A Stepmother's Marchen 6 by Spice&Kitty
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Elias is caught red handed so to speak, and more than one party appears to be worried how certain aspects of Ses House might reflect back on Shu. It's difficult to tell if the necklace scene is a flashback to the current life events or the previous life, but either way, this seems to be a mirror of a past experience that at least gives Shu the insight with how to deal with it this time given the previously unknown sender. There also appears to be trouble brewing between Richelieu and Theobald, both in relation to the Ses House adventure and their own little power plays behind the scenes. Neither one wants to back down or be controlled when they have their own plans in the works. This talk of engagement for Jeremy is also rather sudden, though there is a point that it would take at least some of the pressure off of Shu, so long as it truly is what both of the kids want in the long term, but they really are still kids at this age. Unsure when the next volume will come out to learn more, but when they are release, the volumes are rather thick even though the story itself is fairly slow moving with all of the complexities.
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Showing posts with label genre: isekai. Show all posts
Showing posts with label genre: isekai. Show all posts
July 5, 2026
May 24, 2026
Eternal Covenant 4
Eternal Covenant 4 by Haejin
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This continues to be a very slow world building, but it also gets more interesting as pieces fall into place. While Ian is struggling with finally understanding he's believed to be the dragon knight, he can't actually recall those memories clearly at all, but there are small things here and there that would not be so familiar or he would know nothing about if he didn't have some vague awareness of those memories. His dual feelings for Jack and Cardinal Brixton continue to be a challenge to navigate as well as the Cardinal has his loyalty as a knight and for saving him as a child, but he can't deny his feelings for Jack at this point either, even with this new turmoil over if the feelings are really his or his past self's. For all that Jack is so aware of Ian, he doesn't seem to understand how his mind works or what he is struggling with now, which makes some sense with the added knowledge of how he learned to be "human" in the first place. Really, they both seem to want the same things, even if coming at them from different points of view. If only they'd actually talk about it instead of all this cloak and dagger, especially before Cardinal Brixton's next plan causes any other issues for them.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This continues to be a very slow world building, but it also gets more interesting as pieces fall into place. While Ian is struggling with finally understanding he's believed to be the dragon knight, he can't actually recall those memories clearly at all, but there are small things here and there that would not be so familiar or he would know nothing about if he didn't have some vague awareness of those memories. His dual feelings for Jack and Cardinal Brixton continue to be a challenge to navigate as well as the Cardinal has his loyalty as a knight and for saving him as a child, but he can't deny his feelings for Jack at this point either, even with this new turmoil over if the feelings are really his or his past self's. For all that Jack is so aware of Ian, he doesn't seem to understand how his mind works or what he is struggling with now, which makes some sense with the added knowledge of how he learned to be "human" in the first place. Really, they both seem to want the same things, even if coming at them from different points of view. If only they'd actually talk about it instead of all this cloak and dagger, especially before Cardinal Brixton's next plan causes any other issues for them.
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April 29, 2026
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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February 8, 2026
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 5 (Novel)
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 5 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It appears this is not the last novel of the series as new events are far from complete. This Princess Beatrice seems both simple and complicated at the same time, easily coming to the strangest conclusions that are far from the truth and choosing very questionable actions in her desperation to meet her family's demands. Even more than the crown prince, it seems this "Lord Prophet" may be who they should be the most concerned about, and what he has in store for Keith, rather than anything else. It also remains to be seen if Beatrice interacting with Claire's memories could indeed change the events of their past, though hopefully this will be resolved before they reach their current lifetime. Despite this looming threat and the exams they can't risk failing, the entire group seems oddly laid back and excited to be able to get a glimpse of what took place in Claire's first life with them all - especially Vik. I haven't been able to find any information regarding the release of the next installment in the series, so hopefully it won't be too long of a wait for continuity.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It appears this is not the last novel of the series as new events are far from complete. This Princess Beatrice seems both simple and complicated at the same time, easily coming to the strangest conclusions that are far from the truth and choosing very questionable actions in her desperation to meet her family's demands. Even more than the crown prince, it seems this "Lord Prophet" may be who they should be the most concerned about, and what he has in store for Keith, rather than anything else. It also remains to be seen if Beatrice interacting with Claire's memories could indeed change the events of their past, though hopefully this will be resolved before they reach their current lifetime. Despite this looming threat and the exams they can't risk failing, the entire group seems oddly laid back and excited to be able to get a glimpse of what took place in Claire's first life with them all - especially Vik. I haven't been able to find any information regarding the release of the next installment in the series, so hopefully it won't be too long of a wait for continuity.
