Tag Archives: manga

Book Review: Future Lovers, Vol 1 by Saika Kuneida

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Future Lovers, Vol 1       

Author: Saika Kunieda

Publisher: Deux Press

American release date: September 23, 2008

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Yaoi/192 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

Kento Kumagaya envisions a future for himself which includes a happy wife and children in a happy home that also includes his happy grandparents. But his marriage proposal to his girlfriend Yukie goes horribly wrong and she walks away. Devastated, Kento goes to a bar to drown his sorrows. There he meets Akira Kazuki, who seems too pretty to be a guy.  The next morning, Kento wakes up in Kento’s bed with memories of having had sex with Akira!  He blames the alcohol, goes home with his tail tucked between his legs, and doesn’t tell his grandparents what really happened. Then he goes to work at the school where he teaches, only to learn there is a new sub for one of the teachers – none other than Akira!

The more Kento tries to maintain his distance from Akira, the more he is drawn to him, and they end up in bed together… over and over and over.  Yukie also works at the school, as the nurse. One day she sees something unexpected and breaks up with Kento for good. A conflicted Kento talks to his grandmother, asking her about her arranged marriage with his grandfather. She explains how they fell in love, how their marriage has had its ups and downs but they weathered every storm. At the end of the day, they can both say their life was happy for having met the other person. That gives Kento a lot to think about.

When Kento gets hurt in an accident, Kazuki rushes to the hospital in a panic. Kento tells him he wants him to be his forever. Kazuki is happy to hear that, but when they kiss, they are caught by Kento’s homophobic grandparents, who are not exactly thrilled with what they see. Kento and Akira have other difficulties, including being careful at work, but there are some who figure it out anyway, including a girl with a crush on Kento.

In Winter Rabbit, Shu has gone away to university and has been too busy to visit his family, including his younger foster brother, Minoru. When Shu receives a text from his mother that something is wrong with Minoru, he hurries home, only to run into Minoru at the station. Although they were once close, Minoru seems distant now. And when a girl named Rina shows up, Minoru goes off with her, leaving behind a baffled Shu.

Later, they find themselves alone in the house, and Shu feels compelled to ask Minoru about something he heard. Minoru tries to bluff him, and unexpectedly propositions Shu.  But Shu refuses, determined to get to the truth of their feelings for one another.

This was a very sweet and romantic first volume of Future Lovers. I love both Kento and Akira, and I love how Kento goes from saying he isn’t gay to realizing he has feelings for Akira, no matter what gender he is. Their story continues in the next volume. A second story, Winter Rabbit, was also cute and sweet, as two young men come to understand their feelings for one another.  I recommend this to anyone who enjoys romantic yaoi.

Book Review: The Cat Proposed by Dento Hayane

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The Cat Proposed   

Author: Dento Hayane

Publisher: LOVE x LOVE

American release date: February 23, 2021

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Yaoi Manga/256 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

 

Matoi Souta is stressed to the max. Exhausted by his job, his life seems bleak indeed, and for one brief moment, he considers ending it. On a whim, he goes into a Kodan storytelling. The first story is about the legendary Myamoto Musashi, while the second concerns a vampire cat. The storyteller is good and draws Matoi into the story. But when it comes to the second story, Matoi is amazed at what he sees… did the speaker just turn into a cat? Or is he just that tired?  Deciding it was just his imagination, the weary Matoi stumbles out of the place only to collapse… and when he awakens he has no idea where he is or how he got there. Wait, isn’t that the storyteller?

The man’s name is Kihachi. When Matoi tries to laughingly tell him what he thought he saw, Kihachi shows him that was no illusion, he is actually a bakeneko! And by the way, humans shouldn’t know about their existence, but to get around it, he proposes to make Matoi his mate!

This is such a cute manga, I really loved it! Kihachi is the bakeneko who becomes instantly smitten with Matoi and wants him for as long as he can have him. But he is also gentle and never tries to force himself on the other man, who is bewildered enough as it is about this new world he has stumbled into. Why is he starting to exhibit cat-like qualities himself? Kihachi nicknames him his little sparrow, and is very protective of him.  But the arrival of another bakenko forces his hand and he takes Matoi to meet the others. This story is so romantic and sweet! And going after your dreams and what your heart desires! If you’re looking for hot sex scenes, move along. If you just enjoy romance, then come on in!

