If you’re a fan of Boys' Love (BL) manga and interested in stories that dive deep into themes of mental health, trauma, and love, then Ten Count by Rihito Takarai is a series you should explore. Serialized from 2013 to 2017, Ten Count is well-known for its captivating artwork and its emotionally rich narrative that tackles the complex journey of overcoming trauma while finding love.
Plot Overview: A Story of Healing and Love
Ten Count revolves around two main characters:
Shirotani Tadaomi is an office worker suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), specifically a severe germophobia. His condition controls his life, isolating him from others and making even mundane daily activities overwhelming.
Kurose Riku, a therapist, meets Shirotani by chance and quickly recognizes his condition. He suggests that Shirotani undergo therapy and introduces a ten-step program that aims to help him overcome his fears gradually. As the two work through the program, a romantic connection develops between them, which leads to a deeper, more personal relationship.
The story explores the blurred lines between professional ethics and personal feelings. As Shirotani slowly opens up and works through his trauma, their relationship shifts, raising questions about trust, consent, and the power dynamics between therapist and patient.
Themes in Ten Count: Romance Meets Mental Health
One of the most distinctive elements of Ten Count is its focus on mental health. Shirotani’s OCD is portrayed with care, showing both the challenges he faces and his journey toward recovery. His character is not reduced to his condition; instead, his mental health struggles become a core aspect of the narrative.
Another key theme is boundaries and consent. As the professional dynamic between Kurose and Shirotani gives way to romance, the ethical implications of their relationship are explored. The manga doesn’t shy away from these delicate topics, creating a thought-provoking storyline.
Lastly, healing and emotional vulnerability are central to the series. As Shirotani works through his fears and trauma, he gradually learns to open himself up to others, especially Kurose, who also has his own emotional complexities. This emotional evolution is key to the development of their relationship, making their journey as much about personal healing as it is about romance.

Art Style: A Soft, Expressive World
Rihito Takarai’s artwork in Ten Count is soft, detailed, and beautifully expressive. The delicate line work and subtle facial expressions bring depth to both the romantic and emotional elements of the story. Takarai’s attention to detail captures Shirotani’s internal struggles, while the moments of intimacy between the characters are handled with tenderness, making the manga’s emotional moments feel even more powerful.

Reception: Love, Controversy, and Impact
Ten Count has a large and dedicated fanbase, particularly for its unique portrayal of mental health in the BL genre. Many readers appreciate the deep emotional connection between the characters and how the manga handles the sensitive subject of OCD and trauma.
However, the relationship between Shirotani and Kurose has also sparked debates. Some readers have raised concerns about the ethical implications of a romantic relationship developing between a therapist and a patient, which challenges the norms of healthy consent and professional boundaries. Despite these critiques, Ten Count remains one of the most discussed and influential works in the BL genre .
Why Ten Count Stands Out
Ten Count is more than just a romance manga. It’s a story that delves into the complexities of mental health, trust, and the healing power of relationships. If you’re looking for a BL series that tackles difficult topics while delivering an emotionally compelling romance, Ten Count is a must-read .
Sources:
Ten Count Official Wikipedia Page – Provides an overview of the series, plot details, and serialization information.
Manga Updates on Ten Count – Offers reviews, community ratings, and additional details on the manga.
Anime News Network Encyclopedia – Information on the upcoming anime adaptation and other media related to Ten Count.
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