Verity by Colleen Hoover
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The story itself is riveting and very engaging while also horrible the way it unwinds. The ending especially is partially expected but has a very unusual twist at the end that leaves a very bitter and rather large helping of doubt to the entire series of events and how everything has played out. I want to say I loved this, but I also feel like I want to bleach my brain after all of that murder and negativity and that twist at the end making them murderers even if they thought it was in self defense. It's a whole mixed up mess of confusion and questionable truths, and with how creepy and terrifying Verity was, no one will ever really know the truth.
View all my reviews
January 28, 2024
Reminders of Him
Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
So many complex relationships and emotions. Ledger really does sort of end up between a rock and a hard place so long as the Landry's refuse to even speak of Kenna, let alone acknowledge her as Diem's mother or any of her own feelings and the role she played in Scotty's death. While it is very emotional, and more than once seems hopeless, of course things take a turn for the better. While it's beautiful, it's also a very stark change to go from nearly throwing Ledger out of their lives as well to suddenly accepting Kenna in, no holds barred. Was the restraining order rescinded? Did they ever readdress Kenna's parental rights that they took away from her while she was in prison? Or are they just floating on this bed of happy feels at this point and other than the fact Kenna is allowed to be with Ledger and Diem now knows her and spends time with her, nothing has actually changed and she really has no say in her child's life and could be thrown out again at any moment. It took Ledger the entire book to decide he really was on Kenna's side and she's genuine and he wanted to help her. But then it takes less than a chapter to get the Landry's, who have sworn up one side and down the other that they never want anything to do with Kenna and want her out of town as fast as possible, to now decide she's good for Diem and it's okay to welcome her home. It gets a lot of points for the emotional impact, because you really can feel everything with Kenna, but it loses points for overall depth and the rushed ending, even if the ending is sorely needed.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
So many complex relationships and emotions. Ledger really does sort of end up between a rock and a hard place so long as the Landry's refuse to even speak of Kenna, let alone acknowledge her as Diem's mother or any of her own feelings and the role she played in Scotty's death. While it is very emotional, and more than once seems hopeless, of course things take a turn for the better. While it's beautiful, it's also a very stark change to go from nearly throwing Ledger out of their lives as well to suddenly accepting Kenna in, no holds barred. Was the restraining order rescinded? Did they ever readdress Kenna's parental rights that they took away from her while she was in prison? Or are they just floating on this bed of happy feels at this point and other than the fact Kenna is allowed to be with Ledger and Diem now knows her and spends time with her, nothing has actually changed and she really has no say in her child's life and could be thrown out again at any moment. It took Ledger the entire book to decide he really was on Kenna's side and she's genuine and he wanted to help her. But then it takes less than a chapter to get the Landry's, who have sworn up one side and down the other that they never want anything to do with Kenna and want her out of town as fast as possible, to now decide she's good for Diem and it's okay to welcome her home. It gets a lot of points for the emotional impact, because you really can feel everything with Kenna, but it loses points for overall depth and the rushed ending, even if the ending is sorely needed.
View all my reviews
It Ends With Us 2: It Starts with Us
It Ends With Us 2: It Starts with Us by Colleen Hoover
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is every bit as engaging as the first book. Unfortunately, Ryle doesn't seem to be very willing to learn his lessons or face reality. Fortunately, Lily has some very good family and friends that are on her side and help her take the steps she needs both for their safety and to find some sort of peace to move forward with their life. We get a lot more of Atlas with even more surprises from his family in this installment, and his point of view of his shared past with Lily. As good as Lily and Ryle seemed at times before they all went wrong, there is something about Atlas and Lily that really is special here. For all the pain and the abuse cycles they've seen and lived through, they're lucky to have a solid foundation to build their own happily ever after, even if they're also both realistic enough to realize that happily ever after will have their own brand of challenges to face and overcome together.
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is every bit as engaging as the first book. Unfortunately, Ryle doesn't seem to be very willing to learn his lessons or face reality. Fortunately, Lily has some very good family and friends that are on her side and help her take the steps she needs both for their safety and to find some sort of peace to move forward with their life. We get a lot more of Atlas with even more surprises from his family in this installment, and his point of view of his shared past with Lily. As good as Lily and Ryle seemed at times before they all went wrong, there is something about Atlas and Lily that really is special here. For all the pain and the abuse cycles they've seen and lived through, they're lucky to have a solid foundation to build their own happily ever after, even if they're also both realistic enough to realize that happily ever after will have their own brand of challenges to face and overcome together.
View all my reviews
January 27, 2024
It Ends with Us 1
It Ends with Us 1 by Colleen Hoover
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was recommended to me by a co-worker, and she was absolutely right saying I would enjoy this book. It has a ton of emotions and complex stories woven together and creating both the individual characters and how they interact with each other. Lily's story isn't what you may think at first glance and doesn't follow what might be considered the usual script for a romance book, especially with how good Ryle is how clear it is they love each other. And then we have Atlas who seems out of place and time for a long time. After everything that happens, we don't see Ryle's reaction to Atlas being back in the equation at the end, though truthfully his part was just a catalyst for what happened between Ryle and Lily ultimately. If anything, it's good that at the end they are supportive and respective and seem to be finding other acceptable ways to be a loving family without continuing the cycle.
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was recommended to me by a co-worker, and she was absolutely right saying I would enjoy this book. It has a ton of emotions and complex stories woven together and creating both the individual characters and how they interact with each other. Lily's story isn't what you may think at first glance and doesn't follow what might be considered the usual script for a romance book, especially with how good Ryle is how clear it is they love each other. And then we have Atlas who seems out of place and time for a long time. After everything that happens, we don't see Ryle's reaction to Atlas being back in the equation at the end, though truthfully his part was just a catalyst for what happened between Ryle and Lily ultimately. If anything, it's good that at the end they are supportive and respective and seem to be finding other acceptable ways to be a loving family without continuing the cycle.
View all my reviews
January 26, 2024
In Death 58: Random in Death
In Death 58: Random in Death by J.D. Robb
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
In most cases, once you find the right witness or security cam, some piece of evidence, the individual comes very clear early on and it's just finding them or sometimes the evidence that they know should point to them but doesn't yet to close the case. This time, the deaths are brutal as they always are, but there isn't a very clear picture to start off from. Still, even with that handicap, Eve and her team are closer than they might think from the get go, and as always, they don't let up. This has been a bit of a catalyst for Jake and Nadine as well, so could see more action on that side in the future. Curious to see if Del joins the family of misfits as another of the teens that are unofficially adopted into their circle in one capacity or another, especially as she apparently has Roarke's own number. It really does take a team, in some cases more than others, and this one was a doozy with all of the evidence to chase down and all of the lab implications to sort out.
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
In most cases, once you find the right witness or security cam, some piece of evidence, the individual comes very clear early on and it's just finding them or sometimes the evidence that they know should point to them but doesn't yet to close the case. This time, the deaths are brutal as they always are, but there isn't a very clear picture to start off from. Still, even with that handicap, Eve and her team are closer than they might think from the get go, and as always, they don't let up. This has been a bit of a catalyst for Jake and Nadine as well, so could see more action on that side in the future. Curious to see if Del joins the family of misfits as another of the teens that are unofficially adopted into their circle in one capacity or another, especially as she apparently has Roarke's own number. It really does take a team, in some cases more than others, and this one was a doozy with all of the evidence to chase down and all of the lab implications to sort out.
View all my reviews
January 24, 2024
The Apothecary Diaries
The Apothecary Diaries (2023)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This very closely follows the manga by the same title. The artwork is stunning and so far they've done a fantastic job bringing this story to life. It is hilarious to watch, especially when it comes to Jinshi melting down (Jinshi.exe is no longer functioning 😂) and coming to some pretty hilarious misconceptions in his infatuation with Maomao. There are things that are hinted at in the manga as well that appear much more likely and clearer when we have the clarity of the colors and the animated character design rather than black and white manga pages to compare. Thoroughly enjoyable and looking forward to the next episode.
