Amber is the 7th book in the Eminence Shifters series, but can be read alone as a standalone. However, having read Jade before this, it does4/5 Stars
Amber is the 7th book in the Eminence Shifters series, but can be read alone as a standalone. However, having read Jade before this, it does add a little something extra having read the other book(s). In this one we see Amber, meeting her own mates in coyote shifters Mason, Dylan, Hudson and Lucas. It picks up right where Jade left off.
I enjoyed watching Amber, Mason, Dylan, Hudson and Lucas get together. If insta-love/fated mates is not your thing, this probably isn't for you. I would've loved more time getting to see their relationship grow, but I say that all the time. There are a few misunderstandings that need to be resolved. I do appreciate open communication and the fact that the characters aren't irrational when it comes to the misunderstandings that occurred.
The villain's in this story were unhinged baddies and got what they deserved. This also crossed over with Malkin's Pine Falls series, which I may take a look at later since I'm curious as to what became of Sienna. I also liked that we got to see Jade and her mates, as well as the others in this book.
Amber is the 7th book in the Eminence Shifters series, but can be read alone as a standalone. However, having read Jade before this, it does add a little something extra having read the other book(s). In this one we see Amber, meeting her own mates in coyote shifters Mason, Dylan, Hudson and Lucas. It picks up right where Jade left off.
I enjoyed watching Amber, Mason, Dylan, Hudson and Lucas get together. If insta-love/fated mates is not your thing, this probably isn't for you. I would've loved more time getting to see their relationship grow, but I say that all the time. There are a few misunderstandings that need to be resolved. I do appreciate open communication and the fact that the characters aren't irrational when it comes to the misunderstandings that occurred.
The villain's in this story were unhinged baddies and got what they deserved. This also crossed over with Malkin's Pine Falls series, which I may take a look at later since I'm curious as to what became of Sienna. I also liked that we got to see Jade and her mates, as well as the others in this book.
I absolutely loved Phantom Orchid ! With Reverse Harems, it can be hit or miss with me, generally if it's in one book there usually not enough depth,I absolutely loved Phantom Orchid ! With Reverse Harems, it can be hit or miss with me, generally if it's in one book there usually not enough depth, and if it's a series sometimes it drags. In this book, it hit the sweet spot. Do I want more? Of course, but that's because I really enjoyed it and loved the characters and world. This book is lengthy, but it is absolutely worth it. You get to know the characters and the world as well as watch the relationships develop. Could it have been longer, heck yes! I feel like we were just really starting to get to know these wonderful characters and see Lan and her Dragons settle into their individual relationships and bonds. For what it was, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and would certainly read more about these characters should the author choose to continue their story.
Leilan (Lan) was an awesome female lead, I loved her. While she does have some awkwardness, sass and occasionally can be a bit of a brat, she is otherwise mature (especially for her age), clear-headed and reasonable. She is both mature and naive, stubborn but willing to adapt. She has been through hardship, and is able to take care of herself and her boys, but knows how to ask for help. I really enjoyed getting to know Lan, her boys (Li Qiang, Zhang Wei - who were each their own characters themselves) and her men.
There is Gregoir Titan, Koa, Miyo, Xerxes, Vasilios, Atlas and Christian Riaan. Each of whom has their own voice in the story (though I do wish we had gotten to know them more - but really this was Lan's story). I did absolutely love that the author gave each male their own voice and perspective in this story, it added a depth we don't always see. Each of them stood out as their own, and had their own individual relationship with Lan, not just as a group.
Let's not forget the plot, which lets face it is not always a main factor in reverse harems. I'm pleased to say in Phantom Orchid it is well thought out and interwoven from the very beginning to the end. It was paced well, and didn't get lost in the story, with little parts of it unfolding at a time appropriately with the rest of the story. I liked that Lan's boys also played a major part of the story and also began to develop familial bonds with not only Lan's Dragons but their extended family as well. I do feel the ending was a bit rushed in comparison with the rest of the book.