Book Review: The Way of the Househusband, Vol 5 by Kousuke Oono

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The Way of the Househusband, Vol 4             

Author: Kousuke Oono

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: May 18, 2021

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Comedy/168 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

Miku is leaving on a business trip, so it’s just going to be Tatsu and Gin. She tells her husband to try and relax. Has she met him? While he is having fun in his own inimitable way, Masa comes over, having been fired from his job and needing to kill some time, so they have some fun together.

While shopping, Tatsu runs into a former member of the HIrako Group. The two one-time Yakuza get into a rap battle in the middle of the store.

Miku tells Tatsu about a Halloween costume contest at a local mall. The first prize is a hot springs vacation, while the second is a year’s worth of rice. Tatsu really wants the rice, but Miku has her heart set on the vacation. The competition is stiff. Can Tatsu get them the win with his special culinary talents?

Tatsu and Miku go to eat at a buffet. For Tatsu, this is not simply about food, there’s a strategy involved! Especially if he wants to end up with a piece of the much coveted fruit tart!

Miku’s dad wants to do a hot pot for Miku and Tatsu, and he wants to do it himself. Unfortunately, he has the same basic skills as Miku. Can this meal be saved?

Tatsu suddenly takes ill, and treats his illness as equivalent to his turf being invaded. However, his tactics don’t seem to be working and it’s Miku to the rescue!

It’s New Year’s and Masa decides to visit Tatsu… in order to claim a New Year’s allowance. But his hints seem to be falling on deaf ears.

Tatsu, Miku, and Masa run across a local sake fair and decide to check it out. Apparently, not everyone can hold their liquor, however.

A newcomer in Tatsu’s cooking class is getting on Tatsu’s nerves with his sad attempts at making a chocolate cake. When Tatsu tries to set him straight, they end up in a competition to see whose cake really comes from the heart.

Another fantastic volume of The Way of the Househusband. I don’t think I could ever get tired of this! There is an animated comic version on Netflix which I enjoyed, but the manga is the best. Just one situation after another, plus three bonus stories, one of which is Gin’s walk. Gotta love Gin!

Hope there are lots more volumes coming!

Book Review: Twentieth Century Boys, Vol 2 by Naoki Urasawa

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Twentieth Century Boys, Vol 2: The Prophet     

Author: Naoki Urasawa

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: April 21, 2009

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/manga/paranormal/216 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

 

As children, Kenji and his friends were terrorized by Yanbo and Manbo, the “evilest twins in history”.  There was only one person who could put them in their place, a scrawny looking girl who would knock the stuffing out of the two boys. And they’ve just run into her at the airport, none other than Yukiji!  Apparently she’s a customs officer who has a dog for a partner. The boys are thrilled to see her, although she seems less enthusiastic about the chance meeting.

Two attorneys approach a man named Manjome Inshu regarding complaints from parents about their children being involved in an organization this man is part of. They want their children back. However, he is very evasive, and won’t give the name of the organization or of its leader, known simply as friend. Strangely, after Manjome’s departure, the attorneys notice something odd—all the spoons on the table are bent!

Yukiji shows up unexpectedly at Kenji’s convenience mart, and tells him she remembers the symbol they were asking about, and also who came up with it—their friend Otcho. When Kenji tries to question her, the franchise district manager chooses that unfortunate time to come in and demands Kenji’s time. She invites Kenji to the victims’ meeting, and he says he’ll try to make it.

Cho is a long-time policeman whose dedication to his job has caused problems in his personal life, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t care. He buys his grandson a Pikachu for his birthday, because apparently that’s what he wants and it’s all the rage.  Cho is investigating the disappearance of the Shikishima family. He runs into his colleague, Yama, who is working on the death of the professor’s student, but learns that the case was taken out of police hands. Cho is concerned about being late to his grandson’s party. His daughter, who hasn’t spoken to him in years, has personally invited him, so he can’t mess this up. He shares the details of his investigation with Yama before leaving for the party.

