MeruPuri: Vol. 4

by Matsuri Hino

Synopsis
All high school freshman Airi Hoshina ever wanted was to someday live in a cozy home with a loving husband, and find joy in the little things in life. As a result, she makes it her daily mission to get to school on time because school legend has it that the longer one's non-tardy streak is, the better boyfriend on will find. But just when her daily routine is working like clockwork, an occurrence of fairytale proportions threatens to disrupt her grand plan.

The bizarre adventures of reluctant pair Airi and little prince Aram wind down as their love story comes full circle. As the gap between the kingdom of Astale and the real world narrows, revelations about Airi's and Aram's quirky family members begin to float like pixie dust. Will Airi ever achieve her dream of sharing a cozy home with a loving husband? And what happens to her magic mirror? Discover the wacky twist that's sure to leave you begging for more!

Review
We finally come to the last volume. Since this was a fluff series to begin with, there's not much to expect, but still, it ends up being very good, sweet, and memorable. Most of the loose ends are tied up, and we find out what happens to most of the major characters.

Probably the only problem I have is that the main story arc that was continued from the last volume is concluded in the first chapter, and what makes up the rest of the books is interesting, but just doesn't have the oomph that a conflict would give it. It's like I knew that everything was going to turn out ok, so there wasn't anymore tension in any of the stories. Still, though this sounds bad, the chapters that follow are worth reading.

Overall, I'd have to say that this was a very enjoyable series to read. It was well-written, beautifully drawn, and I absolutely love the costumes that she drew.

Final thought: It's worth owning; definitely a unique series.

Red River: Vol. 10

by Chie Shinohara

Synopsis
Prince Kail, a young warrior and sorcerer and Yuri, a modern-day teen, where thrown together when evil Queen Nakia drew Yuri across time and space into the ancient Hittite Empire. When it is the season of the North Star, Prince Kail has the power to send Yuri home. But the evil queen's plan to murder them both -- and their growing feelings for one another -- keep getting in the way!

Yuri fights to clear her good name by publicly confronting her impersonator. Rather than earning respect, however, she is exiled to a settlement of the sick and dying! Yuri sets out to change people's minds, all the time hoping to be reunited with Kail. However, her heart is broken when she finds out that Kail has been hiding a terrible secret of his own. Does Kail deserve his bad reputation?

Review
Oops on reusing that synopsis, but that's what's on the back of my book. Maybe it's a first edition problem.

Well, the drama continues. The gist of this volume is that the new king, Arnuwanda, is murdered, and Yuri is accused as the murderer. Of course, we know who the real murderer is, Urhi, ordered by Nakia, but the problem with those two is how to prove it. It was explained that the queen was controlling Guzel, the princess who claimed to have Kail's son, as a way to distract Kail from her real plan: to poison the king. Unfortunately for her, Juda came along with Yuri as she tried to warn the king about the poison. Now here, it gets interesting, as Kail figures out that the queen was using Guzel, and he squeezes her, which brings the black water out of her. Of course, you'd think that the council members would see this, and realize that someone was controlling her, but somehow, it doesn't end up that way. They still seem incredulous that magic could be at work, which is utterly ridiculous, because it seems like common knowledge that members of the royal family can use magic. What could have clinched it though, is proving that Juda is being controlled by her, but funnily enough, she won't allow that. Even after it's been established that no one is above the law. This murder mystery is really interesting, and should have exposed Nakia, but the author isn't ready for that, so it doesn't.

Another matter that really bothers me is why, why are the characters always responding to Nakia? Why do they never go on the offensive? It's like those shows we watched as kids, where the bad guys would think up an evil plan, and the good guys would always have to go thwart him/her. I know this series has a lot of anachronistic behavior, but why do we have to include perfectly good here? It's too simplistic. In history, kings and people in the way were always murdered, even by the good guys. Personally, I really like and respect Queen Elizabeth I, who was an excellent queen. But even she had to murder people who were threats to her power. That's how she secured her power base. Every ruler does that.

I suppose my real problem is that I know too much about history, perhaps even more than the author does. Simple ideas of good and evil don't cut it with me anymore, because the world isn't really like that. Even Yuri says several times that she doesn't like sitting around when she could be doing something. Well, she should take the initiative and figure out how to remove Nakia from power, if she's too cowardly to actually kill her. God, and with this talk of "what a great queen she'd make," don't make me sick. It's pathetic that I can out think her, with just a little bit of logic. Anyone with half a brain would make a better queen than her.

Final thought: I'm crazy, let's rip apart some more!

You're probably wondering why I subject myself to this. Well, it's because I already did, over a year ago when I read these books. I used to think they were great, until I started thinking about them, instead of just devouring them. Rereading them has only solidified my opinion: they're good, but not that good. Besides, aren't rants more interesting than reviews of good things?

