Isekai/Fantasy – Faceless One Blog

The Brilliant Healer’s New Life in the Shadows Vol. 3 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Harem

Sub-Tags: OP, Strong Lead, Cute

Synopsis:

With everything at the Royal Institute of Healing settled, Zenos, Lily and Carmilla return to their routine at the clinic in the ruined city. As Zenos reminisces about his mentor and his past, the three demi-human leaders announce the slums’ first-ever night festival to foster camaraderie and provide people with much-needed entertainment. Of course, the three of them being who they are, the festival also ends up turning into a “friendly” competition for Zenos’s heart. In a shocking turn of events, the peaceful festival is very nearly ruined by the sudden appearance of a certain underground faction of the slums… (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Healer’s Trip to the Underground!

With the previous volume detailing Zenos’ dealings against a potential pandemic, the third instalment in the Brilliant Healer saga brings the adventure closer to home. For Zenos’ third adventure of the series, the author takes a closer look at the positive effect he’s had on the slums and those unhappy at the lack of chaos this has brought.

Ever since Zenos set up his clinic in the slums, the situation in the once-lawless land has begun to improve. Without the fear of injury and disease, the slum’s residents have been able to focus on the wider community rather than just survival, and as a fitting celebration, they’ve decided to hold a slum-wide festival. But not everyone is happy about this new, calmer existence. Hidden deep within the city streets, the dark guild wants to air its unhappiness and will do anything in its power to get rid of the new peacekeeper, Zenos.

The story of this volume is typical within the genre, and whilst it doesn’t stray too far from the dotted line, it is elevated by the author’s signature style of comedy and well-timed journeys to the past. This is all thanks to the member the Dark Guild chooses for their mission to eliminate Zenos-a succubus named Liz.

Prone to overthinking, her investigation into the slum’s ‘mysterious’ new leader leads to more than a few hilarious mishaps, the chief of which is her first introduction to Zenos’ clinic. Pretending to be unconscious to gain entry, Liz lets herself in for more than she bargained for as Zenos’ apprentice, Lily, performs a series of procedures that would make even the most experienced of spies break their cover.

As Liz’s schemes continue, however, it becomes clear that there’s more between her and Zenos than meets the eye as the two share a past. Both Liz and Zenos came from the same orphanage. These scenes of the past help to illuminate the unforgiving world in which they live as well as help to understand how both of these characters became who they are today. Zenos’ harsh treatment at the orphanage led to him wanting to help others, whilst Liz’s treatment led to her wanting to protect others instead.

Moreover, it seems that this positive depth to the series will continue in subsequent volumes, as several foreshadowed events hint that other members of the orphanage have achieved big things.

Overall, The Brilliant Healer’s latest instalment manages to keep the series going on the straight and narrow. Liz makes for an excellent addition to the series. While she adds a nice dimension of comedy to the story, her greatest asset is the past she shares with Zenos. This will lead to lots of new and exciting insight into his past as the series continues into its fourth and fifth volumes.

Brilliant Healer Vol. 3

My Rating: 8/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the third volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

Finding Avalon: The Quest of a Chaosbringer Vol. 3 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Drama, Mystery, School Life, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Villain, Weak lead, Dungeons, Video Games, Game Elements, Romantic Subplot

Synopsis:

The Battle of the Classes draws near, and students must compete inside the dungeon for a weeklong exam to prove their superiority. Rising above their past defeats at the hands of the elitist bullies of the upper classes, the brave Class E students devise a cunning game plan to maximize their odds. Luckily, they have a secret trump card—Piggy, the overweight and overpowered former villain. His orders are “Tag along with the upper classes, and try not to embarrass us!” This is perfect for Piggy, not being a fan of the limelight! He can use this opportunity to get to meet the diva of class A, his game-era crush, as well as share diet tips with a newfound armored friend—but a spy in his class is determined to unearth his secrets. That’s the least of his problems, as the mastermind of Class B threatens the students of every class. Little does Piggy know that his greatest battle awaits him! (Source: J-Novel Club)

Class E’s Race to the Deepest Level!

With Finding Avalon’s second instalment providing Piggy with much-needed allies, the latest volume will test everything Piggy has learnt as the Battle of the Classes begins.

As one of the most major events in the original game version of Dungeon Explorer Chronicles, The Battle of the Classes makes this volume the most important of the series to date. Set up like an exam, the event serves as the first marker within the academy to decide status and power, both needed by Piggy and the rest of Class E.

