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

Cover Illustration for Volume 2

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.

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

Cover Illustration for Volume 1

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.

The Evil Queen’s Beautiful Principles Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Fantasy, Romance, Drama, Tragedy, Villainess, Isekai

Sub-Tags: Revenge, Politics, Conspiracies, Ruthless Protagonist

Cover Illustration for Volume 1

Synopsis:

A woman reborn, Crown Princess Luxeria is derided as a doll, beautiful and docile. But that’s merely the mask she wears. Powerful magic courses through her veins—magic that can corrupt hearts, erase memories, and pluck one’s innermost thoughts from the air. After years of being confined to a tower, she is finally set free…only to become embroiled in a grand conspiracy that kicks off with her parents’ murder. Thrust onto a tragic stage of love and betrayal, she will play her part to perfection. (Source: Seven Seas Entertainment)

The Doll Princess’ Revenge!

From the same author that brought us The Accomplishments of the Duke’s Daughter comes the newest light novel series from Seven Seas Entertainment featuring revenge, tragic romance and kingdom-building.

Personal Vengeance

Revenge can be a difficult theme to manage. A balance of catharsis and believable motivations, it’s a theme that, on the whole, The Evil Queen’s Beautiful Principles navigates adeptly.

Key to this successful navigation is the volume’s central revenge act – Luxeria, the protagonist’s revenge against those who murdered her parents. Acting as a puppet ruler over the novel’s first half, it allows the revenge plot to build bit by bit. Throughout, her façade allows her to plan secretly gathering allies, leading to the perfect moment of catharsis as Luxeria reveals her true intentions in a bloody wedding sequence. It’s well-focused and staged, helping to feed into Luxeria’s prized narrative as the cold-hearted queen.

Unfortunately, the rest of the volume’s subplots aren’t so well-focused.

Romance and a Revenge for the People

In the case of the volume’s climax, the focus is taken away simply due to the novel already having peaked. Going one step beyond a personal vendetta, she takes her plans to stop the kingdom’s bureaucratic decay and create a system that helps both commoners and the nobility equally. A fine concept in practice, unfortunately, it falls foul of the fact that not one member of the nation’s ministry holds a candle to her power and, therefore, barely feels like a threat.

As for the series’ romantic subplot, the problem stems from an overall lack of connection between the series’ two romantic leads. Beyond a small flashback, Luxeria and Wilhelm barely speak more than two words to each other throughout the entire volume. As a result, I find it difficult to connect with their love story, and what’s more, I barely find it believable that she would use her abilities on him in a way that could endanger her entire motivation as ruler.

Fortunately, the theme of friendship is one subplot that offers some light at the end of the tunnel. The relationship between Luxeria and Alicia is the only link that the protagonist doesn’t sever from their childhood years. Offering a very different side to Luxeria from the ruthless ruler, their fun-loving moments together come as a welcome tension-breaker. Although, even this subplot suffers from a few holes. Explaining a plot point as being happenstance isn’t exactly a favourite of mine. 

To conclude, whilst the story’s central revenge plot is well-focused and delivers the perfect amount of catharsis, this positivity doesn’t extend towards the rest of the story. A less-than-stellar climax and an underdeveloped romantic subplot mean that I won’t be picking up the sequel in the series.

The Evil Queen 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 physically and digitally through the distributors listed on the Seven Seas website.

Revolutionary Reprise of the Blue Rose Princess Vol. 3 Review

Tags: Fantasy, Drama, Romance, Tragedy, Villainess

Sub-Tags: Reincarnation, Politics, Conspiracies

Cover Illustration for Volume 3

Synopsis:

The Romantic Finale For The Blue Rose Princess & Her Adviser!