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February 7, 2026
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 4 (Novel)
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 4 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It is interesting how Prince Gilbert's situation is similar and yet different from Claire's, especially as it seems his story repeated separately from Claire's own experience up until their storylines actually converged. This is also the first time that we actually see any true understanding of the game world from Charlotte despite her frequent ravings that she's the "main character". Events with Prince Gilbert were more than a little concerning, though make some sense from the game's point of view. His actions clearly clashed with the current reality and expectations, though fortunately with Claire's own experience, Vik and his retinue are far more equipped to understand and act on Gilbert's story than others who might be more likely to dismiss his ramblings. It is fortunate that things work out as they do. While the story does have a definite end at this point, there are also some lingering possibilities that might be explored, which would make sense as there is currently at least one more volume after this one in the novel series. Hopefully we'll see more of Claire's happy future come to a reality and far less concerns or troubles than the previous versions of the story have entailed.
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My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It is interesting how Prince Gilbert's situation is similar and yet different from Claire's, especially as it seems his story repeated separately from Claire's own experience up until their storylines actually converged. This is also the first time that we actually see any true understanding of the game world from Charlotte despite her frequent ravings that she's the "main character". Events with Prince Gilbert were more than a little concerning, though make some sense from the game's point of view. His actions clearly clashed with the current reality and expectations, though fortunately with Claire's own experience, Vik and his retinue are far more equipped to understand and act on Gilbert's story than others who might be more likely to dismiss his ramblings. It is fortunate that things work out as they do. While the story does have a definite end at this point, there are also some lingering possibilities that might be explored, which would make sense as there is currently at least one more volume after this one in the novel series. Hopefully we'll see more of Claire's happy future come to a reality and far less concerns or troubles than the previous versions of the story have entailed.
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February 6, 2026
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 3 (Novel)
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 3 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Just when it looks like the story may be wrapping up, we have new lessons to prepare for and a new romance character making an appearance. There is a slight warning of this when Claire returns to the modern world once again, but it seems more similar to her first dream visit rather than like the times when her power drained, making it even more confusing. This new character seems to have some knowledge potentially of events given his acceptance of Charlotte as the "main character" and his unusual interest in Claire. Hopefully this won't be too problematic, especially after the bombshells at the last ball take place. At least Nicola seems to be a much better match with current relations being what they are, as well as the building friendship between Noston and Paffuto. We learn a bit more about Claire's grandmother as well, though her visions and interference in the story still seem to be unknown a lot of the time and leaves questions remaining as to what she actually saw. Ideally, there won't be as much of a wait for Claire and Vik, especially now that it seems the entire royal family is onboard with Vik's plans.
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My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Just when it looks like the story may be wrapping up, we have new lessons to prepare for and a new romance character making an appearance. There is a slight warning of this when Claire returns to the modern world once again, but it seems more similar to her first dream visit rather than like the times when her power drained, making it even more confusing. This new character seems to have some knowledge potentially of events given his acceptance of Charlotte as the "main character" and his unusual interest in Claire. Hopefully this won't be too problematic, especially after the bombshells at the last ball take place. At least Nicola seems to be a much better match with current relations being what they are, as well as the building friendship between Noston and Paffuto. We learn a bit more about Claire's grandmother as well, though her visions and interference in the story still seem to be unknown a lot of the time and leaves questions remaining as to what she actually saw. Ideally, there won't be as much of a wait for Claire and Vik, especially now that it seems the entire royal family is onboard with Vik's plans.
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Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 2 (Novel)
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 2 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
As hoped, this takes us just past current events in the manga. We also get a lot more insight on Vik's side of events, and even Dion shares the spotlight a bit, which adds more dimension to the rest of the story. Prince Asbert makes an appearance as well following the meeting with Aunt Anne, which leaves about as many questions as answers regarding the situation with Charlotte. It looks like Aunt Anne is preemptively making a move herself with the drinks at the ball, though it's yet to be seen how things will play out now that Charlotte's powers have awakened. It will be curious as well to see if everyone remains as clear from her influence as they currently are, and what it will mean with Nicola transfering to the Noston academy. At least it appears that everyone with any idea of how things are playing out in Paffuto seem supportive of Claire and Vik, though it's somewhat muted by the forced delays. Claire does have a point, as always, though hopefully it won't add any additional strains now that things are slowly working out. It will be curious to see if they must wait until the tornado and/or the next ball following as in the past or if another opportunity will arise. It seems Vik and Keith are keeping him apprised of things, so it is unlikely to be a surprise at least. If he is as amenable and supportive as he was the first time around, there should not be any difficulties. Can't help but feel something will happen with Charlotte, but hopefully it will not result in as much of a tragedy this time around with all of these new ties and plans in motion.
