Tag: Manga Monday

Manga Monday: Cut-Over Criteria

Writer/Artist: Koala Omugi:
Publisher: LOVE x LOVE
Released: December 9, 2022
Received: NetGalley

Summary:

Haruma Seto and Jin Hagiwara really couldn’t be more different. One is calm and practical; the other is deeply connected to his feelings. The latter’s feelings are how we will end up in a particular situation.

Haruma Seto isn’t afraid or ashamed of his feelings. This is why he felt comfortable confessing to Jin Hagiwara. Granted, he didn’t know how Haruma would react or the spiral it would send him down.

My Review:

LOVE x LOVE did it again! Cut-Over Criteria is another sweet and endearing romance worth checking out. Honestly, remove the power imbalance (Haruma is Jin’s superior), and this series would probably be perfect.

The romance is sweet but also shockingly honest? Haruma doesn’t go into the relationship expecting to be swept off his feet. It’s more of an experiment for him. Yet that is so human, as who hasn’t felt the need to explore who they are?

Cut-Over Criteria doesn’t shy away from the more graphic elements of romance, so if that isn’t your cup of tea, this may not be the read for you. However, I have great news for you if that is what you’re looking for!

Highlights:

  • Romance
  • LGBT
  • M/M Romance
  • Yaoi

Thanks to LOVE x LOVE and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Manga Monday: My Coworker Has a Secret! Vol. 1

Writer/Artist: Mushiro
Publisher: LOVE x LOVE
Released: April 11, 2023
Received: NetGalley

Summary:

Akari is twenty-five years old, has no savings, and is obsessed with a pretty-boy idol. Her obsession is part of the reason why she’s perpetually broke. When a pigeon steals her lunch, Akari hits a breaking point.

Thankfully, a kind stranger is nearby to see her breakdown. His offer to share his lunch saves Akari’s lunch – but little does she know that this stranger will soon become a significant part of her life. Can she trust him to keep her secrets?

My Review:

Overall, I think My Coworker Has a Secret! Vol. 1 has a charming premise. I think we’ve all been part of a fandom that tempted us into buying too much stuff (whether or not we caved to that temptation is a different story). So in a way, Akari’s story is fairly relatable.

There’s more to her story than one might expect. I appreciated that depth, as I think it was needed. Likewise, there’s more to the kind stranger’s story, though we have yet to learn all of it (of course).

While I think this was a fun and cute story, I feel like one volume is all I needed. I’m not sure I’d read the rest, as the first volume probably carried the most impact. This is a great read if you like humorous romances with a dash of insta-love.

Highlights:

  • Coworkers to Friends
  • Friends to Lovers?
  • Cutesy Plot
  • “Tragic” Secret

Trigger Warnings:

  • Homelessness
  • Crummy Ex

Thanks to LOVE x LOVE and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Review: My Next Life as a Villainess Vol. 2

My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom! Vol. 2
Series: My Next Life as a Villainess
Writer: Satoru Yamaguchi
Artist: Nami Hidaka
Publisher: Seven Seas
Released: November 19, 2019
Received: Own

Summary:

Catarina Claes is the spoiled daughter of a duke and the primary antagonist in a dating sim, Fortune Lover. Or rather, that’s how the story is supposed to go. That was before a high school girl woke up in her body and made it her life goal to avoid all the horrible fates in store for this villainess.

She’s been working diligently to avoid those fates, but the stakes keep rising as time goes on. Now that she’s at her magic school, she’s finally about to face the game’s primary character. In other words, one mistake can easily lead to her doom.

My Review:

Ohhh boy, I forgot how much fun this series is! As the second installment in the series, My Next Life as a Villainess Vol. 2 is a blast to read. We’ve met most of the love interests at this point – with a few notable exceptions. Maybe I shouldn’t be calling them love interests since Catarina is too oblivious.

Anyway, moving on. This volume introduces one of my favorite characters, Maria. She also happens to be the player character from the game, sooo….you can see how that’s just a touch worrying for Catarina.

Once again, I freaking love how goofy and oblivious Catarina is. More than that, I adore how everyone is aware of her obliviousness and even comments on it (not that Catarina is aware of this, naturally). It kills me.

My Next Life as a Villainess is perfect if you’re looking for a light and funny read, especially if you like Isekai and reverse harems.

Highlights:

  • Isekai
  • Strong Humor
  • Clueless Lead
  • Dating Sim Game
  • Reverse Harem

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Manga Monday: Sengoku Youko, Vol. 1

Series: Sengoku Youko, Vol. 1
Writer/Artist: Satoshi Mizukami
Publisher: TOKYOPOP
Released: April 11, 2023
Received: NetGalley

Summary:

In a world where monsters exist, it seems like everyone has taken a side. Either you’re a human or a monster (katawara). Unless you’re Tama. She’s a katawara who loves humans and, as such, has sworn to protect them. No matter what.

