The Matchmaker Gets Matched by Kim Misol
My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars
Also found under the title I Was Just Trying to Prevent the Breakup of the Main Characters (wow, that's a mouthful). The style for reading this online is rather difficult, which is why it loses points, but the story itself is interesting. Dianta is now living in a story she had read in her previous life, except she's slowly changing the story. She's made a handful of friends and contacts at this point, but none of this or what she knew of the story, prepared her for meeting Seren's brother in person. Season one ends with an unexpected line of suitors and a not-so-surprising determination to follow "Sir Nathan" to the North. At least it would seem Seren and Heint will get their happy ending, especially with Alberg back in the North and admitting it's too dangerous for Seren to ever join him. Hopefully the effects of the North won't be too harsh for Dianta to find him while also being fierce enough to keep the prince from chasing after her.
August 30, 2024
The Matchmaker Gets Matched
August 26, 2024
Before My Father Kills Me
Before My Father Kills Me by Maripara
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Also found under the title It's Not Easy Being the Ice Emperor's Daughter, this is another common isekai series where the main character dies in their first life and awakens in as a child in a story they have recently read. It's much shorter than many series as well, making it ideal for a quick adventure. The story Dia now finds herself living ended in tragedy when she died on her 17th birthday at the hands of her father, but something about the original story didn't feel right. Now living the tale herself, Dia is able to discover the truth about what would of been her death originally and do her best to rewrite the story. What is most uncommon here is not only does Dia reveal the truth to her father, who still sees her as his precious daughter after, but we even get a flashback to the main character's original life and the story she had read that started the adventure, only now even the book has changed. We don't know who Dia will choose of her would be beaus, but clearly at the least, the story with her father has vastly improved and she's no longer facing certain doom.
Daughter of the Emperor 14
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Well that was a rather unexpected way for Ria to make her choice and get married. It's also both surprising and not that Asisi would remain as her personal knight even though he's been so close to Caitel and served him for so many years. It's rather sweet how she describes her relationship with these 3 men who were so influential in her childhood, though also somewhat surprising she leaves Dranste off the list, though he did tend to come and go more often than staying, so perhaps not as much. Caitel certainly has mellowed significantly over time, but no one can doubt he's very attached to his dear daughter either. A good portion of this book looks back on the older characters (Dranste, Caitel, Silvi, Perdel, and Asisi) and how they all met and grew up. We even see a short piece focusing on Serira and how she came to serve Ria. Oddly enough the only characters that we don't really have an ending for are the twins other than that they serve as knights, but so does Cito at that point, so it feels a bit like a loose ending on that side.
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Daughter of the Emperor 13
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It seems peace may be returning, though not at all very easily. It's even more clear here that both Havin and Ahin are interested in Ria, though they have very different ways of making that clear. Ria herself just wants what is best for everyone and remains determined to stay by her father's side at this point. She's also far more interested in finer arts it seems than most are in this world she's come to call home. While her maids seem confused by this at first, Asisi especially seems to be encouraging her to learn and grow as she wishes, which is rather touching. It's understandable in many regards why there seems to be a more emotional connection between these two characters.
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Daughter of the Emperor 12
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Ria's family got a lot bigger and a lot more complex, especially with the addition of her uncle. Havin is honestly losing points, where Asisi and Ahin are earning a lot of points. Even Dranste seems to be on good behavior and showing an increased level of care mixed into his usual teasing. Can't imagine Caitel is too pleased with his injuries, but we get more than a few sweet scenes thanks to his actions with him and Ria. Ria is also doing very well stepping into her role as princess, though it seems Perdel really may have made some bad choices and gone too far this time. He's honestly probably lucky in all reality that Caitel really didn't kill him.
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Daughter of the Emperor 11
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Ria is growing up, but that also means she's not so willing to stay in her father's gilded cages anymore either. Caitel, of course, doesn't take well to not knowing where Ria is or the potential danger she could be in. What is with all of these guys, too?! There seems to be an increase of history in each of these stories going forward to mix in with the new content as things progress. It's interesting, but also a tad confusing as sometimes it isn't entirely clear until later why that flashback may be relevant as more than just passing interest.
