After We Gazed at the Starry Sky 1 by Bisco Kida
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Subaru is a designer who has always admired Tougo's photography, longing to visit the places where the starry sky is shown in his pictures. Except Subaru was born paralyzed, unable to feel anything from his knees down. The last thing he ever expected was to meet his idol, let alone that they would become friends and then something more. It's very fast paced, but a cute story covering a length of time given the passing seasons and multiple overseas trips that are mentioned along the way. It will be interesting to see where the rest of the series takes this pair given how much ground is already covered in this volume.
View all my reviews
April 30, 2026
Star Crossed 2
Star Crossed 2 by Crimson Chains
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
While this volume still has some issues with the plot hopping, there is a lot more substance in this volume as a whole along with the continuing beautiful art. The additional depth to the characters and the resolution of the star beast conflict give it enough added weight that I rated this one slightly higher overall. It could be argued that the story isn't necessarily over entirely given Polaris and Yildun still keep their relationship a secret in the kingdom, but they have a few in the know that are supportive and seem to have found their peace for the moment. There is a lot of potential in the intricacies and the unique worldbuilding here that could really be expanded upon and turned into something even greater if the author were so inclined, but as it is currently, is still an enjoyable piece and a quick read.
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
While this volume still has some issues with the plot hopping, there is a lot more substance in this volume as a whole along with the continuing beautiful art. The additional depth to the characters and the resolution of the star beast conflict give it enough added weight that I rated this one slightly higher overall. It could be argued that the story isn't necessarily over entirely given Polaris and Yildun still keep their relationship a secret in the kingdom, but they have a few in the know that are supportive and seem to have found their peace for the moment. There is a lot of potential in the intricacies and the unique worldbuilding here that could really be expanded upon and turned into something even greater if the author were so inclined, but as it is currently, is still an enjoyable piece and a quick read.
View all my reviews
Star Crossed 1
Star Crossed 1 by Crimson Chains
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I first started following Crimson Chains following publications with Lucy Camui that were illustrated and absolutely adorable. Love the art style and the concepts behind the story, though the storytelling itself is a tad on the rough side. The story constantly bounces back and forth giving small tidbits of history and world building while pressuring the young king Polaris in one way or another (between his brother and suitors, that's a lot even without being king). Add in this secret affair with his knight that has them both concerned, and it's a bit of a rollercoaster. Polaris and Yildun both seem to genuinely care and want to do the right thing, however, their communication skills and tendencies to make assumptions are off the chart. There's only one volume remaining for this publication, so hoping it resolves to storyline nicely along with the enjoyable art.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I first started following Crimson Chains following publications with Lucy Camui that were illustrated and absolutely adorable. Love the art style and the concepts behind the story, though the storytelling itself is a tad on the rough side. The story constantly bounces back and forth giving small tidbits of history and world building while pressuring the young king Polaris in one way or another (between his brother and suitors, that's a lot even without being king). Add in this secret affair with his knight that has them both concerned, and it's a bit of a rollercoaster. Polaris and Yildun both seem to genuinely care and want to do the right thing, however, their communication skills and tendencies to make assumptions are off the chart. There's only one volume remaining for this publication, so hoping it resolves to storyline nicely along with the enjoyable art.
View all my reviews
April 29, 2026
Wild Beast Forest House 1
Wild Beast Forest House 1 by Inma R.
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a very unique story type with different characters, but the "animals" aren't what are typically expected given their human appearances (just with animal characteristics). Yule is a domestic cat who yearns for freedom and a wild wolf that he had helped save from his hunter keeper years before. Ragnar, the wolf he had previously saved, runs the Wild Beast Forest House, the only place where wild animals can rest in peace and no humans are allowed. The catch is that Yule is not a wild beast, though his persistence pays off as the rest of the residents and workers seem to take a liking to the unusual cat. We even see the human hunter enter the scene, though he doesn't seem to recognize Ragnar at all other than by reputation. Will need to pick up the rest of this series to see what happens, though it seems to be hinting towards some potential pairings in the mix of their comradery.
