Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian, Vol. 5 by Sunsunsun
This volume takes place after the events of Volume 4/4.5. It goes over the duo’s student council election campaign after the summer break. This review assumes you have knowledge of the contents and story of this volume one way or another.
*SPOILERS START HERE*
In the prologue, we learn a bit more about Masachica’s childhood friend/first love, before her identity is revealed. The introduction of the love rival feels… It’s fine for the story, but not exactly my favorite. Along with this, the two of them clearing up the misunderstanding from when she had supposedly abandoned him was nice to help move the story forward and improve Masachica’s mindset.
Skipping to the band part, I feel that both the drama and introduction were believable, as in I could see it happening, and helped move along the election by improving Alisa’s reputation. Along with this, Masachica getting his previous rivals to also join could definitely set up some drama. The jealousy from Masachica also helps them get a bit closer.
Finally, the trivia competition with the weird rules was definitely the climax of the volume. The trivia competition lets us learn a bit about what both Alisa and Yuki study and stay up to date with, like pop culture or traditional school studies, but also shines a spotlight on Masachica and Ayano for their supporting roles. It had this air of tension throughout it, and also had you thinking about what might happen. Yes, you might need to think about this one. I know it’s hard, but you can do it.
*SPOILERS END HERE*
Overall, a good way to ease back into the elections, and the introduction of the love rival is clean and does have a lasting impact. We all know who’s going to win the love triangle, but it’s for story purposes. Don’t think about it too much. Still maintains its humor and comedy, and you don’t have to put too much effort into reading it.
Would recommend it to: Normal people, abnormal people, that one guy in the back of the classroom, and people who don’t want to think too hard but want to feel smart.
(These are jokes. If you have made it to this point in the series, you can chose if you want to read it on your own.)
Reviewed by Teen Volunteer, 4/29/2026.