January 22, 2024
The Apothecary Diaries 10
The Apothecary Diaries 10 by Nekokurage
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The dance scene is even more hilarious than expected after the lead up in the previous volume. Jinshi really pulls it off though. Maomao ends up back at the crystal palace again as well for another investigation, this time with the "quack" along to find an ailing and missing maid until she also finds yet more banned items in the palace and Jinshi comes into play. Xing may be consort Lihua's cousin, but it seems she has a bit of a warped and power hungry personality that may have lead to even more problems at the crystal palace than it should have. Fortunately Lihua seems to truly be the better person and has had some level of trust with Maomao ever since she helped nurse her back to health in the early chapters. It seems even more people at the inner palace knew Maomao's pa, and though he was let go and injured as a result, no one seems to have thought anything bad about him. The emperor himself continues to take a strange interest in Maomao even, wanting both her and Jinshi with him as he attempts a shrine trial for at least the second time. It would seem Maomao may have an idea for how to solve the shrine riddle, not that we see it in this volume. Will have to wait a bit for the next volume to come out.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The dance scene is even more hilarious than expected after the lead up in the previous volume. Jinshi really pulls it off though. Maomao ends up back at the crystal palace again as well for another investigation, this time with the "quack" along to find an ailing and missing maid until she also finds yet more banned items in the palace and Jinshi comes into play. Xing may be consort Lihua's cousin, but it seems she has a bit of a warped and power hungry personality that may have lead to even more problems at the crystal palace than it should have. Fortunately Lihua seems to truly be the better person and has had some level of trust with Maomao ever since she helped nurse her back to health in the early chapters. It seems even more people at the inner palace knew Maomao's pa, and though he was let go and injured as a result, no one seems to have thought anything bad about him. The emperor himself continues to take a strange interest in Maomao even, wanting both her and Jinshi with him as he attempts a shrine trial for at least the second time. It would seem Maomao may have an idea for how to solve the shrine riddle, not that we see it in this volume. Will have to wait a bit for the next volume to come out.
View all my reviews
The Apothecary Diaries 9
The Apothecary Diaries 9 by Nekokurage
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It would seem the main poison of the day is mushrooms, not that Maomao is allowed to keep any. Curious that there are so many materials that are considered poisonous specifically when it comes to miscarriage and pregnancy when the caravan comes through. This with the clothing styles is indeed curious. What are the odds of another family having such a large and fancy clear mirror at the same time as 4 are imported specifically for the courtesans as well? Can also see where Maomao is going with looking for this "tall courtesan" to please the envoy and it's going to be hilarious. Poor Jinshi never knows what is going to come out of a case when Maomao is helping him find the answers.
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It would seem the main poison of the day is mushrooms, not that Maomao is allowed to keep any. Curious that there are so many materials that are considered poisonous specifically when it comes to miscarriage and pregnancy when the caravan comes through. This with the clothing styles is indeed curious. What are the odds of another family having such a large and fancy clear mirror at the same time as 4 are imported specifically for the courtesans as well? Can also see where Maomao is going with looking for this "tall courtesan" to please the envoy and it's going to be hilarious. Poor Jinshi never knows what is going to come out of a case when Maomao is helping him find the answers.
The Apothecary Diaries 8
The Apothecary Diaries 8 by Nekokurage
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Well now we officially know Maomao's origin story. It seems her game with her father didn't go exactly as she planed since Meimei remains with the brothel, but without her opening those doors, no one would have known her mother was in the sick room either. At this rate, her leg may never heal either the way she keeps reopening the wound and needing to redo the stitches. There's no mention of her leg during the adventures with the books, the little princess, or the kitten however, so perhaps it's finally healing. Jinshi was definitely drawing parallels between Maomao and her new namesake that were pretty funny, too.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Well now we officially know Maomao's origin story. It seems her game with her father didn't go exactly as she planed since Meimei remains with the brothel, but without her opening those doors, no one would have known her mother was in the sick room either. At this rate, her leg may never heal either the way she keeps reopening the wound and needing to redo the stitches. There's no mention of her leg during the adventures with the books, the little princess, or the kitten however, so perhaps it's finally healing. Jinshi was definitely drawing parallels between Maomao and her new namesake that were pretty funny, too.
View all my reviews
The Apothecary Diaries 7
The Apothecary Diaries 7 by Nekokurage
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Maomao makes her way back to the inner palace, but is also still working in an odd way for Jinshi at the same time. Her wounds from the last book have not yet healed either, resulting in extra aid being called in both to help with her tasks and also to watch her so she doesn't reopen them again as they kept having to redo the stitches. As usual, her cleverness comes into play in rather unusual ways finding the perfect solution for the time being. She even manages to best her own father when she decides to no longer run from him and get him to play her game instead. Rather funny how everyone thought she'd actually killed him for a moment there.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Maomao makes her way back to the inner palace, but is also still working in an odd way for Jinshi at the same time. Her wounds from the last book have not yet healed either, resulting in extra aid being called in both to help with her tasks and also to watch her so she doesn't reopen them again as they kept having to redo the stitches. As usual, her cleverness comes into play in rather unusual ways finding the perfect solution for the time being. She even manages to best her own father when she decides to no longer run from him and get him to play her game instead. Rather funny how everyone thought she'd actually killed him for a moment there.
View all my reviews
January 21, 2024
The Apothecary Diaries 6
The Apothecary Diaries 6 by Nekokurage
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Turns out "Pa" is Maomao's adoptive father and her real father is part of the military. This individual also seems to "know" Jinshi is royalty, which further points to him being the unseen second prince. Regardless, both men seem very keen on Maomao's whereabouts and want to own her contract. Given her clear dislike for her real father, it may be to her benefit in this case that she's with Jinshi. Expect some chaos in the beginning of the next book given the lead up to this major accident and her injuries to save Jinshi in time. Lucky she did put the pieces together or it would likely have been much worse.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Turns out "Pa" is Maomao's adoptive father and her real father is part of the military. This individual also seems to "know" Jinshi is royalty, which further points to him being the unseen second prince. Regardless, both men seem very keen on Maomao's whereabouts and want to own her contract. Given her clear dislike for her real father, it may be to her benefit in this case that she's with Jinshi. Expect some chaos in the beginning of the next book given the lead up to this major accident and her injuries to save Jinshi in time. Lucky she did put the pieces together or it would likely have been much worse.
View all my reviews
The Apothecary Diaries 5
The Apothecary Diaries 5 by Nekokurage
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Outside of the elite concubines who interacted with Maomao previously and their handmaids, it seems that most don't realize that Jinshi's new employee is the same girl. As usual, she's getting into odd puzzles and running strange experiments or thought processes to find answers to things. Even some of the military personal are now seeking her aid, though they don't seem to even know her name. This new concubine also seems to be an enigma, though we only see her very briefly. Somewhat surprised there haven't been more bids to bring her back into the inner palace yet, especially after all of those recommendations to bring her in for tutoring.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Outside of the elite concubines who interacted with Maomao previously and their handmaids, it seems that most don't realize that Jinshi's new employee is the same girl. As usual, she's getting into odd puzzles and running strange experiments or thought processes to find answers to things. Even some of the military personal are now seeking her aid, though they don't seem to even know her name. This new concubine also seems to be an enigma, though we only see her very briefly. Somewhat surprised there haven't been more bids to bring her back into the inner palace yet, especially after all of those recommendations to bring her in for tutoring.
View all my reviews
The Apothecary Diaries 4
The Apothecary Diaries 4 by Nekokurage
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Maomao is uncovering secrets in the inner palace left and right, and some of them even seem to tie back to her family. Curious if we'll ever learn if the concubine's and empress' babies were indeed switched - that would potentially make a rather big difference in the interaction with the other son. Due to those ties though, Maomao is among those who are let go from their service at the palace, even though Jinshi is clearly overly distraught by this turn of events and did have the power to change that particular outcome. Now that he's bought out her current contract though, curious to see how her new work will be similar or different from what she was doing before.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Maomao is uncovering secrets in the inner palace left and right, and some of them even seem to tie back to her family. Curious if we'll ever learn if the concubine's and empress' babies were indeed switched - that would potentially make a rather big difference in the interaction with the other son. Due to those ties though, Maomao is among those who are let go from their service at the palace, even though Jinshi is clearly overly distraught by this turn of events and did have the power to change that particular outcome. Now that he's bought out her current contract though, curious to see how her new work will be similar or different from what she was doing before.
View all my reviews
The Apothecary Diaries 3
The Apothecary Diaries 3 by Nekokurage
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Maomao is innocent enough she clearly does not truly understand the meaning behind the hairpins. Meanwhile, it seems the other ladies at the jade palace are finding her innocence and the reactions of those around her outright hilarious. Even a trip back home isn't free of yet more excitement as we start off with a possible attempted double suicide.... or is that actually what happened? Seems to be a lot of possibilities but not really a good way to confirm any of her suspicions. On the other hand, it would seem that the alcohol poisoning (or salt poisoning might be the better phrase?) is not as likely to be ignored returning to the inner palace.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Maomao is innocent enough she clearly does not truly understand the meaning behind the hairpins. Meanwhile, it seems the other ladies at the jade palace are finding her innocence and the reactions of those around her outright hilarious. Even a trip back home isn't free of yet more excitement as we start off with a possible attempted double suicide.... or is that actually what happened? Seems to be a lot of possibilities but not really a good way to confirm any of her suspicions. On the other hand, it would seem that the alcohol poisoning (or salt poisoning might be the better phrase?) is not as likely to be ignored returning to the inner palace.