Piggy’s role in the battle is to act as Class E’s dungeon diver. Under the estimation of Class E’s leaders, the role is not an important one, and all Piggy has to do is travel far enough through the dungeon to ensure that they don’t get disqualified. Unfortunately, things in fiction are never quite so easy, and Piggy is put on the same team as Class B’s villain, Suou, the heir to the sainthood, Sera, and several Class D thugs.

With Class D’s less-than-subtle antics and the foreshadowing of Suou’s scheme on the horizon, Piggy’s passages give him a lot to do as well as add a nice touch of tension to an event that’s been name-dropped since the very start of the series.

To go alongside an already action-packed volume, without the class president or his family by his side, the story also has Piggy trying to make some new allegiances with the continuance of Tenma and Kuga’s storyline.

Tenma is one of the few rays of hope in an extraordinarily cruel world. Owing to similar bodily circumstances, Piggy and Tenma quickly bond over the different dieting techniques they’ve used. As the volume speeds forward, however, it becomes clear that the bond between them stems from more than just their weight. Tenma is a truly upstanding character. She doesn’t act like the other nobles in the series and uses her judgement to know who to trust and support. This plays well for Piggy, as her friendship will lead to an easier ride through the ranks in the future.

As for Kuga, Piggy’s interactions with her lead to a fraught and shaky alliance. Deciding that having her onside is better than not, the time the two of them spend together raises her suspicions of him even further, and once they get back on the surface, it’ll be interesting to see how the author will handle the inevitable interrogation.

With the third volume signifying the end of the series’ first major event, the author has succeeded in keeping the story fresh and the action on point. This success is largely due to the volume’s uptake in tension. As several antagonists enter the fray, Piggy’s knowledge of the game is tested like never before. Moreover, the continued development of characters such as Tenma and Kuga helps provide a well-rounded read to the story overall.

Finding Avalon Vol. 3

My Rating: 9/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the third volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

Goodbye, Overtime! This Reincarnated Villainess Is Living for Her New Big Brother Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, School Life, Isekai, Villainess

Sub-Tags: Otome, Game Elements, Politics

Synopsis:

Yukimura Rina is an overworked twenty-something systems engineer who’s dangerously close to her breaking point. Her only comfort is an otome game with a charming side character, the brother of the villainess, who soothes her weary heart. She gets so hooked that she forgoes sleep and ends up blacking out…only to wake up inside the game as the villainess, Ekaterina. She’s now the little sister of her favorite character! Her new brother Alexei is handsome, kind, and responsible—the whole package. Rina, now Ekaterina, would be happy just staying by his side, except for one little problem. If she allows the game to run its course, she and her brother are headed straight for a terrible future! Can Ekaterina overcome the doom flags that threaten her new family and the empire, while also preventing Alexei from working himself to death? (Source: J-Novel Club)

Navigating Death Flags and Brotherly Love!

Written by Chidori Hama and illustrated by Wan Hachipisu, J-Novel Club’s latest title follows on from an earlier manga release.

Goodbye, Overtime is the latest in a long line of light novel releases focusing on the Otome genre. Following a Japanese businesswoman as she wakes up in the body of famed villainess, Ekaterina, her journey takes the form of many others within the genre as she attempts to quash a series of doom flags to stop her own downfall. The twist? Both she and her brother are major brocon/siscons.

Despite using an unusual gimmick, however, there’s more to this series than meets the eye.

Chidori’s Otome series is equal parts competent and well-written, ultimately creating a story with surprising depth. From the very start, the author’s seasoned penmanship is put on full display as they immediately add background to the game world.

This is displayed best when looking at Ekaterina, the villainess. The motivations behind her original obsessive behaviour towards the prince are made clear with scenes taking a closer look at the emotional abuse and isolation she and her mother suffered at the hands of the family’s matriarch. This informs Rina which direction to take Ekaterina for a journey of redemption and doom avoidance.

As the story continues, it also becomes clear to see that even the series’ main gimmick has extra layers. Originally played for a few laughs, the deuteragonists’ unusually close displays of affection evolve into a more down-to-earth sibling relationship. Through thick and thin, they’ll always protect each other, and their more over-protective nature stems from the two of them being all that’s left of their family.

Finally, what helps this series stand out in a crowded field, is giving Ekaterina more grounded reactions to the fantastical and horrifying aspects of the world.

