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A Surprisingly Happy Engagement for the Slime Duke and the Fallen Noble Lady Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Slice of Life

Sub-Tags: Cute, Heartwarming

Synopsis:

After her sister’s engagement to the crown prince is broken off suddenly, tragedy strikes, and Lady Francette and her family lose all of their wealth and status. Left with nothing but her name and determination, Francette moves to the slums and ekes out a living selling homemade pastries. That’s when she meets an unlikely new friend named Wibble, a talking slime who introduces her to the one and only slime duke himself: Gabriel! To her surprise, the unusually stoic Gabriel soon asks for Francette’s hand in marriage–and she accepts. Now she must adapt to Triste and its eccentric people, and she soon finds herself breathing life into the strange but endearing backwater. What was once a marriage of convenience becomes something much more in time…and—of course—expect lots of slime! (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Land of Slimes, Slimes and More Slimes!

Written by Mashimesa Emoto and illustrated by Kasumi Nagi, J-Novel Club’s latest series involves a surprise proposal and plenty of friendly slimes.

A Surprisingly Happy Engagement for the Slime Duke is another series that adds to the ever-growing roster of fallen nobility given cute, happy endings. Typical of the genre, the story centres around Francette, a perfect mild-mannered young lady whose situation has become fraught after her ducal family was disgraced.

With her father too busy having affairs, Francette is forced to make ends meet by baking cakes, that is, until a knight in shining (or should I say slimy) armour shows up in her hour of need.

If everything I’ve written about the series so far seems generic, then you’d be right on the money. Everything about this series could be summed up by any number of reviews that I’ve already written on the genre already. From the perfect young lady, the strong yet demure love interest, to the threats that they face together, it’s all been done before and you’ll know the conclusion to the story before it’s even begun.

Whilst there’s nothing inherently wrong with being generic, in fact, there’s a nice comfort factor to the series, I do find myself wishing that there was something more on offer, especially with the series’ strongest aspect, the slimes.

The veritable twist in the fallen noble tale, the slimes take the form of both man-eating monsters and miracle helpers, once tamed. The main window into the actions of these creatures is through Wibble, Gabriel’s first slime and Fran’s faithful helper. Wibble acts as a great piece of comic relief. His tumultuous relationship with Gabriel serves as a way to bridge the gap between the fantasy’s two lovebirds.

Unfortunately, Wibble is the only slime we get to know throughout the volume, and as a result, the series’ main twist ends up lacking a certain level of depth. By the end of the first volume, both slime culture and why slimes act the way they do once tamed remain a mystery.

Despite a generic setting, Slime Duke’s first volume makes for a good spare afternoon’s comfort read. As mentioned previously, there’s nothing wrong with generic and Wibble’s antics about Triste can make up for almost any fault in the series.

Regrettably, a comfort read this series must remain. With little to no depth beyond the usual paint-by-numbers plot, it hardly makes an impact in an already saturated market.

Slime Duke 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.

Rendezvous with Rama Review

Synopsis:

Rama is a vast alien spacecraft that enters the Solar System. A perfect cylinder some fifty kilometres long, spinning rapidly, racing through space, Rama is a technological marvel, a mysterious and deeply enigmatic alien artefact.

It is Mankind’s first visitor from the stars and must be investigated … (S.F. Masterworks)

First Encounters of a Cylindrical Kind!

Hurtling through the solar system and reaching perihelion, an alien object sets the stage for one of Arthur C. Clarke’s sci-fi masterpieces.

As a novel focusing on the potential ramifications of humanity’s first contact with alien life, Rendezvous with Rama takes an interesting approach to the genre. Instead of using its page time to showcase humanity’s reaction, it places this in the background in favour of a story focusing on exploring a new and exciting alien environment.

A more descriptive-style novel suites Clarke’s writing to a tee. From the very start, he’s able to contextualise the stakes of the story with a poignant retelling of Earth’s near misses with asteroids. This descriptive style is then brought into full effect as the story moves to explore the spacecraft, Rama.

