A Tale of the Secret Saint 6

A Tale of the Secret Saint 6 by Touya

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


It seems more than a few people are seeing the similarities between Fia and the Great Saint, though most write it off as impossible as they know nothing about her saint magic, let alone her memories. A slip of the tongue may lead to some unintended revelations though given it seems her own personality and thoughts haven't changed much even if it's been 300 years since her previous life. So far, it seems the captains consider it a ruse, but if someone does get wind of her abilities, that's likely to change quickly as well. These villagers certainly are rather devoted, especially if they're willing to believe she may no longer have saint powers but still be the Great Saint reborn.

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A Tale of the Secret Saint 5

A Tale of the Secret Saint 5 by Touya

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Fia continues to be rather oblivious, but she's learned a bit more about her own history and at least one of her knight's territories since then. She continues to blunder around in the most innocent way that it's hard not to laugh, especially as the captains and people around her seem equally enchanted by her and also terrified of her and what the black dragon may do if anything they say or do is taken as an offense or forcing Fia to do something against her will. The side story at the end seems to take place before Fia's knight exams at the beginning of the series and is rather hilarious. She's not only confounding her own country and earning their devotion for her strange abilities and innocent nature, but also another empire as well. 

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A Tale of the Secret Saint 4

A Tale of the Secret Saint 4 by Touya

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Well it would seem the cat is out of the bag so to speak, at least partially. No one seems to have clue in that Fia is also a saint, let alone possibly a "great saint" as Zavilia seems to think. We get a rather substantial piece of Zavilia's history, including how and why he's so drawn to Fia and has made her his priority, rather literally. It's rather sweet the way these two care about each other, even if they are still vastly different and may not entirely understand each other in the same way. The captains at least all seem supportive, even if some still can't seem to believe it's possible Fia has the complete devotion of the black dragon. Zachary and Quentin at least seem to have some idea that Fia is still hiding something, but also that she seems to be trying to protect someone or something that they don't fully understand. It will be interesting to see if Fia does manage to hold to her resolve to hide her status as a saint or if that also comes to light at some point, especially as she is most likely going to continue to be involved with the captains and events at a higher level than the other knights.

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A Tale of the Secret Saint 3

A Tale of the Secret Saint 3 by Touya

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Well we have another one of the captains in the mix now and apparently he can see a lot more than the others can with her perceptions of aura or power. He not only apparently recognizes Zavilia and wants to help hide who he is to everyone else while also somewhat panicking that they could all be doomed, but also sees Fia herself as a powerhouse and is amazed at their bond. At least he seems accepting and positive and isn't throwing Fia or Zavilia to the wolves, but is attempting to work with them. Fia herself continues to prove valuable and insightful on her own as they come up against these monsters and she works with the familiars and other knights to turn things back in their favor, but it seems the blue dragons aren't so willing to let them go.

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A Tale of the Secret Saint 2

A Tale of the Secret Saint 2 by Touya

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Well, Fia definitely has some eyes on her at this point, though if anything they mostly seem to be intrigued by her and otherwise friendly. It is certainly a bit of an odd placement to be in when they're asking her about taking charge in the field as a new trainee. Of course sharing memories of her past life would be risky and most likely unbelievable, so the field guide is a good idea, if also somewhat of a tenuous leg to stand on. We see more of Fia's saint powers here too, and gain some insight into the healing potions as well as how monsters and familiars function. Zavilia is rather impressive and maybe a bit of a saint himself putting up with Fia's crazy costume scheme so he can stay by her side in the castle at least for a little while. Fia also seems to be finding some friends, which is a good sign, though some might start wondering just how or why she knows so much about saint magic. Who is this that's after the black dragon though, and will the spell trouble if or when someone realizes what Zavilia really is. 

