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Now that Yen Press’ run of the CLAMP Collection Tokyo Babylon manga is done, we once again get to see what happened to Subaru and Hokuto Sumeragi and Seishirou Sakurazuka. After all, volume 7 is dedicated completely to the major reveals and 

Editor’s Note: There will be spoilers for the Tokyo Babylon manga ending below. 53592m

Throughout Tokyo Babylon, CLAMP keeps hinting at things not being exactly right. Seishirou engages in suspicious behavior that proves he not only has his own supernatural abilities and awareness, but may be an onmyouji on par with Subaru. Subaru constantly wears gloves he never takes off. There are times when we’ll see him think back to a childhood memory with a mysterious person. Hokuto seems especially aware of something to do with Seishirou, yet pushes him and her brother together. Once we start to get into later volumes, Seishirou’s activities become more blatant, and we start hearing about the Sakura Zukamori assassin. 

So Tokyo Babylon volume 7 is completely dedicated to giving us answers, yet with the ending also leaving us completely lost with new questions. The bet between Seishirou and Subaru? It’s completely revealed. Seishirou met Subaru when both of them were young and Subaru saw him committing one of his assassinations. Seishirou marked the boy as a possible victim, saying once they’d meet again that Subaru would have one year to get him to fall in love with him. If he failed, Seishirou would kill him. If he succeeded, he’d get to live. But Seishirou claims he failed, and we’re confronted with a scene that’s blatant torture. 

Considering the violence we’ve seen throughout Tokyo Babylon, which affected both Subaru and Seishirou in the past, this in itself isn’t shocking. Especially paired with CLAMP being realistic and showing the effect of this latest encounter on Subaru after the fact. He’s comatose. Completely broken. His mind and body is devastated after Seishirou completely revealed who he is. There’s no immediate recovery. We witness exactly how brutal it all was. 

These moments before the end also provide an opportunity for us to see the healthier loving relationships around Subaru. We know at this point that, age difference not withstanding, the primary pairing here is extremely toxic. But Subaru is initially saved because of an act of love and sacrifice by his grandmother. She resorted to extreme lengths to snatch him away from Seishirou, paying a price in the process. Then Hokuto, his twin sister, sets out as a secondary sacrifice to assure his safety after the previous encounter that left him broken. 

But more importantly, we don’t get to know what’s next. We only know what happened to Hokuto because of CLAMP’s narrative and Subaru’s ability. We don’t see him meet Seishirou again in the ending of volume 7 of the Tokyo Babylon manga. We don’t see the inevitable weeks and months it takes him to recover. We even don’t see him pick up the pieces. We only see him end up assisting on a final “case” to show that even after everything that happened, he’s still using his onmyouji abilities to help others.

I also think the fact that X/1999 remains unfinished helps the Tokyo Babylon ending stand out even further at this point. CLAMP got to offer us some resolution. Further confrontations between Subaru and Seishiro appear, as they meet again. Hokuto is referenced, and we get closure regarding that spell only she could use. But at the same time, we don’t get to know what becomes of Subaru. He still doesn’t get an ending.

The Tokyo Babylon ending still hits me every time I read it, even years later. There’s no mercy in this final volume. CLAMP set up a tragedy, leaving little clues along the way. Some more obvious than others, of course. There’s no closure here. No happy ending. Just like real life, things don’t come together perfectly. Instead, we see how different choices we’ve made and people we let in permanently affect our lives even after a short time together. And, because the follow-up work remains unfinished, we just never get to really know what happened to Subaru at the end.

All seven volumes of the CLAMP Collection Tokyo Babylon manga are available via Yen Press.

The post The Tokyo Babylon Ending Remains Striking Over 30 Years Later appeared first on Siliconera.

So Takahashi from the Bike Shop, a shojo slice-of-life manga from Arare Matsumushi, is one of those love stories that you can settle in, enjoy, and get cozy with due to how low-key it is. Yes, there’s some anxiety about the relationship in the first volume as characters define things and Panko gets used to Ryouhei. However, by the end of it and throughout the second volume, we’re seeing a strong foundation being built between a couple that could really work. 

Editor’s Note: There are some mild spoilers for volume 2 of the Takahashi from the Bike Shop manga below. 13y5q

The end of the first volume of Takahashi from the Bike Shop and start of the second volume of the manga mainly focuses on how Panko is overthinking things and adjusting to the new potential relationship and her feelings. Like clearly, she’s now dating Ryouhei. There are mutual feelings that are obvious to Ryouhei and the reader. But she’s just taking a moment. Which is relatable and fine! It happens. Where Matsumushi takes a turn from other shojo manga is that this doesn’t get stretched out to a full, uncomfortable volume or two of “will they or won’t they” moments. Instead, Panko realizes at work while fantasizing and shutting down a jerk coworker that yes, she likes him, and she wants to date him. 

This means when she does go out with Ryouhei again, following a meal with her work friend Kimi and her partner Suruga, there’s no ambiguity. The new couple defines what they are. They enjoy their time together. He notices she’s a bit upset about an change. She treats him to a shirt he wanted. It’s just comfortable and pleasant to see a couple who is behaving in such a healthy, mature manner. 

Honestly, I also love how mature Takahashi from the Bike Shop is, but how the manga approaches even serious situations in a cozy and comfortable manner. Panko sees people misjudging Ryouhei or treating people unfairly, and she starts speaking up because of the influence of her new boyfriend. I mean, I’d even consider it as her realizing it doesn’t matter what people think of her. Only the opinions of folks who count, like him and her friend Kimi. She’s 30! Who cares about them! Do what makes her happy! And, in turn, reading that makes me happy. 

This extends to another situation. There’s something of a tragedy that happens at the end of the second volume of Takahashi from the Bike Shop. Ryouhei completely steps up and volunteers to help Panko and her mother. Even though it means he needs to go out of his way, as well as encounter a traumatic situation of his own. He goes all out for his partner and his kindness makes something sad a little more bearable. Then, in turn, Panko comforts him in her own way. They’re able to be there for each other.

