Suzuka

Suzuka begins with a comic setup nobody would choose. Yamato, looking for a fresh start, accepts a free room in his aunt's Tokyo boarding house, which turns out to be an all-girls complex. His new neighbour is a track-and-field star who is the coolest, smartest and most intimidating girl he has ever met. The premise is a lively fish-out-of-water comedy, and it sets up plenty of nerves.The heroine's athletic confidence gives the romance a different energy. Suzuka is more than a love interest, and her rivalry with Yamato builds a playful tension. The sporty background adds variety to the usual school romcom beats.The weaknesses are the ecchi humour, which can sit awkwardly with the warmer parts, and a love triangle that follows familiar routes. Readers who enjoy sporty romcoms with a fish-out-of-water hook will find something to like. Those wanting a less fan-service-heavy comedy may prefer a different series, though the heroine keeps the chapters engaging.