Tail of the Moon: Vol. 1

(aka Tsuki no Shippo)
by Rinko Ueda

Synopsis(from the back of the book)
Usagi is the granddaughter of the leader of prestigious ninja village, but she's such a klutz that she's never made it out of the kiddie class. Frustrated with Usagi's lack of progress, her grandfather sends her to marry Lord Hanzo and have lots of ninja babies. But the lord has no interest in her or her childbearing potential!

The path to love is never easy and Usagi has some unexpected competition. It seems that another ninja clan wants to welcome Lord Hanzo into the family and they've sent the beautiful and talented Yuri to win herself a wedding. Usagi won't be daunted by her rival's looks and skills, but will Lord Hanzo's secret feelings for and off-limits princess be enough to send her away in despair?

Review
I picked this title up when I read a review that didn't like it. Funny thing is, the stuff that they didn't like, I do. I usually don't care for ninja stories, as they tend to be cliche, but this one really isn't.

I said I don't like goofy comedy, but for some reason, this one didn't bother me at all. Maybe it's because the goofiness isn't about hitting people, but is situational. The synopsis is actually a really good summary of what happens in the book. What they don't tell you though is how hardworking, genuine, and cute Usagi is. Sure, she's a klutz, and is always making mistakes and slacking off in her ninja studies, but when it really matters to her, she makes a real effort. She can be a bit naive, though, which can get her into trouble sometimes, but it's too cute to be very serious trouble. She's also not worthless, as surprisingly enough, she's an excellent herbalist. Perhaps it's just my opinion, but it seems like even if she couldn't pass her ninja qualification, it wouldn't matter because she'd be far more valuable for her medicinal skills. But oh well.

The "marry and have babies" premise is silly, sure, but I think it works. Usagi likes Hanzo instantly, though it's a bit sad to see him reject her over and over. Still, he seems to have his good moments too, perhaps a hint of things to come. There's competition, in the form of rivals and past lovers (for both Usagi and Hanzo), but based on the author's comments in the side panels, I don't think there's much to worry about. I don't think this is spoiler material -- the two main characters always get together in romances.

I definitely think this manga has a great start, and some genuine laugh out loud moments.

Final thought: I have to get the next book!