Candy Color Paradox, Vol. 4

Candy Color Paradox #4

by Isaku Natsume

Reporter Onoe and photographer Kaburagi constantly bicker and argue on their stakeouts, but will their antagonistic behavior paradoxically evolve into something sweeter?

Satoshi Onoe, a reporter for a weekly magazine, has a new stakeout partner, and he’s anything but thrilled about it. Photographer Motoharu Kaburagi’s unconventional reporting methods and overall bad attitude are enough to drive Onoe insane. But the more the two work together, the closer they get.

Onoe and Kaburagi’s relationship continues to blossom, but new recruit Kasai is still giving them trouble. As Kasai switches gears with Onoe—from bullying him to being besties—Kaburagi starts to become jealous. Meanwhile, Onoe takes on a dangerous job following a certain celebrity. Will Kaburagi be able to protect him?

Genres: Manga, Romance, LGBT, Yaoi, Graphic Novels, Comics, Boys Love

192 pages, Paperback

First published October 2, 2017

About the author

Isaku Natsume (native name: 夏目イサク) is a Japanese author of Boys' Love manga.
Aside from the manga published with publishing companies, she also runs two Dōjin circles: 139 and Chekera.
List of all her works (detailed) : http://infbot.cocolog-nifty.com/blog/...


Associated names :
チェケラ
チェケラ!
夏目維朔
139
Cheke-Rara

Reviews

[Dilushani Jayalath · Rating 4 out of 5]

These two are my comfort characters as they are one of those couples you can understand and relate to. Their fights are so natural and their lifestyles, just as much. It's not always you get such stories that are fleshed out quite realistically.

[Melissa | melisthereader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am such a sucker for this series. Not just the amazing development between the characters' romantic relationship, but the story is really good, too!! Like it's not all, smut, smut, smut, but has a hard hitting plot mixed well in with the smut. ;)

I can't say it enough, but I love and can't get enough of these dorks. Onoe truly has my heart.

[fatherofdragons113 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Onoe and Kaburagi are literally the sweetest. I'm so invested in them.

[Brigi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Onoe is such a wholesome guy and he thinks the best of everyone. They just complement each other so well with Kabu!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Reread 2/13/2022*
Cuteeee. This is just such a normal and like wholesome? relationship. They trust each other and care about each other and it's just really sweet.

*Original Review 6/30/2020*
I wish there was moreeeeeeeeeeeee. :((((

[Rachel Kathryn Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book continues the amazing development of the characters individually and of their relationship. I also loved that the two are working together again. Since their dynamic is so much stronger and is challenged a bit differently in this volume. For instead of there being multiple cases there is one taking focus and is causing the relationship problems. Because the case Onoe is working he does not see the guy as someone bad, because of the act he puts on for Onoe. While Kaburagi sees the act, calls it out but his relationship gets threatened so they are backed into a corner a bit. But once Onoe and Kaburagi get on the same page about the case they are a lot stronger than before. I also liked that this book held a complexity that is different from what has been seen prior. Overall, I liked seeing this book went in a different direction in comparison to the others.

[Christina (A Reader of Fictions) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ugh these two are just so cute. That's really all I'm here for. What I appreciate most is how Onoe and Kaburagi have clearly grown closer over time but how their general dynamic with one another is relatively unchanged. They still poke fun at one another just the same, and it's adorably charming.

This volume largely consists of one investigation, so it hangs together better as a volume than some of the others, as this series can be heavily episodic. The plot isn't my favorite, because it ends up involving some squicky shit, but it's got some dark shades of gray in it that add complexity to the fluff in a way that mostly works.

[bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

[ ★★★,7 / 5 ]

ℹ See full review in 飴色パラドックス 1 (Ameiro Paradox 1) .

[小さな N (.❛ ᴗ ❛.)⊃ [_|_] ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like a slower development of a relationship in most of the stories I read and a good balance with the rest of the plot but after finishing volume 4, I feel like Ameiro Paradox has too little development for a four-volume series.

Warnings
Especially in the previous volumes, Onoe's consent isn't always fully given. Kabu often just blunders on, if I remember correctly.