Kamisama is a homeless man who sometimes has nightmares. But his dreams aren’t like that of other people—his are often prescient. He shows up at Kenji’s store to check the stock prices and tells him things are going to get hard for him, but doesn’t explain why. Sometimes he tells his friends about his dreams, but this last one, he’s keeping that to himself.

While rooting around in his absent sister’s desk, Kenji finds a hidden envelope containing a strange message… and the same mysterious symbol he’s been asking about! He asks his mother about the symbol and it’s then he learns why his sister has always taken such good care of him, even before he was born. Which is why he won’t give up on raising her only child for anything. He also learns about the rich man who once courted her and what became of him.

Kamisama and his friends find an injured man in their midst. He won’t leave, no matter what they say, and insists on seeing the Great Kenji. Kamisama devises a plan to get Kenji to come to them. Hopefully he’ll understand what the man wants and will be able to do something about it.

Things are certainly getting strange and mysterious in this second volume of Twentieth Century Boys. Unexplained deaths are occurring, and we are getting more of a glimpse into the organization led by Friend. Not so friendly, are they? Is their leader one of Kenji’s old group of friends, who came up with the symbol originally, and had a plan to save the world… if only they could remember what that was. How will Kenji’s band figure into this? Could Friend be the missing Otcho, or did he disappear for a more sinister reason?

Also, am I wrong in thinking there’s an attraction between Kenji and Yukiji? If so, will they ever act on it? And who the heck is Kanna’s father? So many questions, so few answers. All we know for sure is the fate of the entire world depends on the answers!

Looking forward to volume 3!

 

Book Review: Twentieth Century Boys, Vol 1: Friends by Naoki Urasawa

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Twentieth Century Boys, Vol 1: Friends

Author: Naoki Urasawa

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: February 17, 2009

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Mystery/Sci-fi/160 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

 

Kenji once dreamed of being a hero and doing big things, but middle-age finds him the co-owner of a former liquor store, along with his mother. And he’s raising the niece his sister dumped off on them before she ran away to who knows where. He loves Kanna with all his heart and wouldn’t have it any other way. What do long ago foolish dreams matter in the face of reality?

Kenji is annoyed to learn the police are investigating the disappearance of the entire Shikishima family, mostly because they owe him money. Hopefully if the police stake out the place, they’ll want to buy snacks from his convenience store, he reasons. In the meantime, his childhood friend Keroyon, aka Froggie, is getting married. Whodathunk it? He did get his nickname for a reason, after all.  While retrieving empty bottles from the missing family’s home, Kenji finds a strange symbol  by the door. Something seems awfully familiar about that symbol, but he just can’t place it. Kenji quizzes some of his childhood friends about it, but no one remembers anything.

The morning paper brings horrible news. Another of his old friends, Donkey, a science teacher, has jumped from the roof of the high school where he taught… to his death. Kenji doesn’t think Donkey would ever do something like that. A strange boy they befriended long ago, he was particularly known for being a fast runner who told them that you can run faster with your shoes off. Kenji receives a letter from Donkey to him written just a few days previously, although he’d not talked to him in a good long while. The letter contains a drawing and asks if Kenji remembers this symbol… the same symbol Kenji’s been wondering about himself! Could it be a coincidence, or something much more? And Donkey ends with talk soon… does this sound like someone who’s about to kill himself?

Kenji talks to Donkey’s widow, and she mentions that her husband told her that one of his former students was in trouble, but she only remembered his first name and where he went to school.  Through good detective work, and a little luck, Kenji finds the student, who seems to be on his way somewhere. The man is secretive and mysterious and tells Kenji if he’s reached the symbol, he’s only one step away from true friendship. What the heck does that mean?