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A Tale of the Secret Saint 1

A Tale of the Secret Saint 1 by Touya

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Fia herself seems to be a bit of a clueless klutz, though her heart seems to be in the right place and she's genuinely kind. It seems her previous life didn't end on the best note with her own brothers betraying her on the battlefield, yet it seems there may remain stories about her in that previous life even now in her new life, which seems to take place years later in the same world/kingdom. What is uncommon in her situation, is not only remembering at least pieces of her previous life, but discovering she apparently still has her magic as well. As a result, she manages to basically float through challenges that her current family would have previously thought were too difficult for her and is unintentionally gaining attention and a bit of a rep with the higher ups as she finally achieves her dream of becoming a knight, something her currently family is well known for.

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Black Dagger Brotherhood 22: The Beloved

Black Dagger Brotherhood 22: The Beloved by J.R. Ward

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


While Wrath was a underlying key feature with his return, he is clearly not the focus of this story and we only get a few scenes with him directly in it. We also see the start of possibly another story with L.W., though not much is confirmed or established by the end of this volume, so that could be a future story coming down the road. Nalla is the real focus here with Nate as the secondary or near tie. A lot of it is Nalla trying to learn more about Nate though, and both are exceptionally quick on the uptake once their relationship does start progressing where we've seen a lot of relationship in the past where one or both parties are in denial or clueless for a good while. Some parallels with Nate and Z are drawn as well, which hopefully will make it easier going forward. If nothing else, there's a drastic change and big learning curve for both of these characters.

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I Was Reincarnated as the Villainess in an Otome Game but the Boys Love Me Anyway! 5

I Was Reincarnated as the Villainess in an Otome Game but the Boys Love Me Anyway! 5 by ＡＴＡＫＡ

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


This series proved to be a little harder to follow coming in with the new release and not having read the rest of the books more recently for the storyline and characters to be more fresh in memory. Mysteria still seems very concerned that everything is going wrong and her life is at stake, yet it seems like everyone either wants to marry her, be her best friend (or outright idolize her), or protect her. If anything, she doesn't seem to know or understand the depth of everyone else's positive feelings towards her and is baffled that her attempts to make things go right for the previous game's heroine keeps seeming to reveal other stories and not go according to plan. 

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Who Made Me a Princess 7

Who Made Me a Princess 7 by Plutus

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Things are getting tense and intense in the palace with the ex-emperor finally making a move, except it seems he's not just the ex-emperor that everyone thinks he is with all this talk of stealing powers and possession. At least Jeanette seems to still honestly be good, even if a bit naïve and innocent in everything. Hopefully Anthy is correct and her plan here works, though it would probably make for a rather short story given the title if she were to meet her end suddenly. As usual, a bit of a cliff hanger where we know something is coming, and in this case even have some ideas what with the world tree, but no real clear indication if it will truly work and if it does, what state Claude will be in when he wakes up. Will he remember Anthy? Will he still try to avoid her or completely forget her again? Will his famous anger make an appearance? What about the other curse? So many questions and so few answers.

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In Death 59: Passions in Death

In Death 59: Passions in Death by J.D. Robb

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This one is a bit of a slow burn mystery where there's no security, no recording, very little evidence, and despite taking place in Crack's club, very few witnesses who actually saw or knew anything about Erin's big secret reveal to shed any light. Add in the parallels with Eve's own experience with Castro in that very same privacy room and you have an interesting mix of past and present overlayed. We even see Roarke loose his infamous cool a few times, though only one can really be attributed to Eve's dreams and the other is work related. Still, there's a nice underlying theme here as Eve and Roarke take care of each other and follow up with friends and their respective work. Roarke even gets Eve to wear her giant tear out in the open, even if it is very briefly and to help along her case. Too bad their suspect didn't recognize it, as that would have been hilarious, but of course also wouldn't have fit into their world view. Seems these characters have it right though, marriage, with the right partner, can be really nice. 

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Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll

Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll (2019)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


While the story is touching in it's own way how these different characters connect and find ways to help each other, it is also rather disjointed where we get a good deal of the context in bits and pieces of flashbacks. The frequent references to "dolls" is also highly confusing and never well explained. Violet herself seems to have a rather complex history, but we gain very little insight to it as the focus is mostly on Amy and Taylor. Perhaps if you've watched or read the rest of the series it might make more sense, but as a stand alone, it leaves a lot to be desired still.

