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Introduction to 7Fates: Chakho Ize Press continues to enchant fans with its latest release, 7Fates: Chakho, a captivating HYBE manhwa now available in English print. Launched in 2022 as a digital comic on Webtoon, this series features main characters inspired by the beloved members of BTS. Zeha’s Journey: Uncovering the Past At the heart of the story is Zeha, an orphan with fragmented memories of his parents, who died when he was young. When a mysterious man reveals that the truth about his parents’ death lies at Inwang Mountain, Zeha cannot resist investigating. However, he awakens in a hospital days later, with no recollection of what transpired. It’s only through the detective assigned to his case that he learns he is the sole survivor of a massacre, leaving both Zeha and the detective with more questions than answers. The Revelation of Zeha’s Heritage After recovering, Zeha returns to the mountain, uncovering the shocking truth: he is the son of a shaman who could open and close the portal to the world of the Beom—feline-like creatures that prey on humans. His father was a Beom who fell in love with the shaman, resulting in Zeha being born a half-Beom, half-shaman. As the only one capable of opening the portal to the human world, Zeha finds himself manipulated by the Beom leader. A Quest for Redemption With the guidance of a guardian deity tasked with preventing the Beom from entering the human realm, Zeha embarks on a mission to find and seal the monster’s leader. Fortunately, he won’t be alone; six other allies will join him, starting with Do-Geon, who seeks vengeance for the murder of his siblings at the hands of a Beom. A Must-Read for BTS Fans For BTS fans, affectionately known as A.R.M.Y, 7Fates: Chakho is an essential read. Each character is a representation of a BTS member, with Zeha symbolizing Jung Kook. While this volume introduces potential allies, readers will have to stay tuned for the full development of these relationships. Themes of Loneliness and Growth Zeha has always felt isolated since losing his parents. He believed that by suppressing memories of them, he could finally belong. However, the Beom leader exploited his vulnerabilities, leading to guilt over unsealing the portal. Now, under the guardian deity’s mentorship, Zeha is determined to become a formidable warrior. Action-Packed Narrative with Unique Presentation The action-packed series features onomatopoeic sound effects like “zoom” and “spurt” during intense fight scenes, which vividly enhance the experience. Additionally, the artwork incorporates Japanese kanji alongside English translations for special attacks and terms like Beom, enriching the storytelling. Narrative Structure and Pacing Concerns Volume 1 introduces Team Chakho, led by Zeha, setting the stage for future battles against the Beom. The omniscient narrator provides insight into the characters’ thoughts from both Zeha’s and the guardian deity’s perspectives. However, the pacing feels rushed; six chapters span roughly five months, leading to a rapid succession of events. While the narrator indicates the passage of time, the swift transitions diminish suspense and engagement. Some information is repeated, which may disrupt reader immersion. Bonus Features and Presentation The cover of Volume 1 features a gloss lamination but lacks special finishes. However, Ize Press surprises readers with a double-sided, removable poster included within the volume. Additionally, the last chapter contains a glossary and explanations of the terminology and folklore that inspired the series. Conclusion: A Promising Start 7Fates: Chakho is a thrilling collaboration between HYBE and BTS. Originating as a digital comic on Webtoon, it is now available in print through Ize Press, with Volume 2 set to release in February 2024. This volume offers a compelling blend of action, emotion, and cultural references that fans won’t want to miss.

