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Description
Volume 1:
Freelance photographer Akihito Takaba is captured by the very subject he’s been stalking in his viewfinder—the handsome and enigmatic crime lord Asami Ryuichi! The older man ravages him, both body and mind. Does this mean the end for the naive photographer, or will he live to shoot another day?
Also includes:
- Love Lesson (Love Lesson part 1)
Yuusuke's senior, Ichijou, tells him an old horror story of an ill-fated lover who, rumor has it, was left to die in what is now the present-day basement of one of the school's buildings. Sent on an errand between classes, Yusuke can't help ... More...
Freelance photographer Akihito Takaba is captured by the very subject he’s been stalking in his viewfinder—the handsome and enigmatic crime lord Asami Ryuichi! The older man ravages him, both body and mind. Does this mean the end for the naive photographer, or will he live to shoot another day?
Also includes:
- Love Lesson (Love Lesson part 1)
Yuusuke's senior, Ichijou, tells him an old horror story of an ill-fated lover who, rumor has it, was left to die in what is now the present-day basement of one of the school's buildings. Sent on an errand between classes, Yusuke can't help ... More...
Volume 1:
Freelance photographer Akihito Takaba is captured by the very subject he’s been stalking in his viewfinder—the handsome and enigmatic crime lord Asami Ryuichi! The older man ravages him, both body and mind. Does this mean the end for the naive photographer, or will he live to shoot another day?
Also includes:
- Love Lesson (Love Lesson part 1)
Yuusuke's senior, Ichijou, tells him an old horror story of an ill-fated lover who, rumor has it, was left to die in what is now the present-day basement of one of the school's buildings. Sent on an errand between classes, Yusuke can't help but recall the story as he makes his way through the eerie surroundings, when suddenly... he blacks out...
- Koi o Suru Shokubutsu part of Koi o Suru DNA +
- Risky Society - God Bless My Justice
A rookie to a society of people with supernatural abilities must prove himself (and his love) to his superior.
-Hardworking Photographer Akihito Takaba from the SuBLime "Deluxe Edition.''
Volume 2:
Impulsive freelance photographer Akihito Takaba isn’t one to back down from a challenge. Undeterred by the ravaging his body took at the hands of Ryuichi Asami, Akihito stakes out the handsome crime boss’s club hoping to get the information he needs to take him down. Meanwhile, rival mafioso Fei Long returns to Hong Kong after his run-in with Asami and reminisces about their time together seven years earlier. What could the future possibly hold for this very deadly love triangle?
Also includes:
Koi o Suru DNA part of Koi o Suru DNA +.
Volume 3:
Freelance photographer Akihito Takaba has something Fei Long wants, and this Hong Kong crime boss will stop at nothing to get it, including kidnapping the young photographer’s friends! Akihito turns to the only person he can think of for help—Fei Long’s former lover and current rival in crime Ryuichi Asami. But even Asami can’t stop the sparks from flying when his old flame meets his new replacement!
Also includes:
-Baked Sweet Glasses
Overenthusiastic salesman Fujiya is determined to win over businessman Mikami. But what exactly is Fujiya aiming for? And how does he know about Mikami's secret love of sweets?
-Koi o Suru Baby Leaf part of Koi o Suru DNA +
Volume 4:
Impetuous photographer Akihito Takaba finds himself in trouble again! After pursuing crime boss Fei Long, he’s captured and spirited away to Hong Kong, but not before Asami takes a few bullets during a failed rescue attempt. Now all the despondent Akihito can think of is whether or not his lover is alive, and if so, are Asami’s feelings strong enough to attempt yet another rescue?
Also includes:
-Gakko no Kaidan (School Ghost Story) (Love Lesson part 2)
Volume 5:
Crime boss Ryuichi Asami puts everything on the line to save his lover, Akihito Takaba, from the hands of his enemy. Unfortunately for them, Fei Long has grown quite fond of his captive. Meanwhile, Russian mafioso Mikhail Arbatov takes advantage of the situation to steal something precious. When three of the underworld’s biggest crime bosses clash, will Akihito be the one caught in the cross fire?
Volume 6:
After being held prisoner in Hong Kong, Akihito Takaba is finally brought home to Japan by his lover Ryuichi Asami. But once again, the feisty photographer escapes Asami’s grasp! It’s not long, though, before Akihito becomes ensnared in a stalking incident and sees Asami’s darker side return. Will he chase the scoop or the man he’s not quite ready to admit he’s attracted to?
Also includes:
-Koisuru Finder no Hyouteki a.k.a. Koisuru x VF Crossover
Takaba Akihito (Finder) has his hands full with Mizuno and Hiyama from Koi o Suru DNA + when they go to Kyoto for their graduation trip.
Volume 7:
Akihito is freeloading at Asami’s apartment, polishing up not only his photography skills but also his skills as a househusband. His career is on the upswing, even though he still finds himself in perilous situations and has the occasional run-in with police. So imagine Akihito’s surprise when, while out chasing a scoop, he spots Asami with another man clinging to him…in tears! Are Akihito’s days as Asami’s live-in numbered?
Volume 8:
After crime lord Asami's subordinate Sudo betrays him, freelance photographer Akihito attempts to chase Sudo down, only to wind up captured and at his mercy. Sudo's fixation on Asami has only grown stronger with time, to the point of wanting him dead. But Sudo isn't the only threat: another enemy appears on the horizon, gunning for the power Asami wields!
Volume 9:
It’s been months since mysterious assassins attacked Asami and Akihito in their condo, and since then Akihito has been hiding out at a temple deep in the mountains. Asami, however, has spent this time flying around the world in order to keep his criminal organization together. Upon arriving in Hong Kong, he’s paid a surprise visit in his own hideout by former lover and longtime rival Fei Long! Will Asami survive long enough to find his way back to Akihito?