After the eventful visit to Erdal, Princess Alicia finally confesses her feelings to Clovis. The two savor a short-lived period of bliss—but memories from Alicia’s previous life suddenly plague her, etching the fear of losing Clovis deep in her heart. Resolved to prevent his death, Alicia hatches a plan, only for it to create a rift between the new couple…?! How will Alicia’s revolutionary reprise end for her, Clovis, and everyone they’ve worked with throughout the years? (Source: Cross Infinite World)

The Princess’ Problems in Erdal!

Saving the best till last, the final outing of Revolutionary Reprise ramps up the pace as Alicia and Clovis close in on the tragic events that led Alicia to wake up in the past. Revolving around the relationship between the Kingdom of Heilland and the Empire of Erdal, it sees the series’ titular romantic duo trying to catch a traitor willing to start a war for the sake of unification between the two nations.

A True Future Queen

A step up from the author’s previous writings, the plot of the third volume makes for a tense read. Successfully employing numerous twists and turns, it proves to the very last page that Alicia and Clovis’ happy ending is a hard-fought affair.

With her citizens and even the Empress under threat from the unionists and their malicious schemes, facing off against members of the empire’s highest nobility forces Alicia to put all her previous training into practice and don the role of a future queen. In this plot, all of Alicia’s previous interactions and development over the past trilogy come into play here as she uses wit, cunning and intelligence to ensure a peaceful solution that doesn’t end in all-out war.

Alicia’s interactions with the Empress are particularly noteworthy. As conversations between a present leader and a future one, they show how far Alicia’s come to be able to gain approval about becoming a future queen.

Clovis also gets his own moments to shine throughout this volume. Whilst getting more in touch with his emotions makes for good progress, his best moments come as he proves himself every bit a match for the princess. By the end of the volume, it only takes a few words from Alicia for Clovis to know what to do.

A Usurper in the Empire

As for the usurper’s side, thanks to some quick thinking on behalf of the story’s heroes, it culminates as a trial. The Prince and Chancellor Yggdrasil are revealed to be behind the plot. A short-lived alliance, their different reasons for wanting reunification end up being their undoing.

The prince and Charlotte steal the show in these segments partly due to the final touches of development being added to make them complex and nuanced characters. In this volume, Charlotte moves away from the typical light novel Otome heroine archetype. Despite her lovesickness and admiration for her father, she’s still able to break away from their moments of folly and act alongside Alicia for what is right.

At the same time as Charlotte, the Prince finally reveals his full character. Long held under the shadow of his mother, his need to break free and accomplish something beyond the powers of the Empress is understandable and makes for a natural progression for his character. His eventual repentance also makes sense as a result.

Overall, the climax of the Revolutionary Reprise saga makes for a solid ending to this tragic romantic fantasy. Including a final plot filled with twists and turns and a set of nuanced, complex characters, it’s a series that is highly worth checking out.

Revolutionary Reprise 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 through the distributors listed on the Cross Infinite World website.

The Dark Guildmaster’s Smile Would Fit Best Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Harem, Mystery, Isekai, Seinen

Sub-Tags: Yandere, Conspiracies, Strong Lead

Cover Illustration for Volume 1

Synopsis:

In a world of swords and magic, evil crime syndicates known as Dark Guilds terrorize the Kingdom of Efan. The most secretive and feared of them all is the Messianic Legion, Yerkchira—but its guildmaster is an ordinary, normal, harmless little guy! Despite his wishes for peace and happiness, the lovely ladies under his command have big plans for him, and he finds himself at the brink of a great destiny! This average individual is the center of a campaign for diabolical global domination—while remaining none the wiser himself. (Source: Hanashi Media)

A Master Unknowingly Gifted the World!

Written by Ryo Mizokami and Illustrated by Kozou, Hanashi Media’s latest release is an interesting mix of comedy and violence.

Following the infamous dark guild, Yerkchira, The Dark Guildmaster’s Smile lifts the lid on the criminal organisations’ day-to-day activities.

