【Kemuri to Mitsu】Too Much Age Difference! A Featured Work Set in Japan's Taisho Era, Between a Soldier and a Young Girl!

“Smoke and Honey” is a sweet and poignant love story set in Nagoya during the Taisho Era, revolving around the overcoming of an 18-year age difference between Himeko, a 12-year-old girl, and Fumiharu, a 30-year-old soldier. The story begins with Himeko attending school in Nagoya, living with her sick mother, grandfather, and maids. Himeko harbors feelings for her betrothed, Imperial Army Major Fumiharu Tsuchiya. Fumiharu visits her home, and through their casual conversations, the distance between them gradually closes. Although betrothed, Fumiharu understands the age gap and believes he should act more like a father to her. However, Himeko firmly sees Fumiharu as her fiancé, wishing him to call her by her name.

When her small wish is fulfilled, a new step is etched in their relationship.

This manga depicts the bittersweet romance of a couple with a significant age difference. Particularly striking is Fumiharu's military uniform. His dignified presence attracts readers not through words but through actions. The scene where Himeko wishes Fumiharu to see her as his betrothed symbolizes her pure love, conveying an awkwardly endearing atmosphere to the readers. Also, Fumiharu's under-eye bags and slightly worn military uniform add to his charm, showing his character's appeal. Himeko's innocent and devoted love shines a new light on Fumiharu, a somewhat weary adult.

The surrounding characters are also charming, and as the story unfolds with Fumiharu's gentlemanly behavior and Himeko's growth, it gains depth. The backdrop of the Taisho Era and family illnesses add tension to the story amidst the era's instability, yet the overall atmosphere remains heartwarming. This manga not only conveys the beauty of pure love but also depicts the changing lives of people along with the changing times, captivating its readers.