The saga of Zetsuai 1989 / BRONZE, by Ozaki Minami, is one of my favorite manga series. I like the angular style and the dark undercurrents that run through it: passion, blood, hurt.

The story revolves around the feeling that pop star Nanjou Kouji has for soccer prodigy Izumi Takuto, a passion that transcends all else (neither considers himself homo- or bi-sexual). At first, both try to deny their feelings. But Kouji is used to having his way, and as the intensity of his emotion increases, he pressures Izumi more and more until the poor boy gives in.

It is not entirely one-sided; though Izumi at first puts up a great deal of resistance, he eventually realizes his own feelings for Kouji.

But it is by no means an easy road, or a blissful union......

Curious? Then follow me...