Who would've thought a single picture could potentially drive the lovebirds of Naru and Keitaro apart? It especially sucks for Keitaro, because he's always been the lonely loser, but now he has two girls interested in him, and he doesn't know whom to pick. There's a lot going on in this volume, but one of the biggest mysteries right now is finally answered…is Mutsumi the one Keitaro made his promise with back when he was young.

The opening of the seventh volume is really cute, featuring the love triangle between Keitaro, Naru, and Mutsumi. Even though Naru went running off, the other two eventually catch her, and Keitaro refuses to let go of Naru. Naru, seeing a chance to discover Keitaro's feelings once and for all, tells him that he must let go of one of their hands before they get to Hinata House. It's a cute story with a bit of suspense, as the steps keep getting closer and closer to the house, and yet there isn't any clue as to who Keitaro will let go of first.

Love Hina #7

The rest of the book pretty much follows the framework of the past volumes, as Keitaro and Naru do a lot of studying, get close but don't come together, Naru punches Keitaro for doing something perverted accidentally, and the girls of the house are shown in various states of undress and wearing special costumes. It's not a terrible linear story to follow, but at the same time I wish it could be something more.

The second half of the book is much better, featuring Keitaro so focused on his studying he doesn't trip as much or catch the girls in their various states of undress they would usually sock him over, another Valentine's Day at the Hinata House, Keitaro helping Mutsumi look for a book, and once again, yet another entrance exam that looks to be going to the wayside again because of another revelation shortly before the test is to begin. Really, do these people not know a thing about timing? Next thing you know Keitaro will sleep with someone and find out the next day they're his sister.

Overall, it's a strong volume for Love Hina, especially considering all the sweet scenes that happen between Naru and Keitaro. Naru is really starting to care for the guy, and it's enjoyable to watch as the two fall in love. I just hope this game of cat and mouse doesn't last too much longer, because the story repeating itself every volume is becoming more annoying and a hassle to deal with more than anything else.

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