Can two coworkers and friends become more when neither of them know that they other one feels the same way?
About Can You Kiss Me First?
Can You Kiss Me First? is a boys’ love series by Yamayade, published in English by Seven Seas Entertainment. In it, Kanda and Ueno are coworkers and friends. They couldn’t be more different at work, but they spend a lot of time together in their off hours. One day, after a work party, Ueno lets it slip to Kanda that he’s gay, but no worries, Kanda isn’t his type. Instead of assuring Kanda, this secret sets his heart of fire. Not Ueno’s type? Why does that bother him and does he have the power to change that?
My Thoughts
Can You Kiss Me First? has easily slid into my “favorites” list. I already came highly recommend from one of my favorite twitter mutuals (and future podcast guest!) But reading it for myself was a true joy. The story mixes some of my favorite themes like friends to lovers, office workers, and a “straight” guy falling for a gay guy. Yet with all of these themes, the story is still so unique and refreshing. It doesn’t feel predictable at all, and instead, feels like the beginning of a new relationship. Butterflies, smiles, and the lingering feeling of wanting more.
Ueno and Kanda are some of my favorite types of characters in BL, and I love that both of them are so adorable. Starting with Ueno, he’s been burned in the past by a “straight” guy who made an exception for him. It absolutely makes sense why he’s so guarded around Kanda. Even in that guardedness, he still lets Kanda in, even the tiniest bit. The hangouts, letting Kanda stay at his place, “just because I want to see him smile” gifts, Ueno makes it so easy for Kanda to fall in love. Of course, as Ueno feels himself wanting more, he pulls away.
Then we get Kanda’s side of the story, and how quickly he fell for Ueno. I love how his conflict isn’t about his sexuality while falling for Ueno, but being unsure if Ueno would ever fall for him. Kanda is such a cutie and while it hurts for him, I love seeing him grapple with his feeling for Ueno. Ultimately what troubles them both is how much they love and care for each other and how they do not want to lose their friendship. Be still my heart!
This might feel like the whole story, but trust me, I left so much out because you need to experience this story yourself. It’s so good and such an enjoyable read. I already cannot wait for volume two because I need more Ueno and Kanda ASAP! I can’t wait to see them more as boyfriends and how they navigate that new landscape.
Where to Buy Can You Kiss Me First? Vol 1
Can You Kiss Me First? Vol 1
Story and Art: Yamayade
Translation: Elina Ishikawa
Lettering: Jaewon Ha
Senior Editor: Shannon Fay
Publisher: Seven Seas Entertainment
Can You Kiss Me First? Vol 1is available now.
Thank you, Seven Seas Entertainment, for the ARC.