View all my reviews
The Apothecary Diaries 2
The Apothecary Diaries 2 by Nekokurage
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Maomao is tasked not just with being a food taster now, but also a healer actually using her apothecary skills to assist one of the other concubines. Not that the other ladies in waiting seem to eager to let her anywhere near their mistress up until she puts her foot down and proves there's a reason she's there. The other concubines ladies now seem to be scared of her, while her own coworkers adore her. We also see her find poison in the food for the first time, and yet more education comes about when it's discovered one of the top 4 concubines has an allergy to specific seafood/shellfish. For wanting to stay low key, she's proving to be very knowledgeable and resourceful.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Maomao is tasked not just with being a food taster now, but also a healer actually using her apothecary skills to assist one of the other concubines. Not that the other ladies in waiting seem to eager to let her anywhere near their mistress up until she puts her foot down and proves there's a reason she's there. The other concubines ladies now seem to be scared of her, while her own coworkers adore her. We also see her find poison in the food for the first time, and yet more education comes about when it's discovered one of the top 4 concubines has an allergy to specific seafood/shellfish. For wanting to stay low key, she's proving to be very knowledgeable and resourceful.
View all my reviews
The Apothecary Diaries 1
The Apothecary Diaries 1 by Nekokurage
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Maomao was kidnapped by traders and sold to the inner palace where she works as a maid. Realistically, being able to read at all, let alone her education as an apothecary, hold far more value than the maid life she has settled for - not that she wants to draw attention to it because her slave traders get a portion of her wages and she refuses to give them the satisfaction of earning any more off her. That goes a bit sideways when the royal heirs keep dying and she manages to identify how. Now she's putting her apothecary skills to use once more, though unless she's asked to make something, most of the time that's just as a food taster for the current favorite concubine, who also happens to have the only surviving child of the emperor's at the moment (a princess). The other ladies in waiting mostly seem to feel sorry for her due to the expectation of being poisoned and the bandage she keeps wrapped around her arm to hide her past experiments with tolerance and creating various creams. The one who seems to keep tabs and run operations though seems to agree with Maomao's thoughts on not giving the slave traders any more and is rather cunning in creating a solution for it.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Maomao was kidnapped by traders and sold to the inner palace where she works as a maid. Realistically, being able to read at all, let alone her education as an apothecary, hold far more value than the maid life she has settled for - not that she wants to draw attention to it because her slave traders get a portion of her wages and she refuses to give them the satisfaction of earning any more off her. That goes a bit sideways when the royal heirs keep dying and she manages to identify how. Now she's putting her apothecary skills to use once more, though unless she's asked to make something, most of the time that's just as a food taster for the current favorite concubine, who also happens to have the only surviving child of the emperor's at the moment (a princess). The other ladies in waiting mostly seem to feel sorry for her due to the expectation of being poisoned and the bandage she keeps wrapped around her arm to hide her past experiments with tolerance and creating various creams. The one who seems to keep tabs and run operations though seems to agree with Maomao's thoughts on not giving the slave traders any more and is rather cunning in creating a solution for it.
View all my reviews
His Broken Luna 1
His Broken Luna 1 by Isabel Conrad
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I wanted to really like this book, and it does have an overall good idea in the world building and interactions between the different packs. While Sophia's situation does improve dramatically, can't help but also feel bad for Callan. While they get the ending they want more or less, it turns out a lot of the people closest to the two of them really can't and shouldn't be trusted. It's also amazing how for being an Alpha's daughter and seeing as much as she has, Sophia has remained so naive and gullible overall when it comes to interacting with others. She's lucky her real mate is actually decent and not someone like Alexander, though that's sort of the entire premise of the book.
The writing is not edited well however, with entire segments duplicated, names mixed up, words used that make no sense in the context of the sentence they are in, and formatted in very short chapters almost more like a piece of online fanfiction rather than a published work. The app that it is advertised to read on also lags horribly, to the point that it would ask me if I wanted to force close or wait for it to process new chapters. It looks like this is part of a series that can be purchased on Amazon rather than reading on the app. I won't be buying it due to the overall quality of the writing, but would perhaps say it's an option for those who do not wish to worry about the app use. Will be removing the app and not reading more stories on it as it becomes an exercise in frustration just to try and finish the book.
View all my reviews
January 20, 2024
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 16
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 16 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Graduation is here and the friends all move on to their new studies. There are a lot of time skips in this volume jumping from early college days to when Kyouya and Erika move in together after saying they should live together following graduation. From there time skips further to when they are a family. We learn from interactions with their friends that the wedding was after they started creating a family (accidentally), and that Kyouya is still studying while working part time. Erika also has some sort of job and is selling glass work online on the side, so she must have some sort of access to a studio. It's never made clear if she finished her studies, if Kyouya is in the same program as before or if these classes are past the previous graduation milestone set for them to move in together or if they both just didn't want to wait any longer. It would seem given they are getting together with their other friends again though, that they are back in Tokyo and not in Kyoto for Erika's school. It would seem that they are all fairly happy for the ending.
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Graduation is here and the friends all move on to their new studies. There are a lot of time skips in this volume jumping from early college days to when Kyouya and Erika move in together after saying they should live together following graduation. From there time skips further to when they are a family. We learn from interactions with their friends that the wedding was after they started creating a family (accidentally), and that Kyouya is still studying while working part time. Erika also has some sort of job and is selling glass work online on the side, so she must have some sort of access to a studio. It's never made clear if she finished her studies, if Kyouya is in the same program as before or if these classes are past the previous graduation milestone set for them to move in together or if they both just didn't want to wait any longer. It would seem given they are getting together with their other friends again though, that they are back in Tokyo and not in Kyoto for Erika's school. It would seem that they are all fairly happy for the ending.
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 15
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 15 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
There's trouble when Erika's mother gives her an ultimatum that she can only pursue glass crafting if she studies with her aunt in Kyoto. Not too surprising that Kyouya isn't too happy about that, even if he has a really roundabout and cruel way of showing it. Fortunately, Erika has Sanda in her corner, and she's not falling for the charade. Kyouya's comfort zone gets put to the test even more when the class decides to hold a prom before graduation the next day.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
There's trouble when Erika's mother gives her an ultimatum that she can only pursue glass crafting if she studies with her aunt in Kyoto. Not too surprising that Kyouya isn't too happy about that, even if he has a really roundabout and cruel way of showing it. Fortunately, Erika has Sanda in her corner, and she's not falling for the charade. Kyouya's comfort zone gets put to the test even more when the class decides to hold a prom before graduation the next day.
View all my reviews
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 14
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 14 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The friendship group remains intact, and if anything, occasionally expands to include other friends here and there. Kyouya's birthday especially brings about a lot of excitement, which seems to baffle him, but he's mostly a good sport about the whole deal. Despite preferring to just study, Kyouya even goes along with a camping trip, especially once it's pointed out that Erika could end up sharing a tent with another guy if he's not there. Not that there's truly a risk of that since the tents are divided boys and girls, but it's still a bit amusing. Erika is still struggling with what she wants to do after high school while the rest of her friends seem to be determine to continue along their chosen paths. There may be some light at the end of the tunnel for her with this new interest in her aunt's glass work, though.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The friendship group remains intact, and if anything, occasionally expands to include other friends here and there. Kyouya's birthday especially brings about a lot of excitement, which seems to baffle him, but he's mostly a good sport about the whole deal. Despite preferring to just study, Kyouya even goes along with a camping trip, especially once it's pointed out that Erika could end up sharing a tent with another guy if he's not there. Not that there's truly a risk of that since the tents are divided boys and girls, but it's still a bit amusing. Erika is still struggling with what she wants to do after high school while the rest of her friends seem to be determine to continue along their chosen paths. There may be some light at the end of the tunnel for her with this new interest in her aunt's glass work, though.