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a very unique story type with different characters, but the "animals" aren't what are typically expected given their human appearances (just with animal characteristics). Yule is a domestic cat who yearns for freedom and a wild wolf that he had helped save from his hunter keeper years before. Ragnar, the wolf he had previously saved, runs the Wild Beast Forest House, the only place where wild animals can rest in peace and no humans are allowed. The catch is that Yule is not a wild beast, though his persistence pays off as the rest of the residents and workers seem to take a liking to the unusual cat. We even see the human hunter enter the scene, though he doesn't seem to recognize Ragnar at all other than by reputation. Will need to pick up the rest of this series to see what happens, though it seems to be hinting towards some potential pairings in the mix of their comradery.
View all my reviews
Eternal Covenant 3
Eternal Covenant 3 by Haejin
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
We finally have confirmation of repeated lives for this series, though it seems Ian may be the only one of the main trio that is unaware of his role in their past. While the details remain elusive, there is enough to put pieces together at least when it comes to Ian's past role and pieces of his previous relationships with Jack and Cardinal Brixton. While events may lead to freedom and a chance to find answers, it looks as if things may become even more complicated given Ian's nearly blind devotion and firm belief that his life belongs to Cardinal Brixton, even calling himself "his knight" at least in his head rather than considering himself a Knight Templar. Despite the slow movement and the complex threads pulling at fate and history, the artwork remains beautifully done and consistent, making each volume an enjoyable read.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
We finally have confirmation of repeated lives for this series, though it seems Ian may be the only one of the main trio that is unaware of his role in their past. While the details remain elusive, there is enough to put pieces together at least when it comes to Ian's past role and pieces of his previous relationships with Jack and Cardinal Brixton. While events may lead to freedom and a chance to find answers, it looks as if things may become even more complicated given Ian's nearly blind devotion and firm belief that his life belongs to Cardinal Brixton, even calling himself "his knight" at least in his head rather than considering himself a Knight Templar. Despite the slow movement and the complex threads pulling at fate and history, the artwork remains beautifully done and consistent, making each volume an enjoyable read.
View all my reviews
April 28, 2026
Eternal Covenant 2
Eternal Covenant 2 by Haejin
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Ian seems to be drawn to Jack even while telling himself all the reasons why they should go their separate ways and he will have to give him up. Meanwhile, Cardinal Brixton seems to be rather possessive and more than a bit suspicious of Ian's recent investigations and motives, though fortunately Ian is able to avoid any additional complications that are obvious to anyone around him. They're in a bit of a tight spot though between the investigation and the movements of the Knights Templar. There are a few cute scenes between Ian and Jack, and some hints indicating that Jack and others have been looking for Ian, which is at least part of why he refuses to lose him now. Hopefully things will play out in their favor, though it seems awfully complicated with the investigation and the rumors of war.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Ian seems to be drawn to Jack even while telling himself all the reasons why they should go their separate ways and he will have to give him up. Meanwhile, Cardinal Brixton seems to be rather possessive and more than a bit suspicious of Ian's recent investigations and motives, though fortunately Ian is able to avoid any additional complications that are obvious to anyone around him. They're in a bit of a tight spot though between the investigation and the movements of the Knights Templar. There are a few cute scenes between Ian and Jack, and some hints indicating that Jack and others have been looking for Ian, which is at least part of why he refuses to lose him now. Hopefully things will play out in their favor, though it seems awfully complicated with the investigation and the rumors of war.
View all my reviews
Faded Away 1
Faded Away 1 by Qiseki
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Mitsuko is a yuki onna (a snow woman) and Sou has a reputation as a bit of a thug at school, though he has his kind side as well. The two had met as children until Mitsuko disappeared and Sou had convinced himself she was an imaginary friend - at least until she shows up at his school. Even though these two seem to be intended as the main character, Mitsuko spends more time with Sou's friends than with him thanks to his frequent escapes after school for his secret part time jobs. This volume cuts off rather abruptly as the boys dig into research about "yuki onna" hoping to learn something more about Mitsuko, but finding a rather chilling tale as a result. There's no news on when the next volume is expected, so it could be awhile before readers learn what happened unless they are following the webtoon. If the remainder isn't published, it will leave this version of the series off at a very awkward place with no real resolution or hints as to where it is going. The art is also very inconsistent - well done and beautiful in places, somewhat standard most of the time, then smooshed faces and/or missing eyes on the next spread. Rather disappointing give the cover art is beautiful.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Mitsuko is a yuki onna (a snow woman) and Sou has a reputation as a bit of a thug at school, though he has his kind side as well. The two had met as children until Mitsuko disappeared and Sou had convinced himself she was an imaginary friend - at least until she shows up at his school. Even though these two seem to be intended as the main character, Mitsuko spends more time with Sou's friends than with him thanks to his frequent escapes after school for his secret part time jobs. This volume cuts off rather abruptly as the boys dig into research about "yuki onna" hoping to learn something more about Mitsuko, but finding a rather chilling tale as a result. There's no news on when the next volume is expected, so it could be awhile before readers learn what happened unless they are following the webtoon. If the remainder isn't published, it will leave this version of the series off at a very awkward place with no real resolution or hints as to where it is going. The art is also very inconsistent - well done and beautiful in places, somewhat standard most of the time, then smooshed faces and/or missing eyes on the next spread. Rather disappointing give the cover art is beautiful.
