One of the key aspects of Hozuki's work is her ability to create relatable and endearing characters. The characters in "Fruits Basket" are complex and multi-dimensional, with rich inner lives and distinct personalities. Hozuki's artwork is also notable for its expressive and detailed style, which brings the characters and their world to life.

Hikaru Hozuki has won numerous awards for her work, including the 2002 Kodansha Manga Award for "Fruits Basket". Her work continues to be widely read and admired, and she remains one of the most popular and influential manga artists working today.

Their romance is slow-burning and poignant. Hikaru struggles with wanting to protect her by pushing her away, while Himari fights to stay by his side, even if it means giving up her own normal future. He admits to her that she is the first person to make him feel "human" again. The tragedy is palpable: the more he loves her, the more he fears the day he will forget her.