Maybe it’s because Panko is an older protagonist or due to the fact that this is a slice-of-life manga with so little drama, but Takahashi from the Bike Shop is a shojo series that makes me feel all cozy and happy. Both Panko and Ryouhei are pretty secure individuals by the time we get to the second volume. She’s still way more anxious about things than he is, so he’s coming across as the more mature one. But we get a sense that this is a real partnership with both people invested in, helping out, respecting, and caring for each other. It’s refreshingly mature and grown-up about things.

Volumes 1 and 2 of Takahashi from the Bike Shop are available now via Yen Press, and volume 3 of the manga will debut on October 28, 2025. 

The post Takahashi from the Bike Shop Is My Current Cozy Manga appeared first on Siliconera.

Kikuri Hiroi can be one of those scene-stealing characters in both the Bocchi the Rock anime and manga adaptations. While the series tends to focus on Kessoku Band like Hitori, Ikuyo, Nijika, and Ryo, this funny and flawed ing cast member with moments of depth is a standout too. Though since she is an alcoholic and has plenty of vices, the enjoyment someone gets out of the Bocchi the Rock! Side Story: Kikuri Hiroi’s Heavy-Drinking Diary spin-off manga will vary depending on how much you like her and the original series.

Editors Note: There will be some mild spoilers for early parts of volume 1 of the Bocchi the Rock! Side Story: Kikuri Hiroi’s Heavy-Drinking Diary manga.  175lc

While the original Bocchi the Rock is a four-koma series that gradually builds on the story of Kessoku band in strips that also can sometimes stand on their own, the Bocchi the Rock! Side Story: Kikuri Hiroi’s Heavy-Drinking Diary side story manga follows a more traditional format as it looks at Sick Hack’s singer and bass player. While it starts by bringing up Kikuri’s talents and how adept bandmates Eliza Shimizu and Shima Iwashita are, it also quickly establishes she is no angel and shows a copy trying to reason with her when she’s in a full drunken “incorrigible alcoholic”moment. 

It’s a stark introduction to two facets of her personality, and the first chapter continues to emphasize that. She gets so drunk after a sold-out Yokohama Arena show that she winds up blackout drunk in Kanazawa. While Eliza and Shima clearly respect her talents enough to perform and be in Sick Hack with her, neither is going to come and pick her up and they also definitely knew she probably wouldn’t make the fireworks show they were going to go to. People in the bar she winds up in think she’s exaggerating about her indie band being popular and talents, due to the fact she walks in drunk and keeps drinking. But then actual fans recognize her, ask to meet her, and her story. Kikuri gets carried away and offers to cover folks’ tabs, blowing through her money and winding up alone and broke at a shrine with a stray cat and huge bottle of cheap booze. 

What I appreciate is that Bocchi the Rock! Side Story: Kikuri Hiroi’s Heavy-Drinking Diary sort of feels like a different type of slice-of-life manga. It’s still going through an indie rocker’s daily life. We get a different perspective. But it doesn’t lock the story into a comedic or dramatic tone, and it establishes that from the outset. Because while this chapter starts out funny, as we see her deal with her drunkenness, not being able to convince people for a ride, and come to with spending almost all of her money as she’s carried away on fan adoration, that quickly turns darker. By the end of the chapter, she’s entered her infamous Spiral of Happiness, which sees her dealing with any discomfort or pain by getting so drunk that she gets “happy” and numb. 

And we see this continue throughout this spin-off. Kikuri reaches a high point, usually a performance of sorts or something dealing with her talents resulting in a win for Sick Hack or her personally. But then something happens to swiftly bring her down. It could be recklessly spending money that could have ed her for a month or longer. Maybe it’s getting so carried away in the moment that she trashes expensive equipment that belonged to a club. While we see people around her, such as Eliza and even Shima, do care in their own ways and offer different sorts of s, there’s a constant cycle that makes it both occasionally amusing and a fascinating analysis of her as a character. However, because Kikuri is a drunk, I could see it being painful or difficult for some people to read, especially when it can seem like she isn’t thinking about consequences or considering others.

So if someone really likes the original series or is interested in the character, I feel like the Bocchi the Rock! Side Story: Kikuri Hiroi’s Heavy-Drinking Diary manga can be interesting supplemental reading. But if someone has experiencing being in a role like Shima or being around someone like that, I think it might be a difficult read. Especially when moments come up when Kikuri or other people do get serious.

Volume 1 of Bocchi the Rock! Side Story: Kikuri Hiroi’s Heavy-Drinking Diary is available now, and Yen Press will release volume 2 of the manga on September 23, 2025. The company also handles the Bocchi the Rock manga. The anime is streaming on Crunchyroll.

The post Bocchi the Rock Side Story Manga Is Great for Kikuri Hiroi Fans appeared first on Siliconera.

I’ve mentioned before how in early Oshi no Ko manga volumes and anime episodes, it seems to focus on Aqua and his development, and it’s only around volume 9 that we Ruby starts to steal the show. The 10th volume builds on that in a way that’s honestly a little terrifying. We see the full extent of her plans from the previous volume to now and the effects of those actions, as well as her brother’s response, and it shows exactly how brilliant, devious, and powerful she can be.

Editor’s Note: There will be minor spoilers for the first few three chapters of the 10th volume of the Oshi no Ko manga below. 72254o

Things start out with a new episode of the show Dig Deep, which features Aqua as a host and Ruby as a reporter, dealing with the cosplay incident and flaming of the show from the previous volume. Because of the director Tetsu Urushibara’s decisions, a cosplayer was treated abominably, people who were supposed to be on the show had no warning about changes, and approval wasn’t gotten from Abiko Samejima for Tokyo Blade usage. However, while that all went wrong and people’s reputations were hurt and livelihoods threatened, we start with Ruby about to benefit. She orchestrated the proposal for handling it on the show, with her hosting the “interviews” to explain how it all went wrong.

From the outset, it seems like a fantastic way to make amends. The director apologizes. The show explains how it happens. The wronged cosplayer who sicced her thousands of followers on the show and started the hate campaign gets a chance to speak up. Abiko is able to talk about her project and why she’s protective. It seems like everything went right and Ruby gets some attention in the process.