View all my reviews
April 27, 2026
Shout Loud, My Heart
Shout Loud, My Heart by Youga Rayri
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The relationship is fast paced, but also seems more natural and not forced like some of these series can come across. Gen is the lead guitarist in Eve, who is also somewhat oblivious to those around him until he realizes Mike, the lead singer from Adam, goes to the same university and has an amazing voice. They seem like an unlikely pair given the competing bands and very different personalities, but somehow they find their peace with each other. Not to say that it's all smooth sailing, but even their bandmates seem to be under the impression the two have a closer relationship than they do at that point in time due to their personalities and how they seem to gravitate together. For a one-shot, it's well done and entertaining.
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The relationship is fast paced, but also seems more natural and not forced like some of these series can come across. Gen is the lead guitarist in Eve, who is also somewhat oblivious to those around him until he realizes Mike, the lead singer from Adam, goes to the same university and has an amazing voice. They seem like an unlikely pair given the competing bands and very different personalities, but somehow they find their peace with each other. Not to say that it's all smooth sailing, but even their bandmates seem to be under the impression the two have a closer relationship than they do at that point in time due to their personalities and how they seem to gravitate together. For a one-shot, it's well done and entertaining.
View all my reviews
April 22, 2026
The Broken Ring, Volume 2: This Marriage Will Fail Anyway
The Broken Ring, Volume 2: This Marriage Will Fail Anyway by Chacha Kim
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Inés continues to try and secure her own position and the future freedom she craves while Cárcel struggles with his own intense emotions and realizing just how drawn and attached to Inés he truly is. While Inés keeps trying to move things in her favor, she also seems to be realizing there may be a chance for happiness in this new relationship as well. Cárcel is aware that there is some sort of reason behind his wife's actions, but isn't clear as to what her game really is. The story movement is subtle as it focuses largely on the events directly following the wedding and still in the "honeymoon phase" as they settle into their new home.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Inés continues to try and secure her own position and the future freedom she craves while Cárcel struggles with his own intense emotions and realizing just how drawn and attached to Inés he truly is. While Inés keeps trying to move things in her favor, she also seems to be realizing there may be a chance for happiness in this new relationship as well. Cárcel is aware that there is some sort of reason behind his wife's actions, but isn't clear as to what her game really is. The story movement is subtle as it focuses largely on the events directly following the wedding and still in the "honeymoon phase" as they settle into their new home.
View all my reviews
April 20, 2026
My Happy Marriage 9 (Light Novel)
My Happy Marriage 9 by Akumi Agitogi
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The narrative changes a lot here as we're no longer focused solely on Miyo and her experiences to find her happy ending. Miyo and Kiyoka are much more comfortable together, though it seems Kiyoka may not be as retired from his military career as he had hoped. Even Godou ends up joining the fray as his old classmate seems to be in the middle of this new commotion trying to draw Miyo away. Kiyoka gets a good scare in the process, though it seems Miyo is doing well as far as her own abilities go. She's doing much better around other people as well, proven by how the rest of the women in the extended family seem to adopt her so quickly. A far better response than what they receive from the men, who seem to need a rather severe wake up call given their actions and the unfolding story of their own history. For all that these new characters portray themselves as easy going and accepting, they don't seem to have any intention of truly honoring Miyo's choice.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The narrative changes a lot here as we're no longer focused solely on Miyo and her experiences to find her happy ending. Miyo and Kiyoka are much more comfortable together, though it seems Kiyoka may not be as retired from his military career as he had hoped. Even Godou ends up joining the fray as his old classmate seems to be in the middle of this new commotion trying to draw Miyo away. Kiyoka gets a good scare in the process, though it seems Miyo is doing well as far as her own abilities go. She's doing much better around other people as well, proven by how the rest of the women in the extended family seem to adopt her so quickly. A far better response than what they receive from the men, who seem to need a rather severe wake up call given their actions and the unfolding story of their own history. For all that these new characters portray themselves as easy going and accepting, they don't seem to have any intention of truly honoring Miyo's choice.