View all my reviews
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 13
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 13 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
There's a bit of a 3-way triangle with Sanda, Takeru, and Ayumi, though really Ayumi is a self centered and shameless flirt, even if all in all he's done leagues better than he began with. Takeru proves that he honestly is just a good guy once again, and maybe a tad clueless sometimes. It's amazing how much he's done for Kyouya and Erika and their relationship, but honestly seems to be clueless when it comes to his own. Kyouya also gets to meet Erika's parents, though her dad doesn't seem to be taking it any better than the first time initially. Eventually everyone seems to adore Kyouya and he once again proves why he's actually a good match for Erika. Even the birthday plans, as horrible as they turn out, are well meaning and really do fit her personality and what she would probably love to do. Hopefully maybe the next time they go out won't be as much of a disaster, even if they can laugh about it in the end.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
There's a bit of a 3-way triangle with Sanda, Takeru, and Ayumi, though really Ayumi is a self centered and shameless flirt, even if all in all he's done leagues better than he began with. Takeru proves that he honestly is just a good guy once again, and maybe a tad clueless sometimes. It's amazing how much he's done for Kyouya and Erika and their relationship, but honestly seems to be clueless when it comes to his own. Kyouya also gets to meet Erika's parents, though her dad doesn't seem to be taking it any better than the first time initially. Eventually everyone seems to adore Kyouya and he once again proves why he's actually a good match for Erika. Even the birthday plans, as horrible as they turn out, are well meaning and really do fit her personality and what she would probably love to do. Hopefully maybe the next time they go out won't be as much of a disaster, even if they can laugh about it in the end.
View all my reviews
January 19, 2024
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 12
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 12 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is probably one of the best installments to the story so far. Kyouya and Erika both set things straight and once again, Kyouya gets more than a little protective and possessive of Erika. The class trip starts, and thanks to their friends, they even have a cute little moment together there. Meanwhile it seems like there's some drama leaning with Sanda and Takeru. Neither one has seemed to have a real interest in a relationship of their own at this point, though they certainly do get along, especially since Takeru helped with her stalker. Curious to see if Erika was on the right track for once or missed the mark again.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is probably one of the best installments to the story so far. Kyouya and Erika both set things straight and once again, Kyouya gets more than a little protective and possessive of Erika. The class trip starts, and thanks to their friends, they even have a cute little moment together there. Meanwhile it seems like there's some drama leaning with Sanda and Takeru. Neither one has seemed to have a real interest in a relationship of their own at this point, though they certainly do get along, especially since Takeru helped with her stalker. Curious to see if Erika was on the right track for once or missed the mark again.
View all my reviews
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 11
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 11 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Not only do we have yet another girl who seems to be interested in Kyouya despite claims to the contrary, we now also have Erika's old middle school friend who once confessed to her back in the mix. While on their sides they may see it as an entirely platonic friendship, it's clear that's not how their significant other views their new friendships. Of course we have to have extra drama after Kyouya was actually rather cute and sweet when Erika was sick.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Not only do we have yet another girl who seems to be interested in Kyouya despite claims to the contrary, we now also have Erika's old middle school friend who once confessed to her back in the mix. While on their sides they may see it as an entirely platonic friendship, it's clear that's not how their significant other views their new friendships. Of course we have to have extra drama after Kyouya was actually rather cute and sweet when Erika was sick.
View all my reviews
January 18, 2024
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 10
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 10 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
As usual, even if there are 3 steps forward, we also see at least 2 steps back in the same volume. While the hot spring trip starts out nice, and suppose ends well if you consider the ending being days later when they finally talk again rather than when they come home, the middle part is a bit of a mess. Fortunately Ren doesn't seem to be stirring up any trouble even though she's at their school now, though it seems most of their group have some pretty set goals for what they want to do after school. Surprisingly Kyouya is the closest to Erika in mindset and basically going through the steps one at a time.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
As usual, even if there are 3 steps forward, we also see at least 2 steps back in the same volume. While the hot spring trip starts out nice, and suppose ends well if you consider the ending being days later when they finally talk again rather than when they come home, the middle part is a bit of a mess. Fortunately Ren doesn't seem to be stirring up any trouble even though she's at their school now, though it seems most of their group have some pretty set goals for what they want to do after school. Surprisingly Kyouya is the closest to Erika in mindset and basically going through the steps one at a time.
View all my reviews
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 9
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 9 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Kyouya seems to be less and less emotionless though he can still be very cruel. The fat shaming in this volume especially is rather concerning and not enjoyable. Props to Erika for ultimately sticking to her goal and making it, but the others certainly aren't kind about it except for maybe San-chan when she tries to encourage her to eat something because she really did not look well there for a bit with the dieting. Kyouya nearly seems like another person with Lime hanging around, and while he's definitely cheerful with the dog, it seems to be at the detriment to the rest of his relationships. Really, he's lucky Erika is so devoted to him. Now the question is how is he going to react to this hot springs trip?
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Kyouya seems to be less and less emotionless though he can still be very cruel. The fat shaming in this volume especially is rather concerning and not enjoyable. Props to Erika for ultimately sticking to her goal and making it, but the others certainly aren't kind about it except for maybe San-chan when she tries to encourage her to eat something because she really did not look well there for a bit with the dieting. Kyouya nearly seems like another person with Lime hanging around, and while he's definitely cheerful with the dog, it seems to be at the detriment to the rest of his relationships. Really, he's lucky Erika is so devoted to him. Now the question is how is he going to react to this hot springs trip?
View all my reviews
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 8
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 8 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Rena gives up, which is a nice change of pace and surprisingly Kyouya goes along with Christmas celebrations. Oddly, he seems somewhat annoyed that Erika is okay with the group and not them doing something as a couple originally. As usual, he's rather standoffish and mean about it while picking odd moments to show his more sentimental and sweet side. The emotions after he got his spare pare of glasses where cute, but also confusing. Just going to bed? And Erika just leaves? After being so determined to take care of him and protect him? Granted he had his glasses then, but still living alone and just caught in a rain storm, so it felt jarring.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Rena gives up, which is a nice change of pace and surprisingly Kyouya goes along with Christmas celebrations. Oddly, he seems somewhat annoyed that Erika is okay with the group and not them doing something as a couple originally. As usual, he's rather standoffish and mean about it while picking odd moments to show his more sentimental and sweet side. The emotions after he got his spare pare of glasses where cute, but also confusing. Just going to bed? And Erika just leaves? After being so determined to take care of him and protect him? Granted he had his glasses then, but still living alone and just caught in a rain storm, so it felt jarring.
View all my reviews
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 7
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 7 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Wow. There is no shortage of interfering characters here. Surprisingly Kamiya hits it on the nose guessing that Erika's cousin will be trouble, especially as Erika is just as oblivious and overly kind as always. Not that either of them are really all that subtle. Kyouya isn't exactly known for holding back either, though he does tend to ignore things unless he's forced to be involved, at least unless it's something that starts obviously bothering Erika, then he's got a surprising protective streak. Hard to decide if it's all amusing at this point or just tiring.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Wow. There is no shortage of interfering characters here. Surprisingly Kamiya hits it on the nose guessing that Erika's cousin will be trouble, especially as Erika is just as oblivious and overly kind as always. Not that either of them are really all that subtle. Kyouya isn't exactly known for holding back either, though he does tend to ignore things unless he's forced to be involved, at least unless it's something that starts obviously bothering Erika, then he's got a surprising protective streak. Hard to decide if it's all amusing at this point or just tiring.
View all my reviews
January 17, 2024
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 6
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 6 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
We meet Kyouya's big sister and his mother in this volume, who both seem to take a liking to Erika. While their relationship is somewhat strained given the separation, which is to be expected, they also have a rather unique way of communicating with each other and how they respond to their emotions and situations. Adding Erika into the mix seems to smooth some of the edges and even gives them a glimpse into his more emotional side, especially when he gets protective of Erika. We see a bit of jealousy and possessiveness come into play as well when they're trying to save the cafe. Really, the maid uniform really might have been going too far.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
We meet Kyouya's big sister and his mother in this volume, who both seem to take a liking to Erika. While their relationship is somewhat strained given the separation, which is to be expected, they also have a rather unique way of communicating with each other and how they respond to their emotions and situations. Adding Erika into the mix seems to smooth some of the edges and even gives them a glimpse into his more emotional side, especially when he gets protective of Erika. We see a bit of jealousy and possessiveness come into play as well when they're trying to save the cafe. Really, the maid uniform really might have been going too far.