Introduction to Dark Moon: The Blood Altar Fans of the popular K-pop group Enhypen will be thrilled as Ize Press brings the highly anticipated Hybe x Enhypen manhwa collaboration, Dark Moon: The Blood Altar, to English-speaking audiences in print format. This captivating title features characters inspired by the seven members of the band, creating an intriguing connection for fans. Sooha’s Struggles in a Vampire World Set in a world reminiscent of our own, Dark Moon: The Blood Altar introduces us to Sooha, who has faced prejudice due to her unique gift of super strength. Regrettably, this power leads others to view her with disdain. Her only childhood friend, Chris, tragically falls victim to a vampire, which fuels Sooha’s deep-seated hatred for vampires. A New Beginning at Decelis Academy Fast forward a few years, and Sooha transfers to Decelis Academy as a sophomore, bursting with excitement. This prestigious institution is renowned for its strict admission policy against vampires, providing Sooha a chance to escape the stigma surrounding her abilities. However, her hopes of a fresh start hinge on keeping her power a secret. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take long for someone to uncover her hidden gift. Heli and His Mysterious Friends At Decelis Academy, Sooha encounters Heli, a senior who conceals his own unique power. Soon, she meets Heli’s friends—Shion, Jino, Jaan, Solon, Noa, and Jakah—all of whom possess special abilities. An unexplainable attraction develops among the seven, despite Solon’s efforts to maintain his distance. As Sooha embarks on her journey to friendship and a “normal” high school life, she remains blissfully unaware that her new friends are vampires. Tensions rise when werewolves from a nearby school begin to take an interest in Sooha, threatening to expose Heli’s secret. Supernatural Shojo Vibes Dark Moon: The Blood Altar perfectly blends supernatural elements with shojo vibes. Initially, Sooha comes across as cold and distant due to the trauma surrounding Chris’s death. Yet, her excitement about joining the academy shines through, especially as she quickly forms new friendships. Her emotional nature is evident, as she often bursts into tears over both joyous and distressing news, making her feelings easily understandable for readers and her friends alike. Character Dynamics and Secrets Heli, Shion, Hino, Jaan, and Solon engage with Sooha from the start, while Noa and Jakah join the group later. As Sooha grows closer to Heli, a special bond forms, with both characters looking out for one another. However, the boys must keep their identities secret, aware of Sooha’s hatred for vampires. Their efforts are complicated by the arrival of werewolves and a deadly vampire, creating an atmosphere of suspense. Narrative Style and Comparisons The story bears similarities to Vampire Knight, with its academy setting, night classes, and a female protagonist possessing mysterious powers. However, Dark Moon: The Blood Altar opts for a more upbeat and comedic tone, engaging readers with its lighthearted moments. The omniscient narrator reveals character secrets while keeping them hidden from the characters, adding layers of intrigue. Unrealistic Trust and Rapid Bonds The connection among the boys and Sooha feels almost supernatural, fostering an immediate sense of trust. When Heli discovers Sooha’s power, he quickly shares his own, and his friends follow suit, displaying a surprising lack of concern for betrayal—an aspect that may seem unrealistic given their brief acquaintance. Cover Art and Special Features The cover illustration prominently features Heli, hinting at each volume showcasing a different boy. Ize Press adds a delightful touch with foil accents and a glossy finish, enhancing the visual appeal. Additionally, Volume 1 includes extra illustrations of the boys and a comment from Heeseung regarding Heli, his character counterpart. Conclusion: A Promising Collaboration Dark Moon: The Blood Altar represents a thrilling collaboration between Hybe and Enhypen. Originally a digital comic on Webtoon, it now captivates readers in print through Ize Press. Volume 2 is slated for release in March 2024, promising more exciting adventures for Sooha and her friends.

In Volume 4 of Tsubaki-chou Lonely Planet by Mika Yamamori, Fumi Oono, our heroine, traveled to Kyoto with writer Akatsuki Kibikino and his editor, Kaneishi. During the trip, Akatsuki overheard Fumi confessing her love in her sleep, leading to a misunderstanding. When he confronted her, Fumi insisted it was none of his business, leaving things unresolved. Now that they’re back home, will this awkward situation finally be addressed? Let’s explore Volume 5 and find out. Fumi, Akatsuki, and Kaneishi: Awkward Tension After their return, the relationship between Fumi and Akatsuki grows strained. The tension increases further with Kaneishi spending much more time at their house, claiming to be there for work-related reasons. However, Akatsuki becomes irritated by Kaneishi’s constant flirting with Fumi. Despite Akatsuki warning Kaneishi that Fumi may already like someone, Kaneishi brushes it off, saying, “It’s not like she’s dating him yet. Seeing if she’s interested isn’t a crime.” Fumi, on the other hand, doesn’t think much of Kaneishi’s presence and enjoys the time they spend together. Her mind drifts to the upcoming summer festival, which she longs to attend. Her friend Tobiume suggests she go with Akatsuki. Tobiume also reveals that Aioi has asked her to attend the festival alone with him, showing their relationship has grown closer. However, Fumi worries about imposing too much on Akatsuki and questions whether attending the festival with him would be asking for too much. Romantic Confusion at the Summer Festival Fumi also finds herself pondering the possibility of Tobiume and Aioi dating. She wonders what it feels like to have your feelings accepted by the person you like. Before she has much time to think about it, Kaneishi unexpectedly invites her to the summer festival instead of Akatsuki. A Key Turning Point for Akatsuki and Fumi Tsubaki-chou Lonely Planet Volume 5 represents a major turning point for the series. Both Akatsuki and Fumi must confront their true feelings. Akatsuki mistakenly believes Fumi has feelings for someone else, which leaves him feeling oddly upset by Kaneishi’s advances toward her. Why does the thought of Fumi dating another person bother him so much? Akatsuki has been unlucky in love, and romance hasn’t played a big part in his life for a while, so this sudden heartache takes him by surprise. Kaneishi, meanwhile, plays a crucial role in pushing Akatsuki forward. Knowing that Fumi truly loves Akatsuki (and not some mystery man), Kaneishi tries to provoke Akatsuki by pretending to flirt with Fumi. He hopes this will force Akatsuki to come to terms with his feelings and make a move. The Summer Festival