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

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

Sub-Tags: OP, Strong Lead, Cute

Synopsis:

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

A Healer’s Trip to the Underground!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brilliant Healer Vol. 3

My Rating: 8/10

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

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

The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects Vol. 3 Review

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

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

Synopsis:

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

A Family Affair Out on the Frontier!

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

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

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

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

The Baar Hierarchy

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

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

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

The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects Vol. 3

My Rating: 9/10

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

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

Tsukimichi: Moonlit Fantasy Vol. 1 Review

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

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

Synopsis:

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

A Monster at World’s Edge!

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

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

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

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

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

The Tale of a Dragon and Spider

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

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

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

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

Tsukimichi Vol. 1

My Rating: 9/10

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

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

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

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

Sub-Tags: OP, Strong Lead, Spirits

Synopsis:

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

Magic Mastery and the Key to Independence!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My Rating: 6/10

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

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

After-School Dungeon Diver: Level Grinding in Another World Vol. 1 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Dungeons, Cowardly Protagonist, OP, Episodic

Synopsis:

Why not unwind in another world once in a while? High schooler Kudo Akira happens upon the ability to travel between Japan and the fantastical world of Do-Melta. Not bound by any dire mission or duty, he leisurely enjoys exploring his way through the massive dungeon in the center of the world and all the trappings that come with it. The guild receptionist is trying to mooch off of him, his magic instructor has “rewards” for him, and he just might have some fun with a girl he saves… A brand-new fantasy adventure from Hitsuji Gamei begins! (Source: J-Novel Club)

An Oddball Goes Dungeon Diving!

Written by Hitsuji Gamei and illustrated by Karei, the latest light novel series to grace the JNC library features a cowardly high-schooler’s adventure in the exciting fantasy world of Do-Melta.

A Certain Trading Card Joke

Deep down in the dark dungeon shines a rather strange figure.

Equipped like a Victorian going on a safari, Kudo Akira’s oddball approach to dungeon diving embodies the overall light-hearted atmosphere of the series. Essentially episodic, the first volume serves as an introduction to the fantasy world of Do-Melta. As the protagonist comes and goes from his daily dives, he runs into all sorts, fleshing out the world as a vibrant environment filled with interesting people and culture.

Key to this volume’s staying power, however, comes from the author’s well-timed comedic undertone. Giving the volume a bit of “get up and go,” it gets its best use showcasing – how the protagonist has already settled within the world and has already made connections. The ongoing jokes shared between Kudo and some of the traders and fellow divers are a highlight. Look out, especially for a few fun conversations revolving around a certain trading card game!

The only little niggle I had about the comedic aspect is the author’s habit of going over the top with the lewd tone. I could’ve done without the story about the raging boar incident.

The Importance of Diving Prepared

As for the characters, Kudo’s clearly the most fleshed out after volume one. Cowardly and a bit of an oddball, he stands out from the crowd by being one of the only residents of Do-Melta, diving in the dungeon for fun and a way to upgrade skills rather than doing it for a living.

Other characters of note in volume one are Scrael and Eldrid. Both helped by Kudo after coming to the dungeon unprepared, they grow closer to him as a result. Both are quirky in their own right, and I’m hoping that the promised trip to Earth next volume expands on their characters.

Overall, Hitsuji Gamei’s latest series, After-School Dungeon Diver, is an entertaining and light-hearted read. Aside from a few lewd moments, the comedic undertone is its highlight. Chocked full of understandable references, it adds a nice vibrancy to the series as a whole.

After-School Dungeon Diver Vol. 1

My Rating: 7.5/10

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. 6 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:

Anything but Heavenly!

In the depths of a dungeon, Iori finds evidence of the Book of Raziel, a legendary tome that could destroy the world if it falls into the wrong hands. But when the Three Committees launch an investigation into the book, they discover that the school librarian, Rue Sakura, is actually an archangel! The Academy wastes no time in forming a team of capable students to subdue her, but Rue effortlessly quashes this resistance with her powerful magic. Just as all hope seems lost, however, Kousuke rushes in to confront Rue once again! Does he have what it takes to avert a bad ending of apocalyptic proportions?! (Source: Yen Press)

Takioto’s Heavenly Battle!