Yerkchira isn’t an ordinary guild. Albeit small, its members are some of the strongest species in the world, and they all have one thing in common – an infatuation with their Guildmaster. As their twisted love blooms, these guild members will stop at nothing to ensure their master’s happiness, even if it means taking over the world. Fortunately for them, Yerkchira’s guildmaster is none the wiser to their schemes.

Heroes and Villains

The first volume in the series follows the guild as they face their first great obstacle towards world domination – the hero’s party. A natural enemy for a criminal organisation, the Yerkchira members quickly identify them as a potential problem towards their future plans.

Encountering each other at the start of the story seemingly by accident during a “date” between Master and Laladie, the certainty of a battle between the guild and the hero’s party, and the interactions that arise as a result take up most of the volume’s runtime.

The author keeps the anticipation alive in these passages through several entertaining methods. The first is Laladie. The most developed character of the Yerkchira guild members, it takes everything she has not to kill the party immediately whilst on their little adventure together. This thin veneer she holds is made all the more poignant when she’s permitted to break free, unleashing her horrifying powers. 

The second method of entertainment arises from the interactions between the members of the hero’s party. Comprised of three otherworlders and a native, their origins aren’t the only thing that far from being a monolith. Their conversations throughout indicate how divided the party is, from the member seeking justice to one wanting to go home and the one who seeks glory and victory above all else. These divisions pay off by the end of the volume as they play into the reasons for betrayal amongst the hero’s party teammates.

Aside from the plot between the guild and the hero’s party, this volume also looks at the dynamics between the members of Yerkchira. Whilst this look at all the different variations of Yandere is an enjoyable side quest, it lacks depth because we’re not given the background as to how the Guildmaster was able to tame some of the world’s most dangerous women.

Overall, The Dark Guildmaster’s first volume makes for an entertaining read. It balances its comedic and violent themes with constantly developing character pairings and team dynamics. I only hope the next volume delves deeper into the guild’s backstory and creation.

The Dark Guildmaster’s Smile Vol. 1

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 first volume of this series digitally on the Hanashi Media website.

Revolutionary Reprise of the Blue Rose Princess Vol. 2 Review

Tags: Fantasy, Drama, Romance, Tragedy, Villainess

Sub-Tags: Reincarnation, Politics, Conspiracies

Cover Illustration for Volume 2

Synopsis:

The Gears Of Fate Are Turning Fast!

After deciding to become her kingdom’s ruler, Alicia takes on her first challenge to establish a wide-area trading company together with her adviser, Clovis. This venture leads them to discover dark connections between the nobles opposing their plans and the neighboring empire which Heilland waged war against in Alicia’s past life…

Six years later, Alicia makes her high society debut and accepts an invitation from the empire. There, she meets her husband from her previous life, makes a promise with the woman he loves, and faces up against the fierce but beautiful empress, all key players leading up to the “Night of the Revolution.” As Alicia struggles to change her fate, feelings for her adviser start to grow within her… (Source: Cross Infinite World)

A Princess Quells the Sparks of War!

The Council and Conspiracy

Having read the latest volume of Revolutionary Reprise, it is clear that the series has grown from strength to strength. Key to this volume’s success starts early on, as the author opens the latest volume on a tale of intrigue.

This tale of intrigue and conspiracy comes as Alicia and Clovis’ business plan meets more than the expected opposition due to a difference in viewpoint. After holding their meeting with the Privy Council, it isn’t long before either suspect foul play afoot when their already trusted business parties begin to reject their proposal.

Chief among their suspects is the current Lord Sutherland. Both he and his son Riddhe have long been a pain in the pair’s side, but this volume moves both of their motivations beyond the level of petty villainy. For Riddhe, in particular, these are defining moments for his character. While the two have misguided their love for their country alongside their hatred of Clovis, Riddhe still has room for redemption.

Upon discovering that his father’s hatred for the Graham bloodline has led him to treachery, Riddhe still has the good sense to realise that his actions are wrong and that the country can still be saved without the need for the Empire. As a result, Riddhe’s testimony against his father leads to his arrest and finds Alicia and Clovis ever closer to discovering the cause of the war – malicious forces in Erdal.