For the volume climax, a monster attack threatens the academy. Not out of place for an Otome series, the experience between in-game and real life are miles away, and the Japanese businesswoman side of Ekaterina shows this. Even if you’ve experienced the scene hundreds of times within the game, it’ll still bring you on edge considering your life is on the line, and it’s something that series within the genre tend to neglect. The resulting scenes provide a fresh sense of realism that most series often miss.

For its opening instalment, Goodbye, Overtime provides an offering that goes beyond the generic setting and seemingly gimmicky twist. Key to this success is the author’s seasoned writing skills and clear focus for fleshing out the original game world. Most important of all, however, is how the author has turned a quirky plot device into the heart and soul of the series. By volume’s end, it’ll be all but guaranteed that you’ll be rooting for Ekaterina and Alexei to escape their doom and create a new and exciting future for each other.

Goodbye, Overtime! Vol. 1

My Rating: 9/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the first volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

Butareba – The Story of a Man Turned Into a Pig Vol. 3 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Mystery, Tragedy, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Dark Fantasy, Perverted Protagonist, Weak Protagonist, Cute

Synopsis:

Cutie-pie Jess has regained her previously sealed memories, and oh my, she seems to be a little—no, very smitten with Mister Pig! Of course, there’s always the chance it’s just his social debuff as an otaku leading him to think so. Don’t worry—he knows the rules super well: he mustn’t overstep his boundaries. Luckily, there are other urgent matters he can focus on! Together with Jess and her fiancé-on-paper Shravis, Mister Pig hatches a secret plan that will decide the fates of the Liberators and every Yethma in Mesteria. A long-lost member of the royal family is the key to strengthening the fragile alliance between the Liberators and the royal court, so securing his cooperation is imperative. And strangely enough, Naut’s perverted dog Rossi, who loves to sniff girls’ legs, might be their best lead! (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Pig’s Quest to Kill an Immortal!

After regaining Jess’s memories and discovering a mutual enemy to cause a truce between the royal family and the liberators, the third instalment of the titular pig Isekai follows a quest to find a missing uncle.

The latest volume in the series starts on a lighter note than usual. On a quest to find and return Sharvis’ uncle, Hortis, to his human form, Jess and Mister Pig get to spend some quality time together as they look for clues around the royal capital.

Far from a sightseeing trip around one of the kingdom’s few centres of peace and opulence, the author uses this quest as an opportunity to showcase the development in the relationship between the series’ deuteragonists. For Jess, in particular, these scenes provide solid insight into how her separation from Mister Pig has affected her.

Whatever fondness Jess had for the pig before has certainly blossomed into romantic feelings now. This spells disaster for Mister Pig’s original plans for idolisation, as Jess has become wilful and confident since getting her memories back. For better or worse, the romantic development between the two will only escalate from this volume onwards.

A Brother’s Quarrel

As the quest for Hortis draws to a head, the darker, serious aspects of the series reveal themselves once again as the protagonists turn their attention towards a secondary quest – a quest to find legendary objects that can rid a mage of immortality.

This quest serves as an opportunity to finally defeat The Clandestine Arcanist as well as a way for The Liberators to negotiate with the Royal Family as equals. As such, this plot line features subterfuge against the royal family heavily.

With the royal family in the spotlight, a closer inspection shows the dynamics between them are one-sided. Central to this is the new king, The Marquis. There are many words to describe him, but measured is not one. A walking stereotype for the world’s cruelty, he rules his people in much the same way as his family – with an iron fist.

As for the quest against the Clandestine Arcanist, this lacks the usual emotional punch of previous story climaxes. The only sticking point in the story and the series thus far, its one saving grace, comes from the scenes involving Hortis. I won’t spoil these moments, but needless to say, the moments between Hortis and The Marquis are why I keep coming back to the series.

Despite a slightly weaker climax, Butareba’s third outing still manages to entertainingly mix dark fantasy and comedy aspects. Jess’ wilful change and royal family dynamics are particular highlights as the volume’s ending leaves the journey for a new future for Yethma in an uncertain place.

Butareba Vol. 3

My Rating: 8.5/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the third volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects Vol. 3 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Slice of Life

Sub-Tags: OP, Strong Lead, Family, Heartwarming

Synopsis:

It’s summer on the grassy plains. With war behind him, Dias has his hands full with everything daily life can throw at him. There’s the new but strangely familiar merchant, the dogkin refusing to spend their hard earned coin, and the appearance of some of Dias’s old friends and family, each of whom has their own reasons for searching him out. On top of it all, Dias is about to meet Alna’s brother, who is convinced he has to rescue his sister from the evil new lord of the plains! (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Family Affair Out on the Frontier!

