Gods – Faceless One Blog

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.

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 11 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Video Games, Game Elements, Strong Lead, Gods

Synopsis:

A thousand years in the past, Makoto Takatsuki has successfully recruited the legendary hero party, and they’re finally ready to take on Demon Lord Bifrons. At least, that was the plan. But then the demon lords assemble, rallying an army that outnumbers the heroes a thousand to one. Makoto must shift tactics to counter the onslaught, and just when the situation seems dire, Ira reveals a shocking secret about water magic that could turn the tide of battle. Unfortunately, the Great Demon Lord is hardly one to play fair. Seeing the might of the heroes’ army, Iblis offers Makoto something truly tantalizing: power. The final showdown for the fate of history has begun. Can the heroes’ light pierce through the Clouds of Darkness? And is Makoto’s will as strong as his magic? (Source: J-Novel Club)

Makoto Meets the Great Demon Lord!

Continuing Makoto’s journey one thousand years in the past, the eleventh volume of Full Clearing in Another World finds the hero’s party facing their ultimate challenge.

Managing to unite the hero’s party from the past, the latest chapter in the series picks back up after a small training arc. With their powers tested and successfully upgraded, Makoto and the gang are finally ready to face off against the big guns of the demon army. Making Bifrons their first target, they set out on their final assault, unaware of the big plans Iblis has in store for them.

Fight, Fight, Fight!

Using the build-up and darker setting of the previous novel to its advantage, the final volume in the “thousand-year” arc produces a worthy climax. With their training done and all the preparations made, this story is all about the fight.

The author has managed to surpass themself. Throughout the volume, three fights are showcased against different demon lords that effortlessly manage to upgrade the scale whilst managing to dangle the prospect of even bigger fights to come.

The promised battles against Bifrons, Astaroth and Iblis all get a look in, each showing the awesome might of the demon lord’s army. Furthermore, these battles show that the hero’s party’s true power is nothing to be sniffed at. Makoto and Anna/Abel get massive upgrades to their abilities, giving credence to the world’s written history and their victory by the end of the volume.

The Thousand-Year Question

In addition to the demon’s defeat, this volume also answers the lingering plot thread of Makoto’s thousand-year journey home. Meant as a one-way trip, it was always going to be interesting to see what solution the author would come up with to have Makoto join back up with the action in the present day.

Whilst I won’t spoil the events surrounding the solution in this review, I would like to highlight the segment focusing on Momo’s perspective. Detailing her life up to meeting Makoto in the present day, it’s a truly wonderful, heartfelt perspective that’ll surely win Momo more than a few fans by the end of the volume. As they say, the best things in life are worth waiting for.

Concluding Makoto’s journey in the Age of Demons, Full Clearing in Another World’s eleventh volume is a fascinating read filled with action, comedy and tragedy. Both Momo and Anna are the highlights of the volume. Their actions and perspectives secure them as some of the best characters in the series thus far.

Full Clearing Vol. 11

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

Disciple of the Lich Vol. 6 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Misunderstandings, OP, Tsundere, Gods

Synopsis:

HIGH FIVE WITH THE UNSEEN HAND

Grede’s dirty dealings in Ploroque City are taken care of thanks to Kanata and his crew. It turns out everything was orchestrated by the Unseen Hand of the Gods and their leader, King Veranta, the Ruler of the World, and they’re not too happy about Kanata’s meddling.

With the Hand’s grasping digits in hot pursuit, Kanata tries to pull information out of the obstinate dragon Ramiel—only for King Veranta to show up at the worst possible moment! Meanwhile, Lunaère is keeping close tabs on the gang with her ill-gotten Tiamat’s Eye. Good luck getting out of this one, Kanata! (Source: Seven Seas)

Kanata and the God’s Secret Weapons!

The Last of the Unseen Hand

After the fifth instalment’s side quest left the series on shaky ground, the sixth volume of Disciple of the Lich proves that there’s a slew of interesting ideas left in the tank.