And last but certainly not least, the sexy times. Fire. That's it. Definitely not everyone's cup of tea, but I enjoyed it. There is enough interwoven throughout the book that it doesn't drag, but it's not overwhelming and nothing but gratuitous sex (at least not for me).
I hope we get to see more of these characters in the future, but if we don't I can certainly see myself re-reading this book and checking out more of Ms. Jade's work in the future.
Trigger Warning:(view spoiler)[Violence, Abuse themes, Sexual Scenes (hide spoiler)] POV:(view spoiler)[ 1st Person - Alternating, but primarily Lan (we do get some perspective from the guys throughout the story) (hide spoiler)] HEA: (view spoiler)[ Yes (hide spoiler)] Sexual themes:(view spoiler)[Oh, Yes. MF, MFM, MFMM, MFMMMMMM and many combinations thereof. No touching or titillation among siblings. This is a reverse harem where the guys are focused on her only. BDSM themes. Omegaverse (Alphas/Omega, Knotting, Heat) (hide spoiler)] Cliffhanger:(view spoiler)[ No (hide spoiler)]...more
Kakuriyo: Bed and Breakfast for Spirits, Vol. 5 was an excellent installment in the series! I loved that we got to see more bonding moment4.5/5 Stars
Kakuriyo: Bed and Breakfast for Spirits, Vol. 5 was an excellent installment in the series! I loved that we got to see more bonding moments with Aoi and Odanna/Kijin. The food element in this series is also a continual favorite. As is the relationships Aoi is developing with the others around her.
Hakkabo was such an adorable character, especially once he got inspired and all fired up! There is also a change in fortune for Yugao, the restaurant Aoi and Ginji have opened. Partly due to Hakkabo, and perhaps partly due to a visit from a fortune spirit. Enough of a turn that, it has been selected to host a very special anniversary dinner! Sir Byakuya also reveals a different aspect to his character, and has his own bonding moment with Aoi (even if he doesn't quite feel the same).
I am looking forward to reading the next volume when it comes out, especially Ginji and Aoi's journey to the Eastern Lands! ...more
Kakuriyo: Bed and Breakfast for Spirits, Vol.4 was another wonderful installment in the series. Aoi has returned to Kakuriyo, and is prepa4.5/5 Stars
Kakuriyo: Bed and Breakfast for Spirits, Vol.4 was another wonderful installment in the series. Aoi has returned to Kakuriyo, and is preparing to open the restaurant. But not all is smooth sailing, with the poor location and funding, to interloping saboteurs, and surprise attacks from lurking assassins. Aoi remains positive and determined.
I did love the bonding going on between the characters. As well as the outing into Gintengai (the shopping street) with Odanna and Ginji. I also enjoyed getting to know Sasuke the whirlwind a little more, as well as meeting the stern, money-minded front office manager Sir Byakuya the Hakutaku. It was also great to see Lord Matsuba again! I look forward to reading the next volume, and seeing how her bento is received by the mysterious Hakkabo.
Note: You will probably get hungry reading this. Love all the food! ...more
The broad theme in Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits, Vol. 3 is Suzuran and her determination to return to Utsushiyo even though Shiro 4.5/5 Stars
The broad theme in Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits, Vol. 3 is Suzuran and her determination to return to Utsushiyo even though Shiro has already passed, though she is not necessarily the focus. We get a deeper look at Suzuran and Akatsuki's history in this book, and their relationship with Shiro and each other.
Both Aoi and Akatsuki do some growing in this volume and I have to say, I love the way Aoi is finding and growing into herself, and the relationships she's developing. I love the blend of light and humorous moments, more serious ones and the slow growth and development we see through the series. And the food. I'm still craving some Oyakodon.
