Upon a string of islands known as Oyashima, a country called Amamikado is attempting to assert its dominance by sword and by spell, the tales of its brutality making for easy victories over the frightened populace. The only nation able to oppose the Amamikado onslaught is Jagara, renowned for its warrior women and fabled to have on its side the legendary Sword of Susanoh. As … [Read more...] about Takeru: Opera Susanoh Sword of the Devil 1-2 by Kazuki Nakashima and Karakarakemuri: B
Fantasy
The Lapis Lazuli Crown 2 by Natsuna Kawase: B+
After receiving encouragement from a boy called Radi, really Prince Radian in disguise, Miel Violette has been devoting herself to her magical studies in order to earn a place as a palace magician and be of use to Radi. The events of volume two span at least eighteen months, as Miel first enrolls in a kind of prep course, then takes the entrance exam for the palace training … [Read more...] about The Lapis Lazuli Crown 2 by Natsuna Kawase: B+
Summer Fun with Shonen Jump
I reviewed four summer releases from VIZ's Shonen Jump imprint for a post over at Comics Should Be Good. On the agenda are: Tegami Bachi: Letter Bee 1 by Hiroyuki Asada: B- It's very pretty and atmospheric, but some aspects of the story are rather cheesy. I will probably still check out volume two, though. Gin Tama 13 by Hideaki Sorachi: D I know some find this series … [Read more...] about Summer Fun with Shonen Jump
Animal Academy 2 by Moyamu Fujino: C+
The second volume of Animal Academy is much the same as the first. Neko Fukuta and her shapeshifting animal classmates engage in low-key adventures like searching for a lost camera or deciding which club to join. There’s one chapter entitled “Hunt for the Hair Clip,” which should give you an idea of what kind of stories to expect. Some imparting of lessons about friendship is … [Read more...] about Animal Academy 2 by Moyamu Fujino: C+
Fairy Tail 7 by Hiro Mashima: B+
From the back cover: Fairy Tail's rival guild, Phantom Lord, has taken the competition to dangerous levels by smashing the Fairy Tail building and nearly killing three wizards. What is Fairy Tail's response? A full-frontal assault on Phantom Lord! But this clash is all part of the Phantom Lord's evil plot to capture a coveted prize. Review: Volume seven of Fairy Tail is a lot … [Read more...] about Fairy Tail 7 by Hiro Mashima: B+