If there’s one thing Kunieda Kei knows about himself, it’s that he’s basically a jerk. He has mastered the art of wearing two different faces – one for the public and one in private. This skill has allowed him to navigate life smoothly, especially in his career as a television news anchor. Despite his success, no one truly knows the real Kunieda except his parents.

This intriguing combination of brutal self-awareness and complete delusion is what makes “Yes, No, or Maybe?” such a captivating novel. The story unfolds through Kunieda’s first-person narration, showcasing his internal conflict as he battles his own worst enemy – himself. It is through this lens that we witness the blossoming romance between Kunieda and Tsuzuki, a relationship that defies the typical romance novel tropes.

Author Michi Ichiho skillfully plays with expectations, creating a narrative that encompasses a love triangle, enemies-to-lovers, and friends-to-lovers storylines. Kunieda’s complicated relationship with both his public and private personas and his growing friendship with Tsuzuki make for a captivating dynamic. As readers, we are drawn into the web of emotions, unsure of where Tsuzuki truly stands – just like Kunieda himself.

The novel delves into Kunieda’s internal struggle, as he grapples with his own personal issues and societal expectations surrounding gay relationships. Unlike many other BL or yuri works, “Yes, No, or Maybe?” presents a refreshing exploration of sexuality. Tsuzuki questions his own orientation, referring to himself as bisexual in a magazine interview, only to later realize that his attraction transcends gender norms, which aligns more closely with pansexuality. This nuanced approach to sexual identity is a welcomed departure from the usual narrative patterns.

As a romance novel, “Yes, No, or Maybe?” includes explicit sex scenes. While they are tastefully depicted and free from exaggerated language and anatomical misunderstandings often found in BL novels, it is worth noting that some scenes may lack complete consent. However, for readers who prefer to focus on the plot, skipping these scenes does not detract significantly from the overall story.

At its core, “Yes, No, or Maybe?” is a heartwarming tale of self-discovery and acceptance. It explores the profound realization that there is someone out there who will love even the most imperfect parts of ourselves – a revelation that Kunieda never anticipated. The incorporation of newscasting and stop motion animation as the characters’ professions adds a unique touch to the narrative. Despite occasional overly-toned artwork by Lala Takemiya, the book’s illustrations are sparse, allowing the story and characters to shine through.

In conclusion, “Yes, No, or Maybe?” may not be a flawless novel, but its ability to captivate readers with its complex characters and heartfelt storytelling makes it an excellent addition to any bookshelf.

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