Brings Emotions to the Surface The summer festival becomes the emotional peak of this volume, with long-buried feelings rising to the surface. Without giving away spoilers, the events during the festival lead to a significant turning point for both Fumi and Akatsuki. I’d also like to highlight Mika Yamamori’s artwork here. Although the festival features many common tropes like games and food stalls, Yamamori keeps the scenes fresh with a short but impactful montage of moments that feel lively and vibrant. Even the smaller panels are packed with energy, keeping readers engaged. Yamamori’s art and storytelling continue to impress throughout Tsubaki-chou Lonely Planet. Her ability to balance visual detail and emotional depth makes this volume an enjoyable and heartfelt read. Translation and Release Details This English edition of Tsubaki-chou Lonely Planet Volume 5 comes to us from Yen Press, with Taylor Engel handling the translation and Lys Blakeslee doing the lettering. The translation reads smoothly, with no notable issues. At the end of the volume, there are some insightful translation notes that add context to cultural references, which are worth exploring. Currently, Tsubaki-chou Lonely Planet Volume 6 is scheduled for an English release in February. While there’s no release date for further volumes, the series is complete in Japan with 14 volumes. Hopefully, the next installment won’t be too far behind. Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Shojo Fans Overall, Tsubaki-chou Lonely Planet Volume 5 is a pivotal installment that brings emotions to a head for both Fumi and Akatsuki. This volume continues to develop the romance in a way that feels natural and compelling, making it one of the standout shojo releases I look forward to the most. If you’ve been following the series, this volume will leave you eager to see what happens next!

“Is there anything you want me to do for you, Hirano-san?” Kagiura asks again, as their unique relationship continues to evolve. Hirano, a second-year student, and Kagiura, a first-year, share a dorm room at their high school. However, Kagiura has developed feelings for his roommate. Despite Hirano’s repeated reassurances—kindly at first, but firmer later—that he doesn’t feel the same way, Kagiura holds onto hope. Hirano’s innate kindness is evident as he allows Kagiura ten seconds of physical contact each day, limited to holding hands. This small gesture, however, only fuels Kagiura’s belief that perhaps Hirano’s defenses are beginning to falter. The Academic Challenge As the school year draws to a close, exams loom large for all the dorm residents. To continue rooming together in the next academic year, they must pass their end-of-year exams. Hirano is academically strong, so this isn’t a concern for him. Kagiura, on the other hand, excels in sports—he’s on a scholarship—but struggles with his studies. Despite Hirano’s coaching, Kagiura finds it hard to keep up, making him realize that these might be their last days sharing a room. A Friend’s Advice Seeking advice, Kagiura confides in his classmate Niibashi, who takes a practical approach to their situation. Niibashi points out that Kagiura might be relying too much on Hirano. Perhaps instead of waiting for Hirano to wake him up every morning, Kagiura could take the initiative and wake Hirano instead. This suggestion gives Kagiura a new perspective on their relationship. A Slow-Burning Romance The development of the relationship between Hirano and Kagiura has been painstakingly slow, even slower than the earlier volumes of Sasaki and Miyano. Shou Harusono’s intent to create characters distinct from her other works is clear, but this has resulted in a complex and challenging dynamic. Readers are likely meant to wonder if Hirano will eventually give in to Kagiura’s persistent affection. However, this dynamic raises concerns, especially since Kagiura’s relentless pursuit continues despite Hirano’s clear boundaries. Kagiura’s vision of a perfect relationship is modeled after his parents, which could be seen as sweet but also highlights his emotional immaturity. His constant attempts to win over Hirano can feel uncomfortable, especially as Hirano has already stated his feelings multiple times. If the story is leading to Hirano developing romantic feelings, more narrative development is needed for this to feel genuine. Kagiura’s frequent pouting may be endearing to some, but to others, it may seem childish and insistent. A Fresh Dynamic A refreshing change in the narrative comes with the return of Ao Ichinose, a character briefly introduced in Volume 3. Ichinose, who suffers from stress-induced stomach pains, particularly during exams, was Hirano’s first roommate when Hirano was a first-year. His return introduces an interesting subplot as he reconnects with the dorm administrator. Ichinose’s relatable struggles and his presence bring a much-needed breath of fresh air to the story. Art and Style Evolution Shou Harusono’s distinctive art style continues to evolve in this volume. Her full-face reaction shots now feature more detailed contours, enhancing the emotional depth of her characters. The story’s slow pace remains, but there are moments of change. One such instance is when Hirano asks Kagiura to teach him how to play basketball, providing Kagiura with the opportunity to take control for once. This clever move by Hirano subtly shifts the power dynamic in their relationship, giving Kagiura a chance to shine. However, the scene ends with a visit to the nurse’s office, as Kagiura tends to Hirano’s blistered hands. This chapter stands out as one of the best illustrated in the volume. Catching Up with Japan With the release of Hirano and Kagiura Volume 04, Yen Press has brought English-speaking readers up to date with the Japanese publication. Meanwhile, Sasaki and Miyano Volume 10 is scheduled for release in Japan in February 2024. The current volume includes four color pages at the beginning, showcasing Harusono’s exceptional color work, with the cover’s subtle magenta shades reinforcing this impression. Leighann Harvey’s translation remains smooth and engaging, though this volume lacks the translation notes present in earlier installments. There is, however, a brief afterword from the mangaka. In her afterword for Volume 3, Harusono described Volume 4 as a “romcom,” but this doesn’t quite feel accurate. Final Thoughts: A Complicated Pairing Fans of Sasaki and Miyano will appreciate the brief glimpses of the two characters, as well as the return of Hanzawa, whose enigmatic smile remains as mysterious as ever. Yet, the central relationship between Hirano and Kagiura continues to feel uneasy at times. The story seems to suggest that it’s okay for Kagiura to keep pushing Hirano’s boundaries, even though Hirano has clearly stated his disinterest. Personally, I find this dynamic uncomfortable, but others may interpret it differently.

