I read this series because it can be stupid fun with its dense characters and their inane antics. But it has always been problematic with its fan service and sexist depiction of teen females. Now on top of that, this volume is derailed by a scene with what appears to be an extreme homophobic reaction from the protagonist.

I'm putting an image in spoilers to give those who do not wish to be triggered the option to avoid it.


Image at https://images.gr-assets.com/photos/1538599112p8/3738513.jpg.

Sure, there are extenuating circumstances as these are all straight cis male characters involved in a comic mix-up, but the word "repulsive" over a same-sex public display of affection just hurts to see. And it actually goes on for several pages in the same tone.


Without that scene, the book was mostly below average filler chapters of the usual mindless shenanigans until a cliffhanger that pushes one of the romantic storylines to a new level and makes you want to immediately start the next volume.

I already have the next few volumes checked out of the library, so I'm probably going to read them, but it's going to be hard to see the series in the same light. On probation. ( )