Volume 10:
Akihito has been searching for Asami in Hong Kong, and after months apart, they are finally reunited. But things can never be easy for these two, and the helicopter they’re in crashes! When the star-crossed lovers come to, they find themselves stranded on a desert island, surrounded by paradise! Never ones to pass up an opportunity, the two quickly make up for lost time, temporarily forgetting their dire straits.
Volume 11:
Asami prepares to face off against his greatest enemy yet! Worried for Akihito’s safety, he tells him to wait somewhere safe. But sitting idly by has never been Akihito’s thing, so he insists on staying by Asami’s side. The two know that when the big showdown begins, there will be no turning back. Will they prevail once again, or has their luck finally run out?
Volume 12:
After their big showdown with the Russian mob, Asami and Akihito find themselves injured and once again separated, and it takes six long months of recuperating and searching before Asami is able to locate Akihito. As expected, the two have a passionate reunion…until Akihito pulls out a knife and attempts to kill Asami!
Volume 13:
Akihito is back with Asami but has lost his memories of him. And to make a bad situation worse, Akihito is going through withdrawal from no longer taking the drug responsible for his memory loss. But despite not remembering his lover, the warmth of Asami’s kindness has Akihito feeling confused about his growing attraction. Will that be enough for Asami to get his old Akihito back?
Official English Releases: SuBLime Less...
Freelance photographer Akihito Takaba is captured by the very subject he’s been stalking in his viewfinder—the handsome and enigmatic crime lord Asami Ryuichi! The older man ravages him, both body and mind. Does this mean the end for the naive photographer, or will he live to shoot another day?
Also includes:
- Love Lesson (Love Lesson part 1)
Yuusuke's senior, Ichijou, tells him an old horror story of an ill-fated lover who, rumor has it, was left to die in what is now the present-day basement of one of the school's buildings. Sent on an errand between classes, Yusuke can't help but recall the story as he makes his way through the eerie surroundings, when suddenly... he blacks out...
- Koi o Suru Shokubutsu part of Koi o Suru DNA +
- Risky Society - God Bless My Justice
A rookie to a society of people with supernatural abilities must prove himself (and his love) to his superior.
-Hardworking Photographer Akihito Takaba from the SuBLime "Deluxe Edition.''
Volume 2:
Impulsive freelance photographer Akihito Takaba isn’t one to back down from a challenge. Undeterred by the ravaging his body took at the hands of Ryuichi Asami, Akihito stakes out the handsome crime boss’s club hoping to get the information he needs to take him down. Meanwhile, rival mafioso Fei Long returns to Hong Kong after his run-in with Asami and reminisces about their time together seven years earlier. What could the future possibly hold for this very deadly love triangle?
Also includes:
Koi o Suru DNA part of Koi o Suru DNA +.
Volume 3:
Freelance photographer Akihito Takaba has something Fei Long wants, and this Hong Kong crime boss will stop at nothing to get it, including kidnapping the young photographer’s friends! Akihito turns to the only person he can think of for help—Fei Long’s former lover and current rival in crime Ryuichi Asami. But even Asami can’t stop the sparks from flying when his old flame meets his new replacement!
Also includes:
-Baked Sweet Glasses
Overenthusiastic salesman Fujiya is determined to win over businessman Mikami. But what exactly is Fujiya aiming for? And how does he know about Mikami's secret love of sweets?
-Koi o Suru Baby Leaf part of Koi o Suru DNA +
Volume 4:
Impetuous photographer Akihito Takaba finds himself in trouble again! After pursuing crime boss Fei Long, he’s captured and spirited away to Hong Kong, but not before Asami takes a few bullets during a failed rescue attempt. Now all the despondent Akihito can think of is whether or not his lover is alive, and if so, are Asami’s feelings strong enough to attempt yet another rescue?
Also includes:
-Gakko no Kaidan (School Ghost Story) (Love Lesson part 2)
Volume 5:
Crime boss Ryuichi Asami puts everything on the line to save his lover, Akihito Takaba, from the hands of his enemy. Unfortunately for them, Fei Long has grown quite fond of his captive. Meanwhile, Russian mafioso Mikhail Arbatov takes advantage of the situation to steal something precious. When three of the underworld’s biggest crime bosses clash, will Akihito be the one caught in the cross fire?
Volume 6:
After being held prisoner in Hong Kong, Akihito Takaba is finally brought home to Japan by his lover Ryuichi Asami. But once again, the feisty photographer escapes Asami’s grasp! It’s not long, though, before Akihito becomes ensnared in a stalking incident and sees Asami’s darker side return. Will he chase the scoop or the man he’s not quite ready to admit he’s attracted to?
Also includes:
-Koisuru Finder no Hyouteki a.k.a. Koisuru x VF Crossover
Takaba Akihito (Finder) has his hands full with Mizuno and Hiyama from Koi o Suru DNA + when they go to Kyoto for their graduation trip.
Volume 7:
Akihito is freeloading at Asami’s apartment, polishing up not only his photography skills but also his skills as a househusband. His career is on the upswing, even though he still finds himself in perilous situations and has the occasional run-in with police. So imagine Akihito’s surprise when, while out chasing a scoop, he spots Asami with another man clinging to him…in tears! Are Akihito’s days as Asami’s live-in numbered?
Volume 8:
After crime lord Asami's subordinate Sudo betrays him, freelance photographer Akihito attempts to chase Sudo down, only to wind up captured and at his mercy. Sudo's fixation on Asami has only grown stronger with time, to the point of wanting him dead. But Sudo isn't the only threat: another enemy appears on the horizon, gunning for the power Asami wields!