Then there’s her stepbrother, Jinka. He’s mostly human, yet he feels none of the kindness towards humans that Tama has. Together they’re about to head out on a series of adventures, accompanied by a strange swordsman.

My Review:

So, I wanted to enjoy Sengoku Youko, Vol. 1. I liked the bright cover and the overall premise (gotta love a monster world!). However, I feel like the execution could have used some work. Mainly, I struggled to feel any connection to our three leading characters.

That isn’t to say there’s no potential here – there is. But the story is disjointed, so you must read between the lines to see some of that. Ironically, I would have liked the story better had there been fewer characters. A story following just Tama sounds way more exciting in my mind.

One of the biggest highlights of Sengoku Youko, Vol. 1, would have to be the artwork. I liked the way fights were portrayed, especially the sense of movement and depth.

Highlights:

  • First in a series
  • Fantasy Setting

Trigger Warnings:

  • Graphic Elements
  • Weird Sibling relationship

Thanks to TOKYOPOP and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Review: Soul Eater Vol. 2

Series: Soul Eater
Writer/Artist: Atsushi Ohkubo
Publisher: Yen Press
Released: November 22, 2004
Received: Own

Summary:

In a world where witches, minions, and tainted souls exist, there must also be those that stand against them. These people are known as Weapon Meisters and their Weapons. They are charged with devouring tainted souls and protecting the world.

Unfortunately, our favorite teams are struggling a bit. As such, Maka, Soul, Black★Star, and Tsubaki have been assigned to remedial training. This sends them off on an adventure, first to learn what happened to their fallen teacher and then to hunt down the infamous Dr. Stein.

My Review:

Ah, the chaos that is Soul Eater. I had almost forgotten how much I love this series. Likewise, I had forgotten that the second volume kicks off some of the best plot arcs in the series. So if you were wondering how long it’ll take to get invested, my money says: not long at all.

Soul Eater Vol. 2 is a fantastic volume, not just for the above reasons. We got more character development (especially for Maka and Soul) alongside several hilarious moments. Those moments help balance the intensity of (some of) what follows.

This series is excellent if you love battles, humor, and strong character connections. I promise you’ll find all three within the pages (along with a fair share of fan service, so if that is not your cup of tea, please keep this in mind).

Highlights:

  • First in the Series
  • Shinigami
  • Paranormal
  • Humorous

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Manga Monday: Snow Fairy

Writer/Artist: Tomo Serizawa
Publisher: LOVE x Love
Released: April 11, 2023
Received: NetGalley

Summary:

One day, on his way home, Haruki comes across an animal photographer by the name of Akihito. While he’s confused about why anyone would want to spend so much time out in the cold (and snow), he’s immediately curious about the man.

So when he finds out that Akihito doesn’t have a place to stay, Haruki quickly offers him a room at his place. It’s the proper thing to do, right?

My Review:

If you’re looking for a sweet m/m romance, Snow Fairy is the one for you. For starters, the artwork is stunning. Then there’s the romantic plot, which is highly endearing. Okay, the whole “inviting a stranger to live with you” plot isn’t ideal, but since this isn’t reality, we can overlook that bit.

Opposites attract meets insta-love and a variety of forced proximity in this story, making it perfect for fans who love a combination of tropes. Best of all, the chemistry between Haruki and Akihito is legit. There’s no need to force yourself into enjoying this plot, as you’ll be swept away by it. Promise.

Highlights:

  • Forced Proximity (sort of)
  • Opposites Attract
  • LGBT
  • Yaoi
  • M/M Romance

Thanks to LOVE x LOVE and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Manga Monday: Sunbeams in the Sky, Vol. 1

Series: Sunbeams in the Sky
Writer/Artist: Monika Kaname
Translator: Julie Goniwich
Publisher: Yen Press
Released: April 18, 2023
Received: NetGalley

Summary:

Himari and Mio are twins, but other than their looks, they couldn’t be more different! For example, Mio is extremely open and extroverted. Meanwhile, Himari has always been a bit more on the shy side.

So when a horrible incident happens to Himari, she stays home from school. It used to be the thing she loved most in the world. But now she’s afraid to step foot there. That is until her twin begs her to take her place, just for a day or two. She swears.

Review:

Sunbeams in the Sky, Vol. 1, is a cute introduction to a new series. Himari and Mio may look like twins (because they are), but they don’t act like stereotypical twins. I found that to be pretty refreshing.

I should warn readers to go into Sunbeams in the Sky, Vol. 1, with an ounce of caution. The story does begin with something awful happening to Himari – the description doesn’t shy away from that fact. But it also doesn’t portray the depth of what happened. Readers uncomfortable with assault should steer clear or ask a friend to help them skip this section.

Okay, there is one part of this series that is a bit stereotypical when it comes to portraying twins -twin swapping. The two girls switch places and create lots of shenanigans because of it. That’s the whole premise of the story, and that’s where things get funny and cute.