View all my reviews
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 5
Wolf Girl and Black Prince 5 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I can't decide who I feel worse for sometimes. Erika is in some ways so innocent and yeah, sometimes, really stupid, that it's painful. On the other hand, Kyouya is as aloof and aggravating as ever. In his own way though, he is clearly trying and does care for her, just like her way is to go all out and try to do all the coupley things she can think of. Even though Kyouya clearly has a hard time dealing with emotions, he does his best to make Erika's birthday special. She does the same for Kyouya for his big day, except an accidental kiss between her boyfriend and best friend throws everything off course, not that either Kyouya or San-chan will let her stew for long, not when it's clear they both prefer when she's her usual more carefree self.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I can't decide who I feel worse for sometimes. Erika is in some ways so innocent and yeah, sometimes, really stupid, that it's painful. On the other hand, Kyouya is as aloof and aggravating as ever. In his own way though, he is clearly trying and does care for her, just like her way is to go all out and try to do all the coupley things she can think of. Even though Kyouya clearly has a hard time dealing with emotions, he does his best to make Erika's birthday special. She does the same for Kyouya for his big day, except an accidental kiss between her boyfriend and best friend throws everything off course, not that either Kyouya or San-chan will let her stew for long, not when it's clear they both prefer when she's her usual more carefree self.
View all my reviews
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 4
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 4 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Erika and Kyouya are now in the same class, which you would think would make it easier for them to be together. Unfortunately, Kamiya seems to be getting in the way a lot, and even fooling Erika into thinking he's trying to befriend Kyouya. Kyouya doesn't seem to be taken in by it all though and as usual is marching to his own drum. Hopefully it doesn't all backfire.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Erika and Kyouya are now in the same class, which you would think would make it easier for them to be together. Unfortunately, Kamiya seems to be getting in the way a lot, and even fooling Erika into thinking he's trying to befriend Kyouya. Kyouya doesn't seem to be taken in by it all though and as usual is marching to his own drum. Hopefully it doesn't all backfire.
View all my reviews
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 3
Wolf Girl and Black Prince 3 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Things seem to be going well and Kyouya even gives Erika a hint as to the type of chocolate he might like, promising to eat them if they come from her. Unfortunately, Valentines Day rolls around and everything falls apart. While Erika was just trying to be positive and lift up a classmate, this seems to threaten Kyouya and as usual that means he acts like a jerk. Neither one of them seem to be truly happy that they are no longer claiming to be boyfriend and girlfriend. Kyouya seems to be getting an earful from the few guys that are talking to him while Erika is spending more time with her new friend, Kusakabe. Kusakabe has also declared that he likes Erika, throwing yet another curveball into the tale, though Erika's friends seem convinced they are just friends and she doesn't have a new boyfriend - at least not yet.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Things seem to be going well and Kyouya even gives Erika a hint as to the type of chocolate he might like, promising to eat them if they come from her. Unfortunately, Valentines Day rolls around and everything falls apart. While Erika was just trying to be positive and lift up a classmate, this seems to threaten Kyouya and as usual that means he acts like a jerk. Neither one of them seem to be truly happy that they are no longer claiming to be boyfriend and girlfriend. Kyouya seems to be getting an earful from the few guys that are talking to him while Erika is spending more time with her new friend, Kusakabe. Kusakabe has also declared that he likes Erika, throwing yet another curveball into the tale, though Erika's friends seem convinced they are just friends and she doesn't have a new boyfriend - at least not yet.
View all my reviews
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 2
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 2 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Erika admits that she likes Kyouya, but as usual he doesn't do emotions well. He can fake it with the best of them, but then he turns it around like it's all still part of the act. If he didn't care though, why does he keep going after her and buying her a "collar" (necklace) for Christmas. Can definitely see how Erika would get whiplash and maybe more than a bit of emotional trauma trying to read him and chasing after a relationship. Despite his harsh demeanor, can't help but wonder if there's a ring of truth in his words - what person would willing go through so many things so thoroughly for the sake of this lie if they didn't actually enjoy spending time with each other at least on some level.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Erika admits that she likes Kyouya, but as usual he doesn't do emotions well. He can fake it with the best of them, but then he turns it around like it's all still part of the act. If he didn't care though, why does he keep going after her and buying her a "collar" (necklace) for Christmas. Can definitely see how Erika would get whiplash and maybe more than a bit of emotional trauma trying to read him and chasing after a relationship. Despite his harsh demeanor, can't help but wonder if there's a ring of truth in his words - what person would willing go through so many things so thoroughly for the sake of this lie if they didn't actually enjoy spending time with each other at least on some level.
View all my reviews
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 1
Wolf Girl & Black Prince 1 by Ayuko Hatta
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Erika lies to her friends about having a boyfriend so she fits in with the group. When her friends get suspicious, she takes a picture of a random boy that catches her eye on the street and claims he's her boyfriend. Catch his, he's a fellow classmate at school. Fortunately, he's willing to go along with her lies, for a price. Kyouya comes off as a bit twisted, but he does have moments where it seems like he could be a good guy if he really wanted to. Erika seems torn between claiming he's now evil incarnate behind the scenes while keeping up the dating facade for her friends, but also seeing some good in him along the way. If anything, she's not as disinterested as she sometimes claims to be, especially after insisting to take his homework to him and making food to help him get better faster after he falls ill.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Erika lies to her friends about having a boyfriend so she fits in with the group. When her friends get suspicious, she takes a picture of a random boy that catches her eye on the street and claims he's her boyfriend. Catch his, he's a fellow classmate at school. Fortunately, he's willing to go along with her lies, for a price. Kyouya comes off as a bit twisted, but he does have moments where it seems like he could be a good guy if he really wanted to. Erika seems torn between claiming he's now evil incarnate behind the scenes while keeping up the dating facade for her friends, but also seeing some good in him along the way. If anything, she's not as disinterested as she sometimes claims to be, especially after insisting to take his homework to him and making food to help him get better faster after he falls ill.
View all my reviews
January 6, 2024
Restaurant to Another World 4
Restaurant to Another World 4 by Junpei Inuzuka
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
While there are a lot of new customers as usual this round, there are a lot of new connections made between all of the customers and even the chef. Turns out maybe being from different worlds isn't all that different after all. Curious how this new key supposedly has the power to close down the restaurant - did it then somehow open the restaurant in the first place as well? How it actually came into being beyond being the chef's grandfather's before passing down to him isn't fully explained though, even if we do meet his grandmother and learn more about the recipes and the food. It seems supposedly not giving away their recipes is part of the restaurant rules, or at least were when the grandfather ran the shop, however, the current chef didn't seem too worried to share, or perhaps that was because the same type of potatoes were already so common in both worlds and the dish was so easy. Another question that is unlikely to ever be answered, though it seems rather amusing the chef was the cause of so many changes and yet had no idea about any of it, and still doesn't to this day.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
While there are a lot of new customers as usual this round, there are a lot of new connections made between all of the customers and even the chef. Turns out maybe being from different worlds isn't all that different after all. Curious how this new key supposedly has the power to close down the restaurant - did it then somehow open the restaurant in the first place as well? How it actually came into being beyond being the chef's grandfather's before passing down to him isn't fully explained though, even if we do meet his grandmother and learn more about the recipes and the food. It seems supposedly not giving away their recipes is part of the restaurant rules, or at least were when the grandfather ran the shop, however, the current chef didn't seem too worried to share, or perhaps that was because the same type of potatoes were already so common in both worlds and the dish was so easy. Another question that is unlikely to ever be answered, though it seems rather amusing the chef was the cause of so many changes and yet had no idea about any of it, and still doesn't to this day.
View all my reviews
Restaurant to Another World 3
Restaurant to Another World 3 by Junpei Inuzuka
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
As with the earlier books, this volume introduces mores diners and their stories about finding the restaurant. It seems like in some worlds, they are striving to recreate some of the flavors in their own hometowns so they can eat them more often, though they aren't exactly the same just yet. If the chef is aware of this, it doesn't seem to bother him given he outright teacher Aletta how to make the potato cobbler for Sarah and even gives her some bacon (or what looks like bacon but they call "smoked meat") to go with it. It seems to be a fairly simple dish, but as usual, is considered amazing by the diners.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
As with the earlier books, this volume introduces mores diners and their stories about finding the restaurant. It seems like in some worlds, they are striving to recreate some of the flavors in their own hometowns so they can eat them more often, though they aren't exactly the same just yet. If the chef is aware of this, it doesn't seem to bother him given he outright teacher Aletta how to make the potato cobbler for Sarah and even gives her some bacon (or what looks like bacon but they call "smoked meat") to go with it. It seems to be a fairly simple dish, but as usual, is considered amazing by the diners.