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Daughter of the Emperor 10
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
More history and learning about the world outside of her little bubble here. Ria is slowly beginning to understand more about those around her and why perhaps some things she thinks would be natural to share or important may actually be painful or have a reason for being secret up until now. Not that it's likely to curb her curiosity, but she is slowly learning as she grows. Clearly, she has some new friends as well, which hopefully has been good for her, especially with the addition of Evelyn so she's finally not the only girl in this group of boys anymore. Though Evelyn seems to have a rather... unique attachment to the princess.
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Daughter of the Emperor 9
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I managed to find the original webtoons for this to continue reading as I've been enjoying this series and especially like the colored panels for a change. Caitel seems to be doing a lot of reminiscing over when Ria was younger and just how she's managed to grow and he's become so attached to her over the years. Clearly he never thought he would "allow" her to live for so long, let alone that she would become so important by his side. Now that Ria isn't a child anymore (though he'll still insist she is and refuse that she's an adult) even Perdel seems to be enlisting Ria's aid to help reign in her father's temper and keep the country running smoothly. Seems rather fortunate in this regard that Ria has managed to survive for so long and learned all she has from these prominent figures inside the palace. It seems Perdel's plight of longing for a daughter also continues with yet another set of rambunctious twin boys - poor Silvi must have her hands full with this herd, especially given the small snippet of antics we see with them and Ria in the garden.
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August 25, 2024
How To Make My Tyrant Husband Love Me
How To Make My Tyrant Husband Love Me by Onu
My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars
The story itself has the usual foundation for common villainess isekai series - girl dies in her first life and wakes up living as the villainess in a story she read before. In this case, the main character is Belita, is a bit of a seductress and not at all loyal to her husband the emperor in the book. In her previous life before waking up as Belita, the main character was clearly rather innocent, so she finds the men thrown at her even more embarrassing and confusing than ever. Between this embarrassment and not wanting her husband to kill her, naturally, she has some pretty strong reasons to reform and find a new way to live. It seems Belita may also be the key in this case to the emperor's issues with his divine beast and his aid may have been onto something with that suggest, crass though it may have been. Hopefully the two of them can find a new balance and peace learning to really be a couple before the rest of the wolves decend on them. There may be a new challenge to that however with the end of this most recent chapter (chapter 17) that is as far as the series seems available so far with Belita collapsing.
A Stepmother's Marchen 4
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
There is a lot of backstory in this volume, even going into events that took place after Shuri's death in her first life, which would be a complete mystery to her. Despite the new challenges with the political factions, it seems that at least the core group of characters are growing up well and forging new bonds that are good to see. Hopefully, this will continue to have a positive downstream effect, even though it seems at least the church and the crown prince have various hidden agendas that could cause more than a few problems along the way.
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A Stepmother's Marchen 3
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Things very nearly got really dark there for a bit. Shuri really is putting her best foot forward trying to do right by the children this time around, though it seems perhaps in her determination to save Jeremy she might have forgotten to talk to the children about what would happen after given their promise to stay together. They're smart kids though and they seem to understand what was going on and that she didn't actually want to leave them. Jeremy also seems to be realizing some things, especially with more truth revealed about Shuri's relationship with his father (or lack thereof) combined with her age. Still a little strange how the crown prince seems to be fixated on her, but he does have some odd if distorted points given the similarities in their ages. He does seem to be forgetting one key things though, Jeremy and the other children are family to Shuri, where he is the crown prince. Norra also seems to be opening up and getting closer. While Norra and Jeremy still argue, it would be possible to see them becoming friends, especially as these events and Jeremy's realizations seem to have driven him closer to Shuri's side and away from devoting himself to the crown prince as he did in Shuri's previous life.
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A Stepmother's Marchen 2
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well now, it seems the church really doesn't like Shuri. On the other hand, she seems to be doing much better finding allies and winning people over in this go around with her life. She also seems much closer to Norra truthfully rather than the crown prince, even if all three of them are of age. Curious if that may have something to do with Jeremy's relationship with the crown prince as well as her past life experience. At least it seems her relationship with the children continues to improve, which is good to see, especially as the younger ones at least for the moment are as rambunctious as ever.