RG Veda: Vol. 1

(aka Seiden)
by Clamp

Synopsis
At the dawn of creation, the world was a beautiful and tranquil place. Gods and humans lived peacefully together under the Heavenly Emperor's rule. But Taishakuten, a powerful warlord, rebelled against the King, and voilent, chaotic age began....

Three hundred years later, Kuyou (Yasha), the strongest warrior in the land, hears the prophetic words of a revered stargazer: Six Stars will one day assemble and over throw this bloody reign. Now, the quest begins to find the Six Stars and fulfill the prophecy before the heavens are torn apart!

Review
There's nothing wrong with this manga, but it just didn't grab me. Was it that I had seen these combinations of things before: prophecy, fate, defying heaven, a special being, assembling numbered allies, defeating the ultimate evil, that made me sigh and say "not again"? It's probably unfair, as this manga is somewhat old, so others may have copied it. But there's nothing really special about it either, nothing terribly groundbreaking.

The main bad guy, Taishakuten, is evil for evil's sake, and although nobody likes him, nobody stands up to him, except presumably, the to-be-formed six stars. I find this kind of thing very tiresome. Why does it have to be chosen people? Why can't people just rebel because they don't like the guy? He's too powerful, I know, is the excuse, but for some reason, the chosen people will be strong enough. Why? 'Cause the author said so.

Anyway, this volume involves awakening Ashura, from one of the exterminated tribes, as he is the special one that will gather the other five stars. In reality, not a whole lot happens, just that Ashura proves himself to be the "danger" that he was prophecied to be. He's still only a child, so Yasha, the man who found him, has to take care of him.

There was a really odd shift from the first chapter to the second. The first was incredibly serious, laying out the groundwork for the story, but the second was silly, full of gags, and trying to be cute. I'm honestly not sure what was accomplished in that chapter, but it's typically Japanese, cause we know they can't ever be serious for long. The other chapters didn't reveal much, either, so most of the information is gleaned from the first chapter. Also, the pacing is a little bit odd. I found that it just jumped from one scene to another without even clues that time had passed, or that a scene was changing.

Is there anything redeemable? Sure, it has gorgeous Clamp art, which is a treat to look at, although I wish their men weren't so androgynous, as I don't go for that. It might become an interesting story, but I have a feeling that I know the ending already: they'll gather the other people, and win against the bad guy and peace returns. Yay.

Final thought: If I can't find anything else to read....

Mars: Vol. 6

by Fuyumi Soryo

Synopsis
Kira and Rei are definitely in love -- but no one said love was easy. When a new guy enrolls in their school, he instantly develops a big crush on both Rei and Kira. (Gulp!) To make matters worse, it turns out that this mysterious stranger is actually a face from Rei's violent past. Slowly, Kira begins to discover Rei's darker side, but she's not so sure she likes what she sees. As scandalous stories and shocking secrets are revealed, Kira hopes beyond hope that their love will conquer all.

Review
This new character, Masao, is really irritating. And sick, he's really, really sick. I don't know what it is about him, but he seems to bring out the worst in Rei, which freaks Kira out, and it starts to change how she thinks and feels about him. I kinda wonder to myself if Masao is just really good at manipulating people around him, without them realizing it. I wish that Kira would listen to Rei more, especially about Masao, but understandably, she doesn't, having seen some of his darker side.

Unfortunately, there's not a lot to say about this volume, as it mostly revolves around Masao, the characters getting to know him, and understanding his true, sick nature. It's a really good volume, but pretty messed up, too.

Final thought: I have to read more!

Sensual Phrase: Vol. 3

by Mayu Shinjo

Synopsis
There's always a gaggle of pretty young girls hanging out backstage ready to provide "fan support" to Sakuya, the dreamy frontman for hard rockin' Lucifer. Unfortunately, the one girl he most desires doesn't seem to want him.

Or so he thinks.... In reality, Aine is hopelessly in love with the lanky, leather-clad heartthrob. But cruel circumstances have conspired to keep them apart.

Now Sakuya has been cast on a popular TV show with a co-star who just happens to be the first woman he ever slept with! It's no secret she's more than read for another romp with him. Will he be able to resist her sexual advances and hold out for the woman of his dreams...?

Review
I don't really take this series too seriously, because I know it's just erotic fluff. It's not the greatest thing ever, but I don't really hate it, so I keep reading.

In this volume, the whole Ralph Grazer arc gets wrapped up, a little too conveniently, if you ask me. But whatever. Then, we get thrown into another arc, this time with a past lover of Sakuya's, a famous actress, Ayako Sakura. She's still interested in him, of course, she has to be, because we need another conflict. I probably wouldn't care much if Aine had more confidence in herself. She constantly seems to be worried that she's going to lose Sakuya.

One nice thing about this series is that Aine seems to really like sex, as I think most people do, but society tries to get women to downplay that. It's actually refreshing to see a woman enjoying herself and asking for more. It's certainly not something I see very often.

Final thought: I'll read the next book.