Kenji and some of his old group of friends meet to toast the late Donkey, and he continues to grill them about the symbol.  Still no one recalls anything. Until Mon-chan remembers that when they were young, they buried something, but can’t remember exactly what that was. Not sure if that means anything or not, they decide to hunt it down, which isn’t easy as much has changed over the years. They’re surprised to find… (no spoilers here, gotta read it)

This is the first volume in a series about a group of young men who did something that helped to save the world. Kenji is the main character, through whose eyes we see most of the action. The story takes place across different time frames, so we see what’s going on at different points in the boys’ lives, 1969, 1997, and the present. The first volume lays the groundwork for everything and asks questions which need to be answered. Such as who are the Twentieth Century Boys? What did they do? Who is Friend? Is he friend or foe? And is/was he one of them?

I like the writing (I’ll have to read Monster too, which is by the same author), as well as the artwork. Kenji is a good character, just a simple normal guy, living out his life, even if it wasn’t the one he dreamed of. He’s unwilling to accept the truth that appears to lie on the surface of things, and insists on delving further down, to clear Donkey’s name, and to solve the mystery of the symbol. All the characters are well-drawn, including the horrible twins whom they refer to as “the evilest twins in history.” I really enjoyed reading this, although sometimes I had to re-read to keep things clear in my head because of the time jumps. But in the end it all made sense, and I look forward to reading the next volume.

 

 

Book Review: The Way of the Houseband, Vol 2 by Kousuke Oono

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The Way of the Househusband, Vol 2    Way of the Househusband, Vol 2 cover

Author: Kousuke Oono

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: January 21, 2020

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Comedy/160 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Tatsu seems to be under the impression that his body is going to hell, and his attempts to prevent that are annoying Miku. He goes to a fitness gym, where the ladies find him to be a little intimidating.

Tatsu is growing an assortment of herbs and vegetables on the balcony of his and Miku’s apartment, intending to use them in cooking and making tea. However, he is under surveillance by some zealous police officers who think he is up to something nefarious. Trailing him on his bike, they watch his meeting with Masa, which only reinforces their suspicions as they prepare to pounce!

In his enthusiasm for the way of the househusband, Tatsu’s household gadgets and hobbies are beginning to overwhelm their small apartment! Miku suggests he sell some of it at a flea market. But he discovers that another gang is working that territory and intimidating some of the vendors. Tatsu feels compelled to step in!

Tatsu goes with Masa to his apartment and is appalled at what he finds, especially in the laundry room. It’s up to Tatsu to aid Masa in this turf war!

Miku is in the market  for a new car and takes Tatsu along with her. Tatsu is ready, willing, and able to give his opinion on every model she looks at. Will he be a help or a hindrance? And will any vehicle live up to his standards?

Tatsu is teaching Masa the finer points of shopping when they run into another former Yakuza named Tora. The two men know what must be done to settle old scores!

When Tatsu does anything he gives it his all, whether it’s cooking or helping out the housewives’ volleyball team. When they find themselves in a practice match with a team composed of all men, will Tatsu be an asset or a liability?

Miku gets to leave work early one day. Running into Tatsu, she accompanies him on his mission. He says he’s gonna throwdown today. Say what? When Miku’s parents come for an unexpected visit, Tatsu shines with his domestic skills. But when Miku’s father wants to play catch with the son he never had, Tatsu is unsure how to respond.

Another wonderful volume of The Way of the Househusband! I know I’ve said it before, but I absolutely love love love this series. Tatsu is sooooo adorable! He tries so hard, and even when he doesn’t succeed, he learns from his experience, not to mention he is most apologetic. I love the relationship between him and Miku, and the way they are obvious equals, each one looking out for the other. I’m still hoping to see more of their backstory. Maybe in the next volume.

I forgot to mention the bonus stories in the first volume. There are three more in this one, one of which involves their cat Gin, who is also adorable. The artwork is wonderful. I did notice a couple of videos on Youtube. They should totally make this into an anime. The next volume comes out in May. Guess I’ll have to re-read the first two to get my Tatsu fix lol

I suggest you buy a copy of this manga for yourself and a copy for someone you love. I bought my two daughters each a copy of both volumes. Can’t wait for the next one!