From the Endeavour’s first entry into the dark and seemingly lifeless ship to its awakening into something between a manufacturing plant and the perfect primordial soup, Clarke succeeds in creating a vivid landscape, completely alien yet completely awe-inspiring. It’s a testament to his skill as a writer that he can take complex ideas, making them both understandable and entertaining to an audience.

Furthermore, these ideas and images are helped by Clarke’s grounded science that holds the foundation of the story together. Both theoretical and applied physics are at play in the novel, helping to provide a sense of realism, which often helps sell a first-contact story.

The Endeavour and Space Bureaucracy

Away from the mighty spectacle that is Rama itself, it is also worth noting the characters laid forth in the novel. Set between the crew of the Endeavour and members of a galactic committee, it is the story’s weakest aspect.

Despite the relatively small cast, few characters are well-developed, and their attitudes have started to show their age. Sexism and stereotyping all come into play, and whilst it doesn’t necessarily detract from the awe of the exploration, it is nevertheless noticeable.

Of the characters that are developed, Commander Norton, The Ambassador of Mercury, and Jimmy Pak are the highlights.

Norton is the Endeavour’s commanding officer; an experienced space pilot, his calm demeanour helps steady the ship and save the crew from sticky situations. Pak is the ship’s most inexperienced member. Throughout the novel, he gets to experience the dangers of Rama first-hand, all of which slowly mould him into a possible commander in the future.

As for the Ambassador of Mercury, he’s a part of the Rama committee and is the living embodiment of his people. His storyline representing the more rash nature of humanity isn’t groundbreaking but is well-written.

Rendezvous with Rama is an excellent example of descriptive storytelling. Focusing on the exploration of Rama gives ample opportunity for Clarke’s vivid imagination to shine through, creating a complex yet awe-inspiring picture of what alien technology might look like.

Despite its age showing a little, there’s plenty to love about this story, and I can see why it’s deserving of the title, a science fiction masterwork.

Rendezvous with Rama

My Rating: 8.5/10

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Rendezvous with Rama can be picked up at most major online stockists.

Blog Update (20th November, 2023)

Hello readers, here’s just a quick update to explain the current direction of the blog and its direction for the future.

Firstly, it’s been a while since I last made an update on what’s to come. In future, I’ll try to open the communication channels so there’s more interaction between myself and you, the blog readers. I plan on starting this off by making blog updates more regularly, likely as quarterly updates rather than updates whenever I remember.

Secondly, reviews will continue as usual up until the Christmas period. This week, my reviews will start with I Guess This Dragon Who Lost Her Egg, Vol. 1 and Fake Saint of the Year, Vol. 3. Fewer reviews will be published over the Christmas period due to my work schedule and various gatherings.

Looking towards the future, in January, I will once again be publishing my lists for the best new series and continuing series of the year. Additionally, I’ve been wanting to put pen to paper myself. With the ideas that have been swimming in my head, I’m thinking of posting them as a web novel alongside my normal reviews. Your input throughout its progress will be deeply appreciated.

That’s all for now. I look forward to updating you again in the new year.

Butareba – The Story of a Man Turned into a Pig- Vol. 1 Review

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

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

Synopsis:

A run-of-the-mill otaku collapses from stomach pain after tasting raw pig liver and wakes up in a whole new world—as a pig, of all things! He’s helplessly trapped in his pen until Jess, a girl who can read minds, comes along and rescues him. Our porcine hero will have to work to keep his boar-ish thoughts to himself, but sweet Jess isn’t deterred. In fact, she wants to spoil this little piggy rotten! By Jess’s side, it seems like life as a hog might not be so bad after all, yet there’s more to this strange fantasy world than meets the eye. Jess is a girl of many secrets, and she’s in danger. But what can a mere pig with no special powers do to protect her from her cruel fate? Will his modern knowledge, quick thinking, and sharp nose be enough to ham it up and save her? (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Journey to Discover the Truth (Pig Escort Included)!

A Journey Fraught with Danger

From the way this series uses an animal protagonist to its overtly crude humour and fan-service, I believe many might dismiss this series out of hand. Appearances can be deceiving, however, and those who might dismiss this out of hand will miss an intriguing mystery series filled with tragic depth.

