Once upon a time, a thousand years ago, there was a beautiful woman named Suigekka who used her magical abilities to help the people of Japan. The people feared and misunderstood her, however, and killed her after blaming her for the drought that had descended upon the land. A magician who loved her, Hira, went insane after Suigekka’s death and vowed revenge on humanity. He … [Read more...] about Phantom Dream 3 by Natsuki Takaya: B
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Phantom Dream 2 by Natsuki Takaya: B-
From the back cover: Tamaki Otoya is the last in a line of ancient summoners tasked to battle evil forces that threaten mankind. But when the rival Gekka family return to collect the demon sword Tamaki's family stole centuries ago, a devastating secret is revealed! Tamaki is left in such a state of shock that he doesn't even notice his beloved Asahi slipping away to the Gekka … [Read more...] about Phantom Dream 2 by Natsuki Takaya: B-
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+
Tsubasa: Those with Wings 2 by Natsuki Takaya: C+
Oh, if only Tsubasa: Those with Wings were as good as its gorgeous cover suggests! Former thief Kotobuki and her companion/love interest, erstwhile Army officer Raimon, are still searching for Tsubasa, a legend rumored to grant wishes. But first, they must slog through an excruciatingly dull plot about the Army enlisting the help of Raimon’s gun-smuggling foster father to … [Read more...] about Tsubasa: Those with Wings 2 by Natsuki Takaya: C+
Animal Academy 1 by Moyamu Fujino: C+
When Neko Fukuta is rejected by every other high school to which she applies, she ends up at Morimori Academy, a school where shape-shifting animals learn to act like humans. She’s allowed to remain, under the condition that she keeps her species a secret, and proceeds to make friends with her roommate, learn about the importance of road signs, encounter a mysterious snake, and … [Read more...] about Animal Academy 1 by Moyamu Fujino: C+