The Key to the Kingdom: Vol. 5

by Kyoko Shitou

Synopsis
The day has finally arrived -- the day the Dragon Man predicted that Badd would die! A wounded Badd accompanies young Asta back from his mission, in which the Prince learned the true meaning of the "Key" -- or rather "Keys." Now that Asta knows the identities of the sacrifices needed to unlock the Towers, he must race to save both friends and rivals. But a Dragon Man attacks them and Badd finds himself locked in a life and death battle!

Review
A lot happens in this volume, and interestingly enough, most everything is resolved. It's very good, very interesting, and needs to be experienced rather than read about.

I was mostly right about there being two Gaiuses, as there were also two Ceianuses, but apparently they inhabit the same two bodies. Although this makes sense, I fail to understand why Gaius gave the keys to the towers to the other competitors, as this would work against the real dragons. If they alternated personalities, I could buy it, but apparently the dragon tamer and his apprentice can only reclaim their bodies on the day of the solstice. Perhaps there's some information I don't have, because even in this book, they show a Gaius-looking character with Duke Alan when he descends to his tower. Maybe it'll be revealed in the next book.

Obviously, if the story continues, then the dragon tamer's scheme didn't work out. But there's still a lot of unanswered questions, like Badd's life has been saved by eating dragon flesh, but at what cost? The dragon tamer is still alive, so he must be dealt with, but at least his apprentice is dead. Who will succeed to the throne?

Final thought: I have to read the next book!

Apothecarius Argentum: Vol. 1

(aka Yakushi Arujan, Medicine Buddha Argent)
by Tomomi Yamashita

Synopsis
As a boy, Argent was a poison tester for a royal family. He developed an unusual immunity towards toxic substances, and later he became a master chemist with the ability to cure any illness. Returning to the kingdom after a long absence, he is assigned to watch over Princess Primula once again. But any relationship that might develop between the two will have its limits; Argent's very touch has itself become poisonous!

Review
I picked this up on much consideration, having continually seen it in the store, and after reading the synopsis, which sounded interesting, I reminded myself that a lot of things start out with an interesting premise yet go downhill. I just don't know about this series.

It has an interesting premise, though I feel like I've seen it before, a master herbalist who is immune to poisons, yet this also makes him "untouchable." How can he ever have a physical relationship? Does this sound like Rogue from the X-Men to anyone?

Anyway, during the convoluted beginning we find out, the princess, Primula, who acts an awful lot like a spoiled brat, once employed Argent as her food taster, since people were trying to kill her. She sent him away because she wanted him to be his own person, and she wanted to be stronger, or something like that. I don't know to remember, the author only reminds us of it every chapter thereafter. Apparently, the little we get of Argent's past is that he was created (by whom?) to be a "basilisk," which this book defines as a person who is fed small amounts on poison to make them immune to it, but also to create someone who can kill by touch. Anyway, after he left, a few years passed, and he came back because her normal healer was away when she needed him. This sets off events where he reluctantly stays in contact with her, because he's the reticent yet caring type, and they have different adventures that are mildly interesting, but not serious enough for me. I'd hoped at least one chapter would develop Argent more, but there isn't one. Also, this volume has not yet found a plot.

Later in the story, it's clear that the two, Argent and Primula, like each other, but clearly, his problem is going to be ... a problem. I have no idea how the author will resolve this, but I foresee three potential outcomes: one, he'll have to find a cure, thereby destroying his herbalism and poison immunity; two, he'll just live with it, always making sure he never touches her directly, though that could get frustrating; or three, he'll do nothing, but he'll whine about his problem a lot, claim that he can't have a relationship with her because of it, not speak to her about it, and attempt to be distant in an effort to push her away, but she'll get confused and angry, but not confront him, thereby creating a story that will drag on for many books, resulting in profit for the author. I could be wrong about all the outcomes, yes, I admit that, but I've also read enough of anything to tell you that it will likely be number three, which, if so, I will not bother with this series anymore.

I do like the use of herbs in this book, and even the tidbits of information at the back that the author gives us. It's clear that she really cares about this subject, and has researched it a lot. If you know anything about modern medicine and pharmaceuticals, you can see the roots of them in herbalism, which I find fascinating.

Final thought: I'll read more if I can't find anything else to read.

Red River: Vol. 9

by Chie Shinohara

Synopsis
Prince Kail, a young warrior and sorcerer and Yuri, a modern-day teen, where thrown together when evil Queen Nakia drew Yuri across time and space into the ancient Hittite Empire. When it is the season of the North Star, Prince Kail has the power to send Yuri home. But the evil queen's plan to murder them both -- and their growing feelings for one another -- keep getting in the way!

Yuri fights to clear her good name by publicly confronting her impersonator. Rather than earning respect, however, she is exiled to a settlement of the sick and dying! Yuri sets out to change people's minds, all the time hoping to be reunited with Kail. However, her heart is broken when she finds out that Kail has been hiding a terrible secret of his own. Does Kail deserve his bad reputation?