Centring on a run-of-the-mill otaku, the story follows his journey as he’s transmigrated into a pig after eating a raw pig’s liver. In his new fantasy world, he quickly befriends a Yethma named Jess. Naïve but kind, it’s with Jess’ appearance that this seemingly sweet fantasy world begins to change. This world harbours secrets both dark and harrowing, and the Yethma are at the centre of them all!

This series shows its true intentions as the plot begins to move with Mister Pig agreeing to go on a journey to the capital with Jess. A journey that all Yethma must make, the plot ramps up its mystery and dark fantasy aspects as they get closer towards their destination.

Making it to the capital is no easy feat, especially for those powerless like the protagonists. It’s a path laden with hidden obstacles and dangers specifically meant to stop all but a chosen through from making it to the end, and that’s even before we consider the harrowing stories of previous Yethma and the horrors brought on by Yethma Hunters that they hear during their stops. It is through these challenges that the overtly crude humour and fan-service centralises itself to the plot.

It serves as a juxtaposition to all the horrors that go on around the protagonists. Almost, in some ways, a coping tool. Without it, both Jess and Mister Pig would be more psychologically worn, and it would become more difficult to keep up spirits when the times really do become tough.

Companions and Chabirones

Jess and Mister Pig are the perfect candidates for this comedic juxtaposition. Together, they speak to each other via telepathy. A characteristic of the Yethma people and the only possible way to speak to a pig, this skill is invaluable when dealing with precarious situations or for the odd chuckle when Jess reads too far into his mind.

Their comedic timing, however, is only one aspect of their well-written characters. Jess, for example, is kind and naïve – the type of character that any noble light novel or anime protagonist would wish to protect. Throughout her journey, she’s helped to develop a sense of self and the courage to make decisions. Skills which become instrumental by the end of the volume.

Mister Pig (no name given) is the brains of the operation. Readily agreeing to become Jess’ companion/chabirone, it quickly becomes clear that without his help, Jess would’ve been long since dead, even before she starts on her journey. Hidden beneath the façade of perversion lies a man with a deeply analytical mind. He’s able to look at the full picture and, as a result, is the best person/pig for the job when it comes to helping Jess survive her long journey.

Other than Jess and Mister Pig, there are numerous other significant side characters introduced along their journey. The most influential in this first volume is Naut. First introduced as a potential love rival for Jess’ affections, this rivalry is quickly abated with the telling of his own tragic interwoven history with the Yethma. A fighter by nature, he agrees to join Jess and the Pig’s journey for a period, acting as their hired muscle.

Naut’s character brings brawn into the equation, and as the fights get tougher with each step closer to the capital, to make a success of things, all three elements are necessary.

The Nature of Yethma

With a dark story and well-woven characters, there is only one aspect of the series so far that tops them – the mystery.

The mystery concerns the nature of Yethma and the secrecy surrounding the capital. It’s handled well by the author as he drip-feeds readers small amounts of information scattered throughout the book so that we never learn more than the protagonists.

Unfortunately, I can’t say much more than this about the mystery without giving my readers any huge spoilers. What I can say is the climatic reveal chapter is thoroughly worth the wait. Dark, harrowing and tearfully tragic, it is best experienced when discovering it through a first read-through.

Mixing dark fantasy and cutesy animal reincarnation, Butareba proves there’s traction in making these series not all about sunshine and rainbows.

The initial scenes of crude humour and fan-service are but a mere façade. Venture deeper, and you’ll find a series focusing on a harrowing and heartfelt journey filled with an intriguing mystery and well-developed characters.

For those who are quick to judge, I highly recommend giving this series a second look. You never know; This series might just surprise you.

Butareba Vol. 1

My Rating: 9.5/10

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 on the J-Novel Club website.

Magical Explorer Vol. 5 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Harem, Ecchi, School Life, Martial Arts, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Video Games, Game Elements, Eroge, OP, Strong Lead, Dungeons

Synopsis:

Two Little Sisters, One Hapless Dude

When Kousuke’s classmate Gabby gets word thathe’s been appointed assistant vice minister of the Ceremonial Committee, she’s so scandalized that she challenges him (and Yuika) to a dungeon clearing race where the losers have to step down from their positions. Despite the high stakes, Kousuke agrees to her terms when he realizes he can use the knowledge of Gabby’s up bringing he gleaned from the game to ensure she goes down the right path. But does Kousuke really have what it takes to stave off the sadness and insecurity weighing on Gabby’s heart? (Source: Yen Press)

The Side Character and Haughty Princess!