Volume 9:
It’s been months since mysterious assassins attacked Asami and Akihito in their condo, and since then Akihito has been hiding out at a temple deep in the mountains. Asami, however, has spent this time flying around the world in order to keep his criminal organization together. Upon arriving in Hong Kong, he’s paid a surprise visit in his own hideout by former lover and longtime rival Fei Long! Will Asami survive long enough to find his way back to Akihito?
Volume 10:
Akihito has been searching for Asami in Hong Kong, and after months apart, they are finally reunited. But things can never be easy for these two, and the helicopter they’re in crashes! When the star-crossed lovers come to, they find themselves stranded on a desert island, surrounded by paradise! Never ones to pass up an opportunity, the two quickly make up for lost time, temporarily forgetting their dire straits.
Volume 11:
Asami prepares to face off against his greatest enemy yet! Worried for Akihito’s safety, he tells him to wait somewhere safe. But sitting idly by has never been Akihito’s thing, so he insists on staying by Asami’s side. The two know that when the big showdown begins, there will be no turning back. Will they prevail once again, or has their luck finally run out?
Volume 12:
After their big showdown with the Russian mob, Asami and Akihito find themselves injured and once again separated, and it takes six long months of recuperating and searching before Asami is able to locate Akihito. As expected, the two have a passionate reunion…until Akihito pulls out a knife and attempts to kill Asami!
Volume 13:
Akihito is back with Asami but has lost his memories of him. And to make a bad situation worse, Akihito is going through withdrawal from no longer taking the drug responsible for his memory loss. But despite not remembering his lover, the warmth of Asami’s kindness has Akihito feeling confused about his growing attraction. Will that be enough for Asami to get his old Akihito back?
Official English Releases: SuBLime Less...
Type
Manga
Related Series
Associated Names
Baked Sweet Glasses
Escape & Love
Finder (YAMANE Ayano)
Finder Series
Finder Series (Italian)
Koisuru x VF Crossover
Love Lesson (YAMANE Ayano)
Pray in the Abyss
Risky Society (God Bless My Justice)
Viewfinder
Viewfinder Series
Vol 01 Finder no Hyouteki
Vol 01 Finder: Target in Sight (Sublime)
Vol 01 Target in the Finder (Be Beautiful)
Vol 01 Target in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 01 ファインダーの標的
Vol 02 Cage in the Finder (Be Beautiful)
Vol 02 Cage in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 02 Finder no Ori
Vol 02 Finder: Caught in a Cage (Sublime)
Vol 02 ファインダーの檻
Vol 03 Finder no Sekiyoku
Vol 03 Finder: On One Wing (Sublime)
Vol 03 One wing in the finder (Be Beautiful)
Vol 03 One wing in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 03 ファインダーの隻翼
Vol 04 Finder no Ryoshuu
Vol 04 Finder: In Captivity (Sublime)
Vol 04 Prisoner in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 04 ファインダーの虜囚
Vol 05 Finder no Shinjitsu
Vol 05 Finder: Naked Truth (Sublime)
Vol 05 Truth in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 05 ファインダーの真実
Vol 06 Finder no Netsujou
Vol 06 Finder: You’re My Desire (Sublime)
Vol 06 Passion within the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 06 ファインダーの熱情
Vol 07 Desire in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 07 Finder no Katsubou
Vol 07 Finder: Longing for You (Sublime)
Vol 07 ファインダーの渇望
Vol 08 Finder no Mitsuyaku
Vol 08 Finder: Secret Vow (Sublime)
Vol 08 ファインダーの密約
Vol 09 Finder no Kodou
Vol 09 Finder: Beating of My Heart (Sublime)
Vol 09 ファインダーの鼓動
Vol 10 Finder no Mitsugetsu
Vol 10 ファインダーの蜜月
Vol 11 Finder no Saihate
Vol 11 ファインダーの最果て
You're My Loveprize in Viewfinder
You're my temporary paradise in viewfinder
ファインダーの陽炎
探索者系列
Escape & Love
Finder (YAMANE Ayano)
Finder Series
Finder Series (Italian)
Koisuru x VF Crossover
Love Lesson (YAMANE Ayano)
Pray in the Abyss
Risky Society (God Bless My Justice)
Viewfinder
Viewfinder Series
Vol 01 Finder no Hyouteki
Vol 01 Finder: Target in Sight (Sublime)
Vol 01 Target in the Finder (Be Beautiful)
Vol 01 Target in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 01 ファインダーの標的
Vol 02 Cage in the Finder (Be Beautiful)
Vol 02 Cage in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 02 Finder no Ori
Vol 02 Finder: Caught in a Cage (Sublime)
Vol 02 ファインダーの檻
Vol 03 Finder no Sekiyoku
Vol 03 Finder: On One Wing (Sublime)
Vol 03 One wing in the finder (Be Beautiful)
Vol 03 One wing in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 03 ファインダーの隻翼
Vol 04 Finder no Ryoshuu
Vol 04 Finder: In Captivity (Sublime)
Vol 04 Prisoner in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 04 ファインダーの虜囚
Vol 05 Finder no Shinjitsu
Vol 05 Finder: Naked Truth (Sublime)
Vol 05 Truth in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 05 ファインダーの真実
Vol 06 Finder no Netsujou
Vol 06 Finder: You’re My Desire (Sublime)
Vol 06 Passion within the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 06 ファインダーの熱情
Vol 07 Desire in the viewfinder (Juné)
Vol 07 Finder no Katsubou
Vol 07 Finder: Longing for You (Sublime)
Vol 07 ファインダーの渇望
Vol 08 Finder no Mitsuyaku
Vol 08 Finder: Secret Vow (Sublime)
Vol 08 ファインダーの密約
Vol 09 Finder no Kodou
Vol 09 Finder: Beating of My Heart (Sublime)
Vol 09 ファインダーの鼓動
Vol 10 Finder no Mitsugetsu
Vol 10 ファインダーの蜜月
Vol 11 Finder no Saihate
Vol 11 ファインダーの最果て
You're My Loveprize in Viewfinder
You're my temporary paradise in viewfinder
ファインダーの陽炎
探索者系列
Groups Scanlating
Latest Release(s)
c.Finder's Heroes by Harudaki over 2 years ago
v.13 c.72 by SCBB about 1 year ago
v.12 c.67-71 by SCBB over 2 years ago
Search for all releases of this series
v.13 c.72 by SCBB about 1 year ago
v.12 c.67-71 by SCBB over 2 years ago
Search for all releases of this series
Status
in Country of Origin
13 Volumes (Ongoing)
Completely Scanlated?
