Melissa's 2014 Graphic Novel Count

This thread is dedicated to the graphic novels I read each year, in this case 2014. I used to include them in my other thread, the '75 Book Challenge' thread, but have since decided to keep them separate from my book count. I don't NOT want to count graphic novels, I like to keep track of which one's I read, so I will be keeping track here.

If you are interested in the graphic novels I have read in the past please follow the links below:
2011 GN Count
2012 GN Count
2013 GN Count

Otherwise, please feel free to snoop or take/leave recommendations!

GN Read in 2014

Here starts the challenge! Below will be a condensed list of what I read, while in the posts below I'll put my reviews. Happy reading!!

January:
1. Bond of Dreams, Bond of Love, Vol. 2 – Yaya Sakuragi (Post 3)
2. Bond of Dreams, Bond of Love, Vol. 3 - Yaya Sakuragi (Post 4)
3. Bond of Dreams, Bond of Love, Vol. 4 - Yaya Sakuragi (Post 5)
4. Brother x Brother, Vol. 1- Hirotaka Kisaragi (Post 6)
5. A Bride's Story, Vol. 2- Kaoru Mori (Post 7)
6. A Bride's Story, Vol. 3 - Kaoru Mori (Post 8)
7. A Bride's Story, Vol. 4 - Kaoru Mori (Post 9)
8. A Bride's Story, Vol. 5 - Kaoru Mori (Post 10)
9. Brother x Brother, 02 - Hirotaka Kisaragi (Post 11)
10. Berserk, Vol. 37 - Kentaro Niura (Post 12)
11. Brother x Brother, 03 - Hirotake Kisaragi (Post 13)
12. Brother x Brother, 04 - Hirotake Kisaragi (Post 14)
13. Brother x Brother, 05 - Hirotaka Kisaragi (Post 15)
14. Black Butler, Vol. 17 - Yana Toboso (Post 16)

Febuary:
15. Betrayal Knows My Name, Vol. 5 - Hotaru Odagiri (Post 17)
16. Vampire Knight, Vol. 18 - Matsuri Hino (Post 18)

March:
17. Betrayal Knows My Name, Vol. 6 - Hotaru Odagiri (Post 19)
18. Naruto, 67 - Masashi Kishimoto (Post 20)
19. Claymore, Vol. 25 - Norihiro Yagi (Post 21)
20. A Bride's Story, Vol. 6 - Kaoru Mori (Post 22)
21. Crimson Spell, 5 - Ayano Yamane (Post 23)
22. Deadlock, 1 - Yuh Takashina (Post 24)
23. Wolverine: Origins Vol. 1: Born in Blood – Daniel Way (Post 25)
24. Wolverine: Origins Vol. 2: Savior - Daniel Way (Post 26)
25. Wolverine: Origins Vol. 3: Swift and Terrible - Daniel Way (Post 27)
26. Wolverine: Origins Vol. 4: Our War - Daniel Way (Post 28)
27. Wolverine: Origins Vol. 5: Deadpool - Daniel Way (Post 29)
28. Wolverine: Origins & Endings - Daniel Way (Post 30)
29. Wolverine: Origin - Paul Jenkins (Post 31)
30. Wolverine: Logan - Brian K. Vaughan (Post 32)

April:
31. Wolverine - Chris Claremont (Post 33)
32. The Essential Wolverine, Vol. 1 - Chris Claremont (Post 34)
33. The Essential Wolverine, Vol. 2 - Larry Hama (Post 35)
34. Bleach, Vol. 61 - Tite Kubo (Post 36)
35. Bleach, Vol. 62 - Tite Kubo (Post 37)
36. Naruto, Vol. 68 - Masashi Kishimoto (Post 38)
37. Black Butler, Vol. 18 - Yana Toboso (Post 39)
38. Essential Wolverine, Vol. 3 - Larry Hama (Post 40)
39. Mercy Thompson: Homecoming - Patricia Briggs (Post 41)
40. Patricia Briggs' Mercy Thompson: Moon Called, Vol. 2 - Patricia Briggs (Post 42)
41. The Essential Wolverine, Vol. 4 - Larry Hama (Post 43)
42. The Essential Wolverine, Vol. 5 - Larry Hama (Post 48)

May:
43. The Essential Wolverine, Vol. 6 - Larry Hama (Post 49)
44. Marvel Comics Presents Wolverine, Vol. 1 - Chris Claremont (Post 50)