Mastermind of the Ceremonial Committee

Having saved Yuika from fiendish forces and settled into his role as part of the ceremonial committee, Kousuke’s problems within the committee are only just beginning.

Quickly appearing on the horizon is the problem of yet another one of the Eroge game’s heroines, Gabriella, who’s facing an unfortunate crossroads in her life at the academy.

Unlike previous problems faced by the series’ titular protagonist, solving Gabriella’s issue comes across as just another move as part of a Kousuke’s Eroge chess game. Kousuke may like her character, but on more than one occasion, he frames her issue as a stepping stone toward solving a larger future problem, saving the saint.

The resulting future planning finds the first half of the volume with the unenviable task of making several information-heavy sections enjoyable. A task performed admirably thanks to the help of Kousuke and Nanami’s couple banter and Kousuke’s new idea to cause ire as part of the ceremonial committee.

Setting Gabriella Free

Once the volume finishes focusing on Kousuke’s master plan, the plot to save Gabby is a lot of fun, involving all the series’ best elements.

To free Gabby from her brother’s chains and start to live a life filled with her own unique dreams, Kousuke accepts a challenge from the haughty princess and enlists Yuika to help him win. Taking the form of a dungeon hunt, the challenge should be a slam dunk for Kousuke, but as per usual, things don’t go quite to plan.

Being stuck in a dungeon’s secret layer leads to some great moments of character growth and interesting interactions. Originally fighting like cats and dogs, being stuck together has Gabby and Yuika change from becoming bitter enemies to best friends. Furthermore, being led into a dangerous situation leads Gabby to get perspective, a perspective that changes her life to no longer follow in her brother’s footsteps and become her own person on the student council.

Despite the volume’s information-heavy start, Magical Explorer’s fifth outing remains a lot of fun. Even in its fifth volume, the comedy and fan service are fresh, and the addition of a haughty character to the mix opens a field of possibilities for the series’ future.

Magical Explorer Vol. 5

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 fifth volume of this series both digitally and physically through the list of distributors on the Yen Press website.

Absence Notice!

After the recommendation review of doom-encouraging villainess stories, FacelessOne blogs will be taking a break. The blog will return with even more exciting reviews and recommendations in early August.

Literary Wanderlust: Light Novels That Are All About the Journey!

Continuing down the road of recommendations, with the season of summer holidays and travelling right around the corner, this next list is filled with light novels all about travel and exploration.

1) The Ephemeral Scenes of Setsuna’s Journey

First on the list is a series all about having a second lease and jumping on the chance to explore a new world.

The Ephemeral Scenes of Setsuna’s Journey is all about exploration in the purest sense of the word. After spending two lifetimes worth of time in a hospital bed, thanks to the kindness of a travelling hero, Setsuna’s given a new healthy body and a second chance to enjoy all the world has to offer.

With his goals set, Setsuna embarks on a journey of self-discovery and unlocking all the mysteries of the new world.

What Makes This Series a Standout?

Even though this series currently only has one volume released in the West, it’s clear from the very outset that the author knows how to grab the reader’s attention.

Characters are placed front and centre in this series. Throughout the first volume, we’re introduced to several interesting side characters, and it doesn’t matter whether they’re given a few pages or a few chapters; the author characterises them well enough so that we might predict how they’ll react in any situation. The dynamics between father and son are also done particularly well.

Furthermore, the series uses unique forms of narrative devices in order to convey information. Setsuna’s methods for learning about the world around him take form, either through a hero’s teasing notes or by actually interacting with the people from the new world. Gone are the systems of a game-like menu teaching the protagonist everything, and instead, they are replaced by natural, human conversations.

Setsuna’s journey is a story about more than just the travelling or the location; it’s about the people he meets along the way, the stories they tell and the secret things they know about the world around them.