In the enchanting world of The Witches’ Marriage, Melissa, a formidable witch, sets her sights on the elusive Door of Truth to find her mistress. To achieve her goal, she forms sham Witch Marriages and siphons power from others. However, her current partner, Tanya, stands out from the rest; Melissa finds her irresistibly cute and slowly develops genuine feelings for her. After successfully completing the first Trial, which required Melissa to be vulnerable for the first time, the pair begin to grow closer. But as Tanya’s powers surge, Melissa grapples with a new emotion: jealousy. A Surprising Relationship Evolution I was pleasantly surprised by the first volume of The Witches’ Marriage, initially expecting the comedy to rely heavily on one-note gags. The story features Melissa trying to boost her power by manipulating Tanya in various amusing scenarios, only to warm up to her instead. My feelings about the second volume are similarly mixed; it opens with several chapters focused on Melissa saving Tanya from magical mishaps by expressing her feelings through kisses and encouraging words. I anticipated a continuation of this dynamic.   However, the manga defies expectations, not only advancing their relationship but also giving Melissa a new arc. Instead of merely denying her feelings, Melissa experiences significant character development. As Tanya becomes more adept and begins to showcase her ability to activate rare spells, Melissa’s jealousy flares up. Why now? Initially, Tanya seemed like just a sidekick, idolizing Melissa. However, after the first Trial, Tanya accepts Melissa’s vulnerabilities and demonstrates real magical prowess, taking initiative in their relationship by looking after Melissa’s needs and supporting her during challenging times. This newfound balance leads to tension between them, as Melissa begins to feel resentful and pushes Tanya away at pivotal moments. The Witch Marriage binding them cannot thrive without a foundation of trust and companionship. This volume explores how both women grow—each in their own way—and how their love strengthens their bond. The combination of humor and foreshadowing, coupled with skillful writing, keeps readers engaged while building up to emotional payoffs at the right moments. Worldbuilding and Magic As with the first volume, The Witches’ Marriage Volume 2 doesn’t delve deeply into worldbuilding, but it introduces interesting elements. We encounter a special witches’ marriage school where partners can test their bonds to reach the Door of Truth more quickly. Thankfully, the school serves primarily as a backdrop for various magical challenges our heroes must face. There’s no awkward subplot involving racy school uniforms or dull classes. The volume also showcases some creative spells, beautifully illustrated, such as a protective water spell and a candy that makes someone say the opposite of what they intend. However, unlike the first book, Volume 2 lacks flashbacks for either character and sticks to the perspectives of Melissa and Tanya. We don’t learn more about their pasts, which is somewhat disappointing. New characters emerge due to the school setting, but one particular character caught my attention for the wrong reasons. A fortune teller appears in the first chapter and later returns as a teacher/judge during the school arc. Her design—stereotypical with a face veil, cloak, and bikini top—seems out of place in a world where character designs have been thoughtfully crafted. While I hesitate to label it as cultural appropriation, it certainly feels inconsistent with the overall aesthetic. Translation and Readability Eleanor Summers once again translates this volume, but there are no translator notes or an afterword from the mangaka. Nevertheless, the book remains an enjoyable read, with each character displaying distinct personalities and excellent comedic timing. Conclusion The Witches’ Marriage continues to delight with unexpected twists. Despite a misstep in character design and limited worldbuilding, the character arcs keep readers engaged. Fans eagerly await to see if Melissa and Tanya will reach the Door of Truth together or apart.

