Love Lab is the kind of show that could easily slide under anyone's radar. At the time of writing this, AniList reports an average rating of 71% with a ranking of 45th overall for the year 2013. Looking at the summary and tags it would be easy to assume this show is no different from the plethora of mediocre anime in the CGDCT genre.

We are introduced to Riko, AKA "The Wild Kid", as she walks to the all-girls school we spend most of our time. Her nickname comes from her boyish, rowdy personality which makes her popular among her classmates.

Maki, AKA "The Fuji Princess", is seemingly nothing like Riko. Her nickname comes from her reputation as a highly respected, mature, and dependable student which in turn also makes her popular among her classmates.

Our show starts when Riko is asked to deliver something to Maki where she discovers the well-respected princess is actually not who she seems to be -- she's a pillow-kissing loner desperate for love!

Maki soon comes to believe Riko has a ton of experience with love which she does not deny. Unfortunately for Riko, she's no different than Maki when it comes to love and her lying will have consequences.

Now coined the "master of love", Riko is roped into the student council by Maki to help her research love with her "expertise". Along the way we are introduced to new characters and plot developments that gradually increase the pressure on Riko to maintain her façade. What happens next is left for you to discover.

What makes Love Lab so memorable to me is the interactions between characters. Each episode features fast-paced slapstick skits that contrast very well with the underlying themes of guilt and friendship. Characters can be overly-expressive one moment and then reserved the next which leads to interesting dynamics as the show progresses.

I also found the pacing of the show to be very good. Oftentimes I find 13 episode shows fall victim to rushed endings or filler being stretched longer than acceptable to compensate for a lack of content. Love Lab manages to naturally build on its premise with new characters, plot developments, and dialogue that ultimately concludes in a satisfying and natural ending.

Love Lab does not standout as a uniquely innovative show, however it shines as an anime well-written with memorable characters and dialogue. If you're looking for something to watch that offers relatively high entertainment value, I hope you'll consider this review.