But we see that Aqua understood what Ruby orchestrated, and he brings up up after the episode recording in Oshi no Ko. He can tell she had a hand, but asks when she started it all. It’s then that, like a James Bond villain, we see exactly how brilliant she is. She realized she didn’t want to wait for the assistant director Shun Yoshizumi to climb the ranks so she could get more work. So she used the flaws she observed in Dig Deep, formulated a plan to ruin the direct, pulled in a cosplayer known for leaks and unleashing a toxic community, and put everything together to force a situation where the already established director Urushibara owes her. She forces her way up the ladder quickly, rather than the more gradual and slow way Aqua did. He looks more and more shocked as she explains, and we get this greater sense of appreciation of how observant she was, how she watched people, the decisions she made, and how she ensured she had the cosplayer, director, assistant director, and audience all on her side by the end.

The thing it comes down to is collateral damage. When Aqua schemed in Oshi no Ko, it felt like it ended up being more targeted endeavors. During the Love for Real incident with Akane, he convinces people to work together for a good cause. When he’s taking part in the Tokyo Blade stage play, it’s to reach one specific person and get information from people tied to a certain group. His climb through the ranks of the entertainment industry isn’t about his personal gain, really. It’s about getting clues and insight to find Ai’s killer. His climb doesn’t tear anyone down and, while he does get Akane on his side along the way, the relationship he builds don’t seem to involve exploitation.

With Ruby, she’s more ruthless once she decides she learned what happened to Gorou Amamiya and sets her sights on advancing as quickly as possible. She’s willing to manufacture situations to play people to her advantage. Yes, in this instance she does “fix” things in the end. But the only person who is better off at the end is herself. Also, in so doing, it gives the impression she’s somewhat alienating herself from others. While Aqua did detach from Kana, which he established is a purposeful action to ensure what happened to Ai never happens to her and protects her, he also didn’t set things up to benefit. Ruby is cunning, enraged, and determined enough to do that.

In a way, I think only now getting to see Ruby in this way in Oshi no Ko, especially after Aqua did much of his scheming in early volumes, makes for a more interesting comparison. It makes the lengths she went to and the way she behaved as a mastermind more impressive and terrifying than it might have been otherwise. Likewise, seeing Aqua’s response to the realization that Ruby is willing to go so far is a major moment.

Oshi no Ko volume 10 debuts on May 27, 2025, and Yen Press will release volume 11 of the manga on August 26, 2025. The anime is on Hidive. 

The post Ruby Can Be Scarier Than Aqua in Oshi no Ko appeared first on Siliconera.

At MCM London Comic Con 2025, Yen Press announced it will release the Love Bullet manga in English and will release a Complete Box Set of Fruits Basket. The first volume of the yuri manga and box set will both appear in November 2025, though there’s no exact release date for either one yet. 

In the case of Love Bullet, it’s a series from inee about a young woman named Koharu. After she dies, following a confession from her best friend Aki, she becomes one of the Cupids who helps people fall in love. As they spread happiness, they might eventually be able to get a chance to become a human again. Koharu now works alongside Kanna, Chiyo, and Ena to spread love and solve problems with romance.

Inee shared the following image on social media to celebrate the English Love Bullet manga localization announcement.

As for the Yen Press Fruits Basket: The Complete Set release, that will feature all 23 volumes of the manga series. The announcement also confirmed lenticular cards will be included with it.

Two other manga were confirmed as part of the Yen Press MCM London Comic Con 2025 reveals. One is The Terrifying Students at Ghoul School. The anime for that is already appearing worldwide on Crunchyroll. The other is The Girl Past the Filters. Both will also appear in November 2025. 

The post Yen Press Picks Up Love Bullet and Fruits Basket Manga Box Set appeared first on Siliconera.

There are so many shojo manga about a young woman who might get to marry royalty, but endures so many challenges and develops so many enemies along the way. It’s frustrating! Especially when the heroine herself isn’t taking it well and sometimes gets down on herself or questions who she is. The 31st Consort seems, from the outside, like it could be such a story. It is about the underdog potential wife for a king competing against other consorts. However, the character of Felia and way she wins over those around her makes it feel a little fresher in the first volume.

Editor’s Note: There are minor spoilers for the first volume of The 31st Consort shojo manga below. 6s5j6w

Felia is a rather ordinary girl from Karodia province living with Ricarro, her oldest brother that is the area’s lord, and her other brother Garon. She’s a rather ordinary person who enjoys tending to the herbs that region is known for. However, because of her station, she ended up being picked as one of the king’s consorts. The thing is, she’s the 31st one. Which means she only sees him on months with 31 days, as that’s when he’ll see her. Because of that, and the fact that it’s the lowest ranked in of power, nobody else wanted the spot and it fell to her. Because this is a position that lasts for a year, her brothers basically talk her into it, so off she goes.

First, I want to say that it’s a little off-putting that Felia is considered “old” at just over 22. I get this is supposed to be something of a period piece, but it shocked me a bit! I did read shojo series along similar lines with younger heroines, so it isn’t the most egregious case of that.

From there, we get to see Felia’s arrival and what life would be like for the 31st consort. Since she’s a country girl and their community is more humble, she arrives in her ordinary clothing, with her brother Ricarro bringing her to the castle in an ox cart. Rather than be captivated by the impressive palace, she’s more concerned with the soil, flowers, and composting possibilities. Her home ends up being the most, well, homely! She gets her own wooden house, a garden, and she’s not getting any maids since nobody wanted to live so humbly. Which she attests as fine, as she’s the type of person who didn’t want or need one. All she basically has is the Knight Commander Binz to help, and her only request ends up being farming tools.