 

 

 

Book Review: The Way of the Househusband, Vol 1 by Kousuke Oono

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The Way of the Househusband, Vol 1      Way of the Househusband, Vol 1 cover

Author: Kousuke Oono

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: September 17, 2019

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Comedy/160 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

 

Once a fierce Yakuza known as “the immortal Dragon”, Tatsu has chosen to walk a different path now—the way of the househusband. He is very meticulous in everything he does, whether it’s meal preparation, laundry, or feeding the cat. He takes each duty very seriously and does the best he can, always eager to learn new ways to improve his performance.

The trouble is, people remember him for what he was, or they make assumptions based on his seemingly fierce appearance. On the other hand, his past experiences often guide him through the ins and outs of his current situation. When a shyster salesman with a shoddy product calls on him, he is more than happy to demo the man’s product.

One of Tatsu’s former men, Masa, is searching for his boss, wondering where he went. A chance encounter at the grocery store reunites them.  Masa wants to know why his former boss quit the Yakuza, so Tatsu invites him to take a walk with him.

Tatsu is headed out on urgent business. He doesn’t let a chance encounter with members of a rival gang deter him, not when there is a sale in progress! This is a great opportunity to show these yakuza the way of the househusband!

Tatsu’s wife, Miku, is crazy about Crime Catch Poli-cure, and is a huge collector. Tatsu plans to surprise her for her birthday with an addition to her collection.

On learning that the chairperson of the Women’s Association is coming to his apartment, Tatsu has to prepare, which includes utilizing the automatic floor cleaner, which brings unexpected results.

Watching a young boy for a neighbor leads to unexpected complications for Tatsu. Afterward, he teaches some supposedly tough guys about the way of the househusband.

While out shopping with Miku one day, Tatsu is dismayed to learn that people find him intimidating. How to change his image?

It’s only the first volume of this series, but I’m already in love with it, and am half way through the second volume and have pre-ordered the third. Tatsu, the former Yakuza, is completely adorable. He wears an apron with a shiba on it! He takes everything he does very seriously, determined to do his best. He and Miku are an awesome couple! This series is funny, sweet, romantic, and endearing. I love the artwork. Kousuke Oono does a fabulous job. The covers featuring Tatsu are priceless!

I guess you would call this a slice-of-life manga, as there isn’t one plot line but a series of incidents in Tatsu’s life as a househusband. There is a brief glance into how Tatsu was when he met Miku. I’m hoping to see more in a future volume. I want to see what brought these two together, and was she responsible for him quitting the yakuza way of life.

I can’t say enough good things about this series. I am looking forward to reading it for a long time to come!

 

 

 

 

Book Review: Bleach, Vol 10 by Tite Kubo

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Bleach, Vol 10     

Author: Tite Kubo

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: December 6, 2005

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Supernatural/208 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

 

Ichigo is confused when he learns that the person who is going to help them get into the Seireitei is a fireworks expert. What use is that? Turns out she plans to use her expertise to launch them through the sphere that surrounds their target. But they all have to be able to create a reishukaku – a spirit core – which means training for everyone. And Ganju is to help them. When the others stop to eat, Ichigo persists in continuing with his training and Ganju remains, to Ichigo’s annoyance. Ganju confronts Ichigo and demands to know why he is working so hard to save a soul reaper.

 

The Thirteen Court Guard Squad captains and their lieutenants have been instructed to assemble in full insignia. The captains question Gin as to how and why he let a ryoku past him, although Gin seems unconcerned by their anger. When the Head Captain asks for an explanation, Gin has none to give. An intruder alarm interrupts the discussion, as everyone rushes out to see what’s happening.

 

After a short rest, the team is ready to be catapulted into the Seireitei! Kûkaku warns them that they must keep their focus and not let their energy level grow too strong. Yuruichi cautions them to stay together inside the Seireitei and avoid confrontations with anyone of captain level. (Famous last words!)

 

Their entrance does not go unnoticed.

 

Despite their best efforts, the group becomes separated into smaller groups. Ichigo and Ganju come up against Ikkaku and Kamichiki. Ganju decides to run, and is chased by Kamichiki, while Ichigo faces Ikkaku in battle. How will Ichigo fare against such an opponent?

