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
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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
Honey and Clover 7 by Chica Umino: A
From the back cover: Takemoto's journey across Japan continues, and though he's sleeping in empty lots and subsisting on convenience store food, he seems to be getting closer to understanding what made him ride away from school and his friends. But with his money running out and his bike on its last legs, will he have to give up on his quest before he finds what he's looking … [Read more...] about Honey and Clover 7 by Chica Umino: A
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-