Fresh from defeating Diane and her evil machinations, the latest volume out on the plains turns out to be a family affair.

Scaling back the action and the scheming of royalty, the third volume of The Frontier Lord focuses more on the slice-of-life aspects of the story. As Dias’ territory has grown over the past three volumes, news of his lordship has started to travel far and wide, reaching the attention of those who want more than to settle in the frontier. This time around, each of the visitors to the frontier has personal connections to either Dias or Alna and provides interesting insight into their growth as characters.

A strong yet kind protector defines Dias’ character. Throughout the volume, revelations reveal that these foundations began with his parents and were honed through his time at the orphanage. The tough times that Dias and the others went through in the orphanage mean that even now that they’re adults, they all still refer to Dias lovingly as either a Dad or big brother.

As for Alna, her visitor to the plains reveals a time of family hardship. With her absentee brother returning on the news of Alna’s marriage, it becomes instantly clear why she would favour Dias as a partner. Dias is a dependable provider, unlike her brother. He’s gullible and too trusting, traits that saw him lose the family savings and leave them in dire straits. With his return to the tribe by the end of the volume, there’ll be plenty of opportunities for healing over the coming volumes.

The Baar Hierarchy

Beyond the main plot of the third volume, there are plenty of entertaining and hilarious side stories to enjoy. The most entertaining of which comes from another episode in the Baar’s nature documentary.

This time, the episode focuses on the Baar’s leadership and hierarchy. When two males arrive on the scene, these sheep-like creatures take a rather novel approach to settling who gets to become leader. Rather than fight it out, they take the more pacifist approach of choosing which male has the best song. This is a fitting solution, given that these creatures are said to have similar intelligence to humans.

Overall, The Frontier Lord’s third instalment keeps the series feeling fresh and entertaining. Key to the series’ longevity, this time around, comes from the development of its deuteragonists. Both get a part of their past revealed throughout the volume, offering interesting insights into how they became the people that they are.

The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects Vol. 3

My Rating: 9/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the third volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

Tsukimichi: Moonlit Fantasy Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Harem, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Strong Lead, OP, Gods, Slapstick

Synopsis:

Makoto Misumi was an average, everyday high schooler, who found himself shipped off to another world at his parents’ whims. Upon arrival, however, he’s insulted by the Goddess for being too ugly and thrown into a desolate wasteland. He frantically searches for human warmth and connection, but can find nothing but monsters and inhuman settlers. When he finally meets companions he can trust, they turn out to be a pair of powerful perverts in a former dragon and a former giant spider! His high-octane, incredibly misfortunate trek through this foreign world has only just begun! (Source: Hanashi Media)

A Monster at World’s Edge!

Written by Kei Azumi and illustrated by Mitsuaki Matsumoto, Hanashi Media’s latest acquisition is a comedic fantasy isekai series that many may recognise.

Whether familiar with the anime or a newcomer to the series, Tsukimichi’s first volume makes for a great opener. Despite treading on what is now familiar ground, this series shows why this isekai sub-genre became popular in the first place.

The key to encapsulating the essence of a harsh start to Isekai life comes from the author’s composition of a protagonist. Far from the usual mild-mannered hero, Makoto Misumi isn’t afraid to speak his mind. His raw and unfiltered feelings toward a world that sends nothing but bullshit his way helps bring his experiences within the world to life.

Furthermore, I personally like the author’s decision to have Makoto be a descendant of those from the Isekai world.

As part of this background, it is revealed that to earn their place on Earth, Makoto’s parents had to promise one of their children to the Isekai world. As a result, they’ve been secretly training both Makoto and his sisters from birth to prepare them for a world where fighting is a part of everyday life. This eventually sets up a good explanation as to why Makoto is so calm in the face of terrifying monsters and horrifying situations.

The Tale of a Dragon and Spider

For the series’ first volume, the story follows Makoto as he journeys through the edge in the hopes of discovering fellow humans as well as introducing his main companions for the trip.

Whilst this type of journey would be nothing out of the ordinary for any isekai series, it’s led to stand out from the crowd through the introduction of his legendary beast companions.