Review
Like the synopsis says, Yuri confronts the false Ishtar (without evidence) and is thrown into the valley, where poor people with the seven day fever go to die. Yuri's never had this disease, and thinks she'll die from it, but rather than run away, she escapes and returns to help the people there. She never gets sick, and the people all end up worshiping her. Well, Yuri's idiotic actions in a roundabout way turned out for good. Seriously, why does she always have to run off and do her own thing? And why does it always have to turn out ok? She should experience some real consequences for once.

And again, people keep commenting on what a wonderful queen she would make. If only she would stay! But no, the characters still talk about her going home. Why won't someone just decide already? The two are practically killing themselves by denying their feelings, and yet they refuse to talk about them! It's psychotic. It's annoying for the reader. And to top it off, the author dares to throw a teasing scene at us, but still nothing happens! This is beyond artificial, this is bad writing. There's no logical reason for the characters to behave this way, nor can I even think of what in the story requires them to not be together. Nonsensical.

So after the false Ishtar thing, Kail is named the crown prince. Big surprise there. Then, a woman from his past shows up, and she's had his son! Oh noes! There's just always something going on, isn't there? It's not the events that bother me, though, it's that I've realized that this series has no pacing. It jumps from arc to arc, conflict to conflict, with no "downtime" in between. It's as if the characters (and the audience) have no time to breathe before being thrown into another whirlwind adventure. In other stories, there should be time to contemplate things before the next conflict occurs, it's just good storytelling.

I noticed this when I wondered to myself where the five minutes that Kail and Yuri could use to talk about their relationship was. Then I realized that there's plenty of time, like before they go to bed, that they could use but never do because Shinohara never shows those parts. Why? Some of the best character development happens during the slow moments. And now I have to wonder, where is the character development anyway? The story goes by so fast, I didn't have time to notice the lack of it. Yuri's been shown to be (usually) strong and competent, but she was always that way, she just didn't notice until she was put to the test. Kail has never developed, really. He's just always been perfect, since book one. That's really too bad.

Regardless, it's interesting to read, and fun to pick apart, so I shall keep doing so.

Final thought: I'll keep reading.

Tail of the Moon: Vol. 5

by Rinko Ueda

Synopsis
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!

Usagi is reunited with Hanzo, but Usagi's bliss ends abruptly when Hanzo's sister Suzune pays a visit and starts throwing ninja stars at the happy couple. Suzune won't accept Usagi as a potential sister-in-law if she can't evade her deadly attacks. Can Usagi survive Suzune's ninja offensive?

Review
This volume doesn't necessarily have a lot of substance in it, but it's still fun to read. Well, except for when they introduce Suzune, who is a complete bitch. I swear, I wanted to strangle the woman and her horribly behaved children for how they treated Usagi and how Suzune judged Usagi before getting to know her. She also wouldn't take responsibility for her awful spawn's atrocious behavior, and insisted on blaming everyone on someone else, usually Usagi or Mamezo. But, it's not all bad, even though Usagi usually puts up with her abuse, she actually does stand up for herself after something really bad happens, which I have to say, I was really happy and proud of her for doing so. And, the best of all, is that this mess doesn't last very long, as Suzune and Usagi finally come to understand each other after Usagi learns how to do housework.

The last chapter has Usagi being kidnapped by the mysterious blond man she met in the last book. He puts her to work making medicines for injured Kouga ninja. It ends on a cliffhanger, where he's trying to persuade her to make a poison. I guess we'll have to wait and see what happens.

Final thought: I have to read the next book!

To Terra: Vol. 2

by Keiko Takemiya

Synopsis
Jomy Marcus Shin has led the telepathic Mu race into hiding on Naska, a planet abandoned long before by human colonists. Naska provides a temporary home, but is no substitute for Terra. The first Mu children in hundreds of years to be conceived naturally are born there, giving the Mu the promise of a bright future. Their fragile peace, however, may soon be shattered....

Review
This is one of those volumes where a lot of stuff happens, and while it's interesting, it doesn't always leave a lot to talk about. Basically, the Mu, after living on Naska, leave because it was destroyed by the humans, then decide to go to Terra. So essentially, not much changed.

This series is really angsty. I know people are emotional, and there are certainly important times to be so, but I think Jomy is overly-emotional at times, and often behaves recklessly. Sometimes I can't help but wonder if the story might have turned out differently if he hadn't been so impulsive. I can't really say how different it might be, but it's too bad that he's not a more rational leader, probably like Soldier Blue was.

Probably the most interesting part of the book was when the Mu capture Keith Anyan, who was sent there to investigate the odd occurrences caused by the Mu's attempt to hide themselves. He hints at what the real purpose of the mother computers might be, and we also learn that Physis is a lot like him, with the same images of Terra in their minds.

