Rumbling Hearts might not have giant robots or mystical settings so common in animé, but it's appeal lies in the changes in the relationships between the characters over time and in response to the actions of others.

The characters are reassuringly two-dimensional, experiencing changing emotions and pressures that affect them deeply.

The series soon moves away from the school setting to working life for the characters, as young adults. This sets Rumbling Hearts apart from typical 'high school romances', putting it on a level viewers who are young adults themselves can identify with.

The character design and animation don't exactly push the boundaries of animé, but on a whole is well executed and complements the story suitably.

With themes of love, friendship, betrayal and heartbreak approached in a mature way and a compelling story that will keep you watching, I'd highly recommend this to anyone who's even slightly interested.