Assassins Pride, adapted from Kei Amagi’s light novel series, transports viewers to the world of Flandore. Here, humanity resides within layers of glass domes, safeguarding themselves from monstrous lycanthropes that lurk outside. This society is marked by a feudal house system, rife with discrimination, where possessing the magical power of mana is essential for the ruling classes. Kufa Vampir operates in this underworld, working as an assassin for the White Knight guild. His clients primarily come from ruling-class families. His next mission involves investigating Melida, the daughter of the prestigious House of Angel. Rumored to be the product of an affair, Melida appears to lack magical abilities. Assigned as her personal tutor, Kufa must decide: if he confirms she has no mana, he is to assassinate her. Although it’s clear that Melida lacks mana, Kufa decides to spare her life out of pity, transferring some of his own mana to her. Having betrayed his guild and their client, Kufa now faces the challenge of protecting Melida’s school life, or risk both of them facing execution. Rich Worldbuilding That Falls Short Assassins Pride presents a fascinating premise but ultimately squanders its potential. The series initially captivates with a rich sense of worldbuilding, portraying Flandore as a gritty yet beautiful realm encased in chandelier-like glass domes. Early scenes showcase Kufa as a dangerous figure immersed in a world of assassinations. However, after the first episode, the narrative shifts focus to Melida, positioning her as the main character. Instead of exploring Kufa’s complex world, the story devolves into a school-based magic show, where Melida must rapidly develop her newfound abilities to maintain the façade of being her father’s daughter and heir to the Angel name. This overarching thread becomes the backdrop for a series of familiar plot points, particularly in the early stages. The storyline introduces a class bully to confront, new friends to make, an inter-school tournament to win, and various plots that threaten Melida and her school. Slow Development with Intriguing Elements While the narrative might feel predictable, I gradually found myself drawn into it as the series delves into Flandore’s social structure. The conflict among the feudal families, each vying for power, emerges as one of the most intriguing aspects of the series. Although this plotline doesn’t fully unfold until later, it provides a backdrop for new characters introduced with motives to challenge the Angel family’s dominance, revealing that some students aren’t as friendly as they seem. The second half of the series attempts to expand the narrative scope by exploring Kufa’s backstory and his relationship with Rosetti, the tutor of Melida’s cousin, Elise. During a field trip to the town of Shangarta, one of the rare occasions the story ventures outside the school, mysterious incidents occur where both citizens and students find themselves drained of their life force. This subplot introduces a supernatural mystery, and while it’s relatively easy to decipher for attentive viewers, it serves as a reminder of the series’ initial promise. Characters That Struggle to Impress Despite some interesting story threads, Assassins Pride often struggles to escape the confines of its school setting, particularly in the first half. The characters fail to leave a lasting impression, making it difficult to connect with them. Kufa, for instance, embodies yet another overpowered male power fantasy archetype, reminiscent of Kirito from Sword Art Online and the stoic Shiba Tatsuya from The Irregular at Magic High School. Though his half-vampire heritage adds a unique twist, it ultimately doesn’t enhance my investment in his character. In contrast, Melida emerges as the underdog whose growth in magical prowess is rewarding to witness. Her journey to not only rival but surpass some classmates is compelling. However, her infatuation with Kufa distracts from her character development, while his lack of boundaries contributes to a somewhat uncomfortable dynamic. Elise, on the other hand, feels one-dimensional; her sole trait is her reluctance to be in the spotlight, despite being the most powerful student. Rosetti, however, injects some fun into the narrative with her interesting twist, while half-lycanthrope William Gin offers an enigma, often defying expectations. Aesthetic Appeal and Production Quality Produced by EMT Squared, the animation studio delivers a visually appealing series, even if it doesn’t break new ground. The dark, gothic atmosphere resonates well, particularly in the depiction of the world surrounding the characters. The city exudes a Victorian vibe, infused with some 20th-century technology, like electricity and cars. In contrast, the exterior landscapes present dark, ominous forests and desolate wastelands. The monster designs, including a notably fearsome giant spider, effectively evoke a sense of dread, while the portrayal of mana through magical auras is both clear and engaging. However, the character and costume designs often veer into overly sexualized territory, especially the girls’ uniforms, which resemble a particular style of lingerie. Soundtrack That Enhances the Atmosphere The soundtrack, crafted by MONACA, complements the gothic setting beautifully. The opening theme, “Share the light” by Run, Girls Run!, is an entrancing electronic track that creates a strong first impression, while the ending theme, “Ijin-tachi no Jikan” by Tomori Kusunoki, provides a bittersweet