beyond love. There is love, albeit sparingly, but hatred permeates the narrative. Throughout the manga, readers get a glimpse into the minds of most characters and what lies hidden behind the masks they wear.
The art is stunning. Maria is beautifully depicted, and her expressions and posture perfectly align with her elegant persona. The same applies to all the other characters. I must say, if you can make tears look three-dimensional and evoke goosebumps with a character's expression, that earns you major points in my book—not all, but more than most.
In life, to truly succeed and remain true to yourself and the person you aspire to become, you need honest individuals who challenge you. Every day, they influence you and help shape you into the person you'll be tomorrow. If you have someone like that, or if you are someone like that, you'll enjoy meeting Maria Kawai and her "friends."
I know it's just a manga. Most of the time, I read for fun, but occasionally, alongside the enjoyment, you gain a glimpse into life.
Summary: The story revolves around Maria, who is infamous and recognized by students everywhere. After being expelled from a prestigious school for "violence against a teacher," Maria transfers to a lower-tier school. She doesn't make friends easily; rather, she doesn't care to and neither do they care for her. Many feel that Maria looks down on them, while others are envious of her appearance. Despite pranks and being picked on, she handles everything with an aloof demeanor, stating, "It seems that I'm hated." She is honest and speaks her mind at all times. Everyone hates her, or do they? Can anyone get close enough to uncover her truth?
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The artwork is stunning and polished—in my opinion. Particularly the main character, Maria, stands out beautifully.
The characters appear quite diverse and intriguing. Each one is fascinating and carries their own backstory.
However, the one thing I can't quite grasp is the intense animosity the teacher has toward Maria—seriously? That teacher is so immature.
Overall, the story is very engaging, and I appreciate how it's character-driven with unexpected twists. Details are gradually revealed as you continue reading. The narrative begins when the protagonist, Maria, transfers to a new school. She meets new people but quickly makes some enemies with her sharp tongue. The story unfolds from there, as Maria isn't the type to sit back and stay silent. (I don't want to spoil it, so I'll stop here haha)
I wouldn't recommend this to those who prefer action-heavy genres, as the pacing might feel slow for some. Personally, I loved the story and would recommend it in general.
---UPDATE---
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
I've finished the manga, and while going through it, I experienced mixed feelings. The part where the manga started to decline for me was the introduction of *spoiler* Maria's father—who had raped her mother when she was ONLY 14 YEARS OLD! While it was an interesting plot point, portraying him as a sympathetic character is absurd. The only victims here are Maria and her mother! Additionally, the central romance felt lacking, and Maria's character began to change. Instead of being the wild, open-minded, strong individual she once was, after she and Shin officially become a couple, her personality does a complete 180.
Her thoughts revolve entirely around Shin...her mindset could be summed up with these statements, all centered on Shin: "Oh, I hope Shin likes my outfit," "I love Shin!" "I hope Shin and I can sing together again..."
What happened to the independent character from the beginning? Romance shouldn't cripple someone so much that they lose all the personality and fire they had before. She should have ended up with one of the other two guys—I think especially Yusuke.
In the manga, there's even a scene where a guy from a record company tells her that her singing seems like "she's always singing to one person"...and guess who that person is? *DING DING DING* Shin!
I know my update might seem critical, but it's because I had such high hopes for this story (it was one of my favorites at the start—not anymore because of the second half). I didn't find the main romance convincing, which ruined what I considered to be a great character, and it was a major letdown. I still managed to enjoy the manga (just no longer one of my favorites), and my earlier statement about its lack of action remains unchanged.
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