Just Another Cog in the Machine

Unfortunately for Clovis and Alicia, vague rumours about Erdal are all they’re able to glean as Lord Sutherland is assassinated. The next pieces of the puzzle are only revealed as Alicia turns sixteen.

The second half of this volume sees several shifts in the story’s pace. With Alicia now older, there’s a sense of urgency in her actions as the tragic events of her previous life come ever closer.

This is none more so felt when Alicia and Clovis receive an invitation to meet with the Empress of Erdal. Seeing this as the perfect opportunity to scope out the enemy, Alicia’s newfound yet understandable reckless streak fails to identify the dangers of such a mission.

With all the main cast from her previous life’s tragedy present, Alicia becomes sidetracked. Faced with her former fiancé and his mistress, Alicia is determined to learn what brought them together, only to discover that they both complement each other perfectly.

Fritz and Charlotte aren’t the only ones to have a few romantic moments. Considering the stressful situation, the events in the empire have slowly brought Alicia and Clovis closer together as well.

Substance and depth have made this series stronger. From a beginning filled with intrigue to a character-filled climax, this series is making every effort to make itself stand out from the crowd.

What highlights this series is the work done on its central characters. Moving them away from their respective cliches and making them individuals with complex and conflicting motivations. This is no more evident than with Riddhe and Fritz, both of whom get heavy focus that distances them from their original one-note villainy.

With both the romantic and climatic stage set, Revolutionary Reprise has only gone from strength to strength in its sequel.

Revolutionary Reprise Vol. 2

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 list of distributors found on the Cross Infinite World website.

Lovestruck Prince! I’ll Fight the Heroine for My Villainess Fiancée Vol. 2 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Misunderstandings, Otome, Conspiracies, Cute

Cover Illustration for Volume 2

Synopsis:

The Lovestruck Prince Fends Off The Reverse Harem!

The lovestruck prince who eliminates attempts to break off his engagement returns! Prince Vincent has finally worked up the resolve to confess his undying love to his fiancée Elizabeth—but right afterwards, new romantic rivals pop up one after another to try to steal the lovely noblewoman’s heart. Will Vincent be able to beat off the royal rabble, or has he finally met his match? (Source: Cross Infinite World)

The Prince Fights a Star Maiden Sequel!

A Rival Appears

Having defeated the fate written down in the first Star Maiden novel, Prince Vincent is all for his new trouble-free engaged life with his childhood sweetheart, Elizabeth. Fate, however, is never quite so kind. It isn’t long before Vincent once again feels trouble brewing in the ether, and a prophetic nightmare seals a rough road ahead.

Spurred into action by this dream and a newfound confidence born through the defeat of the novel, the second instalment of Lovestruck Prince starts with the most important moment in Vincent’s relationship so far – finally confessing his love to Elizabeth. Luckily, he confessed when he did, as just days later, an interloper of a foreign prince tries to take Elizabeth away with him.

Shocked but not surprised, Vincent always knew this day could come, but the issue with Prince Leohardt becomes less of a problem than originally thought due to the growth Elizabeth experienced over the past volume. As it turns out, Vincent’s confession was the last piece of the puzzle in giving Elizabeth enough confidence to turn people down.

A Villainess for Good

Turning down Leohardt’s confession makes way for the real reason he’s come to the kingdom. For a while now, the Kingdom of Orion has been subject to growing tensions over the next prince to take the throne. Not wanting to get in his brother Marius’ way, Leohardt has come to the neighbouring kingdom to solidify his brother’s position by readying the country bumpkin and Marius’ lover, Lady Lecia, to become queen. 

Seeing Lady Lecia’s efforts, Vincent and Elizabeth decide to help in Leohardt’s plans to put Marius on the throne. Their involvement in the plan sees the return of the Star Maiden novel, this time hoping to put its powers to good use.