In the latest volume of the series, the story finds Kanata and the gang up against their fiercest enemies to date. Upon defeating the homunculus and capturing Ramiel, the main cast has well and truly caught the eye of the Unseen Hand. Determined to rid Locklore of the aberration, the leaders have finally got to make their move, but they’re not the only ones with bad intentions. High above the world, the Gods have become sick of Kanata’s victory and are ready to play their secret weapon, one that could decide the fate of the world forever.

With the prospect of heavy battles ahead, the newest edition starts with a lull in the action. Expecting to face off against the leaders of the Unseen Hand, these plans go awry when an unexpected reunion with Lunaère solves this problem for them. Ever the dutiful tsundere, she completely de-fangs the organisation, worried about what they had planned for her beloved Kanata.

It’s great to see Kanata and Lunaére back together again. One of the series’ strongest aspects, the interactions between them, were a thing of joy, and I’m glad to see that even after their time apart, their relationship hasn’t skipped a beat. What’s more, now that Lunaère is together with the whole gang, the story provides a nice outsider’s perspective, showing how hopelessly in love they are.

Fallen Saints and Angels

With the whole gang back together and the members of the Unseen Hand persuaded to join, the latter half of the novel finds the lot of them facing off against Naiarotop’s final solution.

Hoping to stop Kanata once and for all, Naiatop’s last move has him summon into the world imprisoned beings who’d gotten a little bit too powerful for the Gods to control. As enemies go, both Reniement and Lucifer make for great bossfights. Either equal in strength or more powerful, they act as one of the few great challenges for Kanata and the first time we’ve seen him struggle since first landing in Cocytus.

The battle against Lucifer is especially poignant. Stronger than both protagonists and the climactic battle of the volume, he forces Kanata and Lunaère to fight together. These scenes then show how in sync and made for each other the two of them are.

Having concluded the sixth volume, Disciple of the Lich’s latest outing is one of the strongest so far by playing the series’ original strengths. Featuring a cornucopia of overpowered bossfights and a touching reunion between Kanata and Lunaère, it reminds me of all the positive reasons that drew me to the series in the first place.

As the series reaches its dramatic conclusion in the next volume, I’m looking forward to all the thrill this series still has yet to throw at me.

Disciple of the Lich Vol. 6

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 sixth volume of this series digitally from the list of distributors found on the Seven Seas website.

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 10 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Video Games, Game Elements, Strong Lead, Gods

Synopsis:

Makoto Takatsuki has journeyed a thousand years into the past at the behest of Goddess Althena. His mission? Save the world from the Great Demon Lord’s diabolical plan to manipulate history. In order to stand a chance, Makoto must team up with Abel the Savior. However, Abel’s famed party is still in its infancy, and the hero himself isn’t quite what the legends have made him out to be. Humanity will need to consolidate their forces, disrupt the demons’ reign, and break through the Age of Darkness. Yet before they can rally, a fierce enemy bursts onto the scene: Noah’s contemporary disciple, Demon Lord Cain. A face-off between Noah’s past and future believers is imminent—with a little divine insight and a lot of improvisation, can Makoto topple the Mad Hero and keep history from falling apart? (Source: J-Novel Club)

Makoto’s Age of Darkness!

Strength of the Elementals

Learning that the Demon Lord Iblis is changing history, my new review looks at Full Clearing’s tenth volume as Makoto is sent back in time to stop him.

In fitting with the change of scenery, the latest volume of Full Clearing starts with a darker tone than usual. Travelling back a thousand years, Makoto soon discovers what life was like under the cruelty of demons. With most of the human population forced to live on feeding farms, those free are in hiding. Scattered across vast swathes of land, they’ve mostly sought refuge in dungeons, out of the way of the demon lord’s prying eyes.

The latest addition to the series sees Makoto separated from his usual harem and forced to team up with a new party to save the future. Wanting to follow the history recorded in the stories of legend, things don’t quite play out the way Makoto expects. Far from following the original course of history, with each new member of the new team, the more likely candidate for saving humanity from the demon scourge rests on Makoto’s shoulders rather than Abel’s.