The children born on Naska are a lot different than the Mu, being physically and mentally stronger. I'm unsure if it was due to Jomy's wishes that they would be stronger, or the planet they were born on, or both, but it seems clear that there aren't going to be any more like them. In this volume, only Tony is introduced and developed, but it's obvious that he's very different, perhaps not even "human," as he seems ruthless and aggressive. It's good that he's dedicated to following Jomy, because I'd hate to be his enemy.

Finally, we learn a little more about Physis, and it seems that she's not even Mu. Soldier Blue's memories seem to indicate that he thought she was, but to me, it's much clearer that she was grown in a tank like Keith was. Personally, I really can't stand her character. It's sad that she's the only main female character, and that she has to act stereotypically like a woman: weak, whiny, vulnerable, etc. Blah.

Final thought: There's only one book left, so I may as well read it.

Real/Fake Princess: Vol. 3

by I-Huan

Synopsis
Zhong Lu's lover, Dai Xuan pretends to be the princess and unsuccessfully tries to kill Zhi Li, then tragically commits suicide. But the things she told Zhi Li before her death have caused a serious misunderstanding between Zhong Lu and Zhi Li.

Review
Well for once, the synopsis accurately sums up what happens in the book. Zhi Li is finally summoned to the palace to see if she really is the princess, except Dai Xuan shows up doing the exact same thing. She insists that she does it to get back at Zhong Lu for abandoning her. Things come to a head between the two when Dai Xuan tries to kill Zhi Li to get rid of her as competition, and because one of them will die anyway for impersonating the royal family. I personally thought this was out of character for her because she always seemed so nice, but I could believe that people might change when their plans for the future are destroyed. Finally, before she kills herself, she tells Zhi Li lies about Zhong Lu in order to "curse" their relationship.

Later, after Zhi Li is healthy again, she finally becomes acknowledged as Princess Yi Fu. Just when we think things are going to be better, such as when Zhi Li is offered to Zhong Lu as his bride, the "curse" comes back with a vengeance. Because you know, your rival in love, who's trying to kill you, "has no reason to lie" before she dies. Yeah, right. The really pathetic part is that Zhi Li believes her, instead of Zhong Lu, whom she's gotten to know a lot better these past few months. As annoying as it is, though, since this series is quite short, I'm not really worried about the romance being dragged on ridiculously. It'll probably iron itself out in the next volume.

Final thought: I'll read the next book.

Sand Chronicles: Vol. 3

by Hinako Ashihara

Synopsis
Sweet 16-year-old Ann returns to rural Shimane from Tokyo for the summer, eager to reconnect with her boyfriend Daigo. But will the allure of their close friends -- wealthy brother and sister Fuji and Shika -- sunder the romantic ties that have bound Ann and Daigo since they were 12?

Review
This series continues to be interesting. It has the ups and downs and even the unsureness and insecurity that comes with being a teenager. I remember the feeling, unsure of what others felt, sure I knew the future.

I still can't say I like Ann and Daigo's relationship, but that's just my preference. She feels guilty about the kiss that Fuji gave her, thinking that it means she's cheated on Daigo. So, she does something that she thinks will make up for it, but that's the problem with being a teenager, is that you do something that feels right at the time, only to find that you regret that action later. The story gives no hints like that, I just know from experience.

So the bit about Fuji's mother having an illegitimate child is explored more in this volume, and the truth ends up being different than Fuji thought. It was his sister who was the love child, not he. But he doesn't learn that, she does. It kinda messes with her, and I really felt bad for her. Also, she discovers that she has feelings for Daigo, adding to the love triangle. It doesn't feel like a cliche though, because the author has made it feel natural, not gimmicky.

I really wonder how this story is going to end up.

Final thought: I'll read the next volume.

Mars: Vol. 5

by Fuyumi Soryo

Synopsis
Kira and Rei's roller-coaster romance continues! When Rei suddenly gets ill, Kira takes care of him at his apartment... and ends up sleeping over. After their night together, Rei finally tells Kira the real reason his twin brother Sei killed himself: Rei told him a a secret he new Sei would never be able to handle. Kira tires to comfort Rei, but secretly wonders if mere words have the power to ease the pain Rei harbors deep inside. Meanwhile, Kira's best friend, Harumi, warns Kira if she doesn't start sleeping with Rei soon, he'll probably break up with her. Ouch! Kira's worries deepen when Rei's ex-girlfriend tells him she's still in love with him -- and will do anything to win him back. With the pressure mounting by the minute, Kira is about to make the biggest decisions of her life!

Review
This is a really emotional volume. A lot about Rei and his brother are revealed, and there's even an emotional catharsis. This part was very good, and has to be read to be understood. I really like Kira and Rei's relationship, because it seems more real to me than other comic book relationships, or even some real relationships. They actually feel like real characters, with their own baggage and motivations.

Rei is finally straight with Shiori about how he has no feelings for her. Then, he smartly ignores her drama, and leaves to meet up with Kira. I was glad that this wasn't dragged out longer than was necessary.