No Game No Life

No Game No Life (2014)

My rating: 1 of 5 stars


I wanted to like this series as I've heard good things about it, but truthfully I couldn't make it past the first episode. There were so many flags and so much going on between the games and game realm, all the flags of cheating, and a rather strange sibling relationship, that I just couldn't get into it. They seem to take joy from cheating and beating the system, setting themselves up as the best and not very kind to anyone around them either. Not exactly a great feeling when watching, which makes it rather unlikely to be able to swallow it and keep watching.

Restaurant to Another World

Restaurant to Another World (2017)

My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


As with the manga series, this focuses on several different customers who all find their way to Nekoya, a restaurant in another world. We actually learn very little about the chef and owner himself until nearly the end of the series when his grandmother makes an appearance with the restaurant key, giving his staff and customers that are there at the time a good scare at the thought of the restaurant disappearing for good. Most of the customers have regular favorites that they rarely if ever deviate from ordering, though a few will venture to try and recreate the dishes in their own homeland. It's clearer in the anime than from the manga that the customers are actually all from the same other world even though they come from vastly different territories and are even often different species altogether. Other than enjoying the food, there are a few small side stories, but not much in the way of overall cohesion with the series, so you'll most enjoy it if you enjoy anything focusing on food itself.

The Apothecary Diaries: Maomao's Notes from the Inner Palace 9

The Apothecary Diaries: Maomao's Notes from the Inner Palace 9 by Natsu Hyuuga

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


There are a few side stories with more detail here, but overall the story continues to follow the same arc as the rest of the available publications so far. After uncovering yet another deception in the inner palace and the source of another type of poison basically, Maomao continues to hear odd things, though most of the time she seems to be able to put them out of mind until someone asks her to look into it or for her take on the story. Perhaps one of the most challenging currently is finding a way to create this mythical dancer for the foreign dignitaries without giving anything away. As usual, Maomao thinks outside of the box of the other nobles, in large part thanks to her education and the experiences she's lived on the outskirts of the pleasure district while basically being raised by their "princesses". 

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Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku

Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku (2018)

My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


The two main characters are a bit unusual in this case as Hirotaka willingly admits he likes Narumi and the two of them would be great together as they are both otaku, but Narumi insists otaku don't mix well together so she'd never date Hirotaka.... up until he points out all the pros of them going out. Even then, they say they are dating, but they don't really do any date things until towards the end of the season. It's a rather confusing relationship with a heavy focus on some major gaming and fangirling, with a side dose of cosplay thanks to their friends and coworkers. Anime fans might still get a kick out of it though recognizing some of the references to other fan favorites in the series, including even the iconic Sailor Moon.

My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999

My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999 (2023)

My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


This isn't the most engaging anime out there, but it is still a cute story. Of course everyone seems to like Yamada, even though he's about as clueless and blunt as you can get, and even admits himself he doesn't understand other people nor does he really have a desire to. That slowly seems to change throughout the series though after meeting Akane as they are drawn to each other though both seem keen on ignoring it right up to the end. Of course Akane has to be drunk to get up the courage not to confess herself as planned but to ask if he likes her. Yamada, true to his usually unfazed and blunt nature though, takes it in stride and doesn't seem to have any issues with admitting his own feelings now that he's realized them and been called out on it. Not that it makes him any better at following Akane's ramblings when they meet up later on and she's sober. Even the other girls who are rather attached to Yamada seem to be of a unanimous opinion that the two are a good fit together. Eita, Yamada's friend that is in their guild with them all and brought Akane into the group, is another odd character. We don't get too much inside information on him in the end other than that he seems to really enjoy cute things, gaming, and encouraging his friends. He's rather taken aback by Momo's introduction, but we never see how they end that conversation even though it's clear he doesn't take her up on her offer given Momo is definitely still single at the end of the season. So much miscommunication and focus on relationships, some that make sense and some that you just wonder why (like Eita's mom trying to set up Yamada and Runa). 