The key to this change lies in Makoto’s new potential. Many amongst the survivors see Makoto as a new hero, thanks in part to the gifts given to him by the Goddesses. Now able to summon living embodiments of Undyine and cut the strings of fate, he saves both his new party members and clusters of survivors numerous times.

A New Hero Party’s Journey

Makoto’s actions eventually help him build the hero’s party from legend bar one member. No replacement for Makoto’s original group, the author has managed to stay away from any potential pitfalls that starting from scratch can bring. Makoto, Momo, Anna, Abel and the legendary dragon’s interactions throughout the second half of the volume are always enjoyable and make for a great reprieve from this action-heavy addition.

To add their final member, Johnnie Walker, to the cast, the volume’s climax finds them investigating Laphroaig for him. Totally different from its present counterpart, the city is laden with hidden dangers and unexpected allies.

Keeping as much distance as possible from the Witch of Calamity, Makoto’s new party comes across the hidden lair of Estelle. Ira is once again using Estelle as a disguise, and she’s the only one in the past who remembers Makoto. This is a welcome moment for both of them, especially Makoto, who’s been missing his Goddess and friends in the future.

One thing is made clear to all the members of the hero’s party in Laphroaig – they all need to train to get stronger.

To conclude, the latest instalment of Full Clearing makes an excellent start to the series’ new arc.

Pursuing a darker tone than previous iterations, it perfectly captures a world under the control of a powerful enemy whilst keeping the overall comedic undertone that the series usually projects.

Furthermore, the author has done well in the types of characters he’s chosen to play a role in the hero’s party. Instantly likeable, they make for an appropriate replacement for Makoto’s harem, who are still stuck in the future.

Full Clearing Another World Vol. 10

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

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 9 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Video Games, Game Elements, Strong Lead, Gods

Synopsis:

Demon lord Zagan has been defeated! Long live the alliance! After fighting alongside the Hero of Light to drive back the demon army, Makoto Takatsuki finds himself stuck in the infirmary battling a new enemy—boredom. As he sits idle, the alliance braces for another incursion from the demon continent. However, the next attack comes from an unexpected direction: Alexander, the Hero of the Sun, targets Furiae, seeking to take her into custody. Highland’s State-Authorized Hero is a powerful foe…so strong that even Sakurai cannot match him! Meanwhile, Makoto is contacted by the Goddess of the Sun, Althena, who pleads for him to save humanity from the Great Demon Lord. Hunted by enemies and allies alike, can Makoto and his friends unite the continent before Iblis’s resurrection shrouds the world in darkness? (Source: J-Novel Club)

The Hero of the Sun and the Gods’ Mistake!

A Story of Knights and Lovers

After successfully assisting in the defeat of the demon lord Zagan, the ninth instalment of Full Clearing sees no rest for the wicked. Not even defeating another demon lord, it seems, can quell the church’s apprehensions as they and their hero begin making moves. Meanwhile, Furiae begins to unlock the mysteries behind her feelings for Makoto.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the latest novel in the series creates a heavy focus between Furiae and Makoto. Well telegraphed, the blossoming romance between the two has been a long time coming. Ever since Makoto failed to be charmed by the moon priestess’s spell, each subsequent volume has drawn the two closer together through a series of well-choreographed events, only requiring the latest volume to place the last two puzzle pieces in order.

The first gets Furiae to recognise her feelings of jealousy and possessiveness over Makoto, and early events in the volume get her to release these feelings by the bucket-load. As if the incessant flirting between the harem wasn’t enough, Makoto’s actions lead him to sign yet another knight’s oath – this time with the Grandsage. Couple these all together, and it was only a matter of time before Furiae’s feelings would lead her to take action.

Already at a love overload, the second and final puzzle piece to push Furiae right into Makoto’s arms comes at the hating hands of the church. The church has always had a thing against Furiae, but this latest volume sees them ramp up the rhetoric, putting the Hero of the Sun into action. This ends up spurring Makoto into action.

