More Than a Married Couple, But Not Lovers — First Japanese volume cover (2018)

Manga

More Than a Married Couple, But Not Lovers

夫婦以上、恋人未満。

Story & art
Yuki Kanamaru
First chapter
Status
On hiatus
Volumes
13
Magazine
Young Ace
Publisher
KADOKAWA
Genres
Romance, Comedy

Other names: Fūfu Ijō, Koibito Miman · Fuukoi

Description

At a high school in a fictional version of modern Japan, students live in pairs for a class called “Marriage Practical.” Shy gamer Jiro Yakuin is paired with outgoing Akari Watanabe. They both like someone else, so they act like ideal newlyweds to earn a high score and the right to switch partners. Their shared life makes it harder to tell where the performance ends and real affection begins.

The romance mixes teasing, tender domestic moments, and plenty of suggestive fan service. Alongside the comedy are jealousy, divided feelings, and low self-esteem, so some stretches feel more emotionally tense. Learning to trust each other is central, even when misunderstandings get in the way. Graphic violence isn’t a focus.

Pros

  • The leads’ teasing and small acts of care create strong romantic chemistry.
  • Jiro’s insecurity and Akari’s vulnerable side give the romance emotional weight.

Cons

  • Repeated misunderstandings and indecision can make the romance feel drawn out.
  • The school’s marriage class and scoring rules take a lot of suspension of disbelief.
  • Frequent fan service can be off-putting.

Awards

Main characters

  • Jiro Yakuin

    Jiro Yakuin

    薬院次郎

  • Akari Watanabe

    Akari Watanabe

    渡辺星

  • Shiori Sakurazaka

    Shiori Sakurazaka

    桜坂詩織

  • Minami Tenjin

    Minami Tenjin

    天神岬波

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