Drama Digest
It is the story of Hanaoka Nao and Takatsuki Tsubaki. They first met when Takatsuki Tsubaki was six years old. Nao’s mother, Yuriko, who was a single parent, lived and worked at Kogetsuan, which was a well established traditional Japanese confectionery store. It was owned by Tsubaki’s family. Thus, Nao and Tsubaki become each other’s first love from that tender age itself. But one day, when Tsubaki’s father is killed, Nao’s mother is ironically ruled out as the suspect. Based on Tsubaki’s statement, Yuriko is taken into custardy and interrogated, during which she dies. Meanwhile; Nao is kicked out of Kogetsuan, making her and Tsubaki part their ways on a very resentful note. However, after almost 15 years, fate brings them together again. Nao, who, like her mother, is a confectioner now, takes part in a confectionery making competition, where coincidently Tsubaki is a judge. He is fascinated by Nao’s creation and asks her to marry him. All along, he had no idea that she was his childhood friend. Nao sees this as an excellent opportunity to get into Kogetsuan and clear her mother’s name. She agrees to marry him, but she is unaware of all the troubles she would undergo. Through all this, they end up getting closer. But will the truth of the case be unravelled?
The Feel-Good Part
The drama isn’t like any of your usual Japanese drama. It is quite different. It has a very well structured plot, and the story does not at all feel lame. Everything is well organized and explained. It is something that you will probably binge-watch. The episodes will never let you slip out of the feeling of thrill and excitement. Anyhow, if we had to pick a particular magnificent point about the series, then without any doubt it would be – the extremely exquisite costumes and the mouth-watering wagashi, which is Japanese confectionery. You will frequently see the main leads dressed up in beautiful kimonos, which are the traditional Japanese attire as well as traditional footwear.
The Disappointing Factor
The main couple had such great chemistry, yet it is disappointing how the romance element was explored so less. The drama satisfies you with its thrill, mystery, and challenge part. But; if we talk in terms of romance, you will probably be begging for more and yet end up starving. The secret of the case adumbrates the romance. Since the couple had a twisted back-story, with Tsubaki’s statement being the reason behind everything Nao had to go through, the love-hate relationship was quite evident among them. However, you don’t get to see many flavours in terms of the enemy to lover relationship. Also, it would have been way more fun if you had got to see more of Tsubaki and his side of the story.
In-Depth Analysis
On the whole, the drama is excellent. It is not at all what you casually expect from a Japanese drama. It is instead something fresh. The plot will have you hooked. You will always be excited about what is going to happen next. The story has a lot to offer, and you will seek pleasure from every bit of it. The gorgeous confectionery they make will surely make you want to go to Japan and try it out. The female lead is strong and ambitious. Not to forget, both of the lead characters have a story of their own that will enchant you equally. You will always be in the constant desire to know why did something happen or why did someone do it.
Star Power
The cast is impressive. The beautiful ‘Hamabe Minami’ does a fabulous job in doing the role of Hanaoka Nao. Her soft looks and gentle voice makes her perfect for the role. ‘Yokohama Ryusei’ also does an outstanding job. He perfectly fits in the role of reserve Takatsuki Tsubaki. They both beautiful portray the character’s struggle of trying to stay away from each other yet being hopelessly in love. Their chemistry together is spot on.
Overall Opinion
The drama is undoubtedly worth it. It is a perfect revenge drama, and you should check it out. You will enjoy it as it has everything. The OST is also excellent. The story is something new and will surely surprise you at many points.