In terms of power levels, The Hero of the Sun is the strongest enemy Makoto has faced to date. Basically invincible, it takes Makoto breaking all his constraints and becoming an elemental lord to put a stop to him, and even then, it ends up killing him.

Thankfully, he’s brought back through the power of the gods, but for Furiae, the thought of losing Makoto finally gets her to make a move, leading to a rather passionate kiss.

Even Gods Apologise for Mistakes

Ordinarily, the Gods wouldn’t use their powers to bring someone back from the dead; Makoto just so happens to be a special case. As it turns out, The Hero of the Sun was a bit of a cheat. More than an average human, he has the All Father’s blood running through his veins. This mistake is so bad that it requires a visit from Althena, the strongest goddess.

The latest Goddess to make an appearance, Althena isn’t carefree like some of the other Goddesses introduced thus far. Stern but fair, she gives and takes in equal measure – bad news for the church but great for Furiae and the Cambions, who are finally given a place on the continent.

A Parting of the Ways

Unfortunately, allowing Alexander to roam free wasn’t the only slip-up made by the Pantheon. Failing to notice Iblis’ homecoming plan of altering the past, they turn to plan B to ensure the world’s survival.

The plan involves having a weak and unnoticeable hero travel back in time and stop whatever changes Iblis is making to the timeline. Unspeakably dangerous and essentially a death sentence, the plan has Makoto’s name written all over it.

In spite of all his lover’s and friends’ unquestioning rejection of the plan, Makoto forges ahead, taking the plunge into the past. With Makoto gone, the last moments of the volume show the lives of his harem after his departure, and although they live busy lives, it’s obvious that something or someone is missing.

Marking the end of the latest arc, the ninth instalment in the series is filled to the brim with exciting story plots and character moments. The result is a strong volume that makes strides of progress in all facets of the series.

Particular points to highlight include the blossoming relationship between Makoto and Furiae and the introduction of the Goddess Althena. Both are plot threads long in the making and settle story events in the present to make way for a journey into the past.

As Makoto starts a new arc into the world’s dark past alone, the author has a lot of work on their shoulders to ensure the series keeps its strength.

Full Clearing Vol. 9

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

Disciple of the Lich Volume 5 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Misunderstandings, OP, Tsundere, Gods,

Synopsis:

THE PIXIE’S WINGBEATS…IS CLOSING DOWN?!

Leaving the Garden of Dragons behind for Ploroque, Kanata and the gang run into an item crafter: Mel. Her store is stocked with ingenious inventions, so why is it on the brink of bankruptcy? Greed, the company CEO holding the strings of the city, seems to be responsible—but perhaps the shady underbelly of Ploroque is to blame? It’s a race against the clock to clear Mel’s name and stay one step ahead of the higher beings! (Source: Seven Seas Entertainment)

How to Defeat Ploroque’s Dark Underbelly!

Saving a Business in Another World

Returning to Ploroque after a successful venture to the Garden of Dragons, the entire plot of the fifth volume sees Kanata attempting to get Rosemonde to visit the Ruler of the Skies, so they might get information about the Unseen Hand. Rosemonde agrees to the request only on the condition that Kanata helps out her friend, who runs a failing business in the city. Owner of an artefact shop, Mel has garnered the attention of Grede & Co’s syndicate, who are never known for playing nice.

Despite Ploroque’s whitewashed façade, the city hides a seriously dark underbelly. The city is run by a single company, and they use all manner of dirty tricks to ensnare newcomers into debt and toward the horrible slums that lie beyond the city’s centre.

To help Mel avoid ruin, Kanata comes to the rescue by suggesting they create items from Japan, a plan that would go well if Kanata knew how anything worked from his old world.

The Depths of Greed

Creating a successful otherworld item, these efforts are all in vain as the company moves to more violent methods of getting what they want. Resorting to kidnapping Philia would’ve worked in any normal situation, but being the powerhouse she is, it ends up being the beginning of their downfall. Ripping through the Bloodied Coin gets the attention of Grede himself, ultimately giving Kanata a reason to visit his establishment.