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A Stepmother's Marchen 1
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Shuri finds herself reliving her past from when her husband passed away and she was left to take over the estate and take care of his children; the catch being she's about the same age as those children. In her first life, she never got along with the children and they resented her. With new eyes and outlook on what took place in the past, it seems perhaps some bridges are beginning to mend at least between Shuri and the children. There still seems to be plenty of conspiracy surrounding them and many people who would love to take over their family's wealth and power. Hopefully enough has changed this time around to really make a difference for the better.
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August 24, 2024
Bingo Home Design & Decorating
Bingo Home Design & Decorating (Android)
My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars
This combines bingo with a room design style game like in Room Sort, Ava's Manor, or other similar style games where you play something to earn points, coins, or stars to then make your selection to decorate and unlock various areas in the game. It is easy to imagine running out of coins at some point with the way this is set up and either feeling as if you must buy coins to continue or being stuck collecting daily rewards until you earn enough to play another round, only to be stuck back in the same place again, especially as rewards are never guaranteed and can seem like very little, especially as the cost to play each round increases through the game. With this in mind, while this is enjoyable and a change of pace from most match and card-style games of this sort, most likely will not bother continuing with it as it would only be more annoying to get farther along in the game before feeling like it was blocked from further progress and not wanting to spend money on the game.
Word Hike: Inventive Crossword
Word Hike: Inventive Crossword (Android)
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
In some ways, this is very similar to World Carnival and Crossword Explorer, though it has a slightly different set up with the hints, keys earned for different themes to be unlocked, and when or where you can earn hints aside from using coins and power ups in the game. It's enjoyable, but also a bit different in some ways than traditional crosswords though it does focus solely on crosswords rather than multiple word games. Undecided on this one so far, so end up teetering back and forth on if or how long to keep playing it. Most likely it will end up fading in favor of the other two games at some point, but for now it's different enough it's still enjoyable.
Trivia Spin: Guess Brain Quiz
Trivia Spin: Guess Brain Quiz (Android)
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
While the idea behind the game is fun, the themes are so obscure with little information that sometimes it's truly baffling trying to think of where it came from or who put it together. It is also very heavy on advertising and earning gems for special challenges to earn stickers (which don't seem to do much of anything really in the game other than being a cash grab to burn through gems). While it's a nice change of pace, it doesn't rank high enough to feel like it's worth the time to earn so many gems, nor do I have any interest in spending money on the game.
Room Sort: Floor Plan Game
Room Sort: Floor Plan Game (Android)
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is an interesting take on a room design game. A lot of the styling is the same where you have a set list of tasks and can choose an option usually out of 3+ choices to style your room. Where most games rely on various game play like connect three puzzles, card games, or competing for style rewards to earn coins for your stages, this game has floor plan puzzles to solve. It's an interesting take on a puzzle game that lends into the styling idea more than most do so the themes match. Really the only downside is the excessive use of ads between each puzzle before you can make your next move.
Days With My Stepsister
Days With My Stepsister (2024)
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
There are a lot of foundational similarities to this series and Mint Chocolate, though this is not to say they are the same series at all either. While the similarities between these two series stem from being step siblings and even their parents basic point of views on new relationships before they announce their marriage, as well as initially hiding their relationship at school, there are similarities when it comes to working at the bookstore and perhaps a slower emotional awakening to A Condition Called Love. With this in mind, if the watcher has enjoyed either of these series, they will most likely enjoy this one. On the flip side, if they have not read or watched either of these series but enjoy Days With My Stepsister, they may enjoy these other series as well. Yuta seems more open overall and like a genuinely nice guy. While Saki is also nice in her own way, she seems to struggle more to fit in and has some rather odd thoughts and actions that seem to give her a bad rap at school. It's cute to watch these two slowly learn how to navigate life together and see how similar they are even though they come from completely different lives up 'til now.
Screw Out: Jam Puzzle
Screw Out: Jam Puzzle (Android)
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
This is very similar in style to Screw Jam or or Nuts & Bolts. Unfortunately, that includes all the ads and trying to trap you on levels to pay for power ups so you can actually beat the "hard" puzzles. The game play is also nothing like the video ads that led to trying it, where they had wooden plans and saws underneath to chop them up as they fell. Rather disappointing all in all with the fake advertising and not a huge draw as far as engagement, especially if you aren't looking to top up for any abilities.