Tomoe and Mio are great additions to the series. Both legendary creatures, the contract that bonds them together with Makoto reveals them to be rather unique characters. A weeaboo for Samurai culture and a masochist with a taste for blood, they send the chaotic nature of the series to new limits as they cause Makoto no end of trouble. Martial arts training can only do so much when your overpowered companions are extremely unpredictable and can destroy a town with the slash of a sword.

In conclusion, Tsukimichi’s first instalment makes for a great introduction to the series for anime aficionados and newcomers alike. Hanashi Media’s translators have done an excellent job of keeping the humour and Makoto’s unfiltered emotions that make the series iconic. This, coupled with unique characters and ample amounts of chaos, and you’ve got yourself a smash series.

Tsukimichi Vol. 1

My Rating: 9/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the second volume of this series digitally through the distributors listed on the Hanashi Media website.

A Young Lady Finds Her True Calling Living with the Enemy Vol. 2 Review

Tags: Fantasy, Romance, Drama, Shoujo

Sub-Tags: Strong Lead, Business, Conspiracies

Synopsis:

When Respect Transforms into Love!

Using her courage and business savvy as weapons, Bertine earns more for the Federation than the reparations owed in her role discovering and marketing the country’s specialty products. The scarlet fabric, fruit jams and marmalades, spices, boats, and even a hotel… She shapes her ideas into reality one after another, ever expanding her businesses. The way she lives her life inspires and moves Cecilio deeply. But the general isn’t the only one affected as Bertine’s influence inadvertently spreads to the Empire’s second prince and even his uncle. All of which leads to political upheaval in the Kingdom of San Luenne, which scorned Bertine’s very existence. Thus the adventurous tale of a young lady who awakened to her potential in a new land reaches its rousing conclusion! (Source: Cross Infinite World)

Bertine and the Federation Force Change!

Managing to settle into life as a citizen of the Federation and having picked the course for her new life, the climactic volume of A Young Lady’s True Calling finds Bertine embroiled in a plot that threatens her new life as well as her old one.

After a promising opening act, the sequel of Syuu’s romantic fantasy series left me a little disappointed.

In the first volume, the storylines featuring Cecilio and the San Luenne royal family were interwoven tightly in between Bertine’s new business ventures, a move which let the overall grandiose nature of the plot shine. In the sequel, however, Bertine’s business ventures end up becoming a hindrance to the main plot’s development.

As hinted at throughout the previous volume, the series’ climax sees Bertine help in a scheme to overthrow the declining royal family in San Luenne. Made up of several different moving parts, its highlights include a more focused look at Bertine’s father as well as the youngest crown prince of the Empire, Claudio.

Unfortunately, this more involved plot is often forced to take a back seat to Bertine’s business escapades. For as much as I enjoy these little adventures, hunting for black pepper and building boats, they don’t hold a candle to a continental cue attempt.

The Empire and the Emperor

Whilst the final volume’s storyline lacked the punch it deserved, thankfully, the character writing is still strong.

Two of the characters that see play this time manage to keep up with the tight character development showcased in the opening instalment. The first is Cecilio. This time, the story focuses on his reasons for taking the reigns of the Federation. A tragic tale surrounding the death of his mother reveals his impetus to change the future as well as reveal the true depths of the Empire’s unparalleled cruelty.

The second character of note is the Emperor. Newly introduced for the series’ final arc, he’s a harsh but fair ruler. Despite being painted negatively by others, this volume shows him to be an intelligent man blinded by guilt. Through his son’s strength, however, he’s finally able to see the light and enact changes that will secure the future of the palace and the people.

Overall, whilst A Young Lady’s True Calling failed to quite stick the landing, there’s still plenty to enjoy overall. Key to this is the author’s continued tight writing concerning the characters. Cecilio and the Emperor are particular beneficiaries of this. Both end up becoming complex characters by the series’ end.

A Young Lady’s Calling Vol. 2

My Rating: 6/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the second volume of this series digitally through the distributors listed on the Cross Infinite World website.