No
Anime Start/End Chapter
N/A
User Reviews
Forum
6 topics, 37 posts
Click here to view the forum
Click here to view the forum
User Rating
Average: 8.7 / 10.0 (1241 votes)
Bayesian Average: 8.64 / 10.0
Bayesian Average: 8.64 / 10.0
10
59%
9+
15%
8+
9%
7+
4%
6+
3%
5+
2%
4+
1%
3+
1%
2+
1%
1+
5%
Last Updated
April 15th 2024, 9:54am
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Genre
Categories
Category Recommendations
Recommendations
Author(s)
Artist(s)
Year
2001
Original Publisher
Serialized In (magazine)
Licensed (in English)
Yes
English Publisher
Activity Stats (vs. other series)
Weekly Pos #501 (+48)
Monthly Pos #816 (+127)
3 Month Pos #1191 (-10)
6 Month Pos #1230 (+27)
Year Pos #1296 (-151)
Monthly Pos #816 (+127)
3 Month Pos #1191 (-10)
6 Month Pos #1230 (+27)
Year Pos #1296 (-151)
List Stats
On 2971 reading lists
On 605 wish lists
On 648 completed lists
On 150 unfinished lists
On 754 custom lists
On 605 wish lists
On 648 completed lists
On 150 unfinished lists
On 754 custom lists
Forum Posts Click to view the forum
over 6 years ago
over 9 years ago
over 10 years ago
over 11 years ago
over 14 years ago
User Comments
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Go read it...
by Xiyima
February 14th, 2013, 5:50am
February 14th, 2013, 5:50am
Rating: 10.0 / 10.0
One of my fav yaoi mangas. The art improves a lot throughout the serie.
Asami is the ultimate seme and Akihito is a very strong uke. It's a cruel manga at times but has a happy ending. I'd totally recommend it!
Asami is the ultimate seme and Akihito is a very strong uke. It's a cruel manga at times but has a happy ending. I'd totally recommend it!
Surprisingly good
by kvicka
January 25th, 2013, 3:25pm
January 25th, 2013, 3:25pm
Rating: 7.0 / 10.0
This manga is really not my style. But it turned out to be surprisingly good. I'm wondering myself why I didn't throw the manga away after 2nd volume. I was even seriously thinking about set-away this manga already in the middle of first volume. Cause I really didn't like it. But through the third, fourth volume ...it got to me I guess. Now I'm eagerly waiting for every new chapter.
... Last updated on February 17th, 2013, 6:19am
... Last updated on February 17th, 2013, 6:19am
Favorite Series
by Araknayel
January 21st, 2013, 2:14pm
January 21st, 2013, 2:14pm
Rating: 10.0 / 10.0
This is my absolute favorite series, in terms of Yaoi. A heads up, though, that it is indeed pretty hard Yaoi. In my opinion, it's well written, and characters are well fleshed out. I'm not a fan of a simpering whiney moe-moe spineless super uke, and this delivers exceptionally well. Akihito has spunk and spice. And Asami? The King of Seme speaks for himself. ♥_♥ The 'anime' adaption is actually an animix, which is more like animated stills. Don't bother watching it. It will kill your soul and make your ovaries(or testes) shrivel up and die. The voice acting in that is horrible, not to mention the Cantonese voice acting/pronounciation(I'm Chinese).
... Last updated on January 21st, 2013, 2:17pm
... Last updated on January 21st, 2013, 2:17pm
fangirl rant of love
by yayanime
December 28th, 2012, 9:27pm
December 28th, 2012, 9:27pm
Rating: 10.0 / 10.0
I really really REALLY enjoy this manga. I think it has to be that even after all the abuse that Asami subjects Takaba to I still end up wanting them to be together. That is EXTREMELY rare for me, usually I can't stand cold, abusive, passive aggressive guys ASAMI IS WITHOUT A DOUBT THE EXCEPTION. It might be that even though asami is abusive towards takaba the way the mangaka shows their relationship developing is still so very realistic that it makes you want to root for them to find a happy ever after in whatever way shape or form that may be for them. Besides while Asami is no saint he is definitely not what he seems. There is just is so much more to him than what is seen on the surface it's like we have just seen the tip of the iceberg and besides he is just so darn captivating. It is kinda like a moth is captivated by a bright porch light... Even though the insect acknowledges the carcasses of other insects trapped in the porch light it still is drawn to the captivating light though it will probably be its end. Or maybe the light is so bright that the moth can't acknowledge anythig other than the light. I sometimes feel like takaba is kinda in a similar situation except takaba is not as stupid to not care about asami's faults he just thinks that asami's light is captivatig enough to get close to even if it burns a little. Idk But honestly Takaba isn't completely innocent anyway which is why they work pretty well together on some semi twisted animalistic mental wavelength. Also takaba might be a bit of a masochist. Lol. Ultimately I really love the art (Gosh is it just goregous!) I really love the characters. The only thing I will complain about is there isn't enough updates and sometimes even when there ARE updates the chapters are sooo short. This is an addicting manga with a capital A,which is why I am complaining about not being able to read more of it because of lack of updates, but at the same time having to wait months to read it sometimes seems fitting for this manga... It makes it even better. I don't know what the hell I am talking about any more. I just know that this is such a sexy,erotic,exciting,thrilling,steamy,beautiful, yaoi manga that I just want to rave about and hope that my ravings will get someone else to read this awesome yaoi! Spread the love right? I just L-O-V-E it!
