Despite her family's protests, Aoi Sakuraba decides that she is going to marry Kaoru Hanabishi, her love of eighteen years. Once he realizes that her intentions are genuine - and that she's not just trying to get him to reconcile with his estranged (and domineering) family - he begins to definitely warm up to the idea, too. What obstacles must the two overcome in order to be together?

Ai Yori Aoshi began its manga run in Japan in the magazine Young Animal in 1995; Hakusensha originally published it in graphic novel form in 11 volumes. There is also a very popular anime series based on Kou Fumizuki's romantic story of an arranged marriage.

Kou Fumizuki
Ai Yori Aoshi first ran in Hakusensha's young men's magazine Young Animal.

English Version By: Jamie S. Rich

Aoi Sakuraba
The daughter of a wealthy family, who grew up under the impression that she was to marry Kaoru Hanabishi. She has paid careful attention to every aspect of him that she has been able to see, and is deeply in love with him. She is very polite in speaking, especially in reference to her dear Kaoru-sama.

Kaoru Hanabishi
A college student living on his own. He used to be the heir to the Hanabishi Zaibatsu, but was disowned when he was unable to live up to his family's expectations. It is easy for Aoi to fall in love with him all over again, as he is a very helpful and caring individual.

Miyabi Kagurazaki
A loyal employee of the Sakuraba family, she has served to take care of Aoi since Aoi was a child. She is very mindful of what is good for the Sakuraba, and is always reminding Aoi of what behavior may or may not be appropriate. She is very much against Aoi's relationship with Kaoru.