Aside from the shock about her age, The 31st Consort ends up being quite pleasant from there on out. Binz and other of the knights’ fourth unit assigned to her end up making themselves at home and befriending her, in a better situation than other knights assigned to demanding or terrifying higher-ranked consorts. She had no issue standing up to an intimidating housekeeper who apparently usually leaves people cowed. It’s sweet to see her adapt so well and people genuinely appreciate her, as well as her make astute observations about the soil, area, country, and other consorts. So much so that people like Binz are willing to fight for her and other consorts’ knights escape to hang out at her place.

This all means once Felia meets King Macron after months, we’re also meeting him for the first time. And his feelings on marriage and the consort process feels like it mirrors hers. He doesn’t care for it. He doesn’t want to spend time with unpleasant people. He basically wants to do his job, and he’s counting down the days. We see what he goes through with them, the governmental process that involves whittling down candidates, and finally his first meeting with Felia. Even though the housekeeper delayed the king’s visit, due to her dislike of Felia. But when he does arrive, it’s genuinely satisfying and makes The 31st Consort seem like a shojo manga with some potential. 

While the initial introduction for this shojo manga might seem a bit awkward, I ended up really enjoying the first volume of The 31st Consort. Felia is such a down-to-earth, practical heroine. She savors what she has, appreciates a challenge, is incredibly competent, and always remains in character. It ends up being quite a delight, and I ended up rooting for the 31st consort to be picked by the end of the first volume too.

The first volume of The 31st Consort is now available, and Yen Press will release volume 2 on August 26, 2025. 

The post The 31st Consort Could Be a Promising Shojo Manga appeared first on Siliconera.

Different adaptations of stories can each become an opportunity to enhance the tale or offer new insights into actions. With The Summer Hikaru Died light novel, I’ve noticed more thought and explanation put into characters’ thoughts and ing cast. However, at the same time, some moments and situations don’t hit the same in the book as they do in the manga. 

Editor’s Note: There will be some light spoilers for the first volume of the light novel adaptation of The Summer Hikaru Died. 4b655w

Going in to the first volume of The Summer Hikaru Died light novel, it is important to note that it basically covers the same part of the story as volume 1 of the manga. Yoshiki is aware his friend Hikaru died, and the being known as “Hikaru” who’s been around for a while isn’t really him. It starts with a confrontation about this fact, which leads to Yoshiki being the secret keeper and one closest to an entity basically wearing the skin of his best friend and crush. What follows is a look at life with such a being by your side and the danger and consequences that come from that. 

The biggest takeaway I have is that the light novel features a lot more asides with the ing characters. Things start out with Hikaru, rather than “Hikaru” getting a moment. Then in a nod to things going wrong in town, we get a little more time with Mrs. Matsuura in a critical moment. When Yuuki and Asako, Hikaru and Yoshiki’s classmates, are introduced, there is far more effort put into their introduction, defining them as characters, and setting up their friendship. There’s also a little bit of insight into the personality of Kaoru, Yoshiki’s sister, as a result. 

While this is generally a good thing, there are also times when I feel like the light novel adaptation of The Summer Hikaru Died loses some of its punch with this new approach. For example, the introduction begins with us seeing the actual Hikaru’s last moments. I felt this lessened the effect and introduction of “Hikaru” in the first chapter of the book. That moment is perfect in the manga and so notable because of that jolt. It also doesn’t feel as well written and executed as that moment in the manga when it happened as well. 

There are also some moments when the extra internal insight from Yoshiki feels like a bit much. Some of his reactions and deterioration throughout the manga version of The Summer Hikaru Died is effective because we’re inferring or actually seeing the strain through the art. The bags under his eyes. His hair. His injury that just doesn’t heal. That doesn’t come across the same in text. There’s a point at which Yoshiki thinks, after “Hikaru” says something notable, “Hikaru never said a thing like that before.” I didn’t like how it came across, and appreciated the nuance in the manga when you could tell from the art that Yoshiki realized a response or behavior was off, but didn’t say anything about it. 

I feel like The Summer Hikaru Died light novel is an interesting option, but not the ideal adaptation. There is so much nuance to the manga, and that doesn’t always come through here. Yes, we do get some extra ing character insights. That’s fun. However, I’d recommend the first volume of the manga over the first volume of the light novel any time. 

The first volume of The Summer Hikaru Died light novel is available now through Yen Press, and the company handles the manga as well. The anime will air on Netflix in July 2025.

The post The Summer Hikaru Died Light Novel Gives ing Characters More Time appeared first on Siliconera.

In Another World, My Sister Stole My Name is an isekai shojo manga series that relies upon both love and betrayal. After all, Ichika ended up being something of a chosen one who could communicate with another world through a mirror, she told her sister Karen about it, her sister ended up disappearing there, and when Ichika does wind up spirited away she learns her sister stole her identity. There are some serious secrets and mysteries. Now with the second volume, even more are coming up and suspicious behavior is pretty rampant, but Ichika doesn’t seem to be catching on in the same way us readers likely are.

Editor’s Note: There will be spoilers for volume 1 and light spoilers for volume 2 of the In Another World, My Sister Stole My Name manga below. 20634j

As a quick reminder, the way mechanics worked in In Another World, My Sister Stole My Name means that there was a time difference between the magic mirror tying the worlds together. Ichika talked to a young prince named Cecil through it. When her sister Karen disappeared, she appeared in that kingdom, became grown-up Cecil’s fiance, and is a Saint due to possessing remarkable light magic. When Ichika came through the portal, she learned Karen claimed to be her and is going by “Ichika” there. She declared the real Ichika “Karen.” This means Ichika is now betrothed to the prince’s younger brother Noah, and he seems quite displeased about things. 

The end of the first volume of revealed plots are afoot. Someone targeted Ichika with a curse. Noah sensed it and got in the way. Ichika, as befitting the actual chosen one, used an incredible amount of light magic to save him and is now acknowledged as a second Saint.

This means that now so many suspicious and shady dealings are coming up in In Another World, My Sister Stole My Name, but I find it a bit frustrating that Ichika doesn’t seem to realize it. Noah is clearly hiding something, and as the volume goes on it is obvious he either knows or realized facts critical to Ichika and her situation. Since he’s her fiance and they spend an extended period of time together in these chapters, it’s a little frustrating that she’s not figuring out something is awry. I suppose you could use the excuse that she’s figuring out her magic powers and on her first Saint assignment, but still.