Daughter of the Emperor 8
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This edition felt like it didn't have much in the way of new content, but went over a lot of different points of view from Ria's childhood, especially from her "Papa". We do get some new insight into not only Caitel, but also Dranste and Asisi that is interesting. We have yet another little boy who seems angry and afraid at first but also seems to be thawing around Ria as well. The author comments at the end indicate that the next book will show Ria grown up, so that could be interesting, especially as a lot of the commentary and observation this time around is specifically about Ria as a child and how she seems different from other children, also pointing out her unknown importance to so many people, including Caitel, who makes a point of in general not liking or wanting to be around children. Ria isn't wrong when she thinks that Caitel's actions and explanations sound and look a lot like love despite his blunt refusal to call it that.
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August 23, 2024
7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! 6 (Light Novel)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Rishe really doesn't seem to see her own value, but it's clear those around her do at least to varying degrees. Oliver and Arnold probably aren't far off saying that all of these deals and new followers are due to Rishe herself. It's understandable with how she puts her skills to use that she's not only winning over those she knew in her past lives, but also those she's coming into contact with now, like the sailors who all volunteer to help because it's for their crown princess. We get to see even more emotional expressions from Arnold, even though most of the time he's his usual stoic self. The bonus stories are adorable, as always, and the confirmation at the end from the author that more than one man was in love with Rishe in her previous lives and she has no clue at all is hilarious. For all her experience, Rishe really is perhaps a bit naive and very inexperienced when it comes to this side of her emotions, but she's suddenly getting a lot of practice now that she's realizing just how deeply she cares about Prince Arnold.
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August 17, 2024
My Isekai Life: I Gained a Second Character Class and Became the Strongest Sage in the World
My Isekai Life: I Gained a Second Character Class and Became the Strongest Sage in the World (2022)
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Yuji is summoned to another world, but manages to hide this fact for the most part. He seems to understand the game mechanics of the world he finds himself in rather quickly, though it takes awhile for him to grasp that what he can do really is considered outside of normal. A few key people zero in on him and figure out who and what he is, but they don't share that knowledge for the most part, so it seems to be more accidental when he ends up involved in these plots through his travels. Really though, he's the only one with the power to save this new world he's found himself in.
August 16, 2024
Mint Chocolate 11
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Seems their parents really did have more of a clue than either Nanami or Kyouhei even back from the beginning. That's a plus for them really since it means that they were both actually hoping for the two of them to connect and get together if not at least get along and seem to genuinely be happy that they're working out together so far. This new little girl that looks like Kyouhei and Nanami's suspicions could bring a different wave of trouble thought if they turn out to be correct. The kid alone might not strike any chords if Kyouhei does meet her when they find Nanami, but if his mom is there, that could be an interesting encounter.
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The Apothecary Diaries 13
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Well, the ghost stories group doesn't seem to be a puzzle to solve just yet, but we do have a new ghost mystery that comes up and is solved with the crystal palace. Maomao steps in to save one of her friends in court and whips up some ice cream, earning some new orders to follow from Jinshi in exchange for some last minute aid and access to his kitchen. It'll be interesting to see if she can actually follow through and not tune out the things she thinks she doesn't want to hear.... and just what that means she'll learn given all of this talk about how she might be involved in things and what Jinshi wants her to know. Too bad she probably still only has the faintest idea regarding the tip of that iceberg.
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August 15, 2024
The Apothecary Diaries 12
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Oh, goodness, just what has Maomao gotten involved in now. The ghost stories are an interesting start, but it seems Maomao is needed back at Jinshi's side. Jinshi apparently is finally wanting to reveal a few truths, but Maomao has it in her head being in the dark is the safest place to be. That doesn't seem to be sitting well with her employer, especially after the frog comparison. At least it seems like they have a few allies in this hunt adventure. Hopefully they can survive without any more assassination attempts.