I also loved that we are slowly getting to know the rest of the staff, the introduction of characters and general pacing is well-done, not too overwhelming like some other manga. And in this particular volume, I really enjoyed Odanna (Kijin) sending Aoi with Suzuran back to Utsushiyo and Aoi's choice at the end, because this time, it was clearly her choice....more
Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits Vol 2. was a delight! I really enjoy immersing myself in this world! I love getting to know the char4.5/5 Stars
Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits Vol 2. was a delight! I really enjoy immersing myself in this world! I love getting to know the characters more, and watching Aoi as she navigates an entirely different world than her own. In this particular volume we get to meet the Tengu, I like Lord Matsuba, hopefully we'll get to see more of him. We also get to see Kijin/Odanna take Aoi out of Tenjin-Ya into Kakuriyo (view spoiler)[ I'm pretty sure it was a date, though I don't think she realizes it. (hide spoiler)]. There is also a deeper look into some of the side characters, which was appreciated. I am very curious as to what Shiro's influence on Kakuriyo truly was, especially with how it's affecting Aoi (who deals with everything like a trooper).
This story is a blend of fantastical, serious, fun, light, romantic, cute and sweet moments. And food. Did I mention the food? I am also very curious as to this hinted history between Ginji and Aoi. So far, I'm really enjoying this series and look forward to where it's going!
Plus, bonus story about how Aoi got into feeding the Ayakashi in the human world when she was a freshman. It was super cute featuring the temari kappa (particularly Pee-Wee) and corn & cheese cakes which sound super yummy right now.
Note: Like the first volume this one does include an End Notes which has useful information on terms/things that some people may not be familiar with. ...more
Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits has been on my list for a while now. Volume one is a good introduction to the series, with just eno4.5/5 Stars
Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits has been on my list for a while now. Volume one is a good introduction to the series, with just enough world building (not too much it's overwhelming, but not too little that you have absolutely no idea whats going on - and with room for it to grow as the series progresses). This is really a book meant to set the foundation for the series, and it does a solid job.
I haven't got a good feel on all of the characters yet, but I do love Aoi, our lovely, kind-hearted, and spirited heroine. She is so far, my favorite. Followed closely by Ginji. Odanna/Kijin hasn't made a strong impression on me as of yet. I am looking forward to reading the other available volumes and watching the anime!
Side note: If you're like me, you may get hungry reading this. ...more
Magic Sight is the second book in this series, which really should've been named something else, since they have literally only been af2 Stars/5 Stars
Magic Sight is the second book in this series, which really should've been named something else, since they have literally only been after the same "villain" from book one, and even then there has been relatively little initiative taken on the chasing part until this book. My only reasoning for continuing on is that I already have the third (and final) book. I won't lie, there was definite potential in this series, I just feel it wasn't realized.
I like the characters, I just didn't fall in love with them the way I really wanted to. I don't get that emotional connection to them. I can see some of their bonds between others, but otherwise it's like Meh. I didn't get the chance to really get absorbed into their relationships with all the crap that's being thrown at them. Despite whatever is going on with Molly, Reo and Haru. Cass and Tianna or even Evie and Brock. Every time you blink shit is hitting the fan. They don't have time to process or care, so guess what? Neither do I.
This book had some character development (and then reversal) because Evie is admittedly an idiot who literally jumps into situations without thinking or having a plan. But what it really needed was a proper plot. Not this disorganized, thrown-together mishap. From murders, ex-boyfriends, crazy sirens, family secrets, Akuma's, vampire attacks, oh no somethings coming through the gate!, curses, rogue witches, pack, the baby, breaking swords, mysterious islands with healing water guarded by demonic selkies, Akuma!, Tsunami, Jail Breaks, Sirens, and back to the Gate, it seems the authors couldn't decide what they were writing about! It felt like the plot of several different books just shoved haphazardly together. Which means it was disjointed, at times confusing and nonsensical, with a lot of wtf just happened (why, how)? And a whole lot of no answers because it just moves onto the next disaster.