What’s going on with people around Ichika, Noah, and Cecil is equally obvious. Something is absolutely awry with Karen. It’s clear from the first volume. However, Ichika isn’t doing any sort of investigation. We see some of it begin to pop up here, now that they’re in close proximity and Ichika is a second Saint. But I’d have loved more awareness from our main heroine. Also, the only person who seems suspicious of the queen is Noah, even with some rather notable scenes in both volumes, and I’m surprised there isn’t more investigation into the curse directed at Ichika and Noah. 

The scenario Kotoko constructed is interesting for a reader. Because of the narrative decisions, we’re aware of all these webs, pitfalls, and machinations. However, I find it leaves me a little frustrated because I am seeing them, but Ichika isn’t. Instead, by the end of the volume, I get the impression she’s more upset by the fact that things are tense between Cecil and Karen, Karen and her, Noah and her, Noah and Cecil, and just… everyone. When really, I’m thinking, “Why aren’t you more concerned about your sister’s identity theft, the possible sabotage, and the attempted murder?”

To be honest, I’m still not sure how I feel about a series where the female lead is so clueless that she’s not able to see how suspicious everyone around her is acting. What’s keeping me reading the In Another World, My Sister Stole My Name manga is more of a desire to see everything blow up and issions come out, rather than watch Ichika get her happy ending. Because it’s clear there are some revelations that Kotoko is incredibly close to sharing, but the author is just building a little more anticipation in the meantime. 

Volume 2 of In Another World, My Sister Stole My Name is available now, and Yen Press will release volume 3 of the manga on July 22, 2025. 

The post In Another World, My Sister Stole My Name Keeps Piling on Suspicious Situations appeared first on Siliconera.

One of my pet peeves, when it comes to anime and manga, is when a story beat is drawn out. You know, like when there’s a pertinent part of a protagonist’s personality that is critical to what’s going on and keeping the story from really advancing, but the creator’s gone multiple volumes without getting to it. In a shojo manga like If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love, you would think that issue would come up with the romance element, but instead by the end of volume 3 it’s with an issue having to deal with Brigitte herself.

Editor’s Note: There will be some light spoilers for volume 3 of the If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love manga adaptation below. 2x1d50

 If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love is a series set in a world where magic is a big deal, as is your place among the kingdom’s various classes. This means there are multiple plot points at play. One is the typical romance plot that involves Brigitte being a former fiance of a prince and involved in a love triangle between him and another nobleman named Yuri. Another is the whole school-life element at Otoleanna Academy of Magic and Brigette struggling to fit in there due to both bullying from her former fiance Prince Joseph and his new love interest Lisa and her status. But the big one is the fact that people in this world end up forming contracts with spirits, and Brigitte supposedly is tied to a weak, “no-name” one. 

Here’s the thing. Throughout the first two volumes of the If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love manga, we’re basically told that Brigitte is more than she seems. It isn’t just her being so dedicated to prove her value and connect with spirits that she excels at school. Everything flat out says that her spirit is actually a powerful one and she is remarkable in a way people aren’t seeing yet. It was completely reasonable for things to remain mysterious for the first two volumes. However, given how critical the reveal is to starting to resolve the other two plot points, I genuinely expected to see that start to be covered now.

Except it doesn’t. If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love volume 3 ends on another cliffhanger instead. Which is incredibly frustrating! We get a major situation in this installment that would have involved a scenario perfect for some sort of reveal during a critical confrontation. Failing that, some of the later chapters could have resulted in a quieter reveal and introspection that helped Brigitte confirm for herself her own strength. 

It isn’t the absolute worst, I know. This set up does mean everything will resolve in the fourth volume. Especially if someone is already aware of the series and its progress. However, there’s something about this format for everything that makes it feel a little more obvious here. I suspect it is because the other elements tied to challenges Brigitte are resolving in such a smooth and swift fashion that this one stands out all the more. Brigitte has made two solid friendships by this point. She’s already connected in fantastic ways with Yuri, with both pretty much accepting and acknowledging their feelings. The Lisa and Joseph portions are keeping up at a great pace too, as are misconceptions at school. 

The thing is, this is also an issue that I find is unique to the If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love manga adaptation! I think that’s why it feels like such a sticking point here. Harunadon’s pacing in the original light novel, which Yen Press also handles, is honestly pretty great! By the time the third volume rolls around, we’re past the hiccup we’re still facing in the manga. Brigitte is completely aware of her spirit contract. Because of that, some absolutely fascinating plot points are coming up. It also even means there are great romantic developments between her and Yuri. 

I still think the manga adaptation is If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love is fun in its way. There’s definitely a lot of merit to it too. Not everyone enjoys light novels and instead prefers manga. Chiru Ukai and Yomi Sarachi’s art is lovely. I just feel like the execution and pacing is better in the light novel adaptation. So maybe this is more a situation that involves picking one version and sticking with it, rather than going through multiple ones. 

Volume 3 of If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love is available now, and Yen Press will release volume 4 of the manga on September 23, 2025.

The post If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love Manga Drags Out Its Premise appeared first on Siliconera.

In The Summer Hikaru Died, we’re constantly learning about the new “Hikaru” who stepped into Hikaru Indou’s life. However, a lot of this is based on interactions with other people and observations from Yoshiki Tsujinaka, his love interest and our primary protagonist. It makes sense, since “Hikaru” is an entity beyond our understanding. What I love about volume 5 of The Summer Hikaru Died manga is that it really gives a fantastic chance to see things more from that character’s perspective, and it makes me hope this volume and some of those moments will make the cut-off for the anime adaptation.

Editor’s Note: There will be some mild spoilers for the volume 5 of The Summer Hikaru Died manga below. 3w34a

After the incident and events of volume 4, we get a stark reminder of exactly how inhuman “Hikaru” is when The Summer HIkaru Died volume 5 begins. This means when the entity wakes a chapter into things, we get a rather unusual peek into its thought process. It’s in an incredibly primal state after being incapacitated. This means it goes on instinct. 