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Spy x Family 12
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Can't say I loved this installment unfortunately. Anya gets a little over her head with stories again trying to keep the spotlight on her at school. Yor gets drunk and starts making a mess of things at home, pulling both Loid and her brother Yuri into it from different perspectives. When both Loid and Yuri are called in for an emergency assignment, they're pitted against each other on opposite sides of the same mission. The volume leaves us off on a rather drastic cliffhanger with Nightfall and their target operative where it looks like Twilight might actually be in some real danger for a change rather than pulling off the perfect mission he's known for.
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7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! 5
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It was a tad confusing at the start when they kept referring to an "elixir" but it turns out it is the same substance Michel wants to test with Prince Arnold after all. For all of Prince Arnold emphasizing war tactics and military strength, he really is extremely kind and indulgent with Rishe. The firefly scene remains sweet, especially when Rishe reaches out to try to comfort Arnold, not to mention when his "reflex" is to catch her, even if it potentially means damaging or losing his sword. He's probably right when he says most people would think he likes war while Rishe says he doesn't. She's not exactly your normal observer though. Now she has to put that knowledge to work with her new alliances to try and avoid anyone invading Coyolles.
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7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! 4
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Very different interpretations for some of the tools and wardrobe here as well, but just as good for the story. We now have Prince Kyle on the scene, and his greetings really do seem to go above and beyond. Prince Arnold's glares aren't as potent on the page as it seems they are in the anime, but he certainly still has the glower down, and Rishe's reactions make up for any difference. There's some difference in references to amulets and more context on why Prince Arnold wanted to give her a ring as well. Always seems there are multiple reasons for any action he takes. Rishe will be hard pressed to find all the reasons behind anything herself at this rate.
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7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! 3
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Theodore is still causing just as much trouble in this version as the others, though it's nice to get more of his true thoughts in the moment given pretty much everything else is from Rishe's perspective alone. Even the short story at the end of this volume is from Theo's point of view. He may have started out rather sarcastically with Rishe and hoping to use her, but it seems perhaps he found a true new family member instead, gaining some new ground with his own beloved brother along the way. Really, they Hein brothers probably don't know what hit them when Prince Arnold decided he had to bring Rishe home to be his wife. Theo isn't too far off when he asks how it's possible she can know so much.
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7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! 2
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
We made it to the chapel scene and perhaps the first time Prince Arnold tells Rishe start opening up to each other. They really do have an odd way of communicating at times, but it seems to work for both of them, especially with their positions and secrets. Not sure what to think of Prince Arnold liking Rishe's medicinal herb soup, but maybe that has more to do with both of them appreciating things that are nutritious rather than prioritizing taste. It certainly gave Oliver some food for thought when he heard about it, let alone that Prince Arnold willingly took a break with Rishe. Rishe certainly isn't your average girl at this stage, but that's really probably why she fits so well given her wider range of knowledge and abilities.
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7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! 1
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This story is just as enjoyable in manga form as the light novel and anime. Of course there are some small variations, for example the King looks rather robust and balding in the manga where in the anime he appears rather fit, definitely has hair, and isn't wearing the puffy crown. Prince Arnold's cape also appears to have a different design, though both still appear striking and he's still the dark character comparatively speaking. The knights also don't suddenly disappear from behind Rishe as soon as she borrows one of their swords in the manga. Still, their interactions are fun to see come to life with the artwork and the different nuances between the retellings. Rishe seems a bit more maidenly in this version, especially with scenes like the balcony and first party. The bonus short stories are amusing too, where we finally get some details from Oliver's point of view and even some bits on how Mary came to academy and stole Prince Dietrich (not that Rishe considers that a loss anymore).
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August 14, 2024
7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! 5 (Light Novel)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well, it took awhile, but Rishe at least seems to finally realize her feelings, both in this current life and being able to resolve what she felt was unfinished in her past lives so she can hopefully move forward now. Some curiosity if that may be part of the trick that had her repeating her lives to begin with, but hopefully this story will turn out much better for her, so no hopes for any death or reincarnation where she'd have to start over again. Even if Prince Arnold may be a few steps ahead when it comes to tactics, Rishe still seems to be leading the charge when it comes to alliances, with Prince Arnold willingly helping out and even planning in his own way to make things work out in her favor now that he's seemingly caught on to some of how Rishe seems to work. Prince Dietrich is a bit of a thorn, but even he seems to be of some help in the end and has come to some realizations, even if he still seems to have more ego than can compensate for actual logic in most cases. Seems next up should be wedding bells....