closing note. Collector’s Edition and Translation Issues Assassins Pride arrives in the UK in a collector’s edition from MVM, featuring all 12 episodes across two discs, available in both English and Japanese with English subtitles. However, there’s a notable issue in Episode 2 of the Japanese audio, where it mistakenly uses audio from Episode 3, rendering it nearly unwatchable unless one opts for the English dub. Unfortunately, the English dub can feel a bit clunky due to overly literal translations in the early episodes, although it improves as the series progresses. Kufa remains flat in both versions, reflecting his character, while the rest of the cast tends to exhibit more emotional range. The collector’s edition features a rigid slipcase, accompanied by four art cards. Additional content on the discs includes clean opening and ending animations, next episode previews, and a promotional video featuring the Japanese cast. Final Thoughts: A Series With Untapped Potential … Read more

Haruma Ichinose, a 17-year-old high schooler, is admired by many girls at his school. Confident and charming, he faces no competition for their affection until Yuki Mogami arrives. However, Yuki isn’t a rival in the way Haruma expects—she’s a girl. Taller than Haruma and equally admired, Yuki’s charm frustrates him. But soon, Haruma begins to question whether his feelings are really competitive or if they’re leaning towards something more romantic. A Unique Take on Shojo Tropes She’s My Knight turns classic shojo tropes upside down. At the beginning, Haruma behaves like the typical hot-headed male protagonist, but his frustration stems from Yuki being both taller and more popular. As they spend more time together, Haruma realizes that his feelings aren’t antagonistic at all—they’re romantic. The story places Haruma in traditionally “female” roles, challenging gender norms in a fun and unexpected way. For example, in one scene, Haruma trips, but it’s Yuki who catches him. In another, he tries the classic “hand-on-wall” trick, but it falls flat, both because Yuki is oblivious to his intentions and because she towers over him. The manga openly plays with these dynamics, often having Haruma in the “heroine” role and Yuki in the “hero” role, creating an amusing twist on gender expectations. Haruma’s Struggle with His Role Throughout the first half of the manga, Haruma struggles to embrace his role as the “heroine.” He attempts to act more traditionally masculine, offering to carry boxes for Yuki and feeling emasculated by their height difference. However, as the story progresses, Haruma grows more endearing as he begins to accept his feelings for Yuki and stops worrying about societal expectations tied to his gender. His awkward attempts to court Yuki—like imagining himself snuggling with her at a fireworks show—are both funny and heartwarming. Interestingly, Haruma never desires Yuki to be more feminine or less tall. In fact, he becomes most flustered when Yuki unintentionally courts him, highlighting the story’s playful subversion of traditional gender roles. Yuki: The Unaware Love Interest While Haruma’s feelings evolve, Yuki remains oblivious. She’s kind and supportive to everyone, often responding kindly when someone shows affection without fully understanding their intentions. Because the story is told from Haruma’s perspective, Yuki’s internal world remains a mystery. However, readers do learn small details about her, such as her relationships with her brothers and childhood friends. Her occasional lack of awareness of social cues adds to her charm, making it easy to see why both Haruma and others at school have fallen for her. Saisou’s Art and Storytelling Saisou, the mangaka behind She’s My Knight, is best known for My Tiny Senpai, which received an anime adaptation in 2023. However, She’s My Knight is their only work currently available in English. It’s clear that Saisou has a firm grasp of both comedy and character development. The story feels deliberate, with strong character voices and comedic timing that plays with shojo tropes in an entertaining way. The artwork complements the humor perfectly, with highly animated panels that vividly capture the characters’ emotions. While the backgrounds remain fairly standard—depicting school grounds, the beach, and the mall—the character designs and their expressions stand out. The visual comedy is particularly well done, making this series an excellent candidate for an anime adaptation. Translation and Extra Content The translation, handled by Mari Au and the amimaru company, is smooth and error-free. Some might find the translator notes, which are placed between panels instead of at the end, a little distracting, but they offer useful explanations in real-time without taking you out of the story. She’s My Knight Volume 1 packs a lot of content into one book. Alongside the thirteen regular chapters, there are seventeen bonus chapters, extra content from Haruma’s friend Miyoshi’s point of view, and additional material. Fans of the series will appreciate the sheer amount of content they get for their money. Final Thoughts: A Fun, Light-Hearted Romance She’s My Knight brings something fresh to the English manga market by flipping shojo conventions and exploring gender roles in an engaging, light-hearted way. Haruma’s journey from a hot-headed protagonist to someone who accepts his feelings and embraces the unexpected is a fun, enjoyable ride. Fans of romantic comedies and gender role reversals will find this manga worth checking out.

