I started reading "Red String" today. Usually I don't go for straight romance, but I like the legend it's based on (that you are connected to your one true love by a red string), and </a></b></a>whirling_woman recommended it to me, so I thought I'd give it a try.

It's about high school student Miharu Ogawa who is surprised to discover she's engaged to a boy she's never met. The author manages to make this work really well. Finding someone who writes about arranged marraige in such a mature and honest manner is so refreshing!

It's pretty good so far. Romance is front and center, but it's not overly sappy and it's got a good sense of humor. The beginning was predictable, but that clears up after the first chapter - the pinkie finger hand holding sold it; it was an honest and very sweet moment.

I've just finished chapter six, which is my favorite so far. Miharu and company go to the cherry blossom festival. I love how Miharu has an official cherry blossom watching shirt, and the moment with the beer cracked me up.

This comic has got me interesting enough to keep reading, but it's still on probation: it could still do something to drive me away. If Miharu starts liking (as in like liking) the guy she's always fighting with, I will run away. And if that guy ends up being her One True Love, I will run away screaming. And they'd better explain why Creepy Stalker Wanabe Boyfriend showed up! (However, if those two guys end up together, all is forgiven)

The art (B&W with colour covers) is very good, with excellent composition and good character design (I sometimes have trouble telling certain characters apart, but I'm sensitive like that.) I really like the backgrounds, they add detail and gives the comic extra pazzaz. And, wonder of wonders, the pink background doesn't make me go blind!

So, "Red String". Your mileage may very, but give it a shot. It's pretty good.

EDIT: *reads Chapter 13* Sold! *adds to list*