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7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! 4 (Light Novel)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Raul really is a bit mischievous and troublesome. Fortunately, Rishe's memories come in very handy here, or she could have ended up in some big trouble when it came to that poison. Her "fight" with Prince Arnold is also an interesting development. It seems an odd thing to declare and like perhaps her point wasn't exactly the same through it, but Prince Arnold has certainly changed a lot with her influence. It's rather amusing how they each credit each other and work so well together, yet both seem to thin that they don't measure up or aren't doing enough for the other. Raul may have it right in his bonus story at the end - it could all be very easy to explain , but they do seem to have a pretty solid relationship all in all, so it's highly entertaining watching them squirm.
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August 13, 2024
7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! 3 (Light Novel)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This volume is entirely new content past where the anime ends (I know, the books actually came first, but at least up until most of volume 2, the story was familiar after having seen the anime). Arnold continues to be a rather complex character while Rishe appears to be an enigma given no one knows about her memories of her other lives. We find some answers about Arnold's own family in this adventure, and Rishe finds even more of the friends she left behind in past lives, though of course they don't recognize her now. Seems there might be some denial going on with the emotional front, but these two are surprisingly so sweet together. Oliver even seems to be trusting Rishe now, especially when it comes to trying to help steer Arnold down a more positive path for his own future. He certainly seemed worried enough when she was in danger, and the recovery scenes are beyond adorable. Hopefully they'll be successful creating their own story and manage to avoid this dreaded war from the past.
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August 12, 2024
7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! 2 (Light Novel)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Rishe's reactions really are all too amusing, it's fairly easy to see why Prince Arnold would be endeared to her. At the same time, Prince Arnold really is significantly different with Rishe than he seems to be with pretty much anyone else, including his younger brother. Theodore also seems to firmly be on Rishe's side now, though it probably doesn't hurt that it's still so clear how close Rishe and Arnold are even if they are essentially still strangers at the same time. Hopefully, these newest maneuvers will turn out as well as Rishe hopes. It will be interesting if they do go on that journey as well. With the way things are playing out, can't help but wonder if Rishe will officially rescind the no touching rule or if Prince Arnold will continue to attempt to be on good behavior... except for when he clearly isn't and gets Rishe all flustered again. He's way too good at that.
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I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince So I Can Take My Time Perfecting My Magical Ability
I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince so I Can Take My Time Perfecting My Magical Ability (2024)
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The art is well done and it has promise, but it feels like it falls short. There's a lot that ends up being day-to-day or Lloyd musing about things, or we go to the other extreme and now we have a battle scene where he may fight or may willingly take the hit "just to see what the effects might be". Meanwhile his opponents may or may not have any clothes left. It's almost like there is no real focus and just a lot of slapdash through everything and see what happens. Unlikely this will be one to pick back up again for season 2 if it's released.
Delinquent Daddy & Tender Teacher 4
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Hatoyama is about as good of a patient when he gets sick as Hitsuji was. They both struggle with accepting help in some ways, and yet clearly enjoy having time together and can function as a cohesive unit, too. Hatoyama goes to some pretty extreme measures to get through to Hitsuji so they're both finally on the same page, or at least seem to be. Slowly making plans as everyone continues to grow.
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Delinquent Daddy & Tender Teacher 3
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
What are the odds Hinata's new teacher would be another old school friend of Hatoyama's and also happen to be interested in men. Hitsuji clearly hasn't had to worry about this kind of jealousy before, with both his boyfriend and Hinata as it seems he fears being replaced in both of their lives completely. Things nearly go into a tail spin when Hatoyama goes all in with his proposal, but maybe that's also really the push Hitsuji needs with his insecurities. At least they made up and are starting to work things out, so there is hope.