... Last updated on July 15th, 2013, 11:40pm
... Last updated on July 15th, 2013, 11:40pm
Nosebleed Alert!!
by ylna00m
November 18th, 2012, 5:22pm
November 18th, 2012, 5:22pm
Rating: 7.0 / 10.0
I think PansyWansyLinsy's comments are spot-on. If you're unsure about this series, definitely take the time to read her review.
This is a smut-driven yaoi rather than a plot-driven one. You won't be disappointed if you keep this in mind. Also, the smutty scenes are quite explicit, so delicate types be warned.
As for the art, expect a feast for your eyes: all the main characters are total eye candy. I also liked how the uke is manly and sexy! It's a nice change from the cutesy types.
All in all, a pretty good read.
... Last updated on June 4th, 2013, 7:03pm
This is a smut-driven yaoi rather than a plot-driven one. You won't be disappointed if you keep this in mind. Also, the smutty scenes are quite explicit, so delicate types be warned.
As for the art, expect a feast for your eyes: all the main characters are total eye candy. I also liked how the uke is manly and sexy! It's a nice change from the cutesy types.
All in all, a pretty good read.
... Last updated on June 4th, 2013, 7:03pm
Count me as one of the fangirls
by PansyWansyLinsy
November 3rd, 2012, 5:15pm
November 3rd, 2012, 5:15pm
Rating: N/A
If you've read or skimmed any of the reviews, you'll know that ViewFinder gets a mixed reaction from readers. However, if you know what to expect (or not to expect), you'll either not read it at all, or you'll keep reading and like it. ViewFinder is unadulterated, unabashed, nosebleed-inducing smut. That’s not to say that it’s solely focused on sex as it does have an episodic structure to the story that I enjoy. It’s not meant to be taken seriously though (like most yaoi), and if you read it with that in mind, then you won't have any trouble getting into it. If you don't like the first couple of chapters, which basically sets the tone for the series, don't bother with the rest because it's pretty much the same from there on out (minus the bit of sexual kink which happens occasionally).
VF has an arsenal of the usual yaoi elements – rape (or non-consensual if you want to be nice about it), sexual molestation, BDSM, menage, dub-con and even some shades of Stockholm's syndrome. That’s not to say that VF is focused heavily on those sexual elements. Most of the time, the sex is consensual, and the other stuff makes its way there to keep things interesting.
The art is fantastic, of course. I never get tired of looking at Asami. After having read through my fair share of BL, Asami is still my favorite seme. The man is sex on legs. He’s got that dark, possessive and slightly sadistic businessman thing down pat. Takaba Akihito, on the other hand, is the young and reckless photographer who inadvertently gets caught in the web of Asami’s dark underworld. Takaba’s youthful exuberance is a stark contrast to the darker and older Asami, and I’ve always found that type of relationship dynamic appealing.
While I’m on the subject of art, I think Yamane-sensei strikes the right balance with her character art. Takaba, to me, is the perfect combination of “uke” masculinity that probably suits readers who are used to the slightly larger seme and smaller-framed uke. Although he’s not bara big, he’s also not overtly effeminate nor does he look like a pre-pubescent boy. Thankfully, he doesn’t read like a female either.
There are complaints about the realism in regards to the yakuza-themed elements of the story in that they aren’t realistic at all. Don’t expect it anyway, there’s no slice of life aspect to VF (aside from a couple of extras here and there). Much of the action and twists that happen are terribly exaggerated or idealized, which makes it no different than ninety percent of manga centered around yakuza anyway.
That's not to say that there aren't some serious relationship elements to the story. After having read the published translated versions of View Finder, I’ve recognized that there’s an aspect of Takaba and Asami’s relationship that isn’t so apparent in the scanlations. After the whole Fei Long affair, you wonder where Asami and Takaba’s relationship can really go after all they’ve been through. Although it hasn’t been said, isn’t it obvious that they’re in love? That’s still a part of their relationship that remains in doubt and will hopefully be addressed in the future. However, to get back to the point, what’s come across to me in the published text is that there’s a constant struggle by Takaba to put himself on equal footing with Asami. There’s a sense of social and experience disparity between the two that hasn’t gone unnoticed by Takaba. The social and work sphere that Asami inhabits is beyond that of Takaba’s standing. Although it seems like a rather trivial matter given Asami’s feelings for Takaba, and a sensibility that seems rather old-fashioned, I’ve come to realize (just by reading manga, mind you) that Japanese culture seems to put quite a lot of stock in a hierarchy of social standing. So while I was at first dismissive of what seemed to be a rather inconsequential hurdle in Takaba and Asami’s relationship, I’ve come to realize its significance given that understanding of Japanese culture. There’s heavy emphasis on this divide in the last couple of volumes and especially in this most recent arc (Pray in the Abyss). Takaba’s inability to reconcile with these differences in their relationship does cause him to run away at one point, but as always, he unerringly finds his way back to Asami. They have a magnetic attraction to one another that can’t be denied.
