Anime & Manga, Reviews

Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Review:

Dive into the tale of Yakuza Fiancé, Asuka Konishi’s intriguing manga that blends romance, comedy, and dark crime drama.

Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol 1 review cover
Image: Seven Seas Entertainment
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By: William AndersonDec 20, 2024, 6:08 AM

Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol. 1

Review
Rating
8
Good
Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol 1 full cover

Writer: Asuka Konishi

Artist: Asuka Konishi

Publisher: Seven Seas Entertainment

Release Date: December 6, 2022

Page Count: 158

Format: Manga

Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii masterfully blends suspense, romance, and dark comedy in a gripping story of yakuza intrigue. With its cast of charming characters, the series explores intense relationships while sprinkling some fun into a yakuza drama.

When I heard that Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii was being adapted into an anime, I decided to give it a cautious try. Little did I know I’d end up completely hooked—so much so that I binged more of the series after diving into the first volume. While I’m typically a shonen manga reader myself, this series was getting enough buzz that I was curious to see what it was all about. Variety is the spice of life, as they say, and this series delivers plenty of different flavors. 

This review focuses on my impressions of the series while keeping spoilers to a minimum, so dive in to discover what makes Yakuza Fiancé an unforgettable experience.

Overview

Yoshino Somei is a high school girl raised in the shadow of a yakuza family. Despite her typically dangerous upbringing, she’s lived a quiet and peaceful life—until her grandfather drops a bombshell: she’s been arranged to marry Kirishima Miyama, the heir of another yakuza family. The problem? Yoshino absolutely despises him.

What follows is a whirlwind of romance, chaos, and yakuza intrigue as Yoshino is thrust into a world that tests her wit, resilience, and heart.

Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol 1 preview page 1 - Yoshino sees KirishimaImage: Seven Seas Entertainment

Review

At its core, Yakuza Fiancé is a "yakuza romantic comedy," but it’s so much more than that. The series masterfully balances suspense and violence with humor and romance, creating a unique tone that’s impossible to put down. It’s a captivating story that keeps readers on edge, blending mystery, drama, and dark comedy into one easy-to-read package.

Yoshino Somei is the heart of the story. She’s an earnest yet strong-willed beauty with a knack for standing her ground. Despite her sheltered upbringing, she navigates complex relationships with strength and vulnerability, making her a compelling protagonist. But it’s Kirishima Miyama who steals the show with his unsettling yet fascinating personality. Despite his pretty boy looks, he’s a psychotic manipulator who constantly challenges Yoshino. Their dynamic forms the crux of the romantic comedy, with Yoshino’s sharp wit and fiery temper keeping Kirishima on his toes. Her cutting remarks are the perfect foil to his yandere-like devotion. Kirishima’s obsession with Yoshino is as intense as it is hilarious. It starts as cold indifference that quickly turns into an all-consuming fixation.

Adding another layer to the story by volume two is Shouma, Yoshino’s childhood friend and her grandfather’s adopted son. Often described in manga commentary as embodying the “unholy trinity of trashy guys” (black hair, tattoos, cigarettes), Shouma is the relatable antihero. While Kirishima feels like an exaggerated character, Shouma’s grounded flaws make him feel more real—and dangerously alluring. His understated yet impactful presence enriches the narrative, creating an intriguing triangle of emotions and loyalties. The interactions between these three form the backbone of Yakuza Fiancé, driving its emotional and dramatic core.

Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol 1 preview page 2 - Kirishima has a terrifying look in his eyesImage: Seven Seas Entertainment

The art style of Yakuza Fiancé also wonderfully evolves over time. While it starts quite simplistic, Asuka Konishi’s linework gets increasingly refined, with the later volumes showcasing stunning visuals that feel like a dream compared to the beginning of the story. Yoshino, in particular, is drawn with exquisite detail, exuding elegance and strength.

Konishi’s style feels inspired by manga legends like Shotaro Ishinomori, Rumiko Takahashi, and CLAMP. Kirishima, with his angular features and striking expressions, carries a subtle CLAMP-like influence, while Shouma’s design evokes the raw appeal of characters like Onikirimaru. So if you’re a fan of those iconic creators, you’ll find plenty of familiarities with intriguing series.

Final Thoughts

Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii is a rare gem that blends romance, suspense, and yakuza drama with finesse. Its complex characters, intense relationships, and evolving art style make it a must-read for manga fans. Whether you’re drawn to its psychotic yet devoted male lead, its fiery heroine, or its nuanced storytelling, this series offers something for everyone.

With the anime adaptation bringing this captivating story to life, now is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the world of Yakuza Fiancé. Trust me—it’s an unforgettable ride.

Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol 1 preview page 2 - Kirishima beats up another yakuza.Image: Seven Seas Entertainment

Why You Should Read Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii

  • Kirishima, Shouma, and Yoshino are deeply flawed yet irresistibly compelling.
  • The interplay of manipulation, loyalty, and romance keeps you hooked.
  • It offers a perfect balance of suspense, humor, and violence, creating a story that’s never dull.
TAGGED: Seven Seas Entertainment
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