Velvet Kiss is arguably Harumi Chihiro's best work. By far, the marriage between plot and ecchi/hentai always is a good one to read and observe. Especially if done well. Between the constant sex scenes and themes rampant throughout this work, there is a tender love growing between the two main characters that can be observed as the chapters fly pass. This love, while not clear at first, begins to slowly reveal itself and is very satisfying to see, if not being one of the main reasons to read this.

Harumi Chihiro's art is aesthetically pleasing to the eye in more ways than one, and in Velvet Kiss this is no exception. Although the amount of sex she drew in Velvet Kiss was somewhat excessive, it is understandable at the same time as it is somewhat true to say that the sex drives the plot.

In and of itself, the sex that Kanoko experiences at the beginning of this work reveals how shallowly she lives her life at first, until she meets the male MC, a somewhat lucky salaryman named Nitta. As the work goes on, she begins to have feelings for only one man, Nitta, and only with him can she have pleasure. If one reads between the lines, one can see where the direction of the rest of the book is going.

Needless to say the character development is also pretty exceptional on Kanoko's part. She changes from a girl without a care for life to a girl with conviction and power, and yet still retaining a somewhat tender side for the man she loves. The transition is so well rendered and made and is well worth the read.

On the other hand Nitta doesn't change very much--he remains your atypical male tsundere. Strangely enough he doesn't chase after his feelings aggressively, like some male MC's do, instead he acts through his gained wisdom from work and life in general and the way he applies his wisdom and skill is nothing short of satisfying.

Most people don't care for H manga. Undoubtedly, I'd say once most people read this they will change their mind. Some H manga, such as many of Harumi Chihiro's works, are well written and carry a bold and fulfilling plot while boasting beautiful art to boot.

Again, definitely worth the read, especially in one sitting.

5 out of 5 stars for Harumi Chihiro's Velvet Kiss.