View all my reviews
April 14, 2026
Safe & Sound in the Arms of an Elite Knight 5 (Manga)
Safe & Sound in the Arms of an Elite Knight 5 by Yuyu Kouhara
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Volume 6 makes a lot more sense once reading this volume that I was missing in the order of events. This volume takes Chloe to her first visit at the bookstore, discover Lloyd also enjoys reading, and her first trip to the Knight's area at the palace when she takes Lloyd his forgotten lunch. Luke comes across even more pompous and full of himself through the artwork, which is saying a lot given his attitude in the original tale. This was an ever quicker read given the familiarity with the storyline and simply missing the gap between volumes 4 & 6. For anyone familiar with the series, this remains enjoyable and light for the most part.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Volume 6 makes a lot more sense once reading this volume that I was missing in the order of events. This volume takes Chloe to her first visit at the bookstore, discover Lloyd also enjoys reading, and her first trip to the Knight's area at the palace when she takes Lloyd his forgotten lunch. Luke comes across even more pompous and full of himself through the artwork, which is saying a lot given his attitude in the original tale. This was an ever quicker read given the familiarity with the storyline and simply missing the gap between volumes 4 & 6. For anyone familiar with the series, this remains enjoyable and light for the most part.
View all my reviews
April 13, 2026
Safe & Sound in the Arms of an Elite Knight 6 (Manga)
Safe & Sound in the Arms of an Elite Knight 6 by Fuyu Aoki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I couldn't figure out why the beginning of this volume felt off to me, but then realized when I came to write this that I somehow managed to miss volume 5, so will need to go back and read that. This volume shows Chloe settling into her new life, from seeing Lloyd's duel to running errands, chatting with friends, and picking up her embroidery work. Unfortunately, her return to her own hobbies and crafts is also the event leading into her discovery in town by her sister who has made an appearance solely for social standing. The short story at the end is indeed very short, but also hilarious as Chloe is slowly coming to understand her own feelings while Lloyd is completely clueless. A little bit of fluff to offset the concerns surrounding her sister's arrival.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I couldn't figure out why the beginning of this volume felt off to me, but then realized when I came to write this that I somehow managed to miss volume 5, so will need to go back and read that. This volume shows Chloe settling into her new life, from seeing Lloyd's duel to running errands, chatting with friends, and picking up her embroidery work. Unfortunately, her return to her own hobbies and crafts is also the event leading into her discovery in town by her sister who has made an appearance solely for social standing. The short story at the end is indeed very short, but also hilarious as Chloe is slowly coming to understand her own feelings while Lloyd is completely clueless. A little bit of fluff to offset the concerns surrounding her sister's arrival.