View all my reviews
Restaurant to Another World 2
Restaurant to Another World 2 by Junpei Inuzuka
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Each character has a slightly different story to how they find the door and where they come from, however, one thing remains the same - they all want to come back for their favorite dish again. Some may even argue over which dish is better, but inside the restaurant, it's all in good spirit. There's no fighting or anger in the restaurant. The chef himself doesn't care who they are or where they come from, only that they enjoy the food. To this end, he finds himself with yet another new hire this time around - another dragon who lives so remotely she doesn't know of money or have any coin, but will instead work for her meals.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Each character has a slightly different story to how they find the door and where they come from, however, one thing remains the same - they all want to come back for their favorite dish again. Some may even argue over which dish is better, but inside the restaurant, it's all in good spirit. There's no fighting or anger in the restaurant. The chef himself doesn't care who they are or where they come from, only that they enjoy the food. To this end, he finds himself with yet another new hire this time around - another dragon who lives so remotely she doesn't know of money or have any coin, but will instead work for her meals.
View all my reviews
Restaurant to Another World 1
Restaurant to Another World 1 by Junpei Inuzuka
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Rather than a singular character going to another realm, the restaurant is the main location and the diners come from multiple other realms one day each week. The rest of the week, the restaurant is as normal as any other serving in the original human realm. So far the main characters seem to be the chef and his new waitress, though there are a handful of unique diners that have been single out to represent various worlds and species. The chef, despite only being human, is somehow able to make the perfect meal for all of his customers, even those who are visiting for the first time and seem to think it should be impossible. Honestly not the most captivating first volume, but it is unique. Will have to read more to see if it becomes more engaging or remains on the same entertainment level as it starts out with.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Rather than a singular character going to another realm, the restaurant is the main location and the diners come from multiple other realms one day each week. The rest of the week, the restaurant is as normal as any other serving in the original human realm. So far the main characters seem to be the chef and his new waitress, though there are a handful of unique diners that have been single out to represent various worlds and species. The chef, despite only being human, is somehow able to make the perfect meal for all of his customers, even those who are visiting for the first time and seem to think it should be impossible. Honestly not the most captivating first volume, but it is unique. Will have to read more to see if it becomes more engaging or remains on the same entertainment level as it starts out with.
View all my reviews
January 3, 2024
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke's Mansion 5
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke's Mansion 5 by Whale
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This story doesn't seem to be slowing down at all. With all of these would-be suitors, Noah definitely is still leading the charge, no matter how much Raeliana seems to be fighting it. Now with these concerns with her memories and the whole soul and body syncing issue, there are even more concerns raised. Fortunately, it seems she may have remembered one key piece of information just in the nick of time. The next volume doesn't appear to have any release date yet for the English release, but suspect this is one series will need to come back to and see how it ends.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This story doesn't seem to be slowing down at all. With all of these would-be suitors, Noah definitely is still leading the charge, no matter how much Raeliana seems to be fighting it. Now with these concerns with her memories and the whole soul and body syncing issue, there are even more concerns raised. Fortunately, it seems she may have remembered one key piece of information just in the nick of time. The next volume doesn't appear to have any release date yet for the English release, but suspect this is one series will need to come back to and see how it ends.
View all my reviews
January 2, 2024
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke's Mansion 4
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke's Mansion 4 by Whale
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It doesn't end. This Beatrice seems to be a blocker now for anything to move forward, and until that is resolved, Raeliana seems convinced she can't accept her new reality or take a chance beyond the storyline for herself. On the other hand, she's now actually opened up to some degree about her strange circumstances. Granted, they seem to be writing it off as memories of a past life (which isn't out of ordinary given she did die to wake up in this new reality), but that's fairly big. Curious if that truly is why it seems she's both in sync and yet out of sync with this world at the same time given their observations with the blessings and the magic surrounding her. What is Vivian's brother now up to as well? Spells yet more trouble on the horizon, though the contracts terms are nearly up, with the Duke dead set on winning his lady while Raeliana remains convinced it's the only path forward.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It doesn't end. This Beatrice seems to be a blocker now for anything to move forward, and until that is resolved, Raeliana seems convinced she can't accept her new reality or take a chance beyond the storyline for herself. On the other hand, she's now actually opened up to some degree about her strange circumstances. Granted, they seem to be writing it off as memories of a past life (which isn't out of ordinary given she did die to wake up in this new reality), but that's fairly big. Curious if that truly is why it seems she's both in sync and yet out of sync with this world at the same time given their observations with the blessings and the magic surrounding her. What is Vivian's brother now up to as well? Spells yet more trouble on the horizon, though the contracts terms are nearly up, with the Duke dead set on winning his lady while Raeliana remains convinced it's the only path forward.
View all my reviews
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke's Mansion 3
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke's Mansion 3 by Whale
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It seems the plot continues to thicken. If Beatrice is supposed to be Raeliana's friend, why is she with Vivian and seems to be dodging both Raeliana and the Duke that she supposedly falls in love with? If nothing else, it seems the story has well and truly changed beyond any of Raeliana's past memories at this point, though perhaps the character references will still help some regarding any family ties and general personality clues, but actions will take another turn. If anything, rather than the Duke and Beatrice falling for each other, it seems this "contract" engagement may just be the prelude to the real deal for this main couple if they continue down this path. Several others seem to have clued in especially when it comes to the Duke's feelings, and even he seems to be aware at least on some level. Raeliana on the other hand seems to be fighting with herself more as she's been stuck on what "should be" and how she can fix things. Perhaps this meeting resulting in her cold will help with that mindset some.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It seems the plot continues to thicken. If Beatrice is supposed to be Raeliana's friend, why is she with Vivian and seems to be dodging both Raeliana and the Duke that she supposedly falls in love with? If nothing else, it seems the story has well and truly changed beyond any of Raeliana's past memories at this point, though perhaps the character references will still help some regarding any family ties and general personality clues, but actions will take another turn. If anything, rather than the Duke and Beatrice falling for each other, it seems this "contract" engagement may just be the prelude to the real deal for this main couple if they continue down this path. Several others seem to have clued in especially when it comes to the Duke's feelings, and even he seems to be aware at least on some level. Raeliana on the other hand seems to be fighting with herself more as she's been stuck on what "should be" and how she can fix things. Perhaps this meeting resulting in her cold will help with that mindset some.
View all my reviews
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke's Mansion 2
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke's Mansion 2 by Whale
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Raeliana thinks she's now safe, but the Duke isn't willing to let her go just yet. As it's setting in deeper that the story may now have changed due to her actions (which was actually the point to save her life), she's playing in a social minefield with Vivian at the helm. This hunt is certainly something different, though just why on earth with Sir Taylor think that he should bring back an actual dragon due to some embroidery, especially if it's common to use family crests as the art and this one just happens to be from Raeliana allowing her mind to wander while thinking about the hunt. The story remains amusing and engaging with some very odd twists and turns.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Raeliana thinks she's now safe, but the Duke isn't willing to let her go just yet. As it's setting in deeper that the story may now have changed due to her actions (which was actually the point to save her life), she's playing in a social minefield with Vivian at the helm. This hunt is certainly something different, though just why on earth with Sir Taylor think that he should bring back an actual dragon due to some embroidery, especially if it's common to use family crests as the art and this one just happens to be from Raeliana allowing her mind to wander while thinking about the hunt. The story remains amusing and engaging with some very odd twists and turns.
View all my reviews
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke's Mansion 1
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke's Mansion 1 by Whale
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is another series where a character dies in one life and wakes up living the life of a character they know from some other story, in this case a novel. Similarly, Raeliana must find a way to change her fate to avoid death. Advance knowledge of the original plot helps to a point, but only as far as what is revealed in the original tale. As events change and she makes her move, the balance will shift and events change as well. Now she finds herself in the crosshairs not just of her ex-fiancé, but also of the villainesses of the story.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is another series where a character dies in one life and wakes up living the life of a character they know from some other story, in this case a novel. Similarly, Raeliana must find a way to change her fate to avoid death. Advance knowledge of the original plot helps to a point, but only as far as what is revealed in the original tale. As events change and she makes her move, the balance will shift and events change as well. Now she finds herself in the crosshairs not just of her ex-fiancé, but also of the villainesses of the story.
View all my reviews
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 6
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 6 by Ritsu Aozaki
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Even if Blue is growing up and needs to learn independence, he also proves he is very much still just a child. Still, it's nice how the listen and clearly care about their companions. Now the challenge seems to be not getting to the capital, but actually being able to meet with Melissa's parents. The end scenes are hilarious as always as well, especially with Hubert's mom and reflecting back to everyone trying to tech Hubert how to dance correctly in time for the big party, only for them to completely wing it anyway - and even bring Blue in (though he seems to have lost his dashing ribbon?).