After saving the Eroge game’s ill-fated villainess, the sixth instalment of Magical Explorer has Takioto and the gang face even stronger foes. As the game world moves steadily forward, the latest threat threatening the ultimate happy ending is much closer than expected. Hidden in the academy’s library is a heavenly enemy stronger than they could ever imagine!

A Protagonist Steps Forward

Continuing at its usual pace, the latest volume’s newest advisory finds Takioto and his party members taking a trip down to the academy’s impressive library. What awaits them is no ordinary librarian. As it turns out, Rue Sakura is actually a powerful fallen angel.

The dungeon and boss package for this volume provides a suitable spectacle. In an unusual turn for the series, the battle between Takioto and Sakura is played seriously, lacking the fan-service and comedy attributed to the series. A move made to showcase the sheer difference in power between Sakura and the other foes Takioto has slain thus far.

Aside from the more serious tone, this battle leads to some interesting developments for cast members other than Takioto. Iori, the game’s original protagonist, finally gets some time in the limelight. Given Sakura’s relationship to the Eroge game’s plot, Iori has to get involved, which means we get to see a little snippet of what makes him protagonist-worthy. Moreover, this volume also sees the penny drop for the rest of the cast about Takioto’s long-term goals. With many of the main players asking questions, it won’t be long before he’ll have to come clean.

Erotic Mundanity

For those worried about the fan-service dungeon diving, the sixth volume of Magical Explorer also provides this in abundance.

Whilst the ecchi action is always fun, the highlight of this piece comes from the women’s general acceptance of these erotic extravaganzas being normal. For them, these events have started to become mundane and, in some ways, mirror my feelings about this series at present.

With little movement in the overall plot, the series is in desperate need of a shake-up. In the upcoming volumes, there needs to be some movement to show Takioto getting closer to realising his overall goals to avoid the series feeling like the author is resting on their laurels.

Whilst the latest volume of Magical Explorer is fun as a whole, the ending left me feeling as if the series is in desperate need of a shake-up. On a positive note, Iori gets some good development, and the side-cast has begun to take note of Takioto’s future sight. Moving forward, however, the series needs to focus on achieving Takioto’s overarching goals.

Magical Explorer Vol. 6

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 sixth volume of this series physically and digitally through the distributors listed on the Yen Press website.

My Magical Career at Court: Living the Dream After My Nightmare Boss Fired Me from the Mages’ Guild! Vol. 3 Review

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

Sub-Tags: Strong Lead, OP, Tsundere, Bickering Couple, Banishment

Synopsis:

Noelle may be a commoner from the middle of nowhere, but she’s a rising star in her dream workplace—the Royal Court Magicians’ Division! It seems like a world away from her horrible old job at the Mages’ Guild, but life as a royal court magician comes with its own challenges. She’s already fought off a dragon and battled her way through the perilous Weissrosa Abyss, but can she survive making a fool of herself in front of all the magi? Now, Noelle has been thrust into the unexpected situation of being picked to take part in the famous World Magic Championships—and she hasn’t even been a royal court magician for a year! Along with her old friend Luke, another impressive young magician, she has to face off against some of the toughest magicians from around the world. On her new globetrotting adventures, Noelle is confronted with sneaky aristocrats, powerful magic duelists, the mysterious Fairy Queen…and maybe even some romantic developments! (Source: J-Novel Club)

The Court Mage and the Magic Championship!

Upon conquering the strongest dungeon in the kingdom, the latest chapter in the Magical Career saga sees Noelle face her toughest challenge yet, the World Magic Championships. Filled with some of the most powerful magicians on the Western Continent, Noelle and the chosen few selected for the tournament will be tested to their uppermost limits, but the competitors aren’t the only thing they’ll have to contend with. At the heart of the tournament lies a noble conspiracy willing to do anything and everything to put wilful commoners like Noelle in their place.