View all my reviews
April 2, 2026
Real-Time Fever
Real-Time Fever by Taberu Kasumi
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Shizuka is rather shy and unassuming in public, which may make his online persona as "Shiro" even more surprising, feeding his kink of being seen and praised. The last thing he expected was for his most ardent viewer and favorite review, "Kuro", to be someone from his college that would recognize him and act on his own desires. Kuro is almost the exact opposite of Shiro though - hot, a bit of a playboy, pushy, jealous, and demanding. Somehow, the two are dynamite when together, though. Shiro is convinced it's all wishful imagining on his part that he might ever mean something to Kuro, and it's understandable why he feels that way. It's up to Kuro to find a way to get through to Shiro, and he's not one to give up once he's made up his mind. A bit questionable and forceful for a lot of the story, but the overarching story and and ending is rather sweet in the end. If there had been a way to keep the sweetness without the forced intimacy, it would be fabulous, but it's also understandable given the original setting and how Kuro learns Shiro's identity in the first place.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Shizuka is rather shy and unassuming in public, which may make his online persona as "Shiro" even more surprising, feeding his kink of being seen and praised. The last thing he expected was for his most ardent viewer and favorite review, "Kuro", to be someone from his college that would recognize him and act on his own desires. Kuro is almost the exact opposite of Shiro though - hot, a bit of a playboy, pushy, jealous, and demanding. Somehow, the two are dynamite when together, though. Shiro is convinced it's all wishful imagining on his part that he might ever mean something to Kuro, and it's understandable why he feels that way. It's up to Kuro to find a way to get through to Shiro, and he's not one to give up once he's made up his mind. A bit questionable and forceful for a lot of the story, but the overarching story and and ending is rather sweet in the end. If there had been a way to keep the sweetness without the forced intimacy, it would be fabulous, but it's also understandable given the original setting and how Kuro learns Shiro's identity in the first place.
View all my reviews
April 1, 2026
Puppy Love
Puppy Love by Tsuchida Haru
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Inukai is a bit of a workaholic, often forgetting his own self care as he loses time to the slavery of corporate work. At least, until he meets Hoshi, an energetic and kind clerk at a pet store. There's more than meets the eye here though as Hoshi remembers a past life as a dog himself, and the scent of the boy who saved him, which amazingly is the same scent he picks up on Inukai. There are several ups and downs as they navigate their evolving relationship and what they ultimately want, all helped along with a tiny little puff ball named Cotton Candy (or C.C.). The ending is rather hilarious with Hoshi's earnest promise to Inukai's grandfather to help shovel snow the next time it snows, and then their high tailing it back home to escape the snow - timing?! This is a more unique idea than many BL storylines, with just enough fluff to make it cute and endearing without being overbearing.
View all my reviews
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Inukai is a bit of a workaholic, often forgetting his own self care as he loses time to the slavery of corporate work. At least, until he meets Hoshi, an energetic and kind clerk at a pet store. There's more than meets the eye here though as Hoshi remembers a past life as a dog himself, and the scent of the boy who saved him, which amazingly is the same scent he picks up on Inukai. There are several ups and downs as they navigate their evolving relationship and what they ultimately want, all helped along with a tiny little puff ball named Cotton Candy (or C.C.). The ending is rather hilarious with Hoshi's earnest promise to Inukai's grandfather to help shovel snow the next time it snows, and then their high tailing it back home to escape the snow - timing?! This is a more unique idea than many BL storylines, with just enough fluff to make it cute and endearing without being overbearing.
View all my reviews
Perfect Addiction 1
Perfect Addiction 1 by Kaoruko Miyama
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I wanted to like this one, but it feels like it's still missing a lot of pieces. Akihito comes across as a playboy who really doesn't seem to care for his partners at all and is obviously into girls. It's rather surprising then that he is so willing to not only play Sae's boyfriend when he sees him struggling to get away from another guy in front of a hotel, but also at least start a physical relationship with him. Sae is portrayed as always being aloof, but it turns out in part this is likely due to his orientation and his search for love, the exact opposite of how Akihito behaves. It's not so surprising that Sae would become attached given his romantic outlook compared with actually enjoying their encounters compared to his claims from previous relationships, but he's also convinced he can never actually get what he wants with Akihito. There are some redeeming qualities towards the end of the book that will hopefully be built on in the sequel, but that's yet to be seen since it hasn't been released yet.
View all my reviews
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I wanted to like this one, but it feels like it's still missing a lot of pieces. Akihito comes across as a playboy who really doesn't seem to care for his partners at all and is obviously into girls. It's rather surprising then that he is so willing to not only play Sae's boyfriend when he sees him struggling to get away from another guy in front of a hotel, but also at least start a physical relationship with him. Sae is portrayed as always being aloof, but it turns out in part this is likely due to his orientation and his search for love, the exact opposite of how Akihito behaves. It's not so surprising that Sae would become attached given his romantic outlook compared with actually enjoying their encounters compared to his claims from previous relationships, but he's also convinced he can never actually get what he wants with Akihito. There are some redeeming qualities towards the end of the book that will hopefully be built on in the sequel, but that's yet to be seen since it hasn't been released yet.
View all my reviews
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)