You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volume 1

You can purchase all the volumes in the series so far from the list of distributors found on the Yen Press website.

2) Dragon Daddy Diaries

The second series on the list also has a lot to do with parental dynamics, this time told in a more comedic fashion rather than a serious one.

Dragon Daddy Diaries can be considered a journey both in terms of travel and the time they spend to become a close-knit family. The series centres on the story of Eldraco, who has come into a new, unexpected chapter of his life after adopting a human child named Olivia. Unaccustomed to what it means to be a family, both Eldraco and Olivia embark on a journey to discover what works for them.

What Makes This Series a Standout?

Whilst this series may come over as fluffy and heartwarming in nature, much as in the first series on this list, there’s plenty of personal growth to go around.

Over the course of four volumes, each of the main and supporting casts goes through their own journeys of self-discovery. Helped by the undercurrent of a past war, at one point or another, each character is forced to face their fears or face up to their own rash judgements.

Some of the series’ best moments come through the characterisation journey of the Dark Queen. Finding herself on the wrong side of the war, she slowly descends into becoming a NEET. Throughout the story, we see this woman incrementally reintroduce herself to society, stand up to her family, and finally become someone worthy of being a leader.

You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volumes 3-4

You can purchase all the volumes in the series from the J-Novel Club website.

3) Reincarnated as the Piggy Duke

The final series on this list displays a journey of a very different variety and sees a character trying his best to improve every aspect of his life.

Mixing comedy, action and adventure, Reincarnated as the Piggy Duke follows Slowe Denning after having awakened memories of the future and realising he’s in the world of an anime. Knowing the horrors to come, Slowe casts off his villainous façade and swears to lose weight to both stop the future and finally confess his feelings to Charlotte.

What Makes This Series a Standout?

There are many aspects over ten volumes that could make this series a standout. To keep this review short and sweet, however, I’ll only talk about two in particular.

For one, Piggy Duke’s titular protagonist is one of the most determined I’ve personally seen in a light novel. Despite being overpowered, Slowe still comes off as being out of his depth, seemingly winning against enemies through sheer determination alone.

Moreover, the series goes a step further, often showing what happens when Slowe can’t rely on his determination showing the amount of stress he’s under constantly to ensure the future of the anime doesn’t come to pass.

Secondly, the series has a strong romantic aspect. While Slowe and Charlotte’s relationship takes some time to develop, it starts from a place of mutual respect. Through the confession scene, the author makes it clear that neither Charlotte nor Slowe’s love comes from something superficial but that they love each other for who they are, warts and all.

You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volumes 1-10

You can purchase all the volumes in the series from the J-Novel Club website.

I hope you enjoyed my recommendations. Did I miss any series out? What are your thoughts on these series? Let me know down in the comments!

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.

The Invisible Wallflower Marries an Upstart Aristocrat After Getting Dumped for Her Sister! Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Slice of Life, Shoujo, Villainess

Sub-Tags: Business, Personal Growth, Tsundere

Synopsis:

Can An Ordinary Aristocrat And A Nouveau Riche Tsundere Find Love In An Unconsummated Marriage?!

Iris, the daughter of a marquess, not only had her fiancé stolen by her younger sister, but she also ended up having to marry Lord Lucas, a nouveau riche merchant who was shouldering her family’s debts. However, this former-commoner-turned-baron’s reason for marrying her was just to have Iris teach him and his servants how to survive in high society!

“I was told that I lack presence and that I’m like air. If someone as plain and dull as myself could be of any use to you, I will be more than happy to help, Lord Lucas,” Iris said with complete seriousness, throwing Lucas off guard. Will Lucas be able to resist being slowly drawn to the dedicated Iris, who strives to support him and the people in her life? A complicated romcom that starts with a marriage blanc begins here! (Source: Cross Infinite World)

The Disgraced Old Blood Meets the Nouveau Riche!

To Find the Best in Oneself

Her fiancé stolen and forced to fulfil a political marriage for the sake of her family’s debt; The Invisible Wallflower’s opening volume follows Iris at a rather tumultuous time.