I haven't given the manga a rating yet, as I like to reserve them until the series has ended. However, if pressed for a rating now, I'd definitely give it a 9 on a purely enjoyment basis alone. I’ve re-read this series at least six times now since I’ve started reading boy love and to this day I still enjoy it. It’s an exciting and fun mixture of sex, action, and comedy that never fails to entertain.
On a side note, I’d just like to throw in my favorite VF scene because I really enjoyed the sweet and simplistic slice of life quality to it. It’s an extra that was attached to what I believe was the CD animate and it gives a glimpse into Asami and Takaba’s home life. In probably what amounts to a dozen pages, we get a complete understanding about how much Takaba has changed Asami’s home life. There are little touches of Takaba’s presence like a full refrigerator or some silly duck toys in the bath, or a couple of animal shaped shampoo bottles in the bathroom that creates an endearing image of their lives together. Takaba’s colorful presence breathes life into Asami’s rather sterile existence and it’s always enjoyable to read about that aspect of their lives.
... Last updated on February 20th, 2014, 11:37pm
VF has an arsenal of the usual yaoi elements – rape (or non-consensual if you want to be nice about it), sexual molestation, BDSM, menage, dub-con and even some shades of Stockholm's syndrome. That’s not to say that VF is focused heavily on those sexual elements. Most of the time, the sex is consensual, and the other stuff makes its way there to keep things interesting.
The art is fantastic, of course. I never get tired of looking at Asami. After having read through my fair share of BL, Asami is still my favorite seme. The man is sex on legs. He’s got that dark, possessive and slightly sadistic businessman thing down pat. Takaba Akihito, on the other hand, is the young and reckless photographer who inadvertently gets caught in the web of Asami’s dark underworld. Takaba’s youthful exuberance is a stark contrast to the darker and older Asami, and I’ve always found that type of relationship dynamic appealing.
While I’m on the subject of art, I think Yamane-sensei strikes the right balance with her character art. Takaba, to me, is the perfect combination of “uke” masculinity that probably suits readers who are used to the slightly larger seme and smaller-framed uke. Although he’s not bara big, he’s also not overtly effeminate nor does he look like a pre-pubescent boy. Thankfully, he doesn’t read like a female either.
There are complaints about the realism in regards to the yakuza-themed elements of the story in that they aren’t realistic at all. Don’t expect it anyway, there’s no slice of life aspect to VF (aside from a couple of extras here and there). Much of the action and twists that happen are terribly exaggerated or idealized, which makes it no different than ninety percent of manga centered around yakuza anyway.
That's not to say that there aren't some serious relationship elements to the story. After having read the published translated versions of View Finder, I’ve recognized that there’s an aspect of Takaba and Asami’s relationship that isn’t so apparent in the scanlations. After the whole Fei Long affair, you wonder where Asami and Takaba’s relationship can really go after all they’ve been through. Although it hasn’t been said, isn’t it obvious that they’re in love? That’s still a part of their relationship that remains in doubt and will hopefully be addressed in the future. However, to get back to the point, what’s come across to me in the published text is that there’s a constant struggle by Takaba to put himself on equal footing with Asami. There’s a sense of social and experience disparity between the two that hasn’t gone unnoticed by Takaba. The social and work sphere that Asami inhabits is beyond that of Takaba’s standing. Although it seems like a rather trivial matter given Asami’s feelings for Takaba, and a sensibility that seems rather old-fashioned, I’ve come to realize (just by reading manga, mind you) that Japanese culture seems to put quite a lot of stock in a hierarchy of social standing. So while I was at first dismissive of what seemed to be a rather inconsequential hurdle in Takaba and Asami’s relationship, I’ve come to realize its significance given that understanding of Japanese culture. There’s heavy emphasis on this divide in the last couple of volumes and especially in this most recent arc (Pray in the Abyss). Takaba’s inability to reconcile with these differences in their relationship does cause him to run away at one point, but as always, he unerringly finds his way back to Asami. They have a magnetic attraction to one another that can’t be denied.
I haven't given the manga a rating yet, as I like to reserve them until the series has ended. However, if pressed for a rating now, I'd definitely give it a 9 on a purely enjoyment basis alone. I’ve re-read this series at least six times now since I’ve started reading boy love and to this day I still enjoy it. It’s an exciting and fun mixture of sex, action, and comedy that never fails to entertain.
On a side note, I’d just like to throw in my favorite VF scene because I really enjoyed the sweet and simplistic slice of life quality to it. It’s an extra that was attached to what I believe was the CD animate and it gives a glimpse into Asami and Takaba’s home life. In probably what amounts to a dozen pages, we get a complete understanding about how much Takaba has changed Asami’s home life. There are little touches of Takaba’s presence like a full refrigerator or some silly duck toys in the bath, or a couple of animal shaped shampoo bottles in the bathroom that creates an endearing image of their lives together. Takaba’s colorful presence breathes life into Asami’s rather sterile existence and it’s always enjoyable to read about that aspect of their lives.
... Last updated on February 20th, 2014, 11:37pm
What can you say
by ultimateyaoifangirl
November 1st, 2012, 10:53pm
November 1st, 2012, 10:53pm
Rating: N/A
I'm not sure why this is such a well loved yaoi. As much as I enjoyed it, there are many elements that would make it unattractive to fans. Nonetheless, I enjoyed it. A lot of sex, rape/ cruelty, kidnapping and a bunch of other crazy mess. I put off reading it for a long time, but I enjoyed it well enough in the end. Only comments is that the "romance" plot line is very slow winding. All an all, a very yaoi-esk read. Not for the faint of heart.
