This is, hands down, one of the best manga I've ever read. Well-written dialogues, realistic characters, really beautiful art... whatever you can think of, this manga delivers! But what I love most about this manga is that the characters behave and talk like real boys.They interact the way guys do--kinda rough, kinda silly, always ripping on each other every change they get, but ultimately remain great, loyal friends. In fact, I love their friendship just as much as I love their romance, especially because it doesn't feel like the friendship is just there to supplement the love story.
The two boys in this manga are pretty awesome. I hate effeminate uke who whines and cries and act like some chick from a shoujo manga. The uke in this manga isn't like that. He's really cool... and he's the taller of the two. He has a sharp tongue, speaks his mind, and is our narrator for the majority of the manga. His thoughts and reflections are a pleasure to read. He's a complex guy, with many flaws and weaknesses... and he has this way of making you feel really connected to him.
On the other hand, I'm just head over heels for the seme. He's so badass...for a shortie. And he really is like a stray mutt. He's rough and tough on the outside, but there's a lot more depth and intensity to him than meets the eye. It's really fun watching the two of them interact. They have a special kind of chemistry that is both funny and sexy. Their relationship progress in such a natural way that when one of them finally says "I love you" to the other, you're not thinking "where the hell, did that come from," you're thinking "finally!"
Anyway, if you're a yaoi reader, don't miss out on this. Or if you just want to read a really, really good story, then you won't be disappointed either. This is one hell of a manga. It's powerful, beautiful, and deeply emotional from beginning to end. I was even brought to tears near the end. Across any genre, this is no doubt one of the best manga I've ever read...
Also, the sex is hot.
Also, +1 for practicing safe sex.