Typical of this genre, the protagonist is viewed as plain and unappealing and has internalised this as a lack of self-confidence. However, it is clear from the outset of this series that what Iris may lack in confidence, she more than makes up in determination. Despite travelling to unfamiliar territory with a man surrounded by unsavoury rumours, she’s more than willing to make a success of the situation not only for her family but also for her own sake.

Rather than a typical marriage, her new husband, Lord Lucas, wishes for her to act more like a governess overseeing their progress to becoming perfect members of the upper class. Through determination and armed with knowledge from the capital, Iris can grow closer to all members of the Stock household.

The results of Iris’s efforts are best illustrated by the author in two ways. The first is through Iris’s maid Kiki, and the gardener. Constant conversations and allowing for a safe environment enable the two with noble traumas to finally open up.

The second is the effect Iris has on the Stock business. With everyone able to address nobles formally, the same nobles are unable to low-ball stock, which means a rise in profits and wages for everyone.

The Rocky Starts of Romance

By getting closer to members of the Stock household, it allows the main focus of the story to move forward also. This series is primarily focused on romance, and the overall impression of the relationship between the two is awkward yet cute.

Iris’ dogged effort to teach formal mannerisms doesn’t fail to get the attention of her political husband, Lucas. Slowly but surely, Iris’ efforts work on him as well, turning their once unconsummated marriage into a situation where sparks have begun to fly.

That isn’t to say that their loving relationship by the end of the volume hasn’t faced hardships. With the two lovebirds noticeably getting closer as the story progresses, both childhood friend Coldola and favourite servant Leikzig start to have issues.

Both issues stem from fierce loyalty, worried that Iris won’t be strong enough to help Lucas when times inevitably turn tough. Iris solves these problems by showing them that she’s more than just princessly noble.

Overall, The Invisible Wallflower’s first volume starts the series off strong. With a sharp focus on personal growth, the series succeeds in showing how new influences can lead to positive change.

For Lucas and the members of his household, Iris’ influence sees many open up about past traumas and signals a way to move forward positively. For Iris, moving to unfamiliar territory finds her trying new things and becoming more independent away from the influence of her oppressive family.

As the series moves forward to confront trauma’s of the past, there’s lots still to look forward to.

The Invisible Wallflower Vol. 1

My Rating: 8/10

I hope you enjoyed my review and would love to see what you thought of the volume in the comments! If you like what I do and want to see more, consider supporting me by buying me a coffee on Ko-Fi.

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

Endo and Kobayashi Live! The Latest on Tsundere Villainess Lieselotte EX Review

Tags: Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Slice of Life, School Life, Villainess

Sub-Tags: Tsundere, Otome, Game Elements

Synopsis:

Endo and Kobayashi have successfully guided Sieg and Lieselotte to the Happy End to End All Happy Ends with their words of wisdom. But what about the Happily Ever After? Goddess Lirenna works her magic, and the four friends from different worlds are finally able to meet in person at Sieg and Lieselotte’s wedding. Now that the opportunity presents itself, Kobayashi leaps at the chance to read the real Lieselotte’s Memoir, the book that inspired Endo and Kobayashi’s affection for Lieselotte. How much have its contents changed compared to the version the duo read in the game? Find out in this sequel novel! Also includes short stories that were originally released as store-exclusive bonuses in Japan! (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Tsundere Villainess’s Happily Ever After!

Gods as Wedding Guests

Saving their beloved villainess from despair and setting her on the path to happiness, the two gods from Japan have one last job to do – attend Sieg and Lieselotte’s wedding.

As the series’ final outing, the volume follows Endo and Kobayashi as they make their way into the world of the game, thanks to the power of the Goddess Lirenna. True to Kobayashi’s nature, finally being able to meet her favourite characters in the flesh has gotten her fangirling something fierce. There’s no stopping the group as they reminisce about old times and read from Lieselotte’s precious memoir.

A Happy Ending for All

The volume features a mixture of stories from both before the defeat of the Witch of Yore and after. Most of these are original and new stories telling missing elements of the relationships between the main characters. In the case of Lieselotte and Sieg, these involve romantic outings and the beginnings of misunderstandings between villainess and heroine.