Grede’s motivations are the strongest aspect of his character, especially since he barely lasts five minutes in a fight. His warped sense of the world is born through his creation, his love snatched away due to human depravity. This shapes his ultimate goal – a system of pure unadulterated capitalism.

Overall, Disciple of the Lich’s latest volume is a fun little detour from the series’ overarching plot. With lots of moving parts and action moments, the series has proven itself able to stand on its own two feet, even when Lunaere is barely present.

Unfortunately, as much as this is a fun adventure, it still remains a detour. Very little new information about the series antagonists is given, and their actions overall are small and insignificant in the grand scheme of the series. With the series only two volumes from completion, it leaves a worrying mark as to whether the author will be able to solve all the plot threads by story’s end.

Disciple of the Lich Vol. 5

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 fifth volume of this series digitally and physically through the list of distributors found on the Seven Seas website.

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 8 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Video Games, Game Elements, Strong Lead, Gods

Synopsis:

Makoto and his companions have successfully forged an alliance with Great Keith, and the Northern Front Plan is ready to commence! But before that, the heroes and priestesses of the six countries must convene in Highland for a strategy meeting. Unfortunately, Highland’s pope has a vicious vendetta against Makoto and Furiae, so he hurls shocking accusations intended to pit the other nations against them—and it couldn’t come at a worse time, as the King of Beasts and the Abyssal King proceed to launch their demonic forces against humanity. Bolstered by Noah’s anima, Makoto pours all his strength into fighting back the demons, but the alliance is soon rocked by devastating news: the Hero of Light will shine no more. Can Makoto defy fate to save his old friend and pull humanity back from the precipice of annihilation? (Source: J-Novel Club)

The Wars’ Beginning and the Fading Light!

The Hero of Roses’ War

After his successful campaign in Great Keith, Makoto has yet another alliance to add to his belt. These alliances have come just in time, as the latest volume in the series has members of the Northern Front Plan on edge as they expect an imminent attack from one of the world’s demon lords, The King of Beasts.

If Makoto ever hoped to play a major role in the battle, however, he clearly forgot about the deeply ingrained discrimination at the heart of the nation of Highland.

Makoto’s involvement in the Northern Front Plan is heavily opposed by the Pope and his cronies, thus resulting in the first quarter of the volume being entrenched by petty squabbles and politics.

Whilst there may have been a few dissenting voices highlighted in the argument, what’s important to note is the number of allies Makoto has gathered since his first visit to the country. Having seen his true skills in action, many in high-powered positions are finally coming around to having him as part of the battle strategy rather than judging him for following an “evil Goddess.”

Furiae’s Homecoming

As a compromise between the allied nations and the church, Makoto’s role in the upcoming battle sees him defend the ruined nation of Laphroaig. Being Furiae’s home for the first part of her life, this homecoming is something of an emotional rollercoaster.

It’s immediately noticeable the type of suffocating atmosphere that the Priestess of the Moon has had to deal with. The populous of Laphroaig barely go five minutes without checking whether Furiae has left their sights. As a result, Furiae finds herself getting a lot closer to Makoto through a series of late-night conversations.

Volume eight signifies yet more important developments in the relationship between Makoto and Furiae. In every volume since she first set foot on the scene, the story has been signalling the change in Furiae’s feelings for Makoto, from her knight to possible lover. This volume has shown the most significant development yet, as Furiae finally acknowledges her feelings have changed, and she’s ready to fight in the harem arena.

The Hero of Light’s War

The climax of the volume takes place in the heart of the battle. One of the other reasons for the anxiety felt by the Northern Front Alliance is due to Ira’s foresight, predicting the Hero of Light will die by battle’s end.

As the King of Beasts corners The Hero of Light, it gives Makoto the perfect opportunity to enter the heart of the battle to save his friend. Usually, when the series focuses on the friendship between Sakurai and Makoto, any opportunity Makoto is given to shine is suffocated by the overly perfect Sakurai.