Which… is a bad thing. Because prior to inhabiting Hikaru, the entity “Hikaru” didn’t really possess a sense of self, awareness of others’ needs and safety, and necessary inhibitions to keep people safe. If Rie Kurebayashi wasn’t with Yoshiki, odds are what would have happened would have disastrous. But she is, and things are okay.

However, in this moment now, Mokumokuren provides an opportunity. There are new insights into “Hikaru” because the character is no longer at their best. We see that impulse from the being upon waking up. We witness them feeling weak when rehashing what happened with Yoshiki and Rie. After talking with their school friends and Yoshiki, bringing up what would happen with an entity among them, and discussing taking the piece of themselves back from Yoshiki, there’s a whole new level of introspection. “Hikaru” is questioning themself and their “life,” and in so doing we as the readers learn more about them.

Which I also love, as it emphasizes “Hikaru’s” unpredictability in The Summer Hikaru Died manga. Up until this point, a lot of people pointed out how the entity getting involved with Yoshiki changed the human teen. He’s got a scar that won’t go away. Impurities are drawn to him. He’s getting too comfortable with the supernatural. But this volume feels like the first that really gets into how much Yoshiki changed “Hikaru” too. The being willingly weakened itself for the person they care about and gave them a piece of themself. They’re able to feel pain and be in danger because of it. The being is more unstable, unexpectedly lashing out. 

Mokumokuren’s narrative decisions regarding an increased focus on “Hikaru” in this volume are also pretty perfect for two other reasons. One is that it provides an opportunity for the being to tap into Hikaru’s memories and us as readers to witness that firsthand. It’s such a boon in helping to better understand the history and situation, as well as decipher what supernatural things are actually happening in this town. Because the original Hikaru is kind of “telling” us. 

But it’s also great as we pretty much only saw “Hikaru” in situations with Yoshiki, which influence our depictions and understanding of him. The being gets so many more moments alone and with important ing cast in this volume. Because of that, we see others who know what the individual is react and respond. There are more insights into relationships. It helps better inform us about this being. 

The Summer Hikaru Died volume 5 is essentially Mokumokuren helping us better understand “Hikaru,” just as it seems like the entity is starting to do more questioning of themself. The increased focus on the character and opportunities to see both from their perspective or moments when Yoshiki isn’t around is fascinating and enlightening. I think it even helps a bit with the mystery surrounding everything that’s happening.

Volume 5 of The Summer Hikaru Died is available now via Yen Press, and there’s no release date for volume 6 yet. 

The post The Summer Hikaru Died Volume 5 Digs More Into ‘Hikaru’ appeared first on Siliconera.

When it comes to The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor, it might seem a bit off-putting for a pre-teen to be the influential heroine who will save the day. Even with ensuing volumes of the manga making clear what kind of person she is. You really need a lot of evidence through clear situations to make the case. With volume 5 of The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor, the manga provides a lot of prime examples of how important, valuable, and strong Jill is due to both her innate abilities, hard work, and knowledge of her past life.

Editor’s Note: There are some spoilers for volume 5 of The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor manga below. 236a14

At the very start of volume 5 of The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor, we’re already in a position where Sarasa Nagase uses the manga to highlight how capable and responsible is. Because Hadis is in hiding, Jill is in-training in disguise alongside Camila and Zeke with Princess Elentzia and her Dragon Knights. She’s setting herself up as a cadet and, because of Elentzia’s dragon attacking her, is taking advantage of the fact that it seems like she has no affinity with dragons. So from the start, we see how she’s being depended upon to gather information, assess situations, and prepare when Hadis needs to be in hiding as a result of the false Dragon Emperor’s actions. 

This also means we get a great example of Jill using her knowledge of the past to assist with her strategies in the future. Back in the original timeline, her fiance Prince Gerald basically spied on her throughout her school years and life via his ally, friend, and minion Lawrence Marton. Lawrence appears to be quite friendly. Jill only realized exactly what he had been capable of and doing for years after Gerald’s betrayal and her death. So now when she meets her as a Dragon Knight cadet, she immediately acts in a way that gets in the way of his plans, keeps him from sowing doubt, and allows her to perhaps mitigate some possible damage. (It’s not the only way her past helps her potential future in this volume, so keep your eyes open!)

Jill’s instincts and intuition are on full display in volume 5 of The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor manga too. When observing Hadis’ siblings Elentzia and Risteard, she’s able to pretty accurately discern their character. It’s especially impressive with Risteard, since there are time when he says something or gets so worked up that it could seem villainous. But no, she assesses them as well as she did people like Hadis, Camila, Zeke, and Lawrence.

Finally, we see Jill’s straight-up combat prowess. At a point in this volume, she needs to use force to get her point across. First, she knows the right time to get serious. Then, she’s good at making use of her capabilities to get things done. More importantly, she even adjusts for her own shortcomings. It’s great to see how she handles herself.

I absolutely love when the story in The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor shows how practical Jill’s knowledge of her past life can be alongside her general strength and intelligence, and volume 5 of the manga includes multiple examples of how capable she is. We get a sense of her intuition when she observes a potential enemy and Hadis’ siblings. We note how dragons react to her. We see her skill with the blade. She also makes good use of what she knows happened in the previous timeline to keep history from repeating. It really showcases what a strong heroine she is.

Volume 5 of The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor is available now, and Yen Press will release volume 6 of the manga on September 23, 2025. An anime is available, and it is streaming on Crunchyroll.

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The Small-Animallike Lady is one of those shojo manga about a sweet situation and even a bit of an opposites attract couple, and the second volume continues to accentuate that. However, it accomplishes even more than that. While the first volume is about setting the stage and ensuring it comes across as lighthearted and sweet, the second is more touching. It’s something of a tale of acceptance. 