The Ultimate Underdog

Continuing to prove her naysayers wrong, this volume gives Noelle the largest stage yet to show off her abilities – the World Magic Championships. From nobility from across the globe, the hordes of spectators in the stands, and even her fellow competitors, this volume has finally given me the impetus to ask: How many volumes does it take before my patience runs thin with the never-ending perspectives from Noelle’s detractors? This volume cuts it close.

Three volumes in, and this series has answered a longstanding hypocrisy within my reviewing methods – tropes and striking the right balance. When it comes to the trope of “secretly overpowered individual in a world full of naysayers,” the balance personally is struck with the relative vocality of a main character’s supporters. A hard measure to quantify, the third volume of Magical Career falls foul of the line due to the sheer number of detractors in comparison to her supporters. After all, there’s only so far someone can go on willpower alone.

Thankfully, this seems set to change as the number of Noelle’s allies grows throughout this latest volume.

Willing a Victory

Fortunately, beyond this volume’s balancing act issues, there’s still plenty to enjoy. The tournament itself is suitably grandiose. It features a slew of powerful individuals that would normally be deemed impossible for anyone to defeat. Only Noelle could treat some of these opponents as if she were doing regular court magician work on a weekday.

Of the competitors introduced, Evangeline holds the most potential. Fairy Queen and naturally gifted magician, her frankly odd personality meshes well with Noelle. Their blossoming friendship by the end of the volume gives off positive vibes for the future of the series.

Additionally, the competition provides some much-needed character development for Luke. The boy-wonder whom everyone perceives as a prodigy who, in reality, is the hardest worker of anyone. There’s a genuinely heartfelt moment to be had as his efforts see him piped at the post by an overwhelmingly powerful opponent. In some ways, following Luke’s story would’ve made for a better series. The only thing stopping this reality is the fact that we wouldn’t get enough of Noelle’s infectious personality.

Despite the latest volume of Magical Career’s initial teething trouble regarding trope balancing, there’s still plenty of entertainment to be drawn from the story. The tournament is well-presented, offering everything one could want, from vivid fight sequences to interesting opponents. Moreover, there’s ample character development, especially for Luke. His segment ending in defeat is genuinely heartfelt.

My Magical Career in Court Vol. 3

My Rating: 7/10

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

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

The Water Magician Vol. 1 Review

Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Isekai

Sub-Tags: OP, Strong Lead, Dungeons, Romantic Subplot, Comedic Undertone

Synopsis:

Ryo is delighted to be reincarnated into the fantastical world of Phi, where he thinks he’ll get to live a quiet life learning to use his newfound water magic. Going with the flow here, however, means something very different. Ryo is immediately pitted against the wild lands he winds up in and the slew of deadly monsters that call the remote subcontinent home. You’d think he’d forget about taking it easy when he’s stuck fighting for his life, but lucky for Ryo, he’s naturally optimistic, clever, and blessed with the hidden “Eternal Youth” trait. Twenty years pass in the blink of an eye, and each encounter along the way pushes him one step closer to the pinnacle of human magic. Little does he realize that’s only the opening chapter of his tale. A fateful meeting soon thrusts Ryo to the forefront of history, forever changing the course of his life… Thus begins the adventures of the strongest water magician the world has ever seen—who also likes to do things at his own pace! (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Water Magician Ventures Forth!

Written by Tadashi Kubou and illustrated by Nokito, The Water Magician is the latest fantasy extravaganza to join the J-Novel Club line-up.

Following the story of Ryo, the opening instalment finds him newly reincarnated into the fantasy world of Phi. Hoping for the slow life of his dreams, he’s given a house in the middle of the forest. The perfect place for practising water magic and allowing him to return to nature.