Some of the more outstanding moments from these short stories involve life beyond the grasp of the witch. Many of these feature characters who only had a supporting role to play in the story, thus leaving much more potential for development. This potential is actualised in the EX disc as Fabien and Leon get more page time to develop their respective relationships.

The final volume also features a conclusive ending. Heartwarming and filled with fluff, the two school students from Japan are given an everlasting message from the main characters of the game, thanking them for the happy ending they deserved.

Concluding, the EX disc is more than just a collection of short stories and flashbacks. Focusing on the acts left unsaid over the previous volumes, these short stories flesh out supporting cast and relationships. The resulting effect is a side volume filled with substance – a volume not to skip out on!

Endo and Kobayashi Disc EX

My Rating: 9/10

I hope you enjoyed my review and would love to see what you thought of the volume in the comments! If you like what I do and want to see more, consider supporting me by buying me a coffee on Ko-Fi.

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

Now I’m a Demon Lord! Happily Ever After with Monster Girls in My Dungeon Vol. 4 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Cute, Heartwarming, Dungeons, OP, Game Elements

Synopsis:

Reborn as a demon lord in another world, Yuki’s living his best dungeon life! Things are more laid back than ever now that he’s returned from the royal capital. Or not—because the Dragon King, Gyuohga, shows up out of nowhere with his sights set on Lefi. “Become my mate!” he demands. This sends Yuki into a frenzy, challenging the Dragon King to a one-on-one fight! But Yuki’s got more than just that to contend with. A demon appears before him with a request: “I’d like you to meet the king of the demon world.” Intrigued by the idea of being a tourist in the demon world, Yuki accepts the invitation and heads off. What awaits him there, however, is a man with a pretty face and an incredibly shady smile… (Source: J-Novel Club)

Dealings with Dragon Kings and Demon Worlds!

Dances with Dragons

Reaching its fourth outing, Now I’m a Demon Lord’s latest volume finally deals with the preverbal elephant in the room – Yuki and Lefi’s relationship.

Over the past four volumes, the will they won’t they atmosphere between them has been palpable, and it was never really a question of if rather than when. Well, the latest volume provides the answer in typical Demon Lord style as Yuki seeks to prove himself worthy of Lefi by taking down the newly-crowned Dragon King.

There really couldn’t have been a better way to shape the series’ grand confession than to have Yuki fight to the death against an arrogant dragon king eager to “steal his woman.” It’s a strong action scene rounding off the first half of the volume with the Dragon King completely misunderstanding Yuki’s passion and the number of cheap tricks and traps he’s willing to set to achieve his victory.

What awaits Yuki after his victory is Lefi’s warm embrace and heaps of levelling-up! Defeating a Dragon King provides numerous benefits, and now he’ll have the skills likely only to be outmatched by Lefi.

The Demon World

Including his victory over the Dragon king, Yuki’s actions have started to cause waves in all sorts of strange places. He has particularly caught the attention of the Demon King, who’s under threat of a revolution.

Rounding off the volume, Yuki’s exploits take him on an adventure to the demon world in talks of an alliance. Not joined by Lefi on this journey, it has cleverly allowed some of the other main characters to shine – Leila in particular. As well as acting as a deterrent for any woman that may make a move on Yuki, her dealings with the leader of the demon world highlight her previous profession and shows the potential for her character as the series moves towards more serious enemies. With her bartering skills, Yuki comes out of the alliance with the Demon King with well more than the king bargained for, that’s for sure.

On the lighter side, Yuki’s trip to the demon world allows him to show off his new engagement to Lefi. Those with the appraisal skill give a variety of responses – all equally hilarious!

To conclude, Now I’m a Demon Lord’s latest volume still sets itself as one of the best slice-of-life fantasy series currently ongoing. Expanding the series’ reach, volume four shows more of the world Yuki now inhabits by travelling to the demon world. Moreover, the series finally moves Yuki and Lefi’s relationship forward, keeping the series engaging and the character dynamics fresh. I’m looking forward to reading what’s in store for Yuki and his family next.

Now I’m a Demon Lord Vol. 4

My Rating: 9/10

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