Beautifully and realistically portrayed by the mangaka.
It won't tug at your heartstrings if you've read many shoujo mangas already, but I highly recommend it.
There's something about the characters that make you keep wanting to read it, and all five are equally important to the plot. The female protagonist can be a bit too much of a saint, but nevertheless, one that is tolerable.
This is one of the very few times I feel so connected to the characters, which is probably why it feels very bittersweet throughout. They teach you about true love, bravery, courage, determination, and the things in life that can't be helped.
The art is beautiful too =)
Give it a go!
*This would also be a good read for those who love bad-boy-falls-for-innocent-girl type mangas.