The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor 4

The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor 4 by Sarasa Nagase

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Jill and Hadis both lose their magic and are stuck in the mountains with Zeke and Camilla. Jill isn't entirely wrong when she voices her concerns about them being found, let alone their lack of funds. It's certainly a bit different to see the art in this version of the story, so we can actually see some of the different dragons even if they aren't in color. The descriptions are still different enough and the reactions are pretty clear. Hadis is his usually bubbly self for the most part, but there's definitely something else behind the mask he doesn't let most see, except maybe Rave. 

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A Sign of Affection 9

A Sign of Affection 9 by Suu Morishita

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


That was getting pretty adult in there for a bit, though not surprising when they're moving in together either. Oddly even though we're seeing more in Rin's relationship and meeting both Yuki and Itsu's families (though just a recording of Itsu's and not actually in person or over the phone for a live conversation yet), we haven't seen Oushi's reaction to all of this. There's a brief scene where Yuki dashes past him in a hurry, but she's so quick he barely even seems to realize he's seen her before she's out of the frame. They haven't run into each other since the food voucher incident, so unless Oushi and Itsu are calling each other at random or he runs into Yuki's mom again, seems unlikely he'd have the latest update on Yuki's relationship. Though if he also learns about Itsu being gone for 2 years soon, that may have him thinking he finally has a chance. Just what is this supposed "lie" that Itsu has been telling though, and why? Can't be anything too bad it seems if it has to do with his tattoo and what he shared with Yuki's father as he seemed entirely understanding and supportive with Itsu's reasoning and timeline once he had all the information, but it is still curious.

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A Sign of Affection 8

A Sign of Affection 8 by Suu Morishita

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Wow, Itsu really does look different with black hair, which we'd seen a bit in flashbacks from his childhood and high school, but it's still a bit different with him in college. Yuki's parents are also something else, and putting them all together seems to be the perfect storm. Itsu even tells Yuki's dad about his tattoo, not that we get the inside information on it just yet, only a few more hints and teases. Hopefully he'll share it with Yuki someday and we'll get the story then. There's even a bit more about Yuki's brother this time around, though it's rather sad. It is good that Yuki's family tries to support her so much even if they don't know sign language, and that they can clearly see how much these two care about each other. It would be interesting to see how that conversation went with Itsu's parents and when it took place - most likely over the phone given they are in Germany.

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A Sign of Affection 7

A Sign of Affection 7 by Suu Morishita

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Things are picking up pace fast now, though it sounds like there could be a rather lengthy pause after Itsoumi graduates unless something changes or happens before then. Two years is a long time to be away. Yuki is really growing and stepping up though, especially trying to share her thoughts and feelings and perspective. Seems like she's not the only one who's been worried, but they both do still want to be together, so hopefully we'll see some more positive growth in the next chapter. Oushi could have seriously put a wrinkle in things, but fortunately hasn't been an issue other than his own misery and pining so far.

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A Sign of Affection 6

A Sign of Affection 6 by Suu Morishita

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


There's not much overlap now starting with this volume, though there is a small amount with the very end of season 1. Oushi seems to be a tad desperate and yet also trying to be a good guy when it comes to Yuki's relationship with Itsoumi. If nothing else, it seems he at least has some small understanding of how what he says may impact Yuki, even if he doesn't care about much else. Yuki herself now has the challenge of how to say what to Itsoumi so she's not keeping secrets, especially after he's so open about Emma showing up at school and why to avoid any issues. Some curiosity who this upperclassman is that he got drunk with before meeting up with Yuki, but definitely opening up more sides we haven't seen so far, especially when Yuki is at the house with him. Curious what the tattoo represent too as we keep getting some rather pointed stares and highlights on it. 

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A Sign of Affection 5

A Sign of Affection 5 by Suu Morishita

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This installment feels like a lot of fluff and like we start to scratch the surface with Oushi, but he's still not ready to open up yet. A lot different from Itsuomi who seems to be all in and doesn't seem to care what others think as long as it's not having a negative impact on them. While there's not as much back story with Itsuomi, Shin, and Emma, we still get the gist of that trio as well, especially with Shin agonizing over finally making a move himself or not. This volume includes an adorable little short that takes place on the back of Yuki's sleepover, too. So much fluff. Even if it does cut off in the middle of their first official date, especially without any other friends or would-be couples around.