Editor’s Note: There will be some spoilers for volume 2 of The Small-Animallike Lady is Adored by the Ice Prince manga below. 5ma33

The acceptance showcased in this latest installment of the The Small-Animallike Lady is Adored by the Ice Prince manga is honestly twofold. Because we’re not just watching Lily adapt to her new life as a princess, royal family member, and fiance. We’re seeing them adjust to her as well. In the first volume, it’s already evident that William and his parents approve of her. However, this new entry helps further establish that and show she’s dealing with genuinely considerate and kind people by watching us bond with her future mother-in-law, Queen Sophia.

Now, when I first talked about this series, I mentioned how genuinely funny it can be. The first portion of this volume highlights that. The time spent with Queen Sophia ends up being the real “comic relief” in this installment. She’s as taken with Lily as her son is. Partially, because she also always wanted a daughter. But also, she’s charmed with her earnestness, sweet behavior, adorable appearance, and just genuine personality. She eagerly welcomes her to tea, then to go out shopping together. The enthusiasm is so heartfelt. She already does seem to be interested in and ready to dote on the new family member, and she’s so proud that she wants to show her off. It’s heartwarming.

The other part of the “acceptance” found in volume 2 of the The Small-Animallike Lady is Adored by the Ice Prince manga involves Lily herself. Throughout the first volume and part of this one, she enacted something of a wall between her and William. She actively tries to consider getting out of the marriage and attempts to keep him at a distance. In this entry, we see that start to shift. She starts to consider who he is as a person, rather than what he is and represents. 

Which means we get to see new sides of both of them. It’s evident from the beginning that William is taken by Lily. She’s clearly a good match for him in of her personality. But for the first time, we’re seeing how well he’s also suited for her. He shows genuine consideration for her wants and needs, and pays attention to her. It makes for some really satisfying moments, especially toward the end of this volume.

Volumes 1 and 2 of The Small-Animallike Lady is Adored by the Ice Prince are available now, and Yen Press will release volume 3 of the manga on July 22, 2025.  

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I Want to Be a Receptionist in This Magical World is one of those manga series that might give someone pause at first glance, even though it is a shojo series that is a lot of fun. Nunnally Hel wants to be a receptionist at the adventurer’s guild Harre. However, in this world that’s a very coveted position that requires someone to essentially have top marks at school and be quite magically gifted as well. The pacing in the first volume is great, since it covers her education and getting started, but it doesn’t really help us understand why it is necessary. Now that we’re already up to volume 6, the series makes much more sense and is more enjoyable as a result. 

Editor’s Note: There will be some very light plot references for I Want to Be a Receptionist in This Magical World manga volumes below. 2u206c

So in the very first volume of I Want to Be a Receptionist in This Magical World, we see Nunnally attending the prestigious Kingdom of Doran Magic Academy, even though she isn’t nobility. This is because of natural talent and a drive to become a receptionist at the Harre’s adventurer assisting organization. That’s a place that helps with investigations, assignments, and other things associated with quests. There, she develops as an individuals, ends up with the rare ice magic Blood Type, and grows as an individual. It also sets up a rivalry with Alweiss Rockmann, an actual noble and love interest who is equally magically inclined and gunning for a role with the kingdom’s knights.

It’s only once we get past that initial volume that Harre’s demand makes sense. This is because, while I Want to Be a Receptionist in This Magical World is a shojo manga, there’s also a bit of adventure to it. As a newcomer, a lot of Nunnally’s time at the job involves learning practical skills. While some of that is typical paperwork, it also shows that insight into what explorers will deal with is a necessity. While figuring out new assignments and taking requests from common people for the knights and other experienced warriors, they’ll need to figure out what’s going on. Maybe identify a creature involved in a situation. This requires them to be strong enough to do some light exploration on their own for investigations for the assignment. Basically, they need to know what they’re talking about, and have a wide range of immediately familiarity and information to pull from due to everything Harre handles. We see Nunnally do some tracking and use a memory detection on folks with requests about incidents to help properly figure out what’s going on and pair them with folks who can help.

Another element that suddenly makes it believable that a “simple” receptionist would need to be so experienced and skilled is the adaptability. Part of I Want to Be a Receptionist in This Magical World heading to different locations in the manga does feel designed to offer more backstory and insight into Nunnally and her family’s past and offer more sorts of shojo setups for interactions with her friends and Rockmann. However, part of it also shows the range of the individuals working for Harre. One of her assignments takes her outside the one major location in Doran to other branches. So a part of that sends her to the south to Solieu. So since she does need to go around the kingdom, it reasons someone would need to be strong enough to travel and handle themself in any situation, regardless of environment.

Two of the more recent examples as to why Harre needs such talented and strong employees is hinted at in the sixth volume of the manga, leading into the events of the seventh. The first involves a major event and competition called Walhelnus. Harre sends representatives to compete alongside other sorcerers. Nunnally isn’t participating that year, due to her being relatively new. However, part of Harre’s tasks involves also assisting with running it, which she’ll be doing. That involves even more magical assistance than her daily job. The other teaser suggests now she is experienced enough to work the night shift. This again involves more danger and critical situations, as well as doing so without senior staff around.

It basically feels like every volume of I Want to Be a Receptionist in This Magical World gradually showcases more and more why Nunnally needed to be such a talented sorceress to work there. When the manga began, it didn’t properly show or tell why what is essentially an adventurer’s guild would need top-of-their-class students as employees. However, as the series continues, it’s doing a much better job of laying that out. I really appreciate it!

Volume 6 of the I Want to Be a Receptionist in This Magical World manga is available now, and Yen Press hasn’t noted when it will release volume 7 yet. 

The post I Want to Be a Receptionist in This Magical World Manga Gradually Makes More Sense appeared first on Siliconera.

There are so many takes on gods living in modern times in manga. Kamisama Kiss and Ah My Goddess both spring to mind. We could consider Death Note one as well. Yen Press’ The Failure at God School, from The Apothecary Diaries author Natsu Hyuuga, is another take on the concept that not only involves gods in everyday life, but gets into the training for such deities.