So near the end a few different things happen. Kira shows Mars at an art exhibit, where a mysterious older man comes in and compliments her painting, then vanishes just as quickly. Then Kira and Rei start kissing, but Kira pulls away without an explanation. And finally, a new character is introduced: a boy who looks like a girl and claims he "likes" Rei. Just pile on the drama.

Final thought: I have to read the next volume!

Red River: Vol. 8

by Chie Shinohara

Synopsis
Prince Kail, a young warrior and sorcerer and Yuri, a modern-day teen, where thrown together when evil Queen Nakia drew Yuri across time and space into the ancient Hittite Empire. When it is the season of the North Star, Prince Kail has the power to send Yuri home. But the evil queen's plan to murder them both -- and their growing feelings for one another -- keep getting in the way!

Ramses, the renowned Egyptian commander, helps Yuri find her way back to Hattusa, but on her return, she finds tragedy has wracked the Hittite royal family. As a result of Nakia's manipulations, Kail's ascension to the throne is by no means guaranteed. Plus, someone has been impersonating Yuri in her absence and dragging down her reputation among the Hittites!

Review
This is still a fascinating story, especially this volume, which didn't have much in the way of "romance." First, Yuri finds her way back from the massacre, just in time to avert a war between Egypt and the Hittite empire. However, just when Yuri proved that it was not the Egyptians who attacked them, the other "sole survivor" was murdered by Nakia's lackey, Urhi, conveniently. Now, I really have to seriously start questioning things. Why does no one ever see through the queen? Even if they don't, this incident should have opened up a lot of questions, but in the story, it was just brushed aside. This is highly unlikely. If someone had set up "hit men" to murder a prince, they surely would have investigated everyone possibly involved to the fullest. Especially since it's been established that the Hittite empire is extremely just, and no one is above the law. And who possibly had the motive and the ability? The queen. But no, it doesn't happen the logical way, and Nakia lives to create more conflict for the main characters.

Also in the volume, Ramses is introduced, aka Ramses the Great. While this is fascinating, it's also about twenty years too early, according to history. He wasn't even alive at this point in time. Clearly, the author has done her research, why would she mess this up? Or did she just add him in to create more conflict? Anyway, he soon develops a crush on Yuri, who spurns him, but he doesn't take no for an answer. He also recognizes her potential greatness as a queen.

So then, a plague hits Hattusa, killing the king, and the crown prince becomes king. There is a fight over who will be the next crown prince, as the natural choice is Kail, but Nakia wants her son to be named. It seems to me that there shouldn't be a fight at all, as Juda is too young, and no one would agree to a child being crown prince when there are better, older, choices.

Finally, Nakia steals the "house of rest" idea, and sets some up during the plague to improve her reputation, and by extension, her son's. She is also behind a false Ishtar, who is out to ruin Ishtar's reputation, and by extension, Kail's. It seems really weird to me, this false Ishtar thing. I feel like there should be some easy way to counteract it, like Kail coming out and publicly disavowing her as Ishtar and his concubine. But no, Yuri has to deal with it herself, for some reason.

One thing I did find rather nice, was how Kail was hinting to Yuri that he might be jealous of Ramses giving her gifts, and he also brings up the time she spent with the Prince of Darkness. But instead of freaking out, she maturely shows him the clay tablet with a heart drawn on it that he gave her. She showed him that unlike the prince's black stone that she wears on a necklace in plain view, she keeps her most important treasures where no one can see. It was nice not to have the characters freak out over something unimportant.

Final thought: I'll keep reading.

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind: Vol. 2

by Hayao Miyazaki

Synopsis
In a long-ago war, humankind set off a devastating ecological disaster. Thriving Industrial societies disappeared. The earth is slowly submerging beneath the expanding Sea of Corruption, an enormous toxic forest that creats mutant insects and releases a miasma of poisonous spores into the air. Nausicaa, a compassionate young princess, and her allies battle to heal a wounded world and its inhabitants.

Nausicaa, a gentle but strong-willed, young princess, has an empathetic bond with the giant Ohmu insects, who open their hearts to her. In her quest to create peace among empires fighting over the world's remaining precious natural resources, will Nausicaa be able to interpret the Ohmus' urgent warning about the southern forest? And what of the war which rages all around her?

Review
The war in this story is really not as important as it seems. It's the plot, not the story. But regardless, different parties in this war are introduced: the Dorok tribes, who have priests who lead them, and it seems they have advanced technology, which they use to their advantage in war. Using information that Kushana's back-stabbing brothers have given them, they're using the distraction of war to sneak in and colonize the periphery countries.

Nausicaa is such a nice person, she tries to help anyone, regardless of what side they're on. She even risks her life to help a tortured baby ohmu. Apparently, there's some prophecy about her, that she will help save the world. That's too bad, using things like prophecies. They're overused now, and quite cliche.

The last important thing that happens is we meet the brother of the Dorok emperor, someone who is clearly evil, who will likely be an antagonist to Nausicaa.