Highlights:

  • Twins
  • Romance
  • Shoujo

Trigger Warnings

  • Assault

Thanks to Yen Press and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Review: Soul Eater Vol. 1

Series: Soul Eater
Writer/Artist: Atsushi Ohkubo
Publisher: Yen Press
Released: October 27, 2009
Received: Own

Summary:

In a world where witches, minions, and tainted souls exist, there must also be those that stand against them. These people are known as Weapon Meisters and their Weapons. They are charged with devouring tainted souls and protecting the world.

Maka is a young but talented Meister, working alongside her Weapon-partner, Soul. They have a specific task – collect ninety-nine tainted souls, followed by one witch soul. Doing so will turn Soul into a death scythe strong enough to be wielded by Death himself.

My Review:

So, this is not my first time reading Soul Eater. However, all this talk (read: begging) from the fans about rebooting the anime has made me crave the manga, so here I am! I think this is my third read-through of the series. Maybe the fourth. If you haven’t checked out this series, please consider doing so! It’s so much fun.

Soul Eater Vol. 1 is a solid start to the series. Right off the bat, we’re introduced to the world, our primary characters (Maka and Soul) – and their mission. We also meet many other characters, such as Tsubaki and Black★Star.

Admittedly, there is quite a bit of fan service in this series. The good news is that most of it are shunted onto a secondary character, so it gets easier to separate from the main plot as time goes on. That said, if you don’t like fan service of any variety, this is probably not the manga for you.

Honestly, I forgot how many plots occurred in the first volume of this series, including an introduction to two of my favorite character-specific plots. I can’t wait to get to those points!

Long story short, Soul Eater Vol. 1 is a fantastic read, whether it’s your first time or your third (fourth?).

Highlights:

  • First in the Series
  • Shinigami
  • Paranormal
  • Humorous

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Manga Monday: Falling Drowning Vol. 2

Series: Falling Drowning
Author/Artist: Yuko Inari
Publisher: Kodansha Comics
Released: May 10, 2022
Received: Own

Summary:

Years ago, Honatsu woke up without her memories. All she knows is that her father is gone, and she’s lucky to have her best friend in her life. However, she may now be falling in love with said best friend. She’s not sure. Is this how love feels?

Toma has always been there for her. He keeps her safe, watches her back, and knows all about her history and quirks. Naturally, there’s a complication – Shun, the transfer student. At first, he seemed like just a guy who didn’t like Honatsu, but now something else is happening. Almost like he knows more than he’s letting on…

My Review:

So, I might have let too much time pass before reading Falling Drowning Vol. 2. It took me the whole first chapter to get back into the swing of things. So don’t make my mistake! Or reread volume one before diving in—either works.

That sweet feeling is still very much present in the second volume of this series, but a growing mystery is slowly overtaking it. What happened in Honatsu’s past? Why is everyone so protective (some would say overprotective) of Honatsu? And how do Toma and Shun work into this whole mix?

I enjoyed this volume, but honestly, I wish they had delved into these questions a little more. Instead, there’s lots of teasing and promising. On the bright side, other plots did progress, so I can’t complain too much!

This is the perfect read if you love gentle romances, potential love triangles, and a hint of mystery.

Highlights:

  • Slow burn romance
  • Potential Love Triangle
  • Quest for Answers
  • Friendship
  • Secrets

Trigger Warnings:

  • Memory loss

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Manga Monday: The Transcendent One-Sided Love of Yoshida the Catch, Vol. 2

Series: The Transcendent One-Sided Love of Yoshida the Catch
Writer/Artist: Shizuki Fujisawa
Publisher: Kodansha Comics
Released: June 7, 2022
Received: Own

Summary:

Hibiki Yoshida is what most people would call quite the catch. He’s passionate and caring and pretty determined to make the love of his life as happy as possible. The only catch is that his love has no idea how he feels.

The love in question is none other than Sena Shimakaze, a famous mangaka who desperately needs an assistant (or ten) in her life. That’s where Yoshida comes into play. He makes sure her series gets out on time, keeping her in line and, more importantly – healthy and alive.

Review:

So I enjoyed the first volume of this series and thus went into The Transcendent One-Sided Love of Yoshida the Catch, Vol. 2, with super high expectations. Those hopes were slightly dashed, sadly, as this volume just doesn’t hold up to the first.

I’m not sure if this is one of those things where the charm doesn’t hold up long-term or if it was the direction this volume took. I’m probably going to read the third volume to see how that goes. Maybe it’ll come back around?

I think the biggest problem with this volume is that it didn’t progress any of the core plot points. Sure, it showcased more fun and humorous antics, but that’s about it. Yoshida is no closer to revealing his feelings.

This volume introduced a new plot point right at the very end. I have no idea how that’s going to go. It’ll either enhance the series or destroy it. Only time will tell.

Highlights:

  • Quirky plot
  • Oblivious character is oblivious
  • One-Sided love (duh)
  • Potential Love Triangle

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