Fortunately, this battle strikes the right balance as Makoto’s powers are instrumental in helping Sakurai defeat the King of Beasts. Makoto’s elementalist abilities and Sakurai’s power of light work in perfect harmony, likely giving us a small glimpse into their likely future battle together.

Overall, Full Clearing’s latest volume successfully showcases the first movements of the Northern Front Plan, highlighting political disagreements and battle strategy. Most importantly, for romance fans, the eighth volume gives the most conclusive moments of love between Makoto and Furiae. As several new plots are floated by the end of the volume, things are looking just as interesting for the next couple of volumes!

Full Clearing Another World Vol. 8

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

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 7 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Video Games, Strong Leads, Gods

Synopsis:

Fresh off their victory over the demon lord Bifrons, Makoto’s party joins Princess Sophia on a political trip to broker an alliance with Great Keith. However, diplomacy quickly goes out the window when the party is attacked by Great Keith’s Hero of Incandescence, who is known to be the strongest hero of them all. On top of that, Makoto soon hears rumors that one of his former classmates has been captured and sold into slavery. As the Roses delegation tries to get to the heart of the matter, they find themselves facing another one of the Snake Sect’s nefarious plots. And though Makoto has thwarted them before, this time, he’s at a distinct disadvantage—Great Keith, with its desert climate, has hardly any water elementals! Can Roses secure a mighty new ally? Or will both nations fall into the hands of demons? (Source: J-Novel Club)

Heroes in the Land of Fire!

A Lamia Evolution

Seven volumes in, and Makoto’s being thoroughly splatted back down to size. His latest dealings against the Snake Sect and Demon Lords has seen him and his companions travel to Great Keith – a land of heat and fire. As a result, water elementals are thin on the ground in Great Keith, so Makoto’ll have to rely on a plan B to prove his worth in this military nation.

Makoto’s newly returned weaknesses and over-reliance on elementals pave the way for two necessary developments within the series. The first regards Makoto’s companions. Seeing how things can quickly go south without Makoto to help – Aya is spurred into action. Until recently, her Lamia base strength has been enough to keep up with Makoto and help defeat servants of the demon lords. However, with ever-increasing challenges threatening them all, she’s concluded that she must improve.

For the Lamia species, the way to get stronger revolves around evolution. Climbing up the species chain and turning into a Lamia Queen. This evolution causes strength and skill changes rather than those of appearance, and Aya’s new transformation has resulted in a host of new OP abilities – including a skill with powers similar to those of the star power in Super Mario. A highly potent ability, it makes the user invincible for a set period of time.

With this newfound “star power,” the author showcases that Makoto isn’t the only OP member of the group, as Aya defeats the hero of Great Keith in an exhibition duel.

An Elementalist’s True Strength

Makoto’s elemental powers concern the second major development of the volume. Until now, Makoto had been making steady progress with these powers, however, this latest volume sees him make a giant leap forward in improving these abilities.

The volume’s end sees a massive clash between Great Keith and the Snake Sect, with the resulting blows culminating in a cataclysmic meteor heading for the capital. With no one else strong enough to take down the disaster, Makoto relies on his Goddess to help him access the next level of elemental power.

Makoto’s new contract with the elementals leaves him without an arm. This is a new development in a long line of risky behaviour shown by Makoto, and it might make for an interesting plot line as the story moves into more serious issues.

Slaves and Romance

As in previous volumes, the seventh outing of Full Clearing includes several side plots to explore. Romance makes up the bulk of the side stories. These are always a welcome break from the action, although, like me, even the world’s system has grown a little tired of the story’s constant cock-blocking.

The remaining side stories revolve around a classmate beyond Makoto’s bubble, something I’ve been personally hoping for. Unfortunately, I found this story to be a tad disappointing. Beyond making it a set-up for discovering the Snake Sect’s plans for Great Keith, the story of Fujiyan’s enslaved childhood friend never leads anywhere and adds very little overall.