This is a really good series, but it's only building up to its greatness. It'll probably take a couple more books to get into its stride.

Final thought: I have to read the next book!

The Key to the Kingdom: Vol. 4

by Kyoko Shitou

Synopsis
Thanks to the manipulations of Gaius the Dragon Man, Leticia witnesses her bodyguard Alex declaring his love for the beautiful Latona. How will she cope with the heartache? Meanwhile, Asta finds the first of the Invisible Towers and learns the shocking secret of how to gain entry. The news he unearths must be shared with the other participants in the quest, but his way is blocked -- first by the elements, and then by a Dragon Man!

Review
This series is getting really good. It sucked me in and I just want to keep reading until I finish the series, which thankfully, is only six books long. I really appreciate, too, that's it's fantasy, because it's been a long time since I've read some really good fantasy.

Well, the revelation in the last volume about Gaius and Ceianus might still be true, but I've come to think that perhaps there's two Gaiuses, something I thought of before the last chapter really hints it at the reader. It seemed like the Gaius that Asta met didn't tell lies, like one that the others met. This is an interesting turn of events.

A lot is revealed about the nature of the "key to the kingdom" in this volume, specifically that those who go to the invisible towers are probably going to be sacrificed so that the key can appear. This is really bad news for everyone but Asta, as the tower he found already has a sacrifice. Of course, it's almost too late now, as this volume ends on the day of the summer solstice. It still hasn't been explained why Gaius wants to kill Baddorias, but I'm sure we'll learn in the next volume. And, as much as I like the other characters, I want to see Asta become king, as he's grown so much, and is a much stronger person than he started out as.

There's more character development for Leticia in this volume, as well. In the beginning of the series, I liked her, as I thought she was strong and cute, but now, seeing how easily manipulated she is, and how petty and pathetic her "dreams" are, my opinion has changed. She's just an immature little girl, acting out on her emotions, hurting others in the process. Pathetic.

Final thought: I have to read the next volume!

From Far Away: Vol. 14

by Kyoko Hikawa

Synopsis
After a terrorist bomb catapults her into an alternate universe full of magic and mystery, teenage Noriko finds herself the central figure in a political power struggle over a dark prophecy she's destined to fulfill, turn the man she loves into a monster that could ultimately destroy the world.

The End is here! The darkness that has persued Noriko and her tortured warrior Izark descends full force as their corrupt enemies in the government stage a last coup. With Noriko bedridden, Izark must fight alone, but help may come from an unexpected source.

Still, even if they survive, the prophecy can no longer be avoided. The time of the Sky Demon has come -- and no one is ready for the final revelation. Will Noriko truly be the death of her first and only love? Find out all the answers and much more in the incredible conclusion to this epic manga.

Review
This was a really good book. Everything is explained, resolved, understood, and concluded. I don't want to spoil it as it should be experienced, but I thought it was really well done.

Some thoughts I had while reading the end was, first, Noriko stays with Izark. For once. I tire of many stories where two people come together and fall in love, only to leave each other at the end. (Escaflowne, Princess Mononoke) Seriously, no one in their right mind would leave the person that they love, if they didn't have to. It was very refreshing and satisfying that they stay together.

Second, I actually felt sorry for Rachef. He thought the answer to his unhappiness was controlling the world, but in reality he acted out "fixing" his childhood as an adult. Actually, since the author did a good job developing him, I realized that he and Izark were very similar characters who responded to similar stimuli in completely opposite ways. Both were rejected by their mothers, and while Izark came to loathe himself, Rachef came to loathe the world. He never realized that the problem was himself. But, there is a little hope of redemption for him. I really liked him as a villain.

Finally, the message of the story seems to be how interconnected everything is, and if people work together, to help each other, then only good things can happen. Everyone affects everyone else, even if they think their actions are too small.

As I said, this was one of the only manga that never annoyed me. That's difficult to achieve.

Final thought: One of the best manga ever.

MeruPuri: Vol. 3

by Matsuri Hino

Synopsis
All high school freshman Airi Hoshina ever wanted was to someday live in a cozy home with a loving husband, and find joy in the little things in life. As a result, she makes it her daily mission to get to school on time because school legend has it that the longer one's non-tardy streak is, the better boyfriend on will find. But just when her daily routine is working like clockwork, an occurrence of fairytale proportions threatens to disrupt her grand plan.

While on a seaside field trip, the little boy Aram and Airi find themselves in the middle of a blackout at a public bath. Frazzled to no end, Airi drags Aram inside a closet, but someone walks in on them. Will Aram's secret be blown so soon? Meanwhile, Aram's former fiancee Mariabel shows up at school. What evil schemes does she have in store for Aram and Airi?

