I am conflicted about this series so far. I enjoy the deeper conversations and topics regarding sexuality that this storyline is covering, especially Usshi's dilemma, but something isn't sitting well with me overall. I'm not sure what exactly it is, though, at this point. Aside from that, the art is gorgeous and I'd be interested in reading the next volume.

Odd mix of awkward relationship cuteness, dealing with repressive societal mores, and relatively explicit sex scenes. This second volume turns things up a notch in all areas and throws in a bunch more supporting characters, making the cast a little difficult to keep straight (no pun intended). The themes of jealousy and communication were expressed tad melodramatically, but this is manga....

The second volume accomplishes what the first set up – a charming couple who undergo and explore the nuances of a relationship. There is an emphasis on sex, jealousy, and communication in this one and most of the focus is on Saeko as opposed to Miwa from the earlier volume. It is a great look into the psyche of Saeko’s struggling to keep her cool seeing Miwa talk to friends and acquaintances. It is genuinely entertaining to see a spunky character chip away from even the simplest of hangouts like Miwa playing video games with her roommates. The amount of depth and struggle Saeko experiences separates itself from many of its rom-com contemporaries. Tamifull does not shy away from the anxiety that comes with love, especially when addressing how society may react to it. Beyond our titular couple, we also get a glimpse of one of the side characters, Usshi – a freshman deducing on her reluctance on pursuing love - whether it be her feeling of inadequacy or fear of interrupting someone else’s potential relationship. In a scene where Miwa listens to Usshi’s feelings on the matter, Miwa makes it a point that love – especially hers as a lesbian – is inconvenient for society noting that “it causes plenty of problems” and yet makes her happy. This – I think – displays the heart of the work. Love can be disruptive – irrationally anxious for your partner’s time, self-reflective of one’s own follies, and fearful for the worst – and yet can weather through the chaos through clear, trustworthy communication. Through this second "How Do We Relationship" so far has the marks to be a game-changer and I look forward to a new volume. A work I closely associate this to in terms of its exploration in romantic relationships is His and Her Circumstances. I recommend leaning in on the aspects that make this romance unique, specifically dealing with jealousy and communicating clearly one’s own boundaries.

The art is really pretty and easy to follow, the story is nice, and the characters feel real. If you're looking for a manga for teens, this one is not for you, but for older readers, I highly suggest "How Do We Relationship?".

After a standout debut, How Do We Relationship? Volume 2 shows Miwa and Saeko dealing with the trials of being a couple, namely communication. The manga by Tamifull is a contemporary romance between two lesbians in college. What originally begins as dating for convenience, since there are no other options, might be turning into something more. The yuri series is published in English by VIZ Media. It is translated and adapted by Abby Lehrke, features touch-up art and lettering by Joanna Estep, and is edited by Pancha Diaz.

How Do We Relationship? Volume 2 opens with Miwa having overcome her anxieties about sex. She and Saeko seem closer than ever and have some very intimate and tender scenes. It is always nice to read a frank and open manga about lesbian sexuality without being exploitative. There are steamy scenes, but they feel natural. The characters’ relationship helps create these moments, instead of the reverse. Miwa also has a very relatable internal monologue about that evening and how she got over her initial anxiety.

The rest of How Do We Relationship? Volume 2 focuses more on communication, or lack thereof, and the individual insecurities of each of the women. The success of this is mixed in how it is handled. The subject matter can be uncomfortable, and it is appreciated that the manga isn’t afraid to address it. However, some moments might not sit well with readers.

A large portion of this volume deals with the concept of jealousy in relationships. Saeko has seen what toxic jealousy can do to relationships, and one of their bandmates seems to be an offender of such (although suffers for it), so she refuses to be that kind of partner. That is admirable and important. There is also a layer where it is treated as just a basic human emotion. Saeko prevents herself from communicating with Miwa about anything that makes her uncomfortable out of a fear of being controlling. This is done relatively well, except when Saeko lashes out at Miwa at one point but regrets it later.



What makes this volume uncomfortable is how the other characters treat Saeko and the concept of jealousy. Characters who are supposed to be her friends consistently attempt to make her jealous, and at points, take advantage of Miwa to do so. A bandmate still cannot get over his feelings for Miwa, although she consistently expresses to him that she is a lesbian. Again, the problem isn’t the feeling itself; it is the fact that he doesn’t appear actually to be trying to overcome it.

While there are many great supporting characters in this manga, many don’t actually read as good friends. But their behavior is treated comically by the manga instead of being condemned. Readers should also be wary of abusive behavior from the new character Kan. He clearly has some trauma he is dealing with that has yet to be explained, but that doesn’t excuse his behavior. As of right now, he is verbally violent towards Miwa. There was a great storyline about Miwa’s friend Usshi. She is happy and content with being on her own but is shamed by others for it. It will be interesting to see if these “friends” ever get called out for their behavior.

How Do We Relationship? Volume 2 shows strong color contrast between black and white when dealing with serious matters. It is a good offset to the more goofy moments in Tamifull’s artwork. Another thing I appreciate is that the characters feel realistically proportioned. A lot of How Do We Relationship? is down-to-Earth, and the artwork reflects that.

Overall, How Do We Relationship? Volume 2 is another good installment in the series, albeit not as strong as the first. A lot of uncomfortable topics in interpersonal relationships are explored, with varying degrees of success. The series succeeds as a heartfelt portrayal of two lesbians but falters with its supporting cast and their problematic behaviors.

I am actually really pleased with the direction that volume 2 in this series takes. It truly feels organic and real. We have 2 women who are continuing to learn and grow themselves, while also navigating their romantic relationship. I am invested in where this series will go from here.

Another wonderful addition to this series. The different relationship takes and dynamics across this volume really shined and the new characters have really begun to flesh out the world and cast