 

This volume of Bleach sees our heroes training for entry into the Seireitei in order to rescue Rukia from her death sentence. As usual, Ichigo never stops to think what the consequences might be. He sees what he thinks has to be done and he decides to do it. He has a very strong sense of loyalty and commitment, especially when it comes to Rukia. But then again, we have to remember he’s a fifteen-year old teenager. At that age, they think they’re invincible. Although I will admit that Ichigo has a better sense of life and death than most young people since he can see dead people.

 

Watching Ichigo and Ganju go at it is hilarious! Ichigo makes friends easily but he can also rub people the wrong way until they get to know him. One thing I’ve learned with this series is don’t necessarily trust your first instincts when meeting a character, things are not always what they seem. And that works both ways. The person you thought was so nice and good may turn out to be a major league villain!

 

I love the battle between Ichigo and Ikkaku. And I love what Ichigo tells him when Ikkaku wonders why he didn’t run, like his friend, which he considered a smart move. Ichigo replies: “If your power is greater than mine, then it would be pointless to run ‘cause you’d catch me for sure. But if your power is less than mine, then I just have to beat you.”

 

This is the beginning of a lengthy arc involving the rescue of Rukia, but it’s a very interesting one in that we become familiar with the captains and lieutenants of the Thirteen Court Squads. We’ll be seeing a lot of them, trust me. And when we get to the one I’m crushing on, I’ll let you know lol

 

Another great volume of Bleach, looking forward to the next one.

 

 

 

 

Book Review: Blue Morning, Vol 6 by Shoko Hidaka

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Blue Morning, Vol 6   

Author: Shoko Hidaka

Publisher: SuBLime Publishing

American release date: September 13, 2016

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Yaoi/250 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

 

Katsuragi has become uncertain, both of himself and his relation with Akihito. He thinks himself weak and useless because Akihito no longer blindly obeys him—so what purpose does he serve? While dressing the morning after, at Akihito’s hotel, he notices ragged garments in the closet and wonders why they are there. And why won’t Akihito get the haircut Katsuragi keeps telling him he needs?

Akihito meets with Ishizaki at a hot pot restaurant, which irks Ishizaki because it’s a hot day. Akihito says he is about to retire to Kamakura, under the pretense of his fake illness. Much has changed since the evening at the Moriyama’s, and thanks to the reporters Katsuragi arranged for, is common knowledge. For example that Ishizaki has become the Kuze house guardian. Madam Kayoko’s trip to France and her estrangement from her husband. Akihito’s “lung illness.” One reporter asked Akihito about the importance of producing an heir, but that won’t happen, not while he has Katsuragi. Ishizaki muses that things would be easier if Katsuragi were a woman.

Master Ishizaki informs Katsuragi that he has purchased a mill and wishes him to become the president and make a profit. He accepts the position. When he tries to drop off some papers with Amamiya, the new Kuze butler insists he deliver it to Akihito himself, and also deliver something from Katsuragi’s brother, Takayuki, who Akihito has entrusted with the financial affairs of the Kuze house. Katsuragi goes to the hotel and wakes Akihito, informing him the government railways have finally given their approval. Now Akihito can set up a railway in the old fief.

Ishizaki returns home from a late night out to find Katsuragi in his room. Katsuragi tells Ishizaki to not see the geisha he’s been seeing, and if he must continue the relationship, then he must allow Katsuragi to buy her out of bondage in his own name. Akihito meets with Katsuragi’s brother, who also remonstrates with him about his unruly hair. Akihito reiterates that he will be leaving for Kamakura, as planned. When Akihito says that he wishes Tomoyuki and Takayuki, as brothers, were closer, Takayuki responds with the comment that they are not related by blood, to which Akihito enigmatically replies, “Do you really think so?”

Katsuragi calls on Saionji and catches up with him. It seems his former lover knows him pretty well, including the fact that he loves Akihito. Saionji is happy himself, with his wife and new baby. Saionji gives Katsuragi some advice on what he should do. Later, Katsuragi goes to the mill. His employees are apprehensive about what their new boss will be like, fearful they will be blamed for past failures and be let go, but Katsuragi is not what they expected.