“Looking different. Speaking a different language. Being afraid of someone for arbitrary reasons like that… is prejudice.” — Kei Kinjou-Dias to Sai-san. Minato and Akira Lee, along with Akira’s friends Ito and Kei, are adjusting to life in Touka-cho. Together, they create the Investigation Club to explore the strange events happening around them. While settling in, they meet two alien-like beings, Sai-san and the small, mysterious Hirata. These otherworldly characters find themselves stranded in town, while the group suspects the town’s fenced-off forest as the source of the bizarre glitches. Missing pets, people disappearing, and ghostly figures all seem to originate from this eerie forest. The Town’s Mysterious Glitches Many townspeople don’t accept aliens like Sai-san. They report their activities to the local police, who closely monitor their actions. When the young group encounters the local police officer, he looks disheveled, having possibly met some wild, predatory creature. The group considers whether the local library holds answers to the forest’s mysteries. If not, their only option might be to brave the forest themselves. Unique Art Style and Atmosphere Shima Shinya’s ultra-modern manga art style stands out in Glitch Volume 2. The art amplifies the unsettling atmosphere in Touka-cho, where both people and pets disappear, and giant ghostly figures move through the town. Concerns About the Pacing and Character Portrayal While the art and atmosphere shine, the story’s pacing and character portrayals raise some concerns. The plot moves slowly, even though only two volumes remain. This measured pace removes some of the tension and dread needed to build suspense. Additionally, characters often explain events in a way that feels overly expository. That said, certain scenes, like Minato slicing tomatoes, display Shinya’s talent for bringing everyday moments to life. The detailed depiction of an ordinary family moment against the backdrop of a strange, otherworldly event makes the scene stand out. Representation in Glitch The human characters seem carefully designed to reflect a wide range of gender-fluid and LGBTQIA+ identities. While this representation is positive, it can sometimes feel a little too deliberate. Minato is portrayed as ungendered, and their mother is a high-status single parent working in the medical field. Meanwhile, Ito’s mother is in a same-sex relationship, and Kei Kinjou-Dias, whose mother has disappeared, represents a mixed-race family. On the flip side, Hirata, the alien, is charmingly portrayed. A particularly memorable moment shows Hirata encountering a peach for the first time, adding a delightful touch to the story. Artistic Choices and Design The cover’s bold use of color—orange, lavender, and black—immediately draws attention. However, the two-page color spread at the front of the volume only features a monochrome image. This design choice feels like a missed opportunity to further engage the reader visually. As in Volume 1, Shinya includes a two-page illustrated preview of Volume 3, teasing what lies ahead. Translation and Presentation Yen Press delivers another high-quality trade paperback with clear translation by Eleanor Summers. Helpful translation notes at the back enhance the reading experience. The clean and well-spaced lettering by Abigail Summers makes the text easy to follow throughout the volume. Fans can look forward to Volume 3, scheduled for release in May 2024. Conclusion: A Fresh Take on Manga Despite some pacing and narrative concerns, Glitch Volume 2 remains a manga worth exploring. Its distinctive art style and genre-blurring mystery are unlike anything else in the manga world today. Whether the story turns out to be rooted in science fiction or an urban legend, Glitch is taking manga in an exciting new direction.

Volume 5 of Wistoria: Wand and Sword left us on a cliffhanger. Will and his group had safely returned from the dungeon, but our protagonist was about to take a crucial exam that could change everything. With Volume 6 in hand, it’s time to dive into what happens next. Will’s Setback At the end of Volume 5, we saw Will fail Professor Edward’s final exam. This failure means he can no longer pursue his dream of climbing the Tower to become a Magia Vander—where his childhood friend, Elfie, awaits him. Crushed by this setback, Will runs away from the dorms. His friends, concerned for his mental state, begin searching for him. Terminalia Festival and a New Threat As Will deals with his personal crisis, the school and surrounding town prepare for the Terminalia festival, an annual event marking the end of the year. During this festival, the five Magia Vander gather to renew the Great Barrier, which has protected the world for 500 years. Should they fail, the world will face destruction. However, the spell to renew the barrier is so draining that the Magia Vander can’t fight afterward. Unfortunately, this year’s festival becomes the target of a group of evildoers who teleport powerful dungeon monsters into the town. With the Magia Vander unable to defend themselves, it’s up to the students of Regarden Magical Academy to fend off the attack. The instructors provide backup, but the situation looks dire. When Will hears about the chaos, he rushes to the scene. But what can a failed student like him do against such powerful enemies? The Halfway Point and Rising Stakes In the afterword of this volume, artist Toshi Aoi reveals that the series has passed its halfway point. This news was surprising, as many readers likely expected Wistoria to run for much longer, especially with Fujino Omori, the author of DanMachi, at the helm. DanMachi is nearing its twentieth volume, not counting the side stories, so a longer run for Wistoria seemed likely. However, knowing there’s an end in sight offers some reassurance. In a crowded market of shonen series, a shorter, well-paced story can stand out more than one that drags on. This is especially true for battle shonen like Wistoria. As we hit this pivotal point, the story ramps up the drama. Will’s expulsion from the academy and the attack on the festival push the plot forward in exciting ways. The chapters are filled with thrilling action scenes and much-needed worldbuilding. Wistoria has sometimes struggled to balance its action with developing the setting, but this volume strikes a good mix. The Great Barrier and the Magia Vander are central to the story, so learning more about them deepens our understanding of the world. Add in another gripping cliffhanger, and this volume will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment. Translation and Release Wistoria: Wand and Sword Volume 6 is brought to English-speaking audiences by Kodansha, with translation by Athena and Alethea Nibley. As always, the translation reads smoothly, and there are no notable issues. Volume 7 is set to release in English in March, and although the schedule has slowed down now that we’re almost caught up with Japan, the wait won’t be too long. Final Thoughts Overall, Wistoria: Wand and Sword Volume 6 delivers a solid entry in the series. While I was surprised to learn we’re already past the halfway mark, this knowledge gives me confidence that the story will continue to deliver as it heads toward its conclusion. If you’ve enjoyed the series so far, Volume 6 won’t disappoint.