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Even if Blue is growing up and needs to learn independence, he also proves he is very much still just a child. Still, it's nice how the listen and clearly care about their companions. Now the challenge seems to be not getting to the capital, but actually being able to meet with Melissa's parents. The end scenes are hilarious as always as well, especially with Hubert's mom and reflecting back to everyone trying to tech Hubert how to dance correctly in time for the big party, only for them to completely wing it anyway - and even bring Blue in (though he seems to have lost his dashing ribbon?).
View all my reviews
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 5
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 5 by Ritsu Aozaki
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well, hopefully this latest spin helps keep Melissa where she wants to be and nips this threat of forced return to the castle in the bud. Theoretically if Lord Hubert is correct, it should also make it easier in regards to their engagement and marriage, though it seems he still needs to talk to her parents somehow about that. How exactly is that going to work now that he's no longer returning to the castle and the party has been moved up to a month instead of the 3 months they thought they had to plan everything? The dancing is just hilarious, though the short story at the end from one of the previous books lends a lot of understanding to just why music and dancing would be so difficult for Hubert compared to so many other skills.
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well, hopefully this latest spin helps keep Melissa where she wants to be and nips this threat of forced return to the castle in the bud. Theoretically if Lord Hubert is correct, it should also make it easier in regards to their engagement and marriage, though it seems he still needs to talk to her parents somehow about that. How exactly is that going to work now that he's no longer returning to the castle and the party has been moved up to a month instead of the 3 months they thought they had to plan everything? The dancing is just hilarious, though the short story at the end from one of the previous books lends a lot of understanding to just why music and dancing would be so difficult for Hubert compared to so many other skills.
View all my reviews
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 4
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 4 by Ritsu Aozaki
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Oh boy, this knight sure stepped in it with his callous actions and ultimatums. Good to see the dragon knights clearly don't believe his claims that the dragons attacked Melissa or that she in any way provoked them. Anyone who knows anything about dragons or has seem them together even without knowing of Melissa's importance to the White Queen and Lord Hubert would be able to tell they adore her. Curious why the cut off communication though and just what Blue is thinking. It's clear while he was wary of the prince, he does not like this newcomer at all.
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Oh boy, this knight sure stepped in it with his callous actions and ultimatums. Good to see the dragon knights clearly don't believe his claims that the dragons attacked Melissa or that she in any way provoked them. Anyone who knows anything about dragons or has seem them together even without knowing of Melissa's importance to the White Queen and Lord Hubert would be able to tell they adore her. Curious why the cut off communication though and just what Blue is thinking. It's clear while he was wary of the prince, he does not like this newcomer at all.
View all my reviews
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 3
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 3 by Ritsu Aozaki
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well, the emotions are out in the open now and still thoroughly enjoying this series. Curious why it is that dragons never bond with women as it seemed like perhaps the story could be leading towards Blue bonding with Melissa beyond just having the White Queen's blessing, especially with how the dragons all flock around her and she adores each of them. Everyone really is just in the nick of time here, but so far, it's all working out for the better.
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well, the emotions are out in the open now and still thoroughly enjoying this series. Curious why it is that dragons never bond with women as it seemed like perhaps the story could be leading towards Blue bonding with Melissa beyond just having the White Queen's blessing, especially with how the dragons all flock around her and she adores each of them. Everyone really is just in the nick of time here, but so far, it's all working out for the better.
View all my reviews
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 2
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 2 by Ritsu Aozaki
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
It's getting better and better. The pace is picking up but the details are still everywhere. Melissa is kidnapped just as they learn Lord Hubert's brother was murdered and preparations are underway for a new contract with the dragons while the new king is growing and learning. Fortunately, the dragons all still seem very attached to Melissa, as is Lord Hubert, but that may be a double edged sword if they lose control and can't find her in time. Most likely the dragon knights will be eager to help with the search now that they've shown up given how fond they all were of Melissa back at the castle. These poachers and Lady Eleanor may have bitten off more than they can chew. Interesting as well to learn about the dragon curse, especially as it seemed there was no concrete evidence until recently. No wonder the dragons never warmed up to Eleanor.
View all my reviews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
It's getting better and better. The pace is picking up but the details are still everywhere. Melissa is kidnapped just as they learn Lord Hubert's brother was murdered and preparations are underway for a new contract with the dragons while the new king is growing and learning. Fortunately, the dragons all still seem very attached to Melissa, as is Lord Hubert, but that may be a double edged sword if they lose control and can't find her in time. Most likely the dragon knights will be eager to help with the search now that they've shown up given how fond they all were of Melissa back at the castle. These poachers and Lady Eleanor may have bitten off more than they can chew. Interesting as well to learn about the dragon curse, especially as it seemed there was no concrete evidence until recently. No wonder the dragons never warmed up to Eleanor.
View all my reviews
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 1
The Dragon Knight's Beloved 1 by Ritsu Aozaki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This has the potential to get even better, but for a first introduction to the series, it sets a good stage. It seems perhaps both the previous commander and the dragons all have a soft spot for Melissa, which may mean that her "pretend" status is actually a symbol that she's the only one who truly could truly claim the position just as Lord Hubert claims when trying to dismiss his brother's fiancé that he wants nothing to do with. Everyone seems to have a bad feeling about this supposed fiancé and what she really may be up to, especially with the hunter at her beck and call as well.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This has the potential to get even better, but for a first introduction to the series, it sets a good stage. It seems perhaps both the previous commander and the dragons all have a soft spot for Melissa, which may mean that her "pretend" status is actually a symbol that she's the only one who truly could truly claim the position just as Lord Hubert claims when trying to dismiss his brother's fiancé that he wants nothing to do with. Everyone seems to have a bad feeling about this supposed fiancé and what she really may be up to, especially with the hunter at her beck and call as well.
View all my reviews
Bride of the Barrier Master 2 (Light Novel)
Bride of the Barrier Master 2 by Kureha
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Can't say I entirely like how pushy Saku is, but also get it given his position as Lord and that they are married along with his determination to actually win Hana for real. At the bare minimum she does seem to be attracted to him and mostly trusts him. It seems the cat is out of the bag at the school, which has greatly improved her relationship with her sister, but her parents are still clueless and there are other concerns instead. Even though the story does not feel finished, there is no news yet of a third book coming out. Do hope there is more to come in this series and this isn't actually considered the end. It would be nice to see if Saku does eventually honestly win Hana over and the twins grow closer now that Hazuki knows her sister is powerful in her own right and they've both broken free of their toxic parents.
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Can't say I entirely like how pushy Saku is, but also get it given his position as Lord and that they are married along with his determination to actually win Hana for real. At the bare minimum she does seem to be attracted to him and mostly trusts him. It seems the cat is out of the bag at the school, which has greatly improved her relationship with her sister, but her parents are still clueless and there are other concerns instead. Even though the story does not feel finished, there is no news yet of a third book coming out. Do hope there is more to come in this series and this isn't actually considered the end. It would be nice to see if Saku does eventually honestly win Hana over and the twins grow closer now that Hazuki knows her sister is powerful in her own right and they've both broken free of their toxic parents.
View all my reviews
Bride of the Barrier Master 1 (Light Novel)
Bride of the Barrier Master 1 by Kureha
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Hana is determined to live her life on her terms, especially after long ago realizing her family had written her off and didn't care about her in the least, all under the assumption she was weaker than her "perfect" twin sister. Unbeknownst to them, following their 15th birthday, Hana is the stronger of the sisters in terms of raw power, in addition to not caring in the least regarding following family traditions, upholding honor, or being browbeaten to behave a certain way or follow a designated past. Despite her determination to set off on her own, the new Lord of the family sees straight through her masquerade and seems to have set his sights on her. This is all well and good when Hana believes she's getting the better end of the deal with all of the compensation for helping repair the barrier, however, it seems Saku may be more sly than previously given credit for, and genuinely does want Hana by his side. Contracts and clauses aside, the question remains if he can convince her that staying with him is truly more enticing than all of those bonuses previously offered.
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Hana is determined to live her life on her terms, especially after long ago realizing her family had written her off and didn't care about her in the least, all under the assumption she was weaker than her "perfect" twin sister. Unbeknownst to them, following their 15th birthday, Hana is the stronger of the sisters in terms of raw power, in addition to not caring in the least regarding following family traditions, upholding honor, or being browbeaten to behave a certain way or follow a designated past. Despite her determination to set off on her own, the new Lord of the family sees straight through her masquerade and seems to have set his sights on her. This is all well and good when Hana believes she's getting the better end of the deal with all of the compensation for helping repair the barrier, however, it seems Saku may be more sly than previously given credit for, and genuinely does want Hana by his side. Contracts and clauses aside, the question remains if he can convince her that staying with him is truly more enticing than all of those bonuses previously offered.