Even as Akihito makes plans to study abroad, he is concerned with Katsuragi, knowing he wishes to know about his origins, whether he voices his desire or not. Akihito and Amamiya visit Kiku’s old house, and Amamiya wonders what might have been, know that he knows about Akihito and Katsuragi. Akihito confides his plans for the future, once the railway is in place. Despite what Katsuragi may think, he does have the best interests of the Kuze house in mind, as well as his future with Katsuragi. Will he be able to persuade Katsuragi to come with him to Kamakura?

Each volume of this series is wonderful, I can’t get enough of these characters, even as I am left on the edge of my seat, wondering when they will finally be in sync with one another. The only way I will be happy is if they end up together at the end, nothing less will do. The artwork is superb, both men are very handsome, especially Katsuragi. She is very expressive in portraying their emotions in their faces. I can see the lust that glazes Katsuragi’s eyes, feel Akihito’s own wonder and joy as he gazes at the man he loves during their intimate moments. As to who will end up with the house of Kuze, I would not venture a guess. There is a whole lot going on, and the plot just keeps on getting deeper.

Can’t wait for the next one, one of the best yaoi manga ever!

 

Book Review: Soul Eater, Volume 3 by Atsushi Ohkubo

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Soul Eater, Vol 3     

Author: Atsushi Ohkubo

Publisher: Yen Press

American release date: March 3, 2015

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/manga/paranormal/192 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★

Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

 

Soul is hospitalized, following the fight with Ragnarok, unaware that some of the creature’s black blood has mixed in with his. What they are all unaware of is that the witch Medusa has become a doctor at the hospital! That can’t be good! A depressed Maka blames herself for Soul being hurt, but as she leaves his hospital room, she finds her father waiting for her. She goes up to the roof with him to watch the sunset.

Black Star balks at the remedial lesson he’s been assigned by Sid—he’s charged with cleaning and straightening up the library. Not sure where to begin, he runs across the library’s collection of manga, to his delight. When he expresses his joy a little too loudly, he draws the ire of Death the Kid, who is also there. Not accidentally, as Black Star assumes, but very much on purpose. Death tells him he’s looking for a book about a legendary blade, call the “holy sword” known as Excalibur. Dr. Stein weighs in and tells them even he could not draw Excalibur. So naturally Black Star and Death the Kid want to twith hiry their hand at it! Although, perhaps this isn’t quite the adventure they were looking for.

Tsubaki accepts an assignment to deal with the Uncanny Sword Masamune, even though Shinigami-sama warns her it will be a hard fight. But she feels compelled to do it, mostly because Masamune is her older brother! She and Black Star head to the village she came from. Black Star is his usual loud self. But when a villager notices his tattoo and recognizes it for what it is, Black Star’s story begins to come out. When they find Masamune, Black Star battles him, using Tsubaki. But the fight is ultimately Tsubaki’s, and she’ll do what she must, even if that includes getting into her brother’s head.  Black Star sets up a vigil beside Tsubaki’s body and vows to wait for her as long as it takes.

In the hospital, Soul confides to Medusa about his strange dream, which has a disturbingly Twin peaks vibe and ends in the same disturbing way—with him coming out of Maka’s stomach! Medusa tells him not to worry about it. On his release, Maka throws a party for him at their apartment, and Blair gives Make and Death the Kid quite a shock. Suddenly, Maka is startled at the realization that there is a presence in Death City that should not be there.

I especially enjoyed seeing more of Tsubaki in this volume of Soul Eater. She doesn’t usually get as much attention as Black Star, probably because he’s a hog for the spotlight and she is much quieter. Her interaction with her brother is touching. I also liked watching Black Star and Death the Kid in their quest to draw Excalibur from the stone. The cover, featuring Death the Kid and the Thompson sisters, is great. As usual, I love the artwork. I liked seeing a more tender, Dad side of Maka’s father. Too bad I don’t think it’ll last. He always manages to do something wrong sooner or later.

Another great volume, looking forward to more of the same!