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My rating: 4 of 5 stars
As hoped, this takes us just past current events in the manga. We also get a lot more insight on Vik's side of events, and even Dion shares the spotlight a bit, which adds more dimension to the rest of the story. Prince Asbert makes an appearance as well following the meeting with Aunt Anne, which leaves about as many questions as answers regarding the situation with Charlotte. It looks like Aunt Anne is preemptively making a move herself with the drinks at the ball, though it's yet to be seen how things will play out now that Charlotte's powers have awakened. It will be curious as well to see if everyone remains as clear from her influence as they currently are, and what it will mean with Nicola transfering to the Noston academy. At least it appears that everyone with any idea of how things are playing out in Paffuto seem supportive of Claire and Vik, though it's somewhat muted by the forced delays. Claire does have a point, as always, though hopefully it won't add any additional strains now that things are slowly working out. It will be curious to see if they must wait until the tornado and/or the next ball following as in the past or if another opportunity will arise. It seems Vik and Keith are keeping him apprised of things, so it is unlikely to be a surprise at least. If he is as amenable and supportive as he was the first time around, there should not be any difficulties. Can't help but feel something will happen with Charlotte, but hopefully it will not result in as much of a tragedy this time around with all of these new ties and plans in motion.
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February 5, 2026
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 1 (Novel)
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 1 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This covers a few of the volumes in the manga, as expected. While there are some descriptions, like the baptisms that make far more sense in this version, there are other details that I must admit are better in the manga. The reason for Claire wanting the save point is a prime example of this. While war is certainly never a good thing, and her concern over Lui is obvious, her decision makes far more sense when Vik is also on the line. Otherwise, a lot of the story is the same, though as always, there are different details available in different versions of the story. We even get a sneak peek into Claire's ideal future and Vik's groups antics before they meet Claire. It is also much clearer that Aunt Anne certainly does have something to do with Charlotte's weakening control over those around them. It would be interesting to see some interaction between Claire and Anne directly, especially if she may have some additional details to the story that Claire has been wondering about.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This covers a few of the volumes in the manga, as expected. While there are some descriptions, like the baptisms that make far more sense in this version, there are other details that I must admit are better in the manga. The reason for Claire wanting the save point is a prime example of this. While war is certainly never a good thing, and her concern over Lui is obvious, her decision makes far more sense when Vik is also on the line. Otherwise, a lot of the story is the same, though as always, there are different details available in different versions of the story. We even get a sneak peek into Claire's ideal future and Vik's groups antics before they meet Claire. It is also much clearer that Aunt Anne certainly does have something to do with Charlotte's weakening control over those around them. It would be interesting to see some interaction between Claire and Anne directly, especially if she may have some additional details to the story that Claire has been wondering about.
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February 4, 2026
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 7
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 7 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well, this is probably the best they could have hoped for in regards to digging out the Meade family's plots while also finding a way to protect Dion given his current allegiance and the genuine resource he's become for the group. The ball is a little surprising between the unexpected tea party with Nicola and Vik's assertions wanting to provide Claire with a dress the next time and his disappointment in not being able to introduce her to the king yet. Lydia provides a lot of insight there, which is hilarious and also leaves us on a rather large cliff hanger as there's this large hint of things working out but a new obstacle in the way while Claire flails over if she's reading things correctly or not. This is a bit disappointing as there's no news on when the next volume will be released, but still highly enjoyable in this volume. There's a significant difference in things as the group establishes their new friendship, and even Vik seems a little put out when Claire initially clings to formality and protocol with him. I may end up picking up the light novel for this series as I really want to see how things unfold, though unsure if that version of the series is complete or not at this stage. Given the amount of content novels typical cover in comparison to their manga counterparts, it seems certain at least the story would proceed further even though there's currently five volumes of the novel compared to the seven for the manga. Seeing all of the emotions and the artwork is just too good though - need another volume soon!