To ensure that Marius becomes the next king, they plan to see both him and Lecia perform a heroic act to save the kingdom. To that end, Elizabeth once again dons the role of the villainess, something that could not have been possible without her growth in confidence. She acts alongside the supposed “evil” prince and a familiar fellwyrm to give the two a disaster-worthy event to stop. 

Fresh off the events of its prequel, the latest story in the series is cleverly written to showcase the development and growth both protagonists have gone through, either within themselves or as a couple.

Since its first outing, both Vincent and Elizabeth have grown leagues in confidence and, as a result, are able to circumvent possible disasters for their relationship and help save a neighbouring nation.

Furthermore, the second instalment in the series solves two of the issue I had with its premier – the lack of romantic moments between Vincent and Elizabeth and Elizabeth’s lacking involvement with the plot. Throughout this volume, the lovey-dovey couple go on several dates together, and Elizabeth’s role in the plot is integral to ensuring peace on the continent.

To conclude, mixing great moments of development alongside more involvement for both protagonists in the role of the plot makes Lovestruck Prince’s second volume a fine addition to the series.

Lovestruck Prince! Vol. 2

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 list of distributors on the Cross Infinite World website.

Lovestruck Prince! I’ll Fight the Heroine for My Villainess Fiancée Vol. 1 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Misunderstandings, Otome, Conspiracies, Cute

Cover Illustration for Volume 1

Synopsis:

For Once, The Prince Will Prove The Villainess’ Innocence!

When Crown Prince Vincent announces their engagement is over, Elizabeth faints. What will become of House la Montlivere? Of her entire family? At the prince’s side, the so-called heroine smirks. Elizabeth is doomed to a villainess’ fate… Only for the tables to turn when Vincent suddenly calls out the heroine for her misdeeds!

Jump into the story of an ill-fated but handsome prince as he fights for his darling fiancée, deflecting every attempt to turn her into an evildoer by any means necessary! They’ll have their lovey-dovey happily ever after, even if it kills him! (Source: Cross Infinite World)

A Prince Will Prove the Villainess Innocent!

A Heroine Problem

What would you do if your fiancée was wrongly accused of bullying the heroine? Do everything possible to prove her innocence, of course! With the light of his life suffering from an Otome-style slandering, it’s up to Prince Vincent to solve a twisting conspiracy and regain their happy-clappy love life.

Changing-up the setting is a good way to stand out when tackling the villainess subgenre. Lovestruck Prince takes this inspiration and chooses the villainess’ fiancé to fight against the Otome plot skeleton structure. It’s an angle that offers fresh ground to tread on, revealing the interesting effects of someone other than the villainess attempting to stop their doom. It also doesn’t hurt that the series comes with an intriguing mystery to unwrap. 

To save his Fiancée, Vincent must unmask the true nature of the “heroine,” Yulisse. Diving deep for a solution, it turns out her actions are more than that of a spoilt heroine. Blessings, curses and the strange spread of a libellous novel all point towards bigger forces at work. Vincent and his trusty right-hand, Harold, quickly figure out that certain noble circles are looking to take control of the throne.

The noble’s plot in question mainly encompasses a popular romance novel colloquially known as The Star Maiden. This novel is a useful tool, not only in-world but as part of the main plot device, acting as a catalyst for both the heroine’s blessing and the curse. It also goes beyond most within its subgenre, not choosing to explain away the heroine’s harem antics through Otome plot-armour but rather as a collection of powerful tool’s abilities interacting together.

A Fool in Love

“If only that spineless mudfish of a prince would confess to her already, they wouldn’t have to keep beating around the bush!”

Never has there been a more apt quote from a novel that explains the base misunderstandings of this series so well. The prince may well have been given with both hands in terms of looks and intelligence, but when it comes to interacting with Elizabeth, he becomes a blubbering mess. The romance between Elizabeth and Vincent is filled with saccharine moments and is framed in a way that is more than appropriate for two kids in love.