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A Sign of Affection 4

A Sign of Affection 4 by Suu Morishita

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


The adorable awkwardness continues, only now we also have an opening for Rin along with a possible job finally for Yuki and a real encounter between Itsuomi and Oushi. Really, Oushi following Yuki in the subway station probably doesn't count considering how little was actually said. With Itsuomi rather literally dragging Oushi off after he storms up to him, it's hard to imagine they're really usually both so mildly mannered. Still, the most adorable scene by far has to go to the sleepover and the chat when Yuki can't sleep. 

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A Sign of Affection 3

A Sign of Affection 3 by Suu Morishita

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Itsuomi is just as good at shocking Yuki in the manga as he was in the anime. There is some additional color with context in some of the conversations that is missing in the anime as well, especially when Oushi and his sister visit briefly. Itsuomi is somehow both considerate and oddly direct at the same time, especially it seems when it comes to Yuki and his relationship with her. That's probably a good thing considering her hearing and inexperience, but it also makes up for some hilarious and adorable encounters at the same time. In comparison, Oushi comes across a little too confident and also slightly nosy, especially since it seems like he seems to border somewhere on the outskirts of being a friend without actually being close and supposedly throwing as many insults as any real conversation with Yuki, even if he does have the advantage of learning sign language so it's easier to communicate.

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A Sign of Affection 2

A Sign of Affection 2 by Suu Morishita

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Still a slow burn series and also still adorable. We only get as far as meeting Emma and Yuki admitting that Itsoumi as basically the exception to all the rules. She's both innocent and has good observations at the same time, which may actually be more impressive given her literal handicap here. The only thing that really seems to confuse her truthfully is when it comes to Itsoumi and his relationships with those around her, which could in part be colored rather significantly by her own feelings and misgivings as Yuki is friendly, but also seems well aware of the challenges from living with her disability and the assumptions of others. She doesn't seem to mind answering questions though, granted anyone asking has mostly been Itsuomi or on rare occasion one of their other circle of friends like Rin or the boss.

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A Sign of Affection 1

A Sign of Affection 1 by Suu Morishita

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is just as cute as the anime, though of course the signs don't actually move so it's not exactly the same as far as being able to see and understand the sign language. Still, for manga panels, the author does an excellent job with the expressions and making Yuki's world come to life. Her interactions with her friends, and especially with Itsuomi are just as cute on a page as they are in color and animation. Given this first volume seems to go through the first 3 episodes of the anime already, hoping for more past the current story as I know it. So far, it seems the anime very closely followed the original manga, so other than some slightly different wording or insights, it's a very similar experience despite the different media. While Yuki has determined she's falling in love at this point, her interactions with Itsuomi would mostly be classified still in the acquaintance or friends category most likely given they don't really know each other yet, but we don't really get the impression Itsuomi goes out of his way to spend a ton of time with his friends outside of school either, even though it's clear he is rather popular, and he clearly does make an effort when reaching out to Yuki.

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A Silent Voice

A Silent Voice (2016)

My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


Shoko is deaf and entering a new middle school. Unfortunately, her story is much darker with a focus on bullying (both her and other students) and a common theme of depression and suicidal ideation if not actual attempts from multiple characters in the movie. While it is very down-to-earth, it's much darker and the good highlights are much fewer and farther in between, often only appearing for a small second before the next scene will seem to take to steps back throwing the main characters back into chaos. It does have a somewhat happy ending, but it's very hard fought for. While this film certainly highlights a lot of real things in life and hard lessons to learn, the difficulty in communication and darker theme make it a harder watch overall. 

