Namaikizakari. The new Maid-Sama...?!

Right. Even by just checking this manga out, you are wondering if it can satisfy that empty hole in your heart that Maid-Sama ripped open. Or you're not. But one thing's for sure... yeah, Namaikizakari has it's flaws but it's damn entertaining. Something special? Only in the comedy and the characters.

Story: 7
Love, love, love, y'all! Though, you've probably already guessed that's what it's about. Even so, the female MC's continuous denials and the male MC's determination lead to a boat load of sweet, cute, and hot moments.

Art: 7
Nothing special. There's a ton of yummy boys for female readers though ;)

Character: 8
Lovely characters. Their personalities are incredibly fleshed out. It does go along the common shoujo route (with yer MC, yer lover, yer beach, yer rival, and the under-developed friend) but this manga varies a bit. The other characters are more subtle, the "underdevelped friend" actually becomes well-developed, the main character and her lover are strong and unique... even the rival gets some me-time and realizes it won't work out. And then, of course, the beach isn't even a beach. They're people — actual, real people — and not used stick figures that have popped up before in other mangas of the same kind.

Enjoyment: 8
Right. So, I may be biased on this one... but hear me out! This is among the first mangas I have ever had the will to actually finish. Even the more popular mangas out there that have it all don't appeal. Since I'm more used to anime with its bright, flashy colors and, of course, animation... yeah, mangas never sit too well. No, Namaikizakari isn't something special. No, it won't earn an award for having good life lessons. The romance isn't utterly realistic and nor is the plot in general. However. It has to be very special to hold my attention throughout. And the author may not have a talent for unique plots, but damn the humor makes me laugh every time. Sometimes, manga isn't about teaching life lessons and shattering your heart... sometimes it's purely for the enjoyment. I think Namaikizakari is one of those manga, and it did its job well.

Overall: 8

Here comes the comparison you've been dying to know: How does it compare to Maid-Sama? While Maid-Sama is more slicey-lifey (has more slice of life elements), Namaikizakari still has it's fair share. However, Maid Sama focuses on Misaki's development toward males and Namaikizakari doesn't have a clear development toward... well, anything — except accepting one's feelings. "*GASP* well there goes another manga! Just going to delete this one!" Please don't. Because although Namaikizakari isn't a deep tragedy slice of life, the story is well executed. And even though absolutely nobody can hold a candle to Usui, Namaikizakari might be the first step to letting that go anyway.