The Kuze family used to be rich, with a retinue of servants ready to cater to their every whim. The daughter of the family, Choko, grew up experiencing the tender care of the chauffeur’s son, whom she called Cha-chan. Alas, after her father’s investments all tanked in an economic downturn, the family was forced to dismiss their household staff and open a soba … [Read more...] about Butterflies, Flowers 1 by Yuki Yoshihara: B+
Manga
Honey and Clover 8 by Chica Umino: A
After an excellent seventh volume focusing primarily on Takemoto and his journey of self-discovery, Chica Umino replicates the feat with another fantastic installment, this one centering on Yamada and the choice she faces: continue to torture herself by working alongside the long-time object of her affections, Mayama, and the woman he loves or accept the chance to move on … [Read more...] about Honey and Clover 8 by Chica Umino: A
Kaze Hikaru 6-8 by Taeko Watanabe: A-
Even though I've enjoyed the earlier volumes of Kaze Hikaru, it is these three volumes—which expertly combine romance, humor, character development, and historical events (with exciting bits of foreshadowing)—that have secured my undying love for the series. We begin in the summer of 1864. The Shinsengumi is waiting for the Bakufu government to take a stand regarding … [Read more...] about Kaze Hikaru 6-8 by Taeko Watanabe: A-
Black Cat 6-8 by Kentaro Yabuki: B
Black Cat is the story of Train Heartnet, who used to be an assassin with a group known as Chronos but has left that life behind to become a bounty hunter (Sweeper). He travels about with his gizmo-making partner Sven and Eve, a young girl/weapon, trying to life as free and peaceful a life as possible while nabbing wanted criminals. Of course, his past just won't leave him be … [Read more...] about Black Cat 6-8 by Kentaro Yabuki: B
Tsubasa: Those with Wings 3 by Natsuki Takaya: B-
After a disappointing start and lackluster middle, Natsuki Takaya finally delivers a mostly satisfying conclusion in this, the final volume of Tsubasa: Those with Wings. We begin with Kotobuki and friends (sans Raimon, who is prohibited from leaving the country by a bomb in his brain) in Japan, where they conveniently meet the Tsubasa’s creator and learn the secrets of its … [Read more...] about Tsubasa: Those with Wings 3 by Natsuki Takaya: B-