A Sign of Affection

A Sign of Affection (2024)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


My friend has mentioned the manga a few times, but also noted it's incomplete, which is really the only reason I hadn't put it higher on my to-read list just yet with all the other new series picked up recently. Found the anime though and couldn't resist watching it. Yuki is more than a little innocent, but does fortunately seem to have some good people around her, even if her oldest friend comes across as prickly and a bit controlling at times. Itsuomi is hard to get a read on at first, but it's cute the way they both fall for each other and he genuinely tries to learn about and understand her world. As with most anime, there's a rather ambiguous ending to the season, and given the manga is also unfinished, unknown if there might be a second season somewhere in the future or not. Either way, this is a cute story with plenty of affection and some good points about what it can be like for those who live without hearing in a world that relies so much on sound.

Endo and Kobayashi Live! The Latest on Tsundere Villainess Lieselotte

Endo and Kobayashi Live! The Latest on Tsundere Villainess Lieselotte (2023)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


While this does have reincarnation, it's more in line with creation mythology than issekai stories, especially as while two of the characters do have some vague memories of their previous lives, it isn't until the end that they realize that is where the memories and strange things they would catch themselves saying would most likely have come from. On the other hand, there is definite crossing into different worlds, it's minimal and more in a final battle and reunion way than a way of life. Kobayashi and Endo are both rather oblivious themselves, but the similarities between these two and the characters they want to support in the game become clearer as time goes on. In truth, they aren't just after the game's happy ever after, but their own as well. It's rather sweet the way that the series ends, especially after how the link in the game cuts off once the known story ends, which is understandable. Sad perhaps after they've built these connections with these characters, but understandable.

Psy-Changeling 23: Primal Mirror

Psy-Changeling 23: Primal Mirror by Nalini Singh

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is a bit different than most of the stories so far with Auden already heavily pregnant at the beginning of the tale, though Remi doesn't seem to pick up on that until their second meeting. The complexities of Auden's psyche and how things unfold with her baby are definitely unique. She's more than a little lucky to have found Remi when she did considering how he takes her in right away and continues to be drawn to her. Can't decide yet if it's convenient or a nice twist how things play out with Liberty and the accelerated fall of the PsyNet. At least for now it seems things are stable, even if not everyone will fit in this new blue web and some reject it, even though Krycheck also reinforces it's okay. It will be interesting to see how they hopefully manage to save the PsyNet after so much continual damage and if the Scarabs will continue to be a problem or if being woven into this new web settles them.

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Doctor Elise: The Royal Lady with the Lamp

Doctor Elise: The Royal Lady with the Lamp (2024)

My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars


This is a different isekai in a way as the character doesn't just live a different life or re-live their previous life. Elise has a second life in a completely different world where she learns to be a doctor before dying for the second time and waking up back in her first life just before her engagement to the crown prince. This time, she's determined to do things differently, but that also means her relationships with those around her also change drastically. The first season ends with a bit of a cliff hanger as we still don't know the results of her bet with the king, let alone what will happen with her relationship with Linden, especially now that she's realized his secret. Perhaps the only thing that is clear is that wherever she is, her knowledge and skill in medicine will be valuable at a moments notice and she's not afraid to jump right in.

His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 7

His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 7 by Saiko Wadori

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


The jungle mold still seems to be winning, and this previous king (that is actually a woman) is as much of a mystery as the current king. What makes them tick is not what you would normally expect. Of course, Sakura ends up in a bit of trouble on her latest cleaning side quest, earning herself a mermaid tail. Very lucky for her she has the king's favor and he's a lot better at crossdressing than the rest of her odd team (thought it was hilarious to see them all try). Sakura still seems rather oblivious in her relationship with the king, but it seems everyone else sees their chemistry, including this new royalty added into the mix. We never did learn why only Sakura could see the coffin she was sleeping in at first, or why she was out in the middle of the jungle either. 