Editor’s Note: There will be minor spoilers for first volume of The Failure at God School manga below. 3t1mk

Much like The Apothecary Diaries, the star of The Failure at God School manga is a young woman named Nagi. Her family tends the Hibiya Shrine, and her deceased grandmother used to be its god. After her ing, that leaves them looking for a replacement Himiko with powers who can live there and assist the town. While her twin brother Takeru is a Himiko with abilities, he won’t take up the role due to personal trauma, so there’s been nobody who can properly serve the community and fill the role for five years. She’s tried to push him into taking the government god exam, but he won’t. 

When the town’s butcher’s grandson, a young boy who had been certified as a Himiko, is spirited away, this spurs Nagi into action. When taking a shortcut to get to school, she starts to realize the area is one where a child could be lost. After ing a shrine, the world shifts and she finds the missing kid. As she starts to carry him out, she feels some entity pulling them back. Somehow, she is able to sever the connection and get them both back to freedom. This catches the attention of a Himiko named Tsukuyomi who is in town for the city hall inauguration, as she managed to overcome an “evil presence.” He and his manager then find Nagi and the boy and aid them, recognizing something special about her in the process. As a result, she gets accepted into Kannagara Academy, a school for Himiko who can become gods.

From there, The Failure at God School starts to feel a bit like a typical high school manga in which an underdog with incredible potential is involved. Nagi still isn’t totally aware of herself and her powers. As such, she’s considered the titular “failure.” Some of that teasing almost seems a bit good natured, as while Monaka can come across harsh, Sagami seems more lighthearted. So even if they’re critical, we can see there’s still a friendship there and affection. As a result, the segment in which we’re learning about how her power is “unidentified” comes across as more funny than traumatic. There are also similarly funny moments with a certain teacher determined to use her as a test subject and find out more about her potential. 

I do appreciate the moments we do get glimpses of what Nagi is capable of in the The Failure at God School manga. Because in those sections, it can be both impressive and incredibly funny. After all, she ends up with the nickname “Grizzly Killer.” This could have felt like a fairly typical story of a high schooler who’s underestimated and gets a chance to make good. But the humor behind it, as well as the possible potential and “identity” of Nagi, really helps set this story apart. Even though some of the steps to get to places might feel similar, the dynamics are engaging. Especially since Nagi’s personality is quite endearing.

The Failure at God School can feel like other manga series about young adults who are coming to with powers and training them, especially since the star is someone with possibly incredible potential who is completely underestimated. It’s the execution that makes it stand out sometimes. Nagi’s demeanor, her reactions to the situations she’s in, and the way others behave mean it can often feel both fascinating and quite funny. I would dare say it’s promising in the same way Hyuuga’s The Apothecary Diaries is.

Volume 1 of The Failure at God School is available now, and Yen Press will release the second volume of the manga on July 22, 2025.

The post The Failure at God School Manga Takes ‘Deities’ to School appeared first on Siliconera.

The title of The Guy She was Interested in Wasn’t a Guy at All explains the whole point of the The Green Yuri manga, so it isn’t exactly a shock to anyone aside from one of the lead characters in the first volume. But at the end of it, everyone knows the secret twist. Which means the second volume starts off in an even more fun place when it comes to the situation and relationship between Aya Oosawa and Mitsuki Koga.

Editor’s Note: There will be spoilers for volume 2 of The Guy She was Interested in Wasn’t a Guy at All, aka The Green Yuri, below. 3m3w2k

As a quick refresher, Aya Oosawa and Mitsuki Koga are classmates in high school. Mitsuki is incredibly quiet there, while Aya is popular. Aya loves Western music and rock/alternative stuff. She visits a record store, where it turns out Mitsuki works. However, due to Mitsuki’s personal style outside school and wearing a face mask at the time, Aya mistakes her for a guy and develops a crush. Much of the first volume deals with both Mitsuki agonizing over the realization, Aya not knowing, and people around them realizing what’s going on.

With The Green Yuri volume 2, the manga’s gotten past that revelation and is dealing with a whole knew phase of things: acceptance. Aya knows. Mitsuki knows. They’re adjusting to the fact that they aren’t strangers anymore. However, that comes with whole new challenges. As we saw at the end of the first volume, Mitsuki performed as a way to reach out to Aya and make her feelings heard. Because of her awkwardness about forming connections with people and Aya’s awkwardness with her crush on Mitsuki, there are misunderstandings and moments that make you audibly gasp. But in a good way!

For example, I had one of these moments immediately after this volume begins. Aya is all flustered by Mitsuki and her responses. She’s unsure if she’s reading into it. She’s shy! She’s awkward! She’s running away constantly because she can’t face her feelings! So Mitsuki catches her in class to check in on her, and the responses of both young women is too perfect. It’s so sweet and adorable. I won’t spoil it, but it perfectly captures each of their personalities, as well as how suited they are for each other.

And it keeps happening. I’d say creator Sumiko Arai can’t keep doing this, but I want that. The series is too perfect and cute. Especially since this volume feels dedicated to Aya and Mitsuki dealing with the aftermath of the reveal and what appears to be the gradual response to them having feelings for each other. 

Like one of the major plot points in this installment is the introduction of Kanna. I won’t mention who she is, as that’s part of the fun of this part of the storyline. But what’s great about her introduction is we see someone else Mitsuki is close to and opens up around. You know, like the way she does around Aya sometimes. And we can see Aya starting to realize that “crush” she had on “that guy” is genuine, real feelings for who Mitsuki is as a person. Which means she is so jealous about the situation, and it is so adorable and funny. Especially since Kanna sees what is going on and teases her about it.

So much of this volume of the The Guy She was Interested in Wasn’t a Guy at All manga is about those moments, as The Green Yuri girls are starting to work things out. Aya and Mitsuki learning to relate to each other. Them figuring out their feelings. The funny, cute, and awkward scenes that come up as their relationship develops. We’re watching them grow and come together. It’s so charming and endearing, because you can tell this is real and the start of a healthy romance.

Volume 2 of The Guy She was Interested in Wasn’t a Guy at All is available now, and Yen Press will handle volume 3 of The Green Yuri manga as well. An anime adaptation is in development as well.

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