Eniale & Dewiela, Vol. 1

Eniale is an angel. Dewiela is a demon. But the two of them are buddies. It’s an Odd Couple situation with two celestial ladies who love fashion, babies, and being over the top to cause the world to spiral. The humor of this series lies in the absurdity of it’s premise. The first chapter has the angel / demon duo sending signs across the globe about mothers because they find a baby alone in a park. Another chapter has them just riding around Paris cause they love fashion, while Dewiela is simultaneously being chased by an exorcist. It’s over the top, but an entertaining over the top. I recognize it will not be for everyone in its universalist and “all faiths are equivalent” view of the universe, but I found it quite humorous for what it is. Also, Eniale & Dewiela gives us a moment where it states that Adam and Eve invented fashion when they started wearing fig leaves and, come on, that’s just comic gold. ~ MDMRN

Eniale & Dewiela Vol. 1 is available through Yen Press.

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Kingdom Hearts III, Vol. 1

When it comes to light versus darkness, I can’t think of a better game than Kingdom Hearts. As someone who has played through all the titles that have been made, I couldn’t say no to reviewing the manga release of KH III. It follows the game faithfully, except it skips certain scenes and intros that the game features. The artwork is done well, and looks similar to the game. If you are not familiar with the series, it starts right after the end of KHII with Sora having lost his power, while having to go on a mission to rescue other keyblade holders that are needed for the upcoming battle with Xehanort (basically the final boss). They end up going to see Hercules in Olympus (yes, the one from the Disney movie) to ask him for advice on retrieving Sora’s power. I won’t say what happens next, but the battles that ensue are terrific. I recommend picking it up for those of you that have played the series. ~ Samuru

Kingdom Hearts III Vol. 1is published by Yen Press.

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Ascendance of a Bookworm: Part 1 Vol. 2

Almost a year has passed since Urano reincarnated into Myne’s world, and after her successful dealings with the conniving merchant Benno, she’s painfully close to her dreams of being surrounded by books once more. But life is not so simple. After all, it isn’t easy (or cheap) to make paper, especially when you’re starting from scratch. To make matters worse, Lutz is starting to suspect that there’s more to Myne than her childlike appearance, and the burning sensation that Myne’s been feeling is getting stronger every day. And what’s all this business about magic, anyway? Volume 2 of Ascendance of a Bookworm doubles down on the charm and adventure that characterize the first volume of the series. If you loved seeing Myne’s world expand in the first volume as she inched closer toward realizing her bookish fantasies, you won’t regret picking this one up. ~ sleepminusminus

Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 1 Vol. 2 is available through J-Novel Club.

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Reset! The Imprisoned Princess Dreams of Another Chance!, Vol. 1

A princess inexplicably betrayed by her fiance, Bel hears in prison that her country has been conquered and loses her last loyal retainer, a knight named Ed. In an outburst of grief, anger, and magic, she goes back in time to being twelve (with a relic of her first life that confirms she didn’t imagine it). Determined not to have the same regrets this time around, Bel sets out to live a different life and change history. This fantasy-school-life-romance-adventure also features heartwarming family interactions and thoughtful moments of reflection on what’s truly important in life. It’s worth noting that although Reset! has some some major parallels with the Tearmoon Empire light novels published by J-Novel Club, it stands as its own story, offering a more serious tone, a heartfelt first-person narration, a more mature and grounded protagonist, and a greater emphasis on mystery. I happily recommend you try Reset!: it’s my new favorite light novel from Cross Infinite World. ~ jeskaiangel

Reset! The Imprisoned Princess Dreams of Another Chance! Vol. 1 is published by Cross Infinite World.

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Skip Beat, Vols. 13-14-15 (3-in-1)

In a sense, the long-running (and still on-going) Skip Beat series moves past it’s lengthy introduction during this 3-in-1 edition from Viz: Kyoko is in the industry, Ren has developed feelings for her, and a love rival (or rivals) have entered the picture. The real story is now in motion, with volumes 13, 14, and 15 crossing between arcs—the “Dark Moon” one comes to an end, with Kyoko aiding Ren in his acting, leading to a breakthrough for the actor / idol, and the start of the “Suddenly, a Love Story” arc, in which Sho returns and…becomes a good guy? Well, maybe not, and especially if seeing his actions in a 2020 light compared to 2005. Of note in these volumes, as well, is a shift from an emphasis on gothic fashion to a visual kei storyline, adding a further layer of art and interest to this already excellent story.  ~ Twwk

Skip Beat, Vols. 13-14-15 are available individually through Viz (13, 14, and 15) or in a 3-in-1 edition through Amazon.