[Katerina · Rating 5 out of 5]

ko-fi • Instagram • TikTok

5/5

This was absolutely adorable! I love watching Kabu and Onoe's relationship develop. It has to be one of my absolute favourite's. And of course I read this just in time for Volume 5 that released in the English Translation on the 13th! You bet your ass that I pre-ordered it awhile ago....now just waiting patiently for the mailman to deliver said package ⌛ -.-.

I love how far Kabu has come with not only expressing his emotions when it comes to Onoe but his blatant protective nature over Onoe. Kabu has definitely made it clear to many characters, in some way or another, that Onoe is his and he will go far to protect him. It's truly beautiful. And naïve cute Onoe. Sometimes I really want to strangle him for his very trusting personality - especially in a job where you need to be cut-throat and trust no one. But it's a huge part of his personality and these characteristics are what make Onoe special. He stands out from a normal reporter and I love that.

And I love that the teasing aspect of their relationship is still there but it's just so much sweeter.

And oh Kasai....gotta love him.

Also can the art style get any more gorgeous! I just love how beautiful Natsume's style is. And I just love her little chibi characters! They be so cute.

[Shaun "AceFireFox" · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't remember Kasai in the drama. But I do remember this storyline from the drama.

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like this series...so much.

There's a very brief and quickly resolved blip of jealousy again at the beginning, where Kaburagi clocks Kasai's growing crush on Onoe and puts a stop to it by telling him that the two of them are together (something that Kasai, as a stakeout specialist, had pretty much already figured out). The surprising part was that Onoe really didn't freak out about the secret being spilled - but while they're not being open about their relationship, they're not trying all that hard to hide it, either. They're comfortable and happy with each other, and it's mostly just not anyone else's business at this point.

The storyline mainly centers around someone who does have quite a lot to hide, and we dig once again into the really dirty parts of what their jobs entail. Onoe's still not particularly happy about how much time they spend prying into people's private lives, and while he denies Kaburagi's astute observation that he's feeling sympathy by putting himself in their shoes, that's kinda how the rest of the plot unfolds.

Onoe ends up befriending and getting attached to an older (40 year old) actor who's very charming and tells Onoe exactly what he wants to hear. It turns out, of course, that he's doing something a whole lot worse than just sleeping with a younger actress, and the rest of the volume is about digging up that story, deciding whether to pursue it, and dealing with the consequences.

I really, really like that yet again the drama and the conflict is an external thing that Onoe and Kaburagi deal with together. When things get bad, Kaburagi's the person Onoe can turn to - just needing a hug, which comes as a very satisfying full page panel once they get home.

"Home," by the way, meaning Onoe's apartment, which Kaburagi has unofficially semi moved into.

While their idea of getting a new, bigger place together has been put on hold at the end of this volume, I hope that's what comes in volume 5. After all, if their main concern is that their bosses will think it's weird that they share an address...I think that ship's pretty much already sailed. Everyone knows they're close and sees them leaving work together and night and arriving together in the mornings, so it'd be a big surprise if there's anyone left to be surprised. And yeah, of course I'd love to see some additional domesticity.

Love love love this sadly rare genre of an established relationship. I wish I could find more series like this, but I'm glad this one has enough for me to indulge in.

[Nazish Ahmed (Nazish Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish that these covers were full wrap around covers like Fullmetal Alchemist Fullmetal Edition and Fly Me to the Moon covers are. Unfortunately, in the case of this series, the front and back are supposed to be one image but the spine is a white gap. Others might like the plain white spines but I don't. I want this series to have the image continue on the spine like with those 2 series. They look so good and these volumes good look even better if they had done that.


Volume 3 wasn't as good as vol. 1 and 2, thankfully this one was good.

I just love their bickering relationship, it's like a love-hate relationship except that they're not afraid to say they love each other and Kaburagi is not afraid to kiss him in public (Onoe gets embarrassed, I feel you dude, I would feel the same if my significant other kissed me in public since in my case I'm kind of shy). Some people would get tired of the constant arguing but I love it😂 There's a chapter in this volume where they argue and Onoe leaves angry and fe find out the reason Kaburagi said those things to him is because he doesn't want him to feel betrayed when he finds out that a guy he thought was a good guy was involved in something bad. I also love when Kaburagi gets jealous and possessive. I love those kinds of guys in my romance stories, whether it's a hetero relationship or a gay relationship, I love it.