Whilst Full Clearing’s seventh volume is nowhere near reaching the heights of volumes five and six, it still makes for a strong outing. Focusing not only on Makoto but the abilities of his companions makes the group a more well-rounded division. Add to this a load of comedic and well-placed romantic outings, and the volume has provided enough for the reader to chew on until the release of the next volume.

Full Clearing Another World Vol. 7

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

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 6 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Video Games, Strong Leads, Gods

Synopsis:

Makoto Takatsuki has proven worthy of his title as the Hero of Roses—not only did he save Macallan from a stampede of monsters and a powerful ancient dragon, but he also liberated Cameron from a blighted hydra. After those battles, Makoto hopes to catch a break, but a revelation from the goddesses sends him on the path to Springrogue. There are rumors that the Great Demon Lord’s resurrection might appear in the perilous Forest of Fiends, and Makoto’s party sets off to investigate. They make a stop in Lucy’s home village to meet her family, and they’re even lucky enough to encounter Lucy’s mother, the famed and powerful Crimson Witch! This comes not a moment too soon—one of the Great Demon Lord’s subordinates, Bifrons, the Undead King, is amassing an army of demons to lay waste to Springrogue. The stage is set, and the demons have launched their war against humanity. Can Makoto and his allies send the Undead King back to his grave? (Source: J-Novel Club)

Makoto Meets the Parents!

For my final review before Christmas, I’m looking at yet another finished pre-pub, returning to Full Clearing as Makoto meets Lucy’s parents (I’m sorry for saying I had three pre-pubs to do when it was four).

For its sixth volume, the story moves to Springrogue after a revelation about the awakening of the demon lord Bifrons. With the demon lord’s forces beginning to amass in the Forest of Fiends, Makoto and his party make their way to Lucy’s village in hopes of finding allies and to receive a blessing for their relationship.

Luckily for them, Lucy’s mother, one of the world’s strongest fighters and one of the original heroes responsible for defeating the previous demon lord, has returned. With their forces stronger than ever, will Makoto be able to put a stop to the demon lord and his general’s plan?

A Family Affair

Starting out the Full Clearing’s latest volume, Makoto and his party members travel to Springrogue hoping to gain allies from the forest villages, including Lucy’s.

This part goes full comedy of errors, as Makoto’s introduction to Lucy’s mother and the rest of her family goes oddly at best. Rosalie and her children are all free spirits. Paying no attention to boundaries their upfront nature causes no end of trouble for Makoto or the knights of Highland.

Rosalie is one of the main highlights of the volume, always trying to steal Makoto from under Lucy, she helps the series’ world building taking the two of them on a trip around the most famous monuments of the world ending in a visit to the Avian’s and their world tree.

A Fresh Perspective

Of course, not everything in Springrogue will be fun and games. The Demon Lord is soon to be awakened and several of his generals have arrived to ensure the successful completion of the ritual.

This plot allows for several intriguing developments to take place. The first is a nice twist revealing more nuance to the demon lord’s position and that they’re not all wholly evil. Neither Setekh nor Bifrons are looking to completely destroy humanity, and originally, they were allied alongside Noah and the old gods.

The second and most important development comes as part of Furiae’s perspective. During a fight against one of the demon lord’s generals, Makoto uses a special type of suicide magic that eats the general down to their very soul. Here, the perspective switches to Furiae, where it is revealed how Makoto’s abilities are viewed by others.

With complete inhuman cool, he’s able to achieve feats thought impossible, and those lucky enough to witness it are either shocked, scared, or completely fascinated. There’s a similar moment to this later in the volume involving Janet. As a result of their time together, she develops a crush and asks for his official hand in marriage.

Gods, The World and The Womaniser

Talking about new crushes, by the end of the volume, Makoto faces a whole load of new problems as several women express romantic interest leaving his fiancée and girlfriends rather cold.

This constant injection of comedy is always a great addition to the series and has always meant that regardless of the volume, Makoto’s relationships move forward, even if it’s through small increments.

The climax of the volume also features the most important talk with his Goddesses of the series so far. So much more is revealed about the world and the fight against the demon lord than there has ever been. How heroes are created and go mad, and the actual chances of Makoto and the rest of the heroes defeating the demon lord threat.