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My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well, this is probably the best they could have hoped for in regards to digging out the Meade family's plots while also finding a way to protect Dion given his current allegiance and the genuine resource he's become for the group. The ball is a little surprising between the unexpected tea party with Nicola and Vik's assertions wanting to provide Claire with a dress the next time and his disappointment in not being able to introduce her to the king yet. Lydia provides a lot of insight there, which is hilarious and also leaves us on a rather large cliff hanger as there's this large hint of things working out but a new obstacle in the way while Claire flails over if she's reading things correctly or not. This is a bit disappointing as there's no news on when the next volume will be released, but still highly enjoyable in this volume. There's a significant difference in things as the group establishes their new friendship, and even Vik seems a little put out when Claire initially clings to formality and protocol with him. I may end up picking up the light novel for this series as I really want to see how things unfold, though unsure if that version of the series is complete or not at this stage. Given the amount of content novels typical cover in comparison to their manga counterparts, it seems certain at least the story would proceed further even though there's currently five volumes of the novel compared to the seven for the manga. Seeing all of the emotions and the artwork is just too good though - need another volume soon!
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Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 6
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 6 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Oddly, Dion genuinely seems perfectly content with his new situation and outlook on life, which in turn has made him a good resource for information for Claire and Vik and the others. With at least some of their past story now public, it's reassuring to see at least this core group believes them, and even some understanding from Vik as he puts the pieces together. There seems to be some hope for the pair there as well given his musings and comments about similarities to his feelings now, not that Claire seems to catch all of them or understand what he means. It's somewhat clearer towards the end of the volume as Claire is abducted by Dion's sister and Vik has to decide if he'll follow her lead and wait or charge in to rescue her right away - though it's clear what his preference would be, just as he struggled in the original storyline with letting Claire find her wings on her own and wanting to keep her by his side. Fortunately, the two goals aligned before, and most likely will again if the two can get back on the same page. Vik is slowly opening up more often, which makes for interesting comparisons from Claire as she reminds herself that they don't have the same relationship now and wonders what is or isn't acceptable, but Vik keeps reaching out in small ways that are encouraging to readers.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Oddly, Dion genuinely seems perfectly content with his new situation and outlook on life, which in turn has made him a good resource for information for Claire and Vik and the others. With at least some of their past story now public, it's reassuring to see at least this core group believes them, and even some understanding from Vik as he puts the pieces together. There seems to be some hope for the pair there as well given his musings and comments about similarities to his feelings now, not that Claire seems to catch all of them or understand what he means. It's somewhat clearer towards the end of the volume as Claire is abducted by Dion's sister and Vik has to decide if he'll follow her lead and wait or charge in to rescue her right away - though it's clear what his preference would be, just as he struggled in the original storyline with letting Claire find her wings on her own and wanting to keep her by his side. Fortunately, the two goals aligned before, and most likely will again if the two can get back on the same page. Vik is slowly opening up more often, which makes for interesting comparisons from Claire as she reminds herself that they don't have the same relationship now and wonders what is or isn't acceptable, but Vik keeps reaching out in small ways that are encouraging to readers.
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Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 5
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 5 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Well, Dion's arrival certainly explains a lot of the changes at least as far as events in Paffuto and the risk to Claire being able to unleash her full potential. We also meet Vik's older brother, who was not a known part of the original story at all as far as we've seen so far. Understandably, the groups interactions are very different this time around, but there are small snippets here and there that bridge some of the gap and may provide some relief with the changing events. It's clear Claire is learning to understand more of her own feelings, though she remains determined to be content with saving those dear to her. The ending of this volume adds a rather unexpected twist in Claire's encounter with Dion and how that plays out.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Well, Dion's arrival certainly explains a lot of the changes at least as far as events in Paffuto and the risk to Claire being able to unleash her full potential. We also meet Vik's older brother, who was not a known part of the original story at all as far as we've seen so far. Understandably, the groups interactions are very different this time around, but there are small snippets here and there that bridge some of the gap and may provide some relief with the changing events. It's clear Claire is learning to understand more of her own feelings, though she remains determined to be content with saving those dear to her. The ending of this volume adds a rather unexpected twist in Claire's encounter with Dion and how that plays out.
