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-
Shoujo
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-
From Far Away 1-5 by Kyoko Hikawa: A-
When I recently solicited opinions about which of several shoujo fantasies I should read, respondents were clearly in favor of From Far Away and left enticing comments about its charms as well as their abiding love for it. Because of its length (fourteen volumes), I've decided to tackle it in chunks. Here's the first installment; others will follow soon! This is the story of … [Read more...] about From Far Away 1-5 by Kyoko Hikawa: A-
Black Bird 2 by Kanoko Sakurakoji: B-
Misao is the bride of demon prophecy, and marrying her will bring her childhood friend Kyo, leader of the Tengu clan, prosperity. Misao is drawn to Kyo, but she resists this arrangement because she can’t be sure whether Kyo actually loves her for herself or because of the benefits she could bring him. The answer to this question arrives in the form of Kyo’s eight vassals, a … [Read more...] about Black Bird 2 by Kanoko Sakurakoji: B-
High School Debut 12 by Kazune Kawahara: B
It’s Yoh’s birthday and Haruna has arranged for them to take an overnight trip together. Originally ignorant of the implications but now armed with information about what boys typically expect in such situations, she has endeavored to prepare herself as much as possible but suffers second thoughts as the big moment approaches. Later, Yoh’s sister throws a hissy fit about his … [Read more...] about High School Debut 12 by Kazune Kawahara: B