It only got saved because of the BFF relationship between Cass and Evie. Brock and Evie's kinda sorta improving relationship. So basically, the few moments I got between Evie and her crew, and sometimes just her crew were what made this story readable. We do get to see bonds here growing, I just wished there was more of it.
Magic Bite is the first book in the Supernatural Bounty Hunter series by Leia Stone and Lucia Ashta. I wanted to like it more than I did.2.5/5 Stars
Magic Bite is the first book in the Supernatural Bounty Hunter series by Leia Stone and Lucia Ashta. I wanted to like it more than I did. It was okay, definitely not the strongest series starter I've read, but not the most horrible either. In this series we are introduced to Evie Black, a Supernatural Bounty Hunter, who is going through some pretty significant life changes.
So let's start with the characters. I like most of them, in that distant kind of way. I didn't particularly "click" with any of them, or really feel any attachment to any of them. Except maybe Cass. He's cool.
Evie Black - She's supposed to be a very fearsome Supernatural Bounty Hunter (I didn't see it, in fact in this book I'm surprised she survived as long as she did). She does have sass. She doesn't seem to know a lot about anything, and flies by the seat of her pants. I gave her slack because she did lose her only living relative, and she did seem to be slammed with a lot of new surprises (which I mean she seems to be handling pretty well, considering). I just wish a little more time had been spent on developing her character. In fact I wish a lot more time had been spent on character and relationship development. I will admit I do love Cass and Evie's relationship - that bond I could see.
I just didn't understand her quick acceptance of Molly (I mean if I just met someone, I don't think I'd be letting them in on all my secrets). Her "relationship" with Brock also needs further developing, because these two are giving me whiplash. Especially the way Brock 360-ed after he found out about what was going on.
The plot is also kinda flimsy if I'm being honest. There was no whole lot of investigating into what was going on with the Siren. Or even what kind of allies the Siren was making (which we still don't fully know). Her Gran's "helpful" hint was vague and almost totally non-helpful. I'll probably at least read the second book to see if it gets better and if some things get resolved.
Queen of the Assassins is the fourth and final book in the Academy of Assassins books. I am sad to see it end, especially since there coul3.5/5 Stars
Queen of the Assassins is the fourth and final book in the Academy of Assassins books. I am sad to see it end, especially since there could have definitely been more books in the series. It didn't have as clean of a wrap up as I would've liked - but it does end on a happy note for our heroine and heroes.
This one returns the focus to Morgan and her guys, Ryder, Kincade, Atlas, Draven and Ascher. The beginning of the book focuses on them and their relationships and strengthening of their bonds, as well as finally taking that final step in their mating. But it shifts towards the second half, dealing with the Wendigo. Honestly, I would've been happy if this book had no focus on any external threats and just let them be. Not that I wasn't curious, it just seemed unnecessary. Some of what happens had me going, huh? (view spoiler)[ Where did the ghosts in the caves come from? Are these the victims of the Wendigo just hanging out to help kill them? I also need more information on Caedmon. (hide spoiler)]
It just felt a little rushed. It didn't feel like an "end", not really. It's little things from the previous books, and this one that are left unresolved. (view spoiler)[ Like with the "True Heir", if things finally returned to stability in Primordial, the Academy, the other characters we've met - Harper, Breanna, and introducing us to new interesting characters in this one - Caedmon. Did they ever round up those that escaped from Primordial and the Veil? There are even some characters that only show up and just disappear - like the Coven where Morgan originally grew up, what happened to those that survived. I get people sometimes disappear out of our lives, and we don't know what happens to them but it's just one of those random things I'm wondering. (hide spoiler)] I will miss Morgan, Ryder, Kincade, Draven, Atlas and Ascher. Not to mention Loki, Stanley and the other characters. But who knows, maybe Brutger will decide to revisit this world one day.