Twenty years pass in the blink of an eye, and an unexpected visitor to the forest opens him up to a whole new world. Venturing forth into civilisation, Ryo’s about to discover all the world of Phi has to offer.

A Battle of Basics

Practice makes perfect should be the motto of this series. As Ryo arrives in Phi for 20 years of isolation, the first half of the volume dedicates itself to showing the protagonist as he learns the intricate details of the fantasy world in which he now presides.

World-building can be a difficult aspect to pull off, especially at length, but the author’s confidence in their writing shines through, creating an immersive and interesting fantasy setting. From how Ryo builds his magic abilities to the types of monsters he fights throughout the Forest of Rondo, they each add important elements towards creating a vibrant and interactive world.

The author’s work on Phi’s magic system is a particular highlight. With foundations based on physics, it grounds the abilities in an understandable way and forces the protagonist to build every spell he creates from the ground up. Without a clear understanding of water molecules, Ryo’s magic would never get off the ground.

Furthermore, the story knows how to pace Ryo’s growth and when to move on to the next aspect. Ryo’s status as an overpowered protagonist doesn’t come without effort. Only after mastering something is he able to move on. For example, it’s only after he’s mastered the basics of water and ice magic that he’s allowed to train alongside the forest’s Fairy King. It gives credence to his eventual strong abilities that are often explained in isekai light novels simply through their reincarnation.

Towards Civilisation

Upon mastering his craft, the second half of the novel sees Ryo’s fantasy adventures open up at the arrival of Abel. A high-level adventurer from the neighbouring kingdom, he serves as the impetus in getting Ryo to venture beyond his domain.

Their journey to the Knightley Kingdom is a pleasant read. Ryo and Abel become fast friends bantering together regardless of whether they’re setting up campfires or battling Harpy Queens.

The volume ends with Ryo entering into the town of Lune. A typical medieval fantasy town, the promise of dungeons and political schemes shows a bright future for the series ahead.

Overall, The Water Magician’s first volume provides an excellent foundation for the series. Its focus on world-building is a boon both for the story’s present and its future, as the author has created a vivid world teeming with intricacies. Additionally, what scenes we do get with other characters holds promise. Abel and Ryo’s fun back and forth gives a sneak preview into how additional characters will be dealt with in future.

The Water Magician 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 on the J-Novel Club website.

The Banished Former Hero Lives as He Pleases Vol. 1 Review

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

Sub-Tags: OP, Strong Lead, Game Elements, Banishment

Synopsis:

Deemed a “good-for-nothing” for his low level and lack of a god-given Gift, Allen is stripped of his noble status and banished from the Duchy of Westfeldt. But Allen has a secret: he was a great hero in a previous life, and he’s thrilled for the chance to finally live the way he pleases! His drama-free existence, however, is soon interrupted by a desperate encounter with his ex-fiancée. As a former hero who still possesses the incredible powers from his past life, Allen can’t ignore someone in need—no matter how much he might like to! And so begins the new heroic saga our former hero never wanted! (Source: J-Novel Club)

A Saga That Starts at the Frontier!

Written by Shin Kouduki and illustrated by Chocoan, The Banished Former Hero is one of the latest adventure fantasy series to finish its pre-pub on the J-Novel Club website.

Following the story of Allen, the former prodigy of the Westfeldt Duchy, it starts as he’s banished from his noble household upon discovering his lack of a gift. Elated by the prospect, he sets out to live life as a free man, no longer shackled by the duties of nobility or his former role as a hero. Unfortunately, fate has other ideas. On his way to the frontier, he runs into his former fiancée, setting off a chain of events that’ll rock the shape of the kingdom.

A Trip of Nostalgia

An overpowered protagonist banished due to their perceived weakness has become par for the course in isekai light novels, and the Banished Former Hero is a rather generic example of the genre. This is not necessarily a bad thing, however, as the series neatly falls into a personal nostalgia zone, taking me back to when I first started reading light novels, constantly seeking series featuring overpowered protagonists who end up gaining harems. As a result, I ended up liking it quite a bit more than I should have.