Their love often rubs off on others as well. Childhood friends Harold and Margaret are especially vulnerable. The two are right hands for Vincent and Elizabeth and often share cute moments together as they watch for their master’s safety.

Unfortunately, throughout the first volume, there are only a few scenes between Elizabeth and Vincent. It is understandable, given the nature of Vincent’s plan, but more cute scenes between Elizabeth and Vincent could only have been a boon to the volume.

Weaving conspiracies alongside cute romantic moments make Lovestruck Prince an engaging read. The series’ general comedic undertone and a change to the usual villainess formula draw the reader in before capturing them completely through well-thought-out plot devices and a cast of likeable characters you can’t help but root for. This is a series that I’d highly recommend to anyone, fan of the genre or not!

Lovestruck Prince! Vol. 1

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 first volume of this series digitally through the list of distributors on the Cross Infinite World website.

Private Tutor to the Duke’s Daughter Vol. 4 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Cute, Strong Lead, Conspiracies

Cover Illustration for Volume 4

Synopsis:

Allen sets out on an overdue trip home to the eastern capital—not just to his students’ dismay, but to his own as well. He’s been hiding his failure to become a court sorcerer from his parents, so despite his sister’s assurances, he finds himself dreading their reunion. Family problems are far from the only troubles awaiting him in his hometown, however—simmering tensions between the city’s large beastfolk population and its haughty human aristocracy are about to boil over, and hard-liners on both sides take a dim view of Allen’s status as an adopted member of the wolf clan. Meanwhile, the disgraced Prince Gerard hasn’t learned from his last defeat, and his rumored rebellion threatens to pull the tutor into a deadly web of conspiracy. Will the unexpected addition of Tina, Ellie, Lynne, and (of course) Lydia be enough to see Allen through his most physically—and politically—dangerous adventure yet? (Source: J-Novel Club)

The Private Tutor Returns Home!

Toward the Eastern Capital

Earning a well-deserved break, the fourth volume opens on the academy’s summer holidays, giving Allen the perfect opportunity to return home and deliver the bad news about failing the court sorcerers exam. The only problem? Both his students and friends won’t let him go alone. Travelling by his side to the Eastern Capital affords them the opportunity to monopolise what little they’ll see of him over the summer break and allow them to meet their future parents-in-law.

Meeting Allen’s parents has certainly increased the intensity with which the girls attempt to steal a march on one another. The battle between them has always been ferocious, but meeting the parents of the one they love has sent them into overdrive.

It’s always fun to watch how they try to impress Allen, with Lydia and Tina emerging victorious this time. Their victories are hard to ignore. Lydia enjoys going on a shopping date with Allen and has already met and established herself with Allen’s parents. Meanwhile, Tina gets to share a special moment with Allen as her powers spiral out of control once again.

Gerard 3: The Last Stand

Good times are never long-lasting in this series, as conspiracies threaten the capital from the shadows. Prince Gerard makes his return after the thrashing he got previously. This time he’s hell-bent on destroying the Eastern Capital with a captured version of the Blazing Quiln spell.

As well as finally defeating the prince, this fight is important for developing the great spells of the kingdom. Discovering that neither spell is intrinsically evil and that Allen’s ability is the key to unlocking their full potential.

At the same time, forces are beginning to amass on the border, and certain aspects of nobility are on the move. This is most likely the set-up of the story’s next arc, and it’ll be interesting to see the full extent of the damage that’s to come.

Overall, Private Tutor’s fourth volume is a fun ride that finally puts to bed the series’ prince issue. As well as learning about the great spells, some of this volume’s best moments come from the girls’ constant one-upmanship. Lydia is a highlight as we read into more aspects of her personality, but they each play an important role in the volume.