It’s the perfect time to cozy up with a heartwarming romance manga. Today, I’m diving into 15 Minutes Before We Really Date Volume 1, published by Yen Press. Does it offer the lighthearted romance you need? Let’s find out. A Sweet High School Romance The story centers on Yuuki and Natsuha, two high school seniors with just six months left before graduation. They’ve lived next door to each other since childhood, fostering a close bond. Naturally, throughout middle and high school, rumors circulated that they were dating, but in reality, they’ve always just been friends. However, with college applications leading them in different directions, Natsuha suddenly proposes that they try dating. After all, they’re both single, already close, and have nothing to lose, right? Yuuki doesn’t seem fazed by the idea and agrees, given they spend most of their time together anyway. But transitioning from childhood friends to lovers proves harder than they imagined. Hidden Feelings We quickly learn that Natsuha has had feelings for Yuuki for quite some time. She even felt hurt when he spent the summer complaining about not having a girlfriend, unaware that she would have gladly dated him. Unlike Yuuki, who never seriously considered dating her, it’s interesting to watch their relationship evolve, knowing Natsuha’s deeper emotions. I’m eager to see when Yuuki will start recognizing his own feelings for her. Short, Sweet Chapters 15 Minutes Before We Really Date Volume 1 contains fourteen short chapters, along with three bonus chapters. These range from five to ten pages, offering glimpses into the characters’ lives without overstaying their welcome. The structure feels similar to It Takes Two Tomorrow, Too, though here the chapters follow a more continuous narrative. Several chapters focus on their first day as an official couple, as well as their first date. These scenes highlight the awkwardness of trying to change from friends to something more intimate. The bonus chapters break up the narrative nicely, offering insights from other characters or events that happened before the main story began. One such chapter introduces Yuuki’s little sister, who’s thrilled that her brother and Natsuha are finally dating (she thinks it’s long overdue!). She even secretly follows them on their first date. It seems she might have a budding romance of her own in the future. Perico’s Unique Art Style This series marks mangaka Perico’s debut work in English, and their first long-running series in Japan. The series originally started as a Twitter comic, which explains the short chapters and the artwork’s unique style. Perico’s art feels sketchy, almost as if it was drawn in pencil without inking. This sometimes makes the characters look a bit blurry, especially when compared to the crisp color pages. The larger format used by Yen Press might also contribute to this effect. It takes a few chapters to get used to the art style, especially since the structure can feel scattered. Perico often switches between traditional panel layouts and more experimental formats, creating an unconventional reading experience. However, despite the chaotic feel, the free-form art seems to reflect the characters’ uncertainty in their new relationship. Perico’s approach, though unexpected, ultimately works for this particular story. Translation and Release Yen Press brings 15 Minutes Before We Really Date Volume 1 to the West, with Caleb Cook handling the translation and Rachel J. Pierce taking care of the lettering. The translation flows smoothly, and although there are no translation notes, there’s little need for them, as the story doesn’t rely heavily on cultural references. The dialogue reads well, and there are no significant issues with the release. The series has already concluded in Japan with six volumes released between 2019 and 2023. In English, Yen Press plans to release Volume 2 in April, but there’s no word yet on when Volume 3 will follow. It seems we might have to wait for a slow, steady release schedule. Final Thoughts 15 Minutes Before We Really Date Volume 1 has its quirks, but at its core, it’s a sweet and simple romance. The lack of heavy drama keeps the story light, and with only six volumes in total, it’s unlikely to overstay its welcome. If you’re looking for a gentle, feel-good romance to enjoy, this series is well worth picking up.