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August 11, 2024
Delinquent Daddy & Tender Teacher 2
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Hitsuji is very self conscious when it comes to his position as Hinata's teacher and not actually a part of Hatoyama's family, though it's also clear that's what he wants more than anything. Even though he's a kid, Hinata doesn't tell anyone about Sensei being part of his family other than including him in artwork projects that he only shows to Hitsuji and Hatoyama. Very understandable and real emotions all around as they navigate this new relationship and their work/life balance.
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Delinquent Daddy & Tender Teacher 1
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Hitsuji apparently is really good at caring for people and teaching, but he's not so great when it comes to personal relationships and seems rather self conscious of being gay as a result of the relationships he has had so far. Turns out the father of a kid he's been worried about in his class is the same friend he had a crush on back when they were classmates in school together, Hatoyama. Given Hatoyama was married, has a son, and is now divorced, Hitsuji is more convinced than ever that there's no way Hatoyama could like him that way and his best bet at happiness is remaining friends and trying not to cross that line... except it seems like Hatoyama wants to cross that line himself. It's rather sweet the way these two clearly care for each other and don't care what others may think about them when it comes to labels and stereotypes. Fortunately, Hitsuji is also pretty good at cooking and house cleaning, which in turn means Hatoyama and his son, Hinata, are learning all sorts of things about living and enjoying life now that the three are spending so much time together.
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Love, a Kitten, and a Salty Dog
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Momo comes across as an adorable college student, but he's got a deeper side working as an escort/sugar daddy. He also checks all the right boxes for Okura, who meets Momo when he saves a kitten off the road and Okura is the vet in charge of her care while they look for the owner as Momo can't have pets in his apartment. Lines get blurred and misunderstandings all around, made possibly worse when Okura finds Momo as Yuu on a dating app and starts chatting under the guise of looking for a friend. The "mature" rating for this story is definitely accurate as well given the number of references and outright sex scenes. Still, even with this and the number of assumptions and misunderstandings, somehow these two manage to figure things out and seem to be happy.
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The Cat Proposed
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Souta is so weary of life and work that he is nearly numb as he considers stepping in front of a train to end his life before he comes across Kihachi and his kodan storytelling. Having been interested in stories prior to work draining him and due to some unknown compatibility coming into play, this visit changes the course of Souta's life. Kihachi turns out to be a bakeneko, and there are rules about humans learning about them. Between this and their compatibility, it's a bit of a whirlwind as they go from strangers to taking care of each other, and eventually genuinely caring for each other. The emotional depth to this characters is fantastic, however, the story has an odd mix of flowing and jumping between the chapters and the implied pace of events. Overall, it's an entertaining story and tastefully written.
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Am I Actually The Strongest
Am I Actually the Strongest (2023)
My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars
Haruto was a shut-in in his previous life, loathing school and not connecting well with anyone prior to his death. While the angels intended to make his second life better all around, they forgot 2 details: the ability to read power levels stopped in the double digits, so an ability rating of 1002 reads as only a measly level 02, and they never assigned him an element (though it seems this last may have been a blessing in disguise). Due to this, his new birth parents claim he died at birth and leave him in the wilderness. Fortunately, with his memories of his past life and gaming, he's able to put his new powers to use even as a newborn and survive at least long enough that he's found a new family and a bit of a wayward servant. Haruto's abilities continue to grow as he grows up, and so does his emotional state surprisingly, though he is still insistent for a long time that he hates school and socializing. It seems at least a few people may breaking through his hermit exterior though, leading to some nice character growth, even if political references and hints from his family at his own worth seem to still completely go over his head. Rather than any thought or indication that he can do anything more than his chosen "champion of justice" title and trying to return to being a shut-in, Haruto becomes rather fixated on protecting his little sister. Curious if he'll ever actually admit to his own royal origins, especially to his biological siblings or not. Regardless, at least it seems he has a solid family behind him now and a good group of friends, if not rather eccentric given a good number of them are demons.
August 10, 2024
My Gently Raised Beast 7
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Well that got dark pretty fast. Adellai really went off the rails, and Barahan right along with her. It seems even Philip had delusions of grandeur. At least the emperor and Lart have both seen the light and remain with Briddy and Amon. Seems like things may get even more interesting, or did Briddy really manage to find the key to stopping everything just in the nick of time with this sword?