Peddler in Another World: I Can Go Back to My World Whenever I Want Vol. 7 Review

Tags: Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Harem, Slice of Life, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Weak Lead, Episodic, Cute, Business

Synopsis:

Shiro’s first venture into a dungeon—albeit accompanied by the majority of the adventurers attached to the Fairy’s Blessing guild—turned out to be a resounding success. With the grimoire written by Nathew (the Father of Alchemy himself) in hand, he was able to perform the ritual that summoned lost loved ones without a hitch, allowing everyone to say one last goodbye to their dearly departed. Yet one much-missed soul was conspicuously absent at this gathering of spirits: Aina’s father. What could this mean? Is he still alive somewhere? And if he is, how can Aina and Stella find him after being parted for such a long time? Shiro has little time to ponder these weighty questions, however, because a familiar face is moving to Ninoritch, and Shiro is forced to rush around preparing lodgings for the imminent arrival of their entourage. But what could possibly bring such a distinguished person to this tiny little town out in the sticks? (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Peddler Prepares to Celebrate!

Fresh from the revelations put forth by a prize at the bottom of a labyrinth, the latest volume of Peddler follows Shiro as he prepares to celebrate a very special occasion.

A Birthday Fit for a Princess

The seventh volume of Peddler in Another World continues to provide a series of fresh and fun adventures. This time, the series chooses to focus on the fallout after discovering that Aina’s father might still be alive. As a result, the latest instalment is Aina and Stella heavy.

On the more fun side of their story, a major part of the volume focuses on Aina’s upcoming birthday. An understandably large occasion, it gives the author a good excuse to expand the story’s world-building. Throughout the segment, we’re given little tidbits that showcase the difference between birthdays in Japan and in the fantasy world.

Moreover, to coincide with Aina’s birthday, this storyline also sees the return of Shess. Having calmed down from her original appearance, this novel does a better job of showing Shess and Aina as best friends, and they end up doing a lot of normal kid stuff that they didn’t have time to do during the Capital arc. Luza also gets her time in the sun. Her scatterbrained personality is still plenty entertaining.

A Mother’s Choice

The more serious plot line this time around centres on Stella. Upon discovering that her husband is still alive, she comes across a difficult question; whether to search for him or not.

It’s a subject that the author treats with suitable delicacy, especially on the side of the protagonist, Shiro. Choosing to do the opposite of the normal protagonist moves, he questions himself on what would be the best way to help Stella rather than rushing in and making things worse.

Ultimately, the decision that Stella makes comes down to how Shiro has managed to integrate into the Ninoritch community. Since the very start of the series, he’s become an invaluable member of Stella and Aina’s family, and now, seven volumes in, Stella’s built-up trust in him will pay off as he’s put in charge of looking after Aina whilst she goes on her own quest.

Overall, Peddler in Another World’s seventh volume remains an entertaining read. Whilst the return of Shess provides some much-needed development for her friendship with Aina, the main highlight of the volume comes alongside Stella’s painful decision. It’s a segment that shows Shiro’s importance to the people of the fantasy world and how well he’s managed to integrate over seven volumes.

Peddler in Another World Vol. 7

My Rating: 8/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the seventh volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.

A Young Lady Finds Her True Calling Living with the Enemy Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Fantasy, Romance, Drama, Shoujo

Sub-Tags: Strong Lead, Business, Conspiracies

Synopsis:

“We demanded reparations, not a bride.”

Pressed into marrying a general of the enemy nation, she would find only her future husband’s rejection and a cold reception in her new homeland…

As the daughter of a powerful marquess in a small, prosperous nation, Bertine was raised with all the privileges and expectations befitting her station. Yet not long before her wedding day, the king orders her to marry Cecilio instead, a representative of the nation victorious against her own. For she was part of the war reparations. Resigned to her fate, despair in her heart, she crosses the ocean, bound for her new home.

But all that awaited her was Cecilio’s absence and his servants’ humiliating treatment of her. “I can’t rely on my parents or my status. So I shall gain the strength to survive here through my own efforts.” Alone and armed only with her resolve, Bertine flees the estate and begins to carve a path that will allow her to live in enemy territory…

A young lady possessed of a hidden talent for business. A general known as “The Battle-Crazed Savage.” And their love story, predicated by a misunderstanding and a negotiation starts here! (Source: Cross Infinite World)

The Federations’ Alchemist!

Written by Syuu and illustrated by Fujigasaki comes a relatively recent title to the Cross Infinite roster focusing on a young lady’s effort in building business and power.

Starting off the Young Lady’s True Calling saga, the first volume follows the usual beats for the genre as Bertine settles into her new life and sets up her business to show her natural prowess. As the volume progresses, however, it becomes clear that there’s more to the series than meets the eye.