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Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 4
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 4 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Claire is surprising more than a few people, but who could have suspected events unfolding the way they are. It is yet to be seen how events will unfold entirely, but Claire's suspicion about the game save point at least appears to have been accurate. The cover makes sense with this move back to the past of the game. Fortunately, Claire retains her memories of events in her prior life, allowing her to make decisions based on current events. Things have changed drastically from how they happened in the past however, including the high regard from her family and ex-fiance, and the much earlier events unfolding in Paffuto. Hopefully there won't be too much trouble with her "trespassing" and this very early meeting, though this may be a better scene in private than meeting in a formal setting where they can't really talk at all.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Claire is surprising more than a few people, but who could have suspected events unfolding the way they are. It is yet to be seen how events will unfold entirely, but Claire's suspicion about the game save point at least appears to have been accurate. The cover makes sense with this move back to the past of the game. Fortunately, Claire retains her memories of events in her prior life, allowing her to make decisions based on current events. Things have changed drastically from how they happened in the past however, including the high regard from her family and ex-fiance, and the much earlier events unfolding in Paffuto. Hopefully there won't be too much trouble with her "trespassing" and this very early meeting, though this may be a better scene in private than meeting in a formal setting where they can't really talk at all.
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Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 3
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 3 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Things progress rather quickly thanks to events at the ball. Some answers forming as well with the introduction of the Meade family, though fortunately Dion does not appear to be as threatening as everyone feared thanks to Claire's new power levels. It seems everyone is seeing Charlotte's true colors, which has her more than a little upset as she is of the opinion everyone should adore her and give her what she wants. The return to Noston is a bit of a surprise, though it also makes sense with the timing of events. Vik has very little patience for those he sees as disregarding Claire and responsible for the perceived pain she must have gone through prior to their meeting. It seems like Claire has a better remaining reputation in her home country than she thought she did, though at least it seems as if those who have run into her so far are respectful of her position with the delegation while clearly curious as to what it means - at least until close to the end.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Things progress rather quickly thanks to events at the ball. Some answers forming as well with the introduction of the Meade family, though fortunately Dion does not appear to be as threatening as everyone feared thanks to Claire's new power levels. It seems everyone is seeing Charlotte's true colors, which has her more than a little upset as she is of the opinion everyone should adore her and give her what she wants. The return to Noston is a bit of a surprise, though it also makes sense with the timing of events. Vik has very little patience for those he sees as disregarding Claire and responsible for the perceived pain she must have gone through prior to their meeting. It seems like Claire has a better remaining reputation in her home country than she thought she did, though at least it seems as if those who have run into her so far are respectful of her position with the delegation while clearly curious as to what it means - at least until close to the end.
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February 3, 2026
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 2
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 2 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
There's more than a little bit of misconception going around, but it's adorable and hilarious at the same time. Claire has unintentionally garnered the respect and approval Vik needed to choose her through her actions, though that wasn't her intention. She genuinely just wanted to help everyone. It's rather adorable how Vik's advisors and Miss Isabella are rooting for the pair, though they both seem convinced they should settle for friends and being able to support the other in their goals.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
There's more than a little bit of misconception going around, but it's adorable and hilarious at the same time. Claire has unintentionally garnered the respect and approval Vik needed to choose her through her actions, though that wasn't her intention. She genuinely just wanted to help everyone. It's rather adorable how Vik's advisors and Miss Isabella are rooting for the pair, though they both seem convinced they should settle for friends and being able to support the other in their goals.
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Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 1
Formerly, the Fallen Daughter of the Duke 1 by Ichibu Saki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This follows a lot of similar tropes with the younger step sibling joining the family later on and wanting everything the rich family has, so she paints the older sibling as the villain who looked down on her and made her life miserable, earning the sympathy of those around her, including her older sister's fiance. When the crown prince plans to break their engagement, Claire doesn't truly mind as she adores her younger sister Charlotte, and thinks she would be a better match for the crown prince given their magic rankings after initiation. Except it appears that Claire's ranking was incorrect at first because she didn't have the correct location for her mother's hometown.
Thanks to the isekai aspect of this series, Claire dreams of life as a college student where her closest friend and roommate is playing the very game that she's living - so which one is the real her? The college interactions do glean some information she was otherwise missing however, such as her mother's hometown, and shedding light on why everything changed so drastically among her family and peers.
Claire doesn't let this get her down though, and immediately sets out on her own. The last thing she would have expected would be meeting a female knight (apparently she's the first to realize so quickly according to the other knights) and the crown prince of a neighboring country (though this revelation comes much later). Vik does seem like a genuinely nice guy, though it's also clear he has some sort of interest in Claire even before her re-initiation. Claire seems perfectly content with her new role as a governess and the chance to go back to school and learn about her new abilities. Granted, we haven't met her charge yet, and it would seem there's at least one girl at school that has her sights set on Vik. That could spell some trouble given Vik's clear fondness for Claire and his determination to look out for her.
