The popular shojo manga A Condition Called Love (Hananoi-kun to Koi no Yamai) by Megumi Morino will receive a side story series, as announced in the September issue of Kodansha’s Monthly Dessert magazine. This news follows the conclusion of the main series in the same issue on July 24.
The Main Story’s Legacy
A Condition Called Love began its serialization in Monthly Dessert in December 2017. The manga has garnered significant popularity, boasting over 4 million copies in circulation, including digital copies. It received critical acclaim, winning the Best Shōjo Manga award at Kodansha’s 45th Manga Awards in 2021. Kodansha published the manga’s 17th compiled book volume on May 13.
Kodansha USA Publishing has been releasing the series in English, starting with digital publications in 2020 and physical volumes in January 2023.
Plot Overview of A Condition Called Love
The main series centers on Hotaru Hinase, a 16-year-old high school freshman who initially has little interest in romance, preferring her lively life with friends and family. Her perspective shifts after she offers an umbrella to her schoolmate, Saki Hananoi, who is sitting in the snow following a public breakup. The next day, Hananoi-kun surprisingly asks her out, prompting Hotaru to feel her life is about to undergo a significant change. The story explores their evolving relationship as Hotaru, despite her initial ambivalence, decides to try a relationship with Hananoi. The manga is recognized for deconstructing and reconstructing common romance tropes, particularly through the development of its male lead, Hananoi, and the female lead, Hotaru.
Anime Adaptation and Its Reception
An anime television series adaptation of A Condition Called Love, produced by East Fish Studio, aired from April to June 2024. Crunchyroll streamed the series outside of Asia. While the anime adapted the manga’s story, skipping only a few minor details, it ended with Volume 6, Chapter 22 of the manga. Despite being well-liked by some, the anime series was also listed by Anime News Network as one of “The Worst Anime of 2024.”
What to Expect from the Side Story
Details regarding the specific focus or timeline of the new side story series are currently limited. However, side stories often delve into unexplored aspects of existing characters, focus on supporting characters, or provide additional vignettes from the main narrative’s world. Fans can anticipate further insights into the beloved characters and world of A Condition Called Love in this new series.