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7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! 1 (Light Novel)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This series grows on you. Admittedly, I saw the anime first and found myself wanting more of these characters, so looked into the books. The light novel, as expected, gives more detail and inflection into the happenings of the story. It appears that the anime follows the printed story very closely, which is a also good to see and adds another pleasant dynamic to the characters and what is known of their history. There are a few pictures in the light novel as well, which may be familiar to those who have seen the anime as some depict popular scenes from various episodes, especially highlighting the more personal interactions between Rishe and Prince Arnold. For someone who's original goal is to live a life of luxury and do nothing, Rishe certainly seems to be accomplishing a lot in a short amount of time.
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August 9, 2024
I'm the Villainess, So I'm Taming the Final Boss
I'm the Villainess, So I'm Taming the Final Boss (2022)
My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars
Aileen wakes in this world as her engagement is annulled with Prince Cedric. The catch is, this world was an otome game she played in her previous life, and she recognizes the life she's now living as that of the villainess of the game's story. In her quest to stay alive, she not only finds a new life, but a new love and new friendships while also banding together with a few older friendships that prove true even after her engagement is broken. The Demon King, Lord Claude, is a rather interesting character, and fortunately turns out to be a rather good fit with Aileen, even if her original desire to find him was for very different reasons.
August 8, 2024
The Dragon’s Soulmate is a Mushroom Princess! 3
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The mushroom descriptions seem to be growing, but the emotional and action parts of the story are also getting better as well. It seems there was a lot more to Agne's father than she originally thought. We learn a significant amount about the powers in both of these two kingdoms and the royal families in this installment. Fortunately, the mushrooms do prove more than a little useful on several occasions. It'll be curious to see how things progress returning to their own kingdom with a tiger in tow now, even if it has at least temporarily shrunk in size. Good thing it can shrink though, otherwise there might be an issue if they wanted to fit everyone in the carriage going home.
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August 6, 2024
The Dragon’s Soulmate is a Mushroom Princess! 2
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The jokes are still borderline awful and the mushroom descriptions take up way too much room, but the story itself does show some mild improvement. Claude at least does seem to be truly genuine and Agnes is slowly improving. With confirmation finally that she is actually Claude's dragonmate, so she no longer needs to fear being labeled as a fake again, they're finally on the same page and not hiding behind this silly contract business. Hopefully this most recent attack gets through to Phillip before he's too much more of an eyesore.
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August 5, 2024
The Dragon’s Soulmate is a Mushroom Princess! 1
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The puns are nearly painful, and yet so fitting at the same time. A good portion of the book is also descriptions of the mushrooms from that chapter and why they sprouted, which while informative, is a bit distracting from the overall story. The prince is possibly even more eccentric than Agnes, though in this case that seems to work in her favor. Agnes, on the other hand, is extremely dense and clearly has nearly no self confidence coming out of her previous engagement. In that respect, the prince and her family really do all band together to help her, even if her family might understandably be a bit wary of the prince to begin with.
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August 4, 2024
The Princess’ Smile: The Body-Double Bride Searches for Happiness with the Reclusive Prince
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is one of the better light novels I've read. Good world building with a variety of characters that understandably grow and evolve in their roles. Sara's life turns out very differently from what she imagined at many points in her life, but for all she went through, she may have gotten the best ending she could have hoped for. Prince Richard starts off dark and withdrawn, but turns out to be socially awkward (with good reason) and the kindest man Sara could have hoped for. It helps a lot that both of these characters are so earnest and honestly want to be happy together, otherwise the truth coming out could have gone horribly wrong.
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The Yearning Fox Lies in Wait
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The idea has potential, but with only one volume, it feels forced, especially given the majority of the book is Kiyo doing his own thing while Ozaki keeps his distance with just enough information shared for Kiyo to realize he's a descendant of someone who was important to his "master" and go digging for more information. There isn't much of an ending either as Kiyo is still as a student and despite claiming they've now been in a relationship for years, they have only kissed and Kiyo is clearly not secure in their relationship or his what he knows about Ozaki yet. Not exactly the makings for a long term romance or steady relationship.
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