Private Tutor to the Duke’s Daughter Vol. 4

My Rating: 8.5/10

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

The Holy Grail of Eris Vol. 3 Review

Tags: Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Mystery, Crime, Tragedy, Villainess

Sub-Tags: Conspiracies, Weak Protagonist

Cover Illustration for Volume 3

Synopsis:

ACTIONS HAVE CONSEQUENCES

Scarlett and Connie are finally closing in on the truth of what happened ten years ago, but Daeg Gallus is determined to eliminate all obstacles to the Holy Grail of Eris, with Connie and her fiancé, Randolph, at the top of their list. To thwart their plan, Connie allows herself to be framed and imprisoned, ensuring Randolph’s freedom. She never dreamed, though, that her actions would result in the first execution order in ten years—with her head on the chopping block! (Source: Yen Press)

A Conclusion to Conspiracies!

With conspiracies unravelling and criminals finding their comeuppance. The latest review to appear on the blog follows the dramatic conclusion to this mystery villainess series.

Heading to the Chopping Block

Seldom do I find myself so taken aback by a light novel series, but with each twist and turn, The Holy Grail of Eris finds new ways to intrigue and keep me hooked. The third volume in the series is no different. As the mystery reaches its dramatic conclusion, there are still more tricks this series can pull out of its hat.

As Connie, Scarlett and co close in on Daeg Gallus’ involvement in the seventh prince’s disappearance, their leaders move to take one final action to stop their meddling once and for all. With Connie as their main target, people dear to her are kidnapped, and she herself is framed for the kidnapping of the crown prince Ulysses.

Arrested, charged and scheduled for execution, it’s up to her friends to take on her mantle, searching for anything against the organisation that’ll free her and stop a war between two kingdoms.

What the author does so well in this volume is bring all the moving parts of the puzzle together. Each of the notable characters from the series so far had a role to play, either in obstruction or by paying in their favours to stop Connie’s execution.

Some side characters of particular note in this volume are Viscount Hamsworth and Amelia Hobbs. Throughout each of the three volumes so far, they’ve had an important role to play. Whether it be ensuring Connie and Randolph can move around noble society without issue or ensuring the audience gets interesting glimpses into specific shady characters, it is important to showcase that not everything can be solved by the actions of the main protagonists.

The Weak Guiding the Strong

Coming to the end of a story arc also means coming to a conclusion in a character’s development arc. For Connie, there is a very tangible change in her character from when we first met her at the start of the series. From a shrinking wallflower, she has bloomed many new levels of confidence.

Connie is taking the lead, confronting more prominent nobles, such as Scarlett’s father, as well as sacrificing herself for the sake of love. She has come on leaps and bounds from where she started.

I believe it is this confidence and courage that leads to the overall happy ending. Without taking her possible death sentence head-on, they’d likely be unable to draw out the remaining members of Daeg Gallus, stopping a war. Moreover, without her experience of dealing with conspiracies, it is doubtful whether she’d have been able to confess her feelings to Randolph.

An Awkward Sorrow

Also featured prominently is the end of the flashback sequences involving Scarlett, Adolphus and Aliénore. This part finally reveals the touching love story between Adolphus and Aliénore and Scarlett’s eventual execution.

Whilst the love story is sweet, what most will be interested in is Adolphus’ reaction upon hearing about his daughter’s death. Those awkward emotions bubbling up into a scene of sadness in solitude. It’s raw and unapologetic, even bringing me close to tears.

It is nice that the author gave a happy ending for both of them in the end.

Concluding The Holy Grail of Eris’ third volume has convinced me that this is one of the best villainess and light novel series on the market at the moment. The payoff to the series’ mystery and the level of depth and thought made into each of the characters make this a must-read for anyone, either thinking about reading light novels or seasoned regulars.

The Holy Grail of Eris Vol. 3

My Rating: 10/10

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 third volume of this series both digitally and physically from the list of distributors found on the Yen Press website.