Concluding its sixth volume, Full Clearing is stronger than ever. Mixing great comedy alongside impactful developments in Makoto’s relationships ensures a steady stream of progress as the series sets out the path to its end goal. Meaningful connections are made and lasting friendships are formed – Makoto will now have powerful options as the fight with the demon lord grows ever closer.

Full Clearing Another World Vol. 6

My Rating: 9.5/10

I hope you enjoyed my review and would love to see what you thought of the volume in the comments! You can also help support my work by buying me a coffee over on my Ko-Fi account.

You can read the sixth volume of this series digitally and in Pre-pub format on the J-Novel Club website.

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 5 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Weak to Strong, Video Games, Strong Leads, Gods

Synopsis:

Makoto and his friends have saved Symphonia by foiling the Snake Sect’s sinister plot, so it’s time for the victorious party to return home. Though Eir’s ominous revelation lurks in the corner of Makoto’s mind, the overall atmosphere back in Macallan couldn’t be more peaceful. Unfortunately, it doesn’t last—following a mass exodus of monsters from the Forest of Fiends, tranquil Macallan is transformed into a battlefield. Amidst the chaos, an ancient draconic beast lays waste to the town and Makoto’s allies. Just when all hope seems lost, Noah reveals a hidden technique that could turn the tide. However, all things come at a cost, and Makoto must offer up something dear for the power to overcome this crisis. Is he willing and able to pay up? Or will Eir’s prophecy about the fall of Roses become a reality? (Source: J-Novel Club)

Makoto’s and His Romance Troubles!

My latest review returns me to another volume of Full Clearing. This time there’s romance in the air!

Guided by Eir’s revelations, volume 5 sees Makoto and the gang return to Macallan where the monsters have been acting strangely. A monster stampede is on the horizon and everyone in town is in danger. Determined to use the newly afforded suicide magic, Makoto’ll have to dig deep to come out on top.

Meanwhile, change abounds in Makoto’s party, with the romance bug taking full effect. Confessions and engagements, jealousy and acceptance. Will Makoto’s other world skills be enough to deal with it all?

This volume seems to focus a lot on change, change in relationships, change in threat, and change in volume focus.

Unlike previous volumes, the author in volume 5 has chosen to focus on a slightly more underplayed aspect of the series, romance. With Makoto and his party settling back down in Macallan as a base of operations, his female teammates use this downtime to get closer to Makoto, which succeeds a little too well with both Sasa and Lucy ending up as his girlfriend, and Sophia ending up as his fiancée.

I’m glad the author chose this direction for this volume, which has more of a lull in the action to develop character dynamics. Moving out from Makoto’s denseness and focusing on his feelings towards his party members is great. As a result, there are some good rom-com moments to be had throughout the volume as Sasa and Lucy struggle to keep their jealousy in check, and Eir and Noah are constantly entertained in the gallery.

By the end of the volume, there also seems to be some promising movement on Furiae’s feelings as the two share an igloo fighting off another blight dragon.

As for the demon lord developments, there aren’t too many of these action segments beyond the monster stampede and blight dragon fights. However, Makoto does learn some important new abilities, including a new type of synchro and suicide magic. Synrcho seems to develop alongside Makoto’s relationships whilst suicide magic is a saving grace spell that can have extreme consequences. Although these consequences aren’t given in big detail, likely because Noah doesn’t want Makoto to use the spell again.

Overall, Full Clearing’s fifth volume takes a refreshing shift in focus, taking a lull in the action to develop the main cast’s relationships. There are some great comedic rom-com moments and what action we do have is measured and focused on improving Makoto’s base abilities, it’s action with purpose. I’m looking forward to seeing how things develop further in volume 6 as we visit Lucy’s family.

Full Clearing Another World Vol. 5

My Rating: 9/10

I hope you enjoyed my review and would love to see what you thought of the volume in the comments!

You can read the fifth volume of this series in pre-pub format on the J-Novel Club website.