I was planning on reading vol. 5 right away but my copy hasn't arrived yet, according to the tracking number, it will be here tomorrow. At first I was going to read it online like I did with vol. 3 but then I decided to just wait until it's closer to the vol. 6 release date since that's next year and there isn't a cliffhanger at the end of this volume and I don't want to end taking the chance of there being one at the end of vol. 5 and then waiting months to find out what happens next.



Blog: nazishreads.net/TravelandBookBlog
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[L Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Right off the bat Kaburagi lets Kasai know that he and Onoe are a couple. He hadn't planned on telling him this but it was obvious that he already suspected something. It was also obvious that his crush on Onoe was growing and Kaburagi wanted to nip it in the bud before it got out of hand.

The remaining acts deals with their investigation into veteran actor Kei Inami and his possible relationship with a much younger woman. This innocent tabloid story morphed into a more alarming story about his possible involvement in recruiting young actresses for a "sketchy adult-video company." Onoe, being the trusting and naive person he is, doesn't want to believe that the charming actor could be involved in something so nefarious. Kaburagi, on the other hand, has no problem believing it to be true.

As usual, the story was entertaining and focused more on their work assignment than on their relationship, which is going just fine, thank you very much. The illustrations were nice though I wasn't a fan of the cover...why do they look like they're in high school or something? And, I know I'm 4 volumes in but what's up with the title? Why "Candy Color" Paradox? Its not a big deal, just wondering. Regardless, it was another great volume definitely worth reading if you make it past the previous 3.

[Namratha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rookie reporter Kasai has done a complete about turn since Volume 3 after Onoe made a sincere (but expectedly daft) attempt to rescue Kasai from the clutches of the Yakuza. As Kasai gets glimpses into Onoe’s straightforward and earnest personality, he now has a new respect and barely concealed crush on Onoe…a fact that hasn’t escaped the shrewd eye of Onoe’s photographer boyfriend, Kaburagi.

Tying up with this soft drama is a much more interesting plotline. As Onoe chases a new scoop regarding an established actor’s secretive (but never confirmed) romantic dalliances, he soon finds that he might have got something much more murkier than he bargained for. Unexpectedly crossing swords with the always canny Kabu who knows that there is more to handsome actor’s Inumi genial disposition, Onoe and Kabu have one of their usual stand-offs where morals and depravities of people are concerned. This was an extremely interesting addition which yet again manages to explore human nature while staying true to the Onoe-Kaburagi dynamic.

As always, this series moves along splendidly and keeps you still invested in the ups and downs of Onoe and Kabu’s growing relationship. Loved it!

[Ray Flores · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this volume, Kaburagi and Onoe are working together to investigate rumors of an actor’s affair with a younger college. But the things they found are a bit more complex: in reality, he’s helping a mafia (or some bad people) to recruit girls who basically are forced into making adult videos. Onoe believes the man is innocent but Kaburagi knows best.

In these few chapters we see them go back and forth, trying to reveal the truth and then backing down because the actor threatens Kaburagi. Later on, Onoe realizes something is wrong with his boyfriend since they suddenly dropped the case but eventually he learns about the truth from the man himself.
It is a bittersweet moment, and somehow, when they’re having sex, is like Onoe is asking for pain, to ground himself thanks to Kaburagi.

Anyway, I liked the extra chapters where they openly admit they like each other and want to live together from then on.

PREVIOUS REVIEWS:
Volume 1 | Volume 2 | Volume 3

[Tania · Rating 3 out of 5]

Me gusta la relación que estos dos han construido, su inicio no fue el mejor, pero es claro que han aprendido a comunicarse mejor, aunque aún no se dicen todo.
En este tomo, por ejemplo, el asunto principal es este actor que en apariencia en amable, dedicado y comprometido con su trabajo, pero en realidad es un puente entre actrices que tienen dificultades para colocarse en el medio y la industria pornográfica. Onoe no lo cree del todo y Kaburagi, quien tiene más experiencia en detectar cuando alguien no es lo que parece, le insiste en que hay algo malo con el actor.

Como sea, me habría gustado ver que lo juzgaran, más que nada para que Onoe se diera cuenta de que es un delito grave lo que hizo este señor.

