If there is one manga I think epitomizes the phrase "hidden gem", Pochi Kuro would be it. I had a vague memory of reading one of the volumes when I was very young, so I looked for it years later to read the story in proper, and I am so glad I did, because it's easily become one of my favourite manga series of all time.

Pochi Kuro revolves around a world of demons. According to legend, humans are a rare delicacy, and eating one can make a demon become powerful enough to rule the world. So naturally, the story starts with a human girl finding herself thrown in the demon world. Kuro plans to eat her, but quickly becomes fond of her instead, and vows to return her to her home.

The characters are all really fun. Kuro and his friend Leo are punkish characters, and Kuro's solution to anything is basically "let's beat it up!", but he's given a chance to show that his heart is actually quite big and he does really care for Pochi. What makes this a pretty interesting story is that despite Pochi not being able to communicate with our main characters, she is not a flat character at all. She gets into a lot of trouble due to demons wanting to hunt her down, but she's bold enough that she will fight back. Even so, she's very kindhearted, and will try to include everyone and is determined to "kill em with kindness". Prince Ishizu is another character I enjoyed a lot, since he starts off as some typical edgelord villain, but actually turns out to be a surprisingly sympathetic character.

Pochi and Kuro constantly break the boundaries of reality itself out of love for each other, and I find that awesome. It ties the action and adventure in with the romance in a way that fits perfectly, so nothing feels "forced". And the ending...I won't spoil it, but let's just say it left me in tears!! So good!

If there is one thing I didn't like about this series, it was that two chapters have cliche and unfunny sexual humour. If some of the most legendary anime series like Dragon Ball are widely criticized for their use of the "creepy old man" trope, you can bet that it doesn't work here either.

All in all, Pochi Kuro is a great manga, and I am sad it's not remembered more. If you are tired of cliche, shallow, looks-based romances and want something that feels more genuine, or if you just love demons, give Pochi Kuro a chance.