Claimed by the Assassins is the 3rd book the the Academy of Assassins series by Stacey Brutger. This particular installment pits Morgan an3.5/5 Stars
Claimed by the Assassins is the 3rd book the the Academy of Assassins series by Stacey Brutger. This particular installment pits Morgan and her guys against the "bitch Queen", that is the sea queen. Like the other two books, this is full of action and magic and what seems like non-stop danger.
I will be honest and say, a part of me wants more of a slow down to focus on Morgan and the guys, working on their relationships, on her magic, just having some time to breathe. I did like that there does seem to be an improvement regarding their communication with each other. Even as Morgan still struggles with realizing the whole trusting the guys with her life and not willing to put their lives at risk - yeah that's a two way street. But definitely improved on that front, I was glad they were more willing to work together than just her making decisions to protect the guys and vice versa.
We also get to meet a new Ally and friend in Breanna, the Banshee (setting up to have her own mates). As well as some returning characters. Loki will always be a favorite! As well as Stanley! We also get to meet the King, as well as ironing out some little political details regarding Morgan, her future and really the future of a lot of characters who are tied to her.
This one does feel a bit more rushed, especially in regards to Morgan's magic. I feel like she still hasn't really learned control, just flies by the seat of her pants, instinct and pure luck. It didn't really have the time to show us Morgan grow into her own power in a believable manner (view spoiler)[ The necklace for the King, like how did she even know to do that? (hide spoiler)]
3.5/5 Stars (Extra 0.5 because I love Loki, and Ryder)
Heart of the Assassins, the second book in the Academy of Assassin’s, for me, suffered from the 3.5/5 Stars (Extra 0.5 because I love Loki, and Ryder)
Heart of the Assassins, the second book in the Academy of Assassin’s, for me, suffered from the “sophomore slump” which with the book following such an awesome debut is not unexpected. I will say now, if you are just jumping into the series, start with the first book. This is not an easy series to just jump in at any time.There were a few things that made this very different from Academy of Assassins.
For one, the pacing of this book is very different. Compared to the slower paced first book, which gave readers a chance to get to know the world, the characters, and see them get to know each other this is vastly different. This is faster paced, with the characters we’ve gotten to know and love in constant danger, from one dangerous situation to the next with what seems like no resting period in between (I am honestly not even sure the time span of the book, I’m inclined to say several days). With this constant danger, there is no time for either the reader or the characters to really communicate the way they clearly need to until the end.
There is also the divide between Morgan and her men, which would be easily solved if they communicated. And if both Morgan and the men weren’t such self-sacrificing, quite literally throwing themselves into danger idiots (whom I love, but are still idiots) would really communicate and listen to each other it would solve a lot of their problems. Both Morgan and the guys do this thing where they decide what’s best for the other(s) without even talking to them. They do it to her, she does it to them. They all have this savior complex, Morgan and Kincade especially. It’s frustrating.
A common theme in this book is Morgan throwing herself into danger to save them, them following her into danger to save her (or vice versa). And then she gets upset they try to save her or follow her. In the beginning I can kind of understand, they haven’t talked about “feelings” or anything. She was not making any romantic connections until later on in the book, when the light finally went on. Even when she is told when a female dies, her guardians do too…she still throws herself in danger for them, no warning, just pure impulse on her part. Let me just say if Morgan is banned from hunting until she learns to control her a) impulsiveness, b) her power it’s gonna be a loooong time before she’s hunting again (if ever).
There’s a quote in the book, “..she’d earned her reputation for getting into trouble the honest way…by blundering into it every chance she got.” Girl does not blunder into trouble, she runs straight into it. I love her, but she frustrated me. She gets upset that the guys pull away but she does the same, she gets upset they try to protect her without communicating with her, but she does the same. She gets upset when they put themselves in danger for her, but she does the same!