[Calista · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the continuation of this Japanese romance set in the world of media. Our main leads are getting closer and closer to each other. There is some jealousy going on with a third reporter and it's fun.

They are working a case that did make it into the show. There is also a porn industry in Japan and not great things happen in it as well. They are trying to catch two actors in an affair when things get darker and darker. Still, I love the interactions with the actor and Onoe and Kaburagi. It makes for some good drama.

Will they move in together or not? I would love it if they do. This was a good volume. I'm having fun with these characters and this story. I look forward to Vol. 5.

[mint🍵 · Rating 5 out of 5]

siiiigggghhhh so this is actually becoming one of my favourite mangas, their relationship is perfect, old married couple, bickering, jealousy, flustered… i love their dynamic and the author just never misses, like the story is always taking turns i like and is very satisfying, this was one of my favourite volumes, the storyline with the actor was so good, don’t ask me why i liked it so much, idk but it was so good,,, also i like the direction kasais character went in after his moment of fame, he’s so cute with his crush and background commentary heheh,, SO overall vv good journalism stuff going on here good job everyone

[Amethyst · Rating 4 out of 5]

Up until volume 4, we’ve never actually heard from anyone that they wrote stories of and didn’t get to know them. However, Inami and Haruta both personally talked to Kabu and Onoe--and their conversations were shown to the readers; we got to know them and their voices weighted on Onoe’s decision to publish the story. What Kabu said about Inami: that he may be a nice person but it doesn’t mean he’s innocent--Natsume-sensei seems to be going for the theme of “everything isn’t black and white”

[Shan( Shans_Shelves) 💜 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This would have been five stars but I wasn’t a big fan of the scope and the drama it brought. Though I was happy they eventually communicated and we got more protective Kaburagi!

I’ve got to admit I find it hilarious any time one of them get jealous. Usually jealousy in books is not my thing, but maybe it’s because we actually see their reactions. It’s so funny.

Overall- I NEED volume five. This series is so good and if you’re in the mood for a lighthearted funny queer manga- I highly recommend this.

[Amber L · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow!!!! This is was a bit darker in someways. I love these two. These characters are amazing. How they don't back down even though they were threatened but of course that wasn't real. But I was super happy that they would want to live together even though they couldn't answer why they would have the same address so that is out for now. But I can't wait to read more from these two.

[eesee · Rating 3 out of 5]

— 3.5 stars


After four volumes, the dynamic and the nature of the relationship has pretty much settled and it’s pretty fun watching them bicker like best friends with moments of emotional vulnerability and expressions of love sprinkled throughout.


I don’t see this series being one of my all time favourites but it’s something I’d return from time to time to check out the latest instalments.

[Myffanwy Geronazzo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great entry into the series! Starts a little slow, but the whole premise is amazing and I really love how these characters are learning more about themselves and each other while trying to do their best at their job.

[Bee (BacchusVines) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story-line made to show Onoe betrayed by his faith in others. Man, this was a rollercoaster of emotions. A nail-biter for Onoe and Kaburagi. The ending was so good and I love how attached Onoe is getting to Kaburagi.

And that extra-story was really cute too.

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

So freaking cute how great they are in personal and professional relationship. And I like Kasai a lot! His crush is adorable and not threatening. I think this might be my fav BL outside of the series by Sho Harusono. These have a sweet quality to them even thought they aren’t childish in anyway.

[Kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 out of 5 stars

[Keri (TheAudioAuditor) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Paper book review.

I was riding a sweet high coming off of book 3 that I almost immediately jumped into book 4, and the chemistry was not as on-point as before. The sex scenes weren't as hot, the banter wasn't as biting or funny. Kinda a shame. Still a great arc, exploring what happens when their judge of character conflicts so harshly. And I was INCREDIBLY frustrated at the end. There's literally a line something like "We both decided to pretend it didn't happen" in regards to this really good relationship development. GAH! I still really enjoy these characters, and will absolutely read on if the series is continued. Please don't let that be the end!

[Chloe McGenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

More interesting plot than the previous volumes!

[n · Rating 5 out of 5]

These guys keep getting cuter! My heart can’t take much more.