Review
Well, it's more soap opera, but since this series never takes itself too seriously, it works. First, Airi's ancestor's ex-fiance's grandson (or something) has come to take his revenge on Airi, because it will make up for the fact that if her ancestor hadn't run away, his family would be in power now. Because you know, taking revenge on someone who is blameless will make up for everything, I suppose. Yes, it's ridiculous. Too bad Airi's not smart enough to say that to him.

Then, Aram's real fiancee comes to take her revenge, by making Aram forget about being in love with Airi. So, almost amnesia, but not quite. The story bumbles around for a while, with Airi feeling hopeless, and Aram acting aloof. I thought it could have been solved rather quickly if Airi had the courage to ask about their "marriage marks," or whatever those things are. It wouldn't bring back his memory, but at least he would know that she is/was important to him. Fortunately for Airi, that even though she bumbles around, Jeile is around to help her. I, personally, think he's an interesting character, and think that it's too bad that she won't end up with him. Also, this has been bothering me, he calls her "mountain lily maiden," which is likely in Japanese the word: "yamayuri." Translated literally, it could mean mountain lily, except botanists have another name for it: lilium auratum, or golden-rayed lily. That took me all of five minutes to look up, so why can't the translators get it right?

Final thought: I want to read the next volume, it's the last!

Bambi

by Park Young Ha

Synopsis
A beautiful story of Courage, Friendship, Betrayal, and Love....

Review
The synopsis tells you almost nothing about this story, unfortunately. The author explains that she got the idea for the story from the fairy tale, "The Swan Prince," which I think we in the English-speaking world know as "The Six Swans." In it, six boys are turned into swans, with only their sister who toils to be able to return them to human form. In the end, they become human again, except for one, whose left arm remains as a wing. It's not important to the story to know the fairy tale, but it does help to understand how she used it.

Anyway, it begins with a girl who after the first few panels, loses her memory. Yeah, a little cliche, but it works for this story. She's rescued by a young man whose right arm is a wing. The first couple of chapters are goofy, as the girl tries to regain her memory, while living with the young man and his master.

Soon, the main events in the story begin revealing themselves, and the girl, Bambi, begins regaining her memory, and we see who was actually behind her memory loss, and how her friend has a wing for an arm. It's actually a very cute, sweet, story, which I think improves once the author gets into the main plot, and doesn't focus so much on goofy humor. I can see how she used the fairy tale, yet also how she changed it to suit her story idea. The result is a western fairy tale with a lot of asian uniqueness. I wish I could talk about more, but I don't want to spoil it, especially since it's only one volume.

Final thought: Worth reading, perhaps even owning as it's only one book.

Red River: Vol. 7

by Chie Shinohara

Synopsis
Prince Kail, a young warrior and sorcerer and Yuri, a modern-day teen, where thrown together when evil Queen Nakia drew Yuri across time and space into the ancient Hittite Empire. When it is the season of the North Star, Prince Kail has the power to send Yuri home. But the evil queen's plan to murder them both -- and their growing feelings for one another -- keep getting in the way!

Nakia's evil sister, Nadia, schemes to help Kail's archenemy, the Prince of Darkness! As the North Star blazes in the sky, Kail and his forces struggle to reach Mittani in time to rescue Yuri from becoming one of the dark prince's courtesans. Will they arrive in time to send Yuri back to modern-day Japan?

Review
A lot happens in this volume. The Prince of Darkness arc gets wrapped up, and immediately we get thrown into another. My prediction was correct, the prince does get interrupted right when he's about to rape Yuri. But as far as the story goes, this arc get resolved rather quickly, meaning the end of the Mitanni empire.

Ok, about Yuri going home. It gets sabotaged. Ilbani, Kail's advisor, has decided that it would be better if Yuri would stay. He's probably right, but it's too bad that other people have to decide for the main characters. So now Yuri's stuck there for another year, oh darn. Should I go out on a limb and guess that Yuri's never going to go home? There's 28 books, I highly doubt they're about her and her life in Japan.

Later, when the characters are back in Hattusa, Yuri complains (to herself) that Kail is out of her reach, but how can she give him up after she has to stay with him for another year? Meanwhile, Kail gets the advice to love her and make her forget about her own country. It seems to me like the characters just need to talk to each other for five minutes, and their weird internal conflicts would get resolved. But no, we get interrupted by the next story arc.

Tutankhamen has died, so his wife needs a husband, and they've asked for one of the princes of the Hittite empire. A lot of fighting and conflicting happens over who to send, of course Nakia wants to send Kail (which I personally think would work against her, personally), her son Juda, who's a really nice boy considering his mother, wants to go, and so forth. After a chariot race to decide, it ends up being Zannanza who goes. So, being a good sport, he goes, and Yuri goes with him (why? Probably to witness the next events). Unfortunately, he is assassinated, and only Yuri is left alive. What most fascinating about all this, is that these events really did happen in history. I was about to praise the author for not pulling punches, except that if she wanted to follow history, Zannanza had to die.

Still, the story is a good read, and Hittite history is very interesting.

Final thought: I'll read the next book.