Plot
In this book, we see the Academy is attacked, and our beloved (if stupid) characters end up in the Primordial realm, until such a time they can figure out the mystery of the “Fog” which is draining the magic from primordial, and infecting the residents. So of course, they have to figure out how to stop it from a) destroying primordial, and b) save one of their own who has been infected by going into Tartarus (where it originated) to find the answers. I feel like there were some unnecessary fighting scenes (because they really needed a break to rest and recover, otherwise I feel like they shouldn’t have even been able to survive all the stuff that happened to them).
New Characters
We were also introduced to some new characters that look like they’ll be playing bigger roles in the future. There is Kalvin, Neil’s brother who plays an important role in another secondary character’s life. There is Ward and Shade, two potential trainers for Morgan to help her get her power under control. Loki, Morgan’s new gardog whom I absolutely adored. Morgan has also found herself a new and powerful familiar. Oh and Stanley the talking winged cat. Note there was another hellhound briefly introduced…but I don’t particularly know what his role in the story was except to tell us that hellhounds are immune from the fog for unknown reasons that were never quite explained.
And of course the nameless gargoyle at the beginning of the story, I look forward to seeing if he shows up again in future books.
Conclusion
It’s different from the first book, the pacing was fast and non-stop. But I still love the characters (even when they frustrate me) and I really want to see them grow past this. There were some soft moments between Morgan and her guys which I really appreciated (and they finally had chance to communicate at the end). The primary plot was wrapped up, which also opened up another revelation about Morgan’s history which will probably be explored in later books. I’ll keep following the series because I really do want to see them grow into themselves and their relationship.
Side note: This story while written in Third Person POV with Morgan being the focus, but there were, I think, two sections where it abruptly switches to Kincade’s POV (still in third person) which was jarring because it was just randomly thrown in there. We also get to see some of Atlas’ perspective in the Bonus, where he drops a bombshell about one of the guys.
Academy of Assassins, is the first book in the series by Stacey Brutger and it hooked me immediately. Brutger takes her time to develop her4.5/5 Stars
Academy of Assassins, is the first book in the series by Stacey Brutger and it hooked me immediately. Brutger takes her time to develop her characters and her world, and I anticipate further development as the series goes on. Morgan our kick-ass hunter with secrets even she doesn’t know about is the heroine in this series. She is invited to the Academy to investigate and stop the murders that have occurred, murders that have a tie to her and her questionable (view spoiler)[ because she doesn’t remember it (hide spoiler)] past.
First of all, I love the characters. Morgan is awesome, she is both innocent and not. She has no discrimination between species, she sees them for their own individual actions. She definitely has trust issues (though who can blame her with her upbringing), strives to prove herself (mostly to herself) and definitely a strong drive to protect others though a bit of a devil may care attitude when it comes to her own safety. She is multi-dimensional and flawed and she has a steep learning curve. She makes mistakes. So do the others.
Kincaid, Ryder, Atlas, Draven were all also well developed characters who I expect will be even more fleshed out as the series goes on. They each had their own personalities, strengths and weakness. They each developed their own unique relationship with Morgan throughout the book, which I look forward to seeing evolve further as the series goes on. It wasn’t just Morgan and her men though, it was other characters that we got to see, like Neil and even MacGregor. Not just one faceted characters.
All of Brutger’s characters were great. That is where her strength is in this book, her ability to develop multi-dimensional characters with strong and/or developing relationships while world building without just spitting out information at us. She does it in an organic way that I learn about the world, and get to know these characters and see their relationships (developing and established) as I read.
The plot and politics were interesting and helped with world development. Could it have been more plot focused? Yes. Am I complaining that it wasn’t? No. I appreciated the character and world development that this particular plot wasn’t intricate doesn’t bother me, especially because the plot itself was pretty well developed. I will admit I was a little surprised (but not really) by one of the twists about who the inside man at the Academy was, but it really makes sense that it was who it was (and we weren’t really introduced to any “suspects” otherwise).
