Ten Count, Vol. 1 (Ten Count, #1)

Vol. 1 ★★★★★
Vol. 2 ★★★☆☆

That was absolutely incredible. If it tells you anything, upon finishing this manga, I immediately ordered volume 2 because I needed to continue the series as soon as possible! The art is stunning, the story is intriguing, the characters are immensely lovable. The main character, Shirotani, has OCD and is terrified of germs. The representation was something I was a little nervous of when I picked the book up, but there was no need for my caution because it's executed beautifully.

Not only does Shirotani display a ton of very legitimate and real compulsions that a lot of people with OCD will relate to (quietly raises hand mine doesn't manifest in the same exact ways, but I related big time to the thoughts and concerns he has), but I also love the fact that he is in no way “cured” by the time he spends with his love interest; in fact, he makes most of the progress without his counselor, Kurose, even being present! Note here: I should mention, however, that if you have a problem with immersion/exposure therapy methods being utilized in mental health, this won't be the series for you!

On top of everything else, the chemistry between Shirotani and Kurose is so clear and sweet from the beginning, and I loved how, when other minor characters noticed the tension, they were all so accepting and even incredibly encouraging. All in all, it was a great read and I can't wait for volume 2 to arrive in the mail!

✨ Representation: Shirotani is queer and has OCD; Kurose is queer; all characters are Japanese

✨ Content warnings for: OCD, exposure therapy, internalized ableism, anxiety


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