*manic laughter*
by bluedrop
October 26th, 2012, 5:35am
October 26th, 2012, 5:35am
Rating: 10.0 / 10.0
I'm going to start off by saying that in no way do I condone rape in reality, and yes, it's a sensitive matter that is rarely handled well in fiction. I am an activist for rape survivors and feminist ideals, having been abused before and having friends who have survived rape.
That said, I just want to push Akihito down onto the nearest surface, tie him up, and screw him incoherent though I might not be equipped to do that. I agree wholeheartedly with Ballads' view (order the comments by usefulness and his/hers will pop up) and many of those who have come to love this manga. It's pretty addicting and I can't properly explain how I came to love this.
The premise hooked me on (gangsters/yakuza/mafia? WIN)...then I read the first chapter. Kinky stuff, this. Then I read more. Then I fell into a weird sort of love with this manga. I know it's supposed to be dark but I can't help but giggle madly at some parts. From the very start, I was able to easily suspend my disbelief, because, hey, I expected it. It's why I read.
Though, when the sex actually becomes consensual, I found it even hotter which I did not even think possible because after I read dub-con, I usually get bored when everything is resolved and they just have vanilla sex, but here, it just felt more...something. It just felt stronger, hotter, more intense. Love.
This is, as chicchai_yubimusubi already commented, and I quote:
"...But if you're looking for a serious, realistic, angst-ridden drama that flowers into a beautiful and meaningful relationship that comments on the human experience...well, I don't know if this is for you."
If you're looking for something meaningful and character-altering, yeah, this isn't it, buddy. If you're looking for a fast-paced, unrealistic manga rife with kinky, sometimes dub-con(and outright non-con), smexy mansex scenes, give this a go.
Actually, I still can't get over the first sex scene (though I do wish the seme/s would blush a bit or any indication that they're enjoying the 'activity' just as much as the uke) because, wow, I was not expecting...a lot of stuff and was quite pleasantly surprised in many parts of this manga.
Really, don't take this seriously, because if you do, you'll just end up having an aneurysm or something. It doesn't have comedy but the stuff that keeps happening to the uke just has me completely amused at times (it makes me want to bend him over even more and do indecent things to him). I love the art and the guys aren't too fem or bara, just right. The color pages and covers are a treat and I can't help but ogle.
It has tropes that usually make me want to facepalm or rant, but here, I find myself enjoying the flow of the story completely, despite how ridiculous things get.
But, truly, my favorite thing about this manga was the uke. I can kind of get the flack he gets from the readers, but I think he's pretty amazing. Asami's great too. Still, Akihito is just admirable in his strength and spirit. (Not to mention his expressions, and OMG, the scene where he gets the gun after he's had enough with all the crap that's been happening?!? but all that's just a plus) I love that he isn't some girly, self-depreciating wimp. He fights back when he can, and when he doesn't, well, he's smart. He's not overly stupid to try and get himself killed when he can and I count his self-preservation tactics as a point in his favor.
About the rape, well, it's one of the things that helped me suspend my disbelief. The psychological impacts and issues aren't used as a plot source and the manga glosses over it. I get why this infuriates many readers but I myself prefer it. Is it strange to want to read the non/dub-con in only a sexual aspect and not in its whole, including its ramifications? It's what this manga does.
The reader is able to enjoy reading and empathizing with the characters without dwelling on the unrealistic aspects but instead accepts it as what it was meant to be by the mangaka.
There is character growth(which I just love even if it isn't groundbreaking) and those who like yaoi manga with lots of action but isn't confusing or boring, this is great though I will warn that it can get addicting.
I came into this expecting to facepalm and get irritated a lot but I ended up really enjoying it and getting amused at the unbelievable events that make me want to cuddle Akihito in a room all to ourselves. After bouts of endless sex, of course.
Edit: Read up 'til ch.40 and OMFFFFFFFG!! Huge cliff-hanger. I love Akihito even more now. F********ck...I will kill for the next update.
... Last updated on October 27th, 2012, 10:32am
That said, I just want to push Akihito down onto the nearest surface, tie him up, and screw him incoherent though I might not be equipped to do that. I agree wholeheartedly with Ballads' view (order the comments by usefulness and his/hers will pop up) and many of those who have come to love this manga. It's pretty addicting and I can't properly explain how I came to love this.
The premise hooked me on (gangsters/yakuza/mafia? WIN)...then I read the first chapter. Kinky stuff, this. Then I read more. Then I fell into a weird sort of love with this manga. I know it's supposed to be dark but I can't help but giggle madly at some parts. From the very start, I was able to easily suspend my disbelief, because, hey, I expected it. It's why I read.
Though, when the sex actually becomes consensual, I found it even hotter which I did not even think possible because after I read dub-con, I usually get bored when everything is resolved and they just have vanilla sex, but here, it just felt more...something. It just felt stronger, hotter, more intense. Love.
This is, as chicchai_yubimusubi already commented, and I quote:
"...But if you're looking for a serious, realistic, angst-ridden drama that flowers into a beautiful and meaningful relationship that comments on the human experience...well, I don't know if this is for you."
If you're looking for something meaningful and character-altering, yeah, this isn't it, buddy. If you're looking for a fast-paced, unrealistic manga rife with kinky, sometimes dub-con(and outright non-con), smexy mansex scenes, give this a go.