If you’re looking for a lot of romance/erotica with your paranormal/fantasy series, this is probably a pass. If you want great character development, slow burn relationship development, world building, action and fantasy this is for you. I also really enjoyed getting a peek at Ryder’s perspective in the bonus material! I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Queen of the Dead is the first book in The Dead and Not So Dead trilogy. It’s a fairly fast paced introduction to this world and these char3.5/5 Stars
Queen of the Dead is the first book in The Dead and Not So Dead trilogy. It’s a fairly fast paced introduction to this world and these characters, but it is an easy read (no angsty or tragic back stories). I actually enjoy the relatively light hearted theme in this particular case.
Narc (Narcissa) is the Queen of the dead, and resident ruler of New Orleans. She quite aptly describes herself as “phenomenal cosmic power…itty bitty perceptive skills” (loved the Aladdin reference). She is transitioning into adulthood (literally just graduated high school), dealing with changing relationships (aka her harem) and of course the business that comes with being Queen. As far as her personality goes, she is confident without being arrogant, and she is more mature in some ways but still young in other ways (which given her age is actually understandable).
I feel the main focus was on Narc and her boys, that’s where the majority of the writing was focused. There’s Raphi, Dorian, Alaric, Abel, Declan and Zachariah. There was enough attention paid that each of them are their own unique character, and we also get to see some of their insight from their perspectives, but it is a short book so that only allows for so much.
This reads more as an introductory, I’m going to admit I’m not particularly blown away by the plot (which is threadbare by comparison) I do enjoy seeing the character interactions between Narc and her boys as well as her “subjects”. Perhaps in the following books we’ll get more into the meaty part of the plot, other than the vagueness of people (humans and “supes”) being killed by the baddies for totally obvious reasons. So more character focused then plot focused but I didn’t particularly mind that.
I am looking forward to reading the second in the series, but I may just hold out till the final book is released just because I don’t like cliffhangers, I want to know what happens right then and there.
Idol Dreams, Volume 6 will put you through the ringer, emotionally speaking. This is definitely the most emotional volume in the series s3.5/5 Stars
Idol Dreams, Volume 6 will put you through the ringer, emotionally speaking. This is definitely the most emotional volume in the series so far. Poor Hibiki, he is definitely one of my favorites and I didn't understand why it happened. I'm not sure where they're planning ot take Hibiki's storyline either at this point. Especially when it feels like Deguchi is learning to move forward (which may mean she will no longer need/want to return to her 15 year old self). But then I'm not quite sure what they're planning to do with Akari/Chikage, they'll eventually have to wrap her storyline and she was also put through the ringer in this volume. Though she has been getting stronger in her real life, learning to move forward. It did hint to a possibility with Haru very briefly but I honestly don't think that will amount to anything at this point.
Hina, I feel there's no real redemption for her after this volume. Given what she did, after what happened in Volume 5 - she didn't even tell Tokita. And poor Tokita, I can't imagine the hell he's in right now, and he still has no idea what happened! It was definitely an emotional way to leave the series hanging until the next volume. ...more
Idol Dreams, Volume 5 was a solid installment to the series. More serious, and heartbreaking then the others, I feel like Deguchi had some solid growIdol Dreams, Volume 5 was a solid installment to the series. More serious, and heartbreaking then the others, I feel like Deguchi had some solid growth and realizations in this volume. We get a deeper look at "Hina" and Tokita. I feel for both of them, and Deguchi. Deguchi who just realized what she had and lost in a moment. Deguchi has done some real growing since the start of this series, and now she's not just shining as the 15-year old Akira, but as herself. This volume did end on a cliffhanger, but either way I feel invested in the series and look forward to seeing what comes next. ...more
Idol Dreams, Volume 4 focused primarily on Akari and Ru. I like both of these characters, and they're both more complex then you first th3.5/5 Stars
Idol Dreams, Volume 4 focused primarily on Akari and Ru. I like both of these characters, and they're both more complex then you first think. And in Deguchi's defense, she did try to tell Ru the truth about her age, granted she was Akari not Chikage at the time so I can't blame Ru for not believing her. I was glad that we got to see Chikage in her 31 year old body begin to see some value in her life. She's not quite there yet, but I have hopes she will be. It was definitely interesting to see what happened with Ru and Akari, I don't know if Ru will ever know the truth, but Akari and Hibiki do. I look forward to seeing what ultimately happens with Deguchi. I mean she can't keep taking these pills forever, and I am getting even more curious about potential side effects. ...more
Idol Dreams, Volume 3 was quite a ride. It was both my favorite in the series so far, but also the one I was left with mixed feelings with3.5/5 Stars
Idol Dreams, Volume 3 was quite a ride. It was both my favorite in the series so far, but also the one I was left with mixed feelings with at the end. The beginning focuses a lot on Chikage Deguchi (that is, her grown up self). We also get a better look at Haru, and at the relationships between the three, Deguchi, Tokita and Haru. There is some communication, and quite a bit of confused feelings. But I actually really liked Haru in this, he seems to be the one out of the three that is perhaps the most mature and most aware. It'll be interesting to see how this plays out through the series, especially with Tokita in his current will he, won't he.
