This book having almost the same vibe like Breasts and Eggs which focusing on both lifestyle and womanhood but was written much lighter yet more vivid and profound to me.
Mainly on exploration of self identity, it revolves descriptively on career and the intimate connection of both friendship and love, also a thought-provoking view on social and gendered expectations. At some point I could really relate to Fuyuko Irie's character especially through her perspective of being a freelance proofreader-- truly love her talks with Hijiri about editing and books, I enjoyed this part a lot!
Neatly written prose and I love the emotional part of it; to explore into Fuyuko's thoughts about her life and especially when she gets to know Mitsutsuka; her lovesickness scenes were so engrossing to delve into. The forever mundane setting was quite appealing to me; it was nice and pleasing yet so sentimental.
The characterization was my fav as I love to see the contrast personality between Fuyuko and Hijiri-- how Fuyuko being all reserved and socially awkward while Hijiri was more outgoing and loud in voicing out her opinions (I like her views on the preconception and mistreatment be it in between genders or in the same gender). Not entirely fond on Hijiri's way of treating Fuyuko nearly the end-- I get that Fuyuko too at fault but how can Hijiri said the exact same words as Mizuno, I was baffled. Regardless, their dynamics were still a top-notch. Having my instinct towards Mitsutsuka since from the beginning so his revelation at the end did not surprise me that much.
Truly love the last 2 chapters especially the ending of chapter 12-- Fuyuko to finally resolved on her feelings; those memories, anguish, regrets and gratitude that she decided shall be pass and I guess it really goes;