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The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor 5 (Light Novel)

The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor 5 by Sarasa Nagase

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


The age thing is still weird, especially with the wedding planned and Jill's physical age at this stage, even if mentally she's much older. Still, there are some entertaining antics and learnings, especially as Jill steps into the unexpected roll of teacher. Perhaps a brief scare there with Hadis reverting back to perhaps the wrong timeline rather than just a previous version as Rave had originally indicated, though thankfully that was short lived. We find more of the royal family too, though at least one seems to be trouble. These vague memories of Rave's seem troublesome as well along with this incest theme in Kratos potentially stemming clear back to Kratos and Rave themselves. While the story itself is ramping up and more engaging, some of these key background elements are questionable enough that it still loses points and has more cringe that it might otherwise.

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Like a Butterfly 8

Like a Butterfly 8 by Suu Morishita

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Seems like Kawasumi might be farther off the mark than he thought. In his effort to focus on his tournament and protect Suiren he's actually managed to make her cry and break down enough to offload a whole lot of her recent thoughts and wishes about their relationship, and that's even more shocking with this couple given both of them are far more prone to silence than to talking. The rest of their new classroom constantly butting in and putting up barriers is not helping either. Hopefully there will be some sort of reconnect following this breakdown to start building things back up again.

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A Condition Called Love 15

A Condition Called Love 15 by Megumi Morino

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


The tension doesn't let up. We have a few moments where the friends play some more supportive roles, and even the new guy from the bookstore steps in, but largely this episode is a lot of worrying about Hanananoi, who is still having problems opening up and possibly taking things the wrong way in some context as well. Poor guy seems to be carrying an extra large helping of guilt on top of everything while potentially unintentionally keeping Hotaru farther away than he would really prefer she is. Meanwhile Hotaru is just concerned with making Hanananoi happy again. Tough spot to be in.

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Mercy Thompson 14: Winter Lost

Mercy Thompson 14: Winter Lost by Patricia Briggs

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Bonarata seems to still be a problem, but he's hovering on the outskirts. Instead we see a lot more of the fae along with the return of Mercy's brother Gary, and even her father in this installment. Coyote really does cause as many if not more problems than most, but this time around his chaos does seem to be for everyone's benefits, or at the very least very much to Mercy's benefit. It's understandable why Adam was so shocked, though it would be even more interesting perhaps to see Zee's reaction after he's done so much to try to heal her. Heck, even Mike has been in on helping mitigate the effects if his drink at the start is any indication. While the silver spider seemed rather creepy and possibly ominous at the start, this character too is fascinating and has a very interesting role in how things play out. 

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It Was A Mistake, Grand Duke! 1

It Was A Mistake, Grand Duke! 1 by Sisse

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


The idea for this story is very cute with both of the main characters secretly liking the other, but Vivian has no idea her feelings are returned until a twist of fate puts her right in the Duke's path and gives him the perfect opportunity to claim her, especially since there's not really another way out for her without jail or possibly worse punishments if everyone truly suspected she had kidnapped the Duke. He's all to happy to go along with her spelled wishes as it gives him a chance to finally be with her. The analogy to a wolf and a rabbit is especially fitting here, and the spirits are interesting with different twists than what we traditionally see with magic stories. The translations are horrible though and sometimes it is very hard to understand what they are saying logically. There are also sometimes references to other art styles and short stories that while they follow the same vein as the rest of the series, are drastically different than what has been established so far. For those inconsistencies, it loses ratings even if the idea is cute and not a direct copy/paste so far of so many other similar tales. 

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How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom

How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom (2021)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This is a bit different than many isekai series as while there is a "saint", it's a label from the people for one of the ruling monarchs. Kazuya is very down-to-earth, and while he does have magic, it doesn't seem to be something out of the norm or overly fantastic that makes him incredible in battle. If anything, his skill seems to help with the duties he's taken on as king to help rebuild and fix the kingdom. There's some pretty heavy harem portrayals in here, especially given he goes from being scandalized at the idea of someone else offering themselves to him when he's already engaged to the princess to now having 4 fiancées lined up (3 to be queens and 1 to be a consort). It's very slow burn on the relationship front even though all of these women pretty much plant themselves at his side and vow to remain and support him in any way they are allowed. Unsure if there will be another season of this, but it does seem to be an interesting story. Might be one to look into the manga or light novels just to see how the story develops, especially once we finally get some answers from King Albert.