Then we get Deguchi back as Akari, and there is even more mixed up feelings going on. But at least she is getting better with communication and more willing to try things. I'm not sure how I feel about what's going on with Ru, Akari and Hibiki (It's the fact that my brain is still, she's a 31 year old woman, and these are 15 year old boys, even if she is physically a 15 year old girl, granted there are times she has the mentality/emotional response of a 15 year old but still). I mean at least she was open with Ru about how she felt, but again, double life - someone is eventually gonna get hurt (even though I'm pretty sure there are probably at least a few characters in emotional turmoil right now). I am curious enough to continue the series and see how things unfold. ...more
Idol Dreams, Volume 2 was a solid installment in the series. I liked getting a look back to when Deguchi was truly 15 years old, and seei3.5/5 Stars
Idol Dreams, Volume 2 was a solid installment in the series. I liked getting a look back to when Deguchi was truly 15 years old, and seeing a glimpse into Tokita, Deguchi and Haru's lives at that age. I also enjoyed the friendship and support between Deguchi and Tokita now. I feel in this volume, we get to see Deguchi gaining a little more confidence (at least as Akari), with the support of her friends (in this case Ru, Hibiki and Tokita). The romance aspect still feels a little iffy to me, with the teasing from Hibiki and with Ru now, given that these are boys and she is still technically a 31 year old woman (granted it doesn't seem she sees them "romantically" necessarily, but we'll see). I am still curious as to see how this series is going to turn out, personally it seems it could get messy since she is living a double life, eventually something's going to have to give. ...more
I am not sure about this series. Idol Dreams has an interesting premise, I'm sure that most of us have thought about what it would be like3.5/5 Stars
I am not sure about this series. Idol Dreams has an interesting premise, I'm sure that most of us have thought about what it would be like to redo parts of our lives. But I don't really know how I feel about this series yet. Chikage Deguchi, 31 gets the chance to "redo" her life as a 15 year old with a magical pill that turns her back to her 15 year old self for several hours. I'm not even going to touch the (view spoiler)[ attempted suicide after she is humiliated (hide spoiler)] , as I don't feel it was addressed properly, and it felt more like a tool for the plot to get moving.
It seems like she is learning some lessons she probably should have before, but everyone learns things, experiences things and grows at different stages. I liked the interactions she had as "Akari" (the 15 year old version of herself), but I liked the adult interactions (especially with Tokita) that she had. Deguchi certainly wasn't alone with her regrets, but it'll be interesting to see how this all plays out.
Hibiki, the 15 year old idol in this story is proving to be interesting. He looks much like Deguchi's first love, Haru - but there are differences (presumably, we don't really get to know Haru that well yet). There were undoubtedly cute and funny moments, I'm just undecided on the series. I am curious to see how the characters grow and how the story plays out, so I'll probably read a few more volumes....more
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