Whilst the series is never going to be on anyone’s Novel of the Year awards, it does serve its job well as the occasional guilty pleasure. Once the story moves past the banishment storyline and introduces his former finacée, Riese and her bodyguard, the plot picks up at a blistering pace. From here on out, Allen is defeating strong enemies left and right and picking up harem members just as quickly. It’s clear that the author has understood the brief, hitting all the right beats for this type of series.

Aside from Allen’s overpowered antics, there’s another aspect to the series that stands out – the conspiracy between the members of his former family. Typical for this genre, they are comically villainous, but their potential as long-term antagonists elevates them to something more than just cackling hyenas.

Although The Banished Former Hero’s beginning may appear generic, it is still an engaging journey. The author, Shin Kouduki, manages to hit all the right beats within the series’ specific genre. Allen fells powerful enemies and unwittingly grows his harem at an almost alarming speed. Meanwhile, his family start the long, winding road towards an ultimate comeuppance.

The Banished Former Hero Vol. 1

My Rating: 6.5/10

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.

The Fruit of Evolution Vol. 8 Review

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

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

Synopsis:

In the royal city of Teruber, a historic meeting was held between King Lanze of the Kingdom of Wimburg and Rutia, the daughter of the Demon King. This meeting, intended to bridge the divide between demons and humans, was suddenly disrupted by a violent assault from the “Majin Cult”. Despite valiant resistance, Rutia fell victim to a curse from the cult’s attack. The situation escalated with the approach of an enemy army, among whom shockingly included the parents of Saria. The highly anticipated eighth instalment of this beloved series unfolds! (Source: Hanashi Media)

A Game of Dungeons and Demons!

Continuing to ascend from the realms of humanity, the eighth instalment of The Fruit of Evolution sees the return of an evil cult and an introduction to some slithery foes.

Picking up where the previous volume left off, the latest release finds the Kingdom of Wimburg embroiled in a battle against The Cult of the Wicked One. A hard-fought affair, the kingdom’s most valiant heroes face down fearsome foes. Luckily, their salvation might be around the corner as an unexpected group joins the fray. Meanwhile, Seiichi faces foes of his own. Asked to scope out a new dungeon, he and his friends come face to face with monsters, traps and a sentient dungeon?!

The Cult Returns

Returning to Terbelle for the novel’s first half, the plot finds the nation under attack during an important peace negotiation. With Seiichi noticeably absent from the action, this part of the story allows others to share in the spotlight for a little bit.

Making themselves the MVPs of the performance, the underworld heroes prove themselves to be every bit as overpowered as Seiichi. Moreover, this part of the novel provides some excellent moments as Saria’s parents are introduced to the series, and they are exactly as strange as you’d expect them to be.

Seiichi’s only role in this section is as a saviour to the demon king’s daughter. Known as Routier, even she’s not immune to Seiichi’s secret skill of harem king.

A Slithering Dungeon

The latter half of the novel finds Seiichi and his companions in their element as they go dungeon diving. A well-put-together segment, it plays to the strengths of the series – comedy and absurdism.

Putting the whole gang back together was a great idea. There’s nothing more crazy to the series than when all their quirks work together in perfect harmony. Constantly setting off traps and getting friendly with the enemy, they cause headache after headache for Seiichi, much to my personal glee.

This dungeon dive also sees the return of the tragic dungeon boss’ tale. All about an accidental medusa, it differs from others in the series by having a happy ending. Unlike the others, Zora is alive and has a fully fixable problem, which means zany solutions and another member added to the harem.

The Fruit of Evolution’s eighth instalment proves to be yet another strong entry into the series. Featuring a hilarious dungeon dive with all the main characters and a battle that highlights some of the lesser-developed side characters, it shows promise for the series as it heads into its final stretch.

The Fruit of Evolution Vol. 8

My Rating: 8.5/10

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You can read the eighth volume of this series digitally on the Hanashi Media website.