View all my reviews
January 1, 2024
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 5
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 5 by Saiko Wadori
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Curious that for a place that seems to represent purity given all of the white and the unicorns, the demon king himself doesn't seem to have any issues finding it or helping Sakura with her quest. Also curious what the priest was going to say before asking about the demon king when he was drunk and talking to Sakura. Fortunately, it seems things have resolved peacefully for the time being, even if the demon kingdom is still cursed while the Sacred See is now free. Would be curious to know what ended up being the emblem or reason that the spell lifted there, and if this stone that's been found is indeed tied to the spell in the demon kingdom or not. Meanwhile Sakura remains as oblivious as ever, but is also growing closer to the demon king as time goes on - and also seems to realize no one knows what his name is, just his title.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Curious that for a place that seems to represent purity given all of the white and the unicorns, the demon king himself doesn't seem to have any issues finding it or helping Sakura with her quest. Also curious what the priest was going to say before asking about the demon king when he was drunk and talking to Sakura. Fortunately, it seems things have resolved peacefully for the time being, even if the demon kingdom is still cursed while the Sacred See is now free. Would be curious to know what ended up being the emblem or reason that the spell lifted there, and if this stone that's been found is indeed tied to the spell in the demon kingdom or not. Meanwhile Sakura remains as oblivious as ever, but is also growing closer to the demon king as time goes on - and also seems to realize no one knows what his name is, just his title.
View all my reviews
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 4
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 4 by Saiko Wadori
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Sakura seems a bit homesick though still determined to help the Sacred See. Meanwhile it's rather surprising the demon king has been so understanding and supportive and hasn't just whisked her back home like it seems he's just itching to do. It seems there may be some new competition for the title of the Saint as well, though curious that her magic is working if it's specifically cleaning magic which is supposedly what does not work with the witch's curse.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Sakura seems a bit homesick though still determined to help the Sacred See. Meanwhile it's rather surprising the demon king has been so understanding and supportive and hasn't just whisked her back home like it seems he's just itching to do. It seems there may be some new competition for the title of the Saint as well, though curious that her magic is working if it's specifically cleaning magic which is supposedly what does not work with the witch's curse.
View all my reviews
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 3
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 3 by Saiko Wadori
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Just when Sakura seems to have gotten through to Noah and he understands that she likes living with the demons, it turns out the witch is back and may have locked away more cleaning spells, so part of her reasoning for staying in the demon realm and not visiting the Sacred See may no longer exist. Meanwhile it's also even more apparent how much the demons love having her around and actual fear losing her. A certain (oddly nameless?) king also seems to be getting more possessive over "his" Sakura, while she's just looking for more things to clean and ways to better educate everyone, especially now that they've successfully added a neutral soap to their line of cleaning solutions.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Just when Sakura seems to have gotten through to Noah and he understands that she likes living with the demons, it turns out the witch is back and may have locked away more cleaning spells, so part of her reasoning for staying in the demon realm and not visiting the Sacred See may no longer exist. Meanwhile it's also even more apparent how much the demons love having her around and actual fear losing her. A certain (oddly nameless?) king also seems to be getting more possessive over "his" Sakura, while she's just looking for more things to clean and ways to better educate everyone, especially now that they've successfully added a neutral soap to their line of cleaning solutions.
View all my reviews
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 2
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 2 by Saiko Wadori
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Sakura is on a quest to educate demons on the differences of different cleaning chemicals and their correct application. Meanwhile, the demon king seems oddly drawn to Sakura, not that he'd ever likely admit it. We now have Noah, the hero, throwing himself into the mix at the end and just how that will play out. Especially as Sakura seems to still be sleeping at the time of his breaking in for a daring (if unneeded) rescue. If anything, all of the demons seem to adore Sakura and are learning to take pride in their work now that they are having to rely on knowledge and hand work rather than just magic to easily get things done.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Sakura is on a quest to educate demons on the differences of different cleaning chemicals and their correct application. Meanwhile, the demon king seems oddly drawn to Sakura, not that he'd ever likely admit it. We now have Noah, the hero, throwing himself into the mix at the end and just how that will play out. Especially as Sakura seems to still be sleeping at the time of his breaking in for a daring (if unneeded) rescue. If anything, all of the demons seem to adore Sakura and are learning to take pride in their work now that they are having to rely on knowledge and hand work rather than just magic to easily get things done.
View all my reviews
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 1
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 1 by Saiko Wadori
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Sakura doesn't really fit in at home with her obsession with cleaning things, however, that same passion has earned her the title of "Saint" in the demon world after she unexpectedly travels through dimensions to end up in this strange world. Thanks to a curse, cleaning magic no longer works and strange ash falls from the sky continuously. Only Sakura's standard cleaning "magic" from home (really just basic science and hard work) will clean anything. She's determined to make the best of things while she's there, but may have found a few odd friends along the way, including a certain demon king that comes across as incredibly lazy, but may also have a soft spot, at least for a certain Saint.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Sakura doesn't really fit in at home with her obsession with cleaning things, however, that same passion has earned her the title of "Saint" in the demon world after she unexpectedly travels through dimensions to end up in this strange world. Thanks to a curse, cleaning magic no longer works and strange ash falls from the sky continuously. Only Sakura's standard cleaning "magic" from home (really just basic science and hard work) will clean anything. She's determined to make the best of things while she's there, but may have found a few odd friends along the way, including a certain demon king that comes across as incredibly lazy, but may also have a soft spot, at least for a certain Saint.
View all my reviews
Heartstopper 4
Heartstopper 4 by Alice Oseman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Charlie's mental health reaches a critical point, forcing some hard changes in his life and their relationship. If anything, Nick really does have is heart in the right place and is trying to help. His mom seems to be really understanding and helpful, while Nick's mom was surprisingly judgmental for a bit there. Of course it's not entirely smooth sailing either as Nick's brother seems to enjoy trying to throw a wrench into everything at the worst possible moment. The side stories at the end are cute, but of course the most pressing question is how Nick's dad reacts to the big reveal, especially given the forced interference to bring it up before Nick was ready to say anything even though everyone else aside from his brother seemed to be supportive.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Charlie's mental health reaches a critical point, forcing some hard changes in his life and their relationship. If anything, Nick really does have is heart in the right place and is trying to help. His mom seems to be really understanding and helpful, while Nick's mom was surprisingly judgmental for a bit there. Of course it's not entirely smooth sailing either as Nick's brother seems to enjoy trying to throw a wrench into everything at the worst possible moment. The side stories at the end are cute, but of course the most pressing question is how Nick's dad reacts to the big reveal, especially given the forced interference to bring it up before Nick was ready to say anything even though everyone else aside from his brother seemed to be supportive.
View all my reviews
Accomplishments of the Duke's Daughter 8
Accomplishments of the Duke's Daughter 8 by Suki Umemiya
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Dean gets unexpected approval from the rest of the gang to be Iris' only bodyguard when she's up to going back into town with her new disguise - after some unexpected encouragement from Mina. It's nice to actually get to see the watches this time around too, and what was meant with the engraving being connected. Of course, it was different than what was pictured mentally, but that's half the fun. The short story this time around has Dida and Sei basically stalking Lyle through town. It's a really good thing they're all so close, though still slightly curious what else it was that Lyle picked up at the accessories shop that's hidden away.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Dean gets unexpected approval from the rest of the gang to be Iris' only bodyguard when she's up to going back into town with her new disguise - after some unexpected encouragement from Mina. It's nice to actually get to see the watches this time around too, and what was meant with the engraving being connected. Of course, it was different than what was pictured mentally, but that's half the fun. The short story this time around has Dida and Sei basically stalking Lyle through town. It's a really good thing they're all so close, though still slightly curious what else it was that Lyle picked up at the accessories shop that's hidden away.
View all my reviews
Accomplishments of the Duke's Daughter 7
Accomplishments of the Duke's Daughter 7 by Suki Umemiya
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
There aren't any huge events in this volume, though things continue to move at a fast pace and the whispers of war are getting louder. Iris is still buckled in for the ride and determined to make the best of things. The side story here focuses on Milo, who we see very little of overall in the story. As usual, he's ferreting out all sorts of information for Alfred to use, which in turn helped Iris rather significantly when it came to the church.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
There aren't any huge events in this volume, though things continue to move at a fast pace and the whispers of war are getting louder. Iris is still buckled in for the ride and determined to make the best of things. The side story here focuses on Milo, who we see very little of overall in the story. As usual, he's ferreting out all sorts of information for Alfred to use, which in turn helped Iris rather significantly when it came to the church.
View all my reviews
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)