For one, Syuu’s writing style makes for an engaging read. They let the characters speak for themselves. As a result, you become engrossed within the author’s world and the story they are trying to tell.

Secondly, whilst the opening volume’s story begins simplistic enough, it eventually develops into a more grandiose affair. With small nods to the reveal scattered throughout the novel’s first half, the realisation that Bertine’s sudden trip abroad, as well as her business dealings leading to more than just a way for her to earn a new living, adds an extra layer to the plot that’s appreciated. After all, there’s only so far a story about dealing cloth will get you!

A Pawn, A Puppet, and a Powerful Leader

With the story eventually achieving its full potential by the volume’s end, there’s one aspect of the series that is a highlight throughout – characters.

Three characters immediately jump to mind as the series’ strong suit, Bertine, Cecilio, and Rose. From the outset, at least, Bertine comes across as the typical noblewoman with an eye for business. This impression changes with time as it becomes clear that Bertine has an innate understanding of people and their circumstances.

In order to assimilate within the Federation’s society, one of her first moves as a business owner was to hire war widows. A move that showed that Bertine as more than just a sheltered noble and that she understood that war affects all parts of society.

As for Cecilio and Rose, they both end up standing out for the same reason – show-don’t-tell character introductions. Through these well-choreographed segments, we can grasp a lot of information crucial to understanding how they’ll react to any given situation as the series continues. Hopefully, this character-building will continue when introduced to other hyped characters, such as the queen of San Luenne.

Overall, Living with the Enemy’s first instalment is an excellent addition to the genre. Whilst the author’s style helps to push the series along, what makes this series stand out are its characters. Complex with well-defined motivations, they help to bring this romantic fantasy to life.

A Young Lady’s True Calling Vol. 1

My Rating: 8.5/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the first volume of this series digitally through the distributors listed on the Cross Infinite World website.

I’m a Noble on the Brink of Ruin, So I Might as Well Try Mastering Magic Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Harem, Isekai

Sub-Tags: OP, Strong Lead, Spirits

Synopsis:

What’s a guy to do when his life suddenly changes while innocently enjoying a nice, cold drink after work? And I mean really changes. This middle-aged commoner now finds himself in the body of Liam Hamilton, the young son of a noble house teetering on the brink of collapse. Between his fervidly desperate father and his utterly apathetic brothers, the only bright side to his new situation is that Liam can finally try learning magic like he’s always wanted. Little does he know his hobby of choice may be about to turn his life upside-down yet again! Will Liam be able to master the craft of magic? And will it be enough to save him from the shadow looming over his family…? (Source: J-Novel Club)

Magic Mastery and the Key to Independence!

Written by Nazuna Miki and illustrated by Kabotya, I’m a Noble on the Brink of Ruin is JNC’s latest release that focuses on all the wonders that magic has to offer. Starring Liam Hamilton, the fifth son of a noble house, the story follows his journey as he chooses a completely different method from his siblings to avoid commonerhood.

Instead of marrying up, Liam focuses his efforts on learning the ins and outs of magic after a little nudge from a helpful fugitive. To this end, magic mastery makes up the bulk of the first volume’s story.

Best described as a light-hearted power fantasy, the first volume follows a well-trodden path within the genre as Liam’s introduction to the world of magic quickly snowballs into him becoming one of its strongest users.

Whilst Liam learns the basics, we’re given some of the best moments of the volume. The relationship between Lord Liam and his master is the highlight of the novel. The magic master’s tips and tricks always push Liam into finding new ways of using his magical abilities and gives some credence to how powerful he eventually becomes.

Unfortunately, what this series makes up for in magic, it needs to improve in character development. Of the several side characters introduced, none are complex or well-developed. Most, if not all, are nothing more than yes men, there to praise Liam for every little thing he gets right. There are some interesting moments of conflict between the protagonist and his family, but this isn’t well-realised as it isn’t given enough time.

Furthermore, the way the topic of a harem is brought about in this series is a little problematic. The dynamics between Liam and his potential love interests just don’t feel right, and hopefully, they’ll rectify this as the series continues.

Overall, whilst I’m a Noble on the Brink of Ruin’s foray into magic is both fun and entertaining, the volume itself is let down by a lack of vision in creating complex characters and a troubling dynamic that’s developing between Liam and the members of his harem.

I’m a Noble on the Brink of Ruin Vol. 1

My Rating: 6/10

If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.

You can read the first volume of this series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.