Actually, I still can't get over the first sex scene (though I do wish the seme/s would blush a bit or any indication that they're enjoying the 'activity' just as much as the uke) because, wow, I was not expecting...a lot of stuff and was quite pleasantly surprised in many parts of this manga.
Really, don't take this seriously, because if you do, you'll just end up having an aneurysm or something. It doesn't have comedy but the stuff that keeps happening to the uke just has me completely amused at times (it makes me want to bend him over even more and do indecent things to him). I love the art and the guys aren't too fem or bara, just right. The color pages and covers are a treat and I can't help but ogle.
It has tropes that usually make me want to facepalm or rant, but here, I find myself enjoying the flow of the story completely, despite how ridiculous things get.
But, truly, my favorite thing about this manga was the uke. I can kind of get the flack he gets from the readers, but I think he's pretty amazing. Asami's great too. Still, Akihito is just admirable in his strength and spirit. (Not to mention his expressions, and OMG, the scene where he gets the gun after he's had enough with all the crap that's been happening?!? but all that's just a plus) I love that he isn't some girly, self-depreciating wimp. He fights back when he can, and when he doesn't, well, he's smart. He's not overly stupid to try and get himself killed when he can and I count his self-preservation tactics as a point in his favor.
About the rape, well, it's one of the things that helped me suspend my disbelief. The psychological impacts and issues aren't used as a plot source and the manga glosses over it. I get why this infuriates many readers but I myself prefer it. Is it strange to want to read the non/dub-con in only a sexual aspect and not in its whole, including its ramifications? It's what this manga does.
The reader is able to enjoy reading and empathizing with the characters without dwelling on the unrealistic aspects but instead accepts it as what it was meant to be by the mangaka.
There is character growth(which I just love even if it isn't groundbreaking) and those who like yaoi manga with lots of action but isn't confusing or boring, this is great though I will warn that it can get addicting.
I came into this expecting to facepalm and get irritated a lot but I ended up really enjoying it and getting amused at the unbelievable events that make me want to cuddle Akihito in a room all to ourselves. After bouts of endless sex, of course.
Edit: Read up 'til ch.40 and OMFFFFFFFG!! Huge cliff-hanger. I love Akihito even more now. F********ck...I will kill for the next update.
Spoiler (mouse over to view)
He shows amazing strength by making a choice between his dreams/career/beliefs and a relationship he is still not quite sure of. I was expecting him to go for the relationship thing and I would've been okay with that but daaamn, him choosing the former and this new development in his character?!? Nyaaghr. Without any doubt will I love Akihito forevaaa!
... Last updated on October 27th, 2012, 10:32am
pissy people
by zoeyzoeyzoey
September 11th, 2012, 9:48pm
September 11th, 2012, 9:48pm
Rating: N/A
I love this manga but I can totally understand people who dislike it but why criticize the people who do dig it. I think as long as the subject matter doesn't dip into pedophilia or chicken erotica it's all good. A lot of people bash this freak over the more hardcore elements especially the rape aspect, and feel the need to bash those who really enjoy it. It's the same reaction to the shades of grey (although that's some bullshit writing there!!) trilogy: but just cause u don't understand the interest don't be a dick about it. A lot of people whould bash you for reading yaoi in the first place. I personally like these themes and admit readily that I'm sexually weird. I've been raped for real and it is really bad but I really love "sexy yaoi rape", probably there's some deep psychological reasoning to this but since my choice of reading isn't hurting anyone I don't feel bad indulging. One reason I like yaoi besides the thrilling taboo aspect is because the uke is the female element to me in the story but I can read it without my usual "feminist angst" I'm afflicted by when reading a story with an actual woman. Also female characters with these kind of story lines usually spend multiple pages struggling with their own feminine angst which is boring. Maybe I would dig a hetro story with the same plot if I could suspend my own feminism and if the character did as well. That's my reasoning for yaoi, basically smutty perversions without the guilt (a long with my basic love of taboo subjects [not involving kids or chickens])but everybody is different. I really don't like shotacon (disturbing on so many levels) but I do try not to diss those who like it even though I wonder why anyone not affiliated with NAMBLA would want to read something that pedophiles read. (a passive aggressive diss!) SO feel free to diss this manga but try to hold off on the personal attacks because there are plenty of people condemning you to the fiery pits of hell for even having a passive interest in this homo'rific comic genre!!
I'm Torn
by feelrain
August 18th, 2012, 8:22am
August 18th, 2012, 8:22am
Rating: 8.0 / 10.0
I think Ayano Yamane's art style is probably the best in the whole yaoi world. But her characters/plot are just ridiculous. The humor makes up for the undercurrent of really crappy things that always happen to the ukes in her stories. Crimson Spell was no different--probably worse--but Viewfinder's sense of 'romance' is hard to justify when you've got things like rape, bdsm, forced threesomes and kidnap & torture going on--things that would normally have you running to the cops, not to the rapist in question for help! (lol & facepalm). The only other yaoi that offended my sensibilities more was Okane Ga Nai! >_< But, all negativity aside, Asami IS probably the hottest seme short of Iason Mink from AnK (another Stockholm mess--but justified cuz the uke in that story's world/timeline had no rights and was hardly considered a person, unlike Takaba, who DOESN'T live in such a depressing futuristic setting). I give Viewfinder 8/10. I love it cuz it's a long read and a lengthy series (I hate oneshots), but it would have got an 8.5 from me if it hadn't been for Feilong's involvement (especially during the hot spring chapter). I hope the rest of the series takes Asami & Takaba's relationship more seriously in future chapters, and stops treating Takaba like an outlet for sadistic hentai garbage.
... Last updated on August 18th, 2012, 8:26am
... Last updated on August 18th, 2012, 8:26am
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