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January 24, 2026
Not-Sew-Wicked Stepmom 8
Not-Sew-Wicked Stepmom 8 by Mo9Rang
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Abigail very nearly self sabotages again, though it turns out she entirely misread the situation, and Nadia has no interest in Sabian at all. Now it seems to be the shoe is on the other foot as Sabian and Blanche both fear losing Abigail to her newest suitor. Abigail is so close to having her own happily ever after, if she can escape her fears and uncertainties about the past and her dual identity to truly accept what is being offered to her. It's clear the story has changed drastically, and they really are a rather adorable couple. They really just need to be on the same page, and a certain scheming politician to back off. Fortunately, for all of his maneuvering, Lady Karen seems happy in her place and doesn't want to see Abigail leave either.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Abigail very nearly self sabotages again, though it turns out she entirely misread the situation, and Nadia has no interest in Sabian at all. Now it seems to be the shoe is on the other foot as Sabian and Blanche both fear losing Abigail to her newest suitor. Abigail is so close to having her own happily ever after, if she can escape her fears and uncertainties about the past and her dual identity to truly accept what is being offered to her. It's clear the story has changed drastically, and they really are a rather adorable couple. They really just need to be on the same page, and a certain scheming politician to back off. Fortunately, for all of his maneuvering, Lady Karen seems happy in her place and doesn't want to see Abigail leave either.
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January 23, 2026
Beware the Villainess! 6
Beware the Villainess! 6 by Blue Canna
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The art isn't my favorite, at least not with the old man and distressed faces as it is too jarring for me compared to the rest of the art. The majority is well done and still a fascinating story. Melissa is finally starting to sort out her own feelings, but she still has more to solve with the story, and as she lays out very clearly, it's unlikely any of the original heroes will do much to help the situation on the horizon, yet she's still doing her best to at least get them on the stage. More surprises from the prince and Jake, but at least Peacock seems to go according to plan. We're left on a rather large cliffhanger, though, as they return werewolf territory. With all of these changes taking place, it will be interesting to see how they manage to hold off the monsters.
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My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The art isn't my favorite, at least not with the old man and distressed faces as it is too jarring for me compared to the rest of the art. The majority is well done and still a fascinating story. Melissa is finally starting to sort out her own feelings, but she still has more to solve with the story, and as she lays out very clearly, it's unlikely any of the original heroes will do much to help the situation on the horizon, yet she's still doing her best to at least get them on the stage. More surprises from the prince and Jake, but at least Peacock seems to go according to plan. We're left on a rather large cliffhanger, though, as they return werewolf territory. With all of these changes taking place, it will be interesting to see how they manage to hold off the monsters.
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December 31, 2025
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 11
His Majesty the Demon King's Housekeeper 11 by Saiko Wadori
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Dion makes it just in time to save Sakura from the anti-demon faction, but that's just the start of the drama. More secrets start coming out as the group congregates around the Secret See and waits for news of recovery. It's rather surprising that the reason for so many similarities and possibly the reason their roads are converging now. Also curious that they specialize in recovery and restorative magic, yet it seems are unable to truly heal themselves or find a way to counteract the effect of their magic on the twins. Just how have they managed to hide it for so long then given the high positions and power that they may use at any given time? Sakura is still oblivious to the reason behind her "curse" as well, though fortunately that isn't enough to make her leave his side during recovery or she'd be missing all of these details. It's not just Dion, Leon, and their family either. We also learn a good deal about Ruval and see another side to him in this volume that is also entertaining and interestingly provides insights to his own ties with the Sacred See and even King Leon.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Dion makes it just in time to save Sakura from the anti-demon faction, but that's just the start of the drama. More secrets start coming out as the group congregates around the Secret See and waits for news of recovery. It's rather surprising that the reason for so many similarities and possibly the reason their roads are converging now. Also curious that they specialize in recovery and restorative magic, yet it seems are unable to truly heal themselves or find a way to counteract the effect of their magic on the twins. Just how have they managed to hide it for so long then given the high positions and power that they may use at any given time? Sakura is still oblivious to the reason behind her "curse" as well, though fortunately that isn't enough to make her leave his side during recovery or she'd be missing all of these details. It's not just Dion, Leon, and their family either. We also learn a good deal about Ruval and see another side to him in this volume that is also entertaining and interestingly provides insights to his own ties with the Sacred See and even King Leon.
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