June:
45. Vinland Saga, Vol. 1 - Makoto Yukimura (Post 51)
46. Vinland Saga, Vol. 2 - Makoto Yukimura (Post 52)
47. Vinland Saga, Vol. 3 - Makoto Yukimura (Post 53)
48. Vinland Saga, Vol. 4 - Makoto Yukimura (Post 54)
49. Vinland Saga, Vol. 5 - Makoto Yukimura (Post 55)
50. Naruto, Vol. 69 - Masashi Kishimoto (Post 56)
51. Dengeki Daisy, Vol. 14 - Kyousuke Motomi (Post 57)
52. Vinland Saga, Vol. 6 - Makoto Yukimura (Post 58)
53. Vinland Saga, Vol. 7 - Makoto Yukimura (Post 59)
54. Vinland Saga, Vol. 8 – Makoto Yukimura (Post 60)
55. Vinland Saga, Vol. 9 – Makoto Yukimura (Post 61)
56. Vinland Saga, Vol. 10 – Makoto Yukimura (Post 62)
57. Vinland Saga, Vol. 11 – Makoto Yukimura (Post 63)
58. Vinland Saga, Vol. 12 – Makoto Yukimura (Post 64)
59. Vinland Saga, Vol. 13 – Makoto Yukimura (Post 65)
60. Vinland Saga, Vol. 14 – Makoto Yukimura (Post 66)

July:
61. Bleach, Vol. 63 - Tite Kubo (Post 67)
62. Dengeki Daisy, Vol. 15 - Kyousuke Motomi (Post 68)
63. Renai Idenshi XX, Vol. 1 - Eiki Eiki (Post 69)
64. Renai Idenshi XX, Vol. 2 - Eiki Eiki (Post 70)

August:
65. The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger Born - Peter David (Post 71)
66. A Game of Thrones: The Graphic Novel: Volume One - George R R Martin (Post 72)
67. A Game of Thrones: The Graphic Novel: Volume Two - George R R Martin (Post 73)

September:
68. Bleach, Vol. 64 - Tite Kubo (Post 76)
69. Attack on Titan, Vol 1 - Hajime Isayama (Post 77)

October:
70. Attack on Titan, Vol. 2 - Hajime Isayama (Post 80)
71. Attack on Titan, Vol. 3 - Hajime Isayama (Post 81)
72. Attack on Titan, Vol. 4 - Hajime Isayama (Post 82)
73. Attack on Titan, Vol. 5 - Hajime Isayama (Post 83)
74. Attack on Titan, Vol. 6 - Hajime Isayama (Post 84)
75. Attack on Titan, Vol. 7 - Hajime Isayama (Post 85)
76. Attack on Titan, Vol. 8 - Hajime Isayama (Post 86)
77. Attack on Titan, Vol. 9 - Hajime Isayama (Post 87)
78. Attack on Titan, Vol. 10 - Hajime Isayama (Post 88)
79. Attack on Titan, Vol. 11 - Hajime Isayama (Post 90)
80. Attack on Titan, Vol. 12 - Hajime Isayama (Post 91)
81. Attack on Titan, Vol. 13 - Hajime Isayama (Post 92)
82. Attack on Titan, Vol. 14 - Hajime Isayama (Post 93)

November:
83. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 1 - Kumiko Suekane (Post 96)
84. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 2 - Kumiko Suekane (Post 97)
85. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 3 - Kumiko Suekane (Post 100)
86. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 4 - Kumiko Suekane (Post 101)
87. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 5 - Kumiko Suekane (Post 105)
88. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 6 - Kumiko Suekane (Post 106)
89. Attack on Titan: Before the Fall, Vol. 1 - Ryo Suzukaze (Post 107)
90. Attack on Titan: Before the Fall, Vol. 2 - Hajime Isayama (Post 108)
91. Attack on Titan: Before the Fall, Vol. 3 - Hajime Isayama (Posy 109)
92. Attack on Titan: No Regrets, Vol. 1 - Gun Snark (Post 110)
93. Attack on Titan: No Regrets, Vol. 2 - Gun Snark (Post 111)
94. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 7 - Kumiko Suekane (112)
95. Claymore, Vol. 26 - Norihiro Yagi (Post 113)
96. Naruto, Vol. 70 - Masashi Kishimoto (Post 114)
97. Black Butler, Vol. 19 - Yana Toboso (Post 115)

December:
98. Attack on Titan, Vol. 15 - Hajime Isayama (Post 116)

1. Bond of Dreams, Bond of Love, Vol. 2 – Yaya Sakuragi
Genre: GLBT, Romance
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Irritated by his own carnal impulses, Ryomei rejects Ao. But how will Ao react when he finds out Ryomei may have a marriage arrangement in the works? And what will Ryomei do when another boy who looks just like Ao appears on the scene? There’s a lot more to come in this crazy series of not-so-unrequited love!

Thoughts:
Still not entirely sure about this series yet. I really like Ryoumei and most of the side characters, but Ao I can’t seem to like much. I guess it’s the innocence; and yet he’s very forward. I can’t reconcile his young face with his ludicrously inappropriate suggestions. It throws me off. Which is kind of bad because Ao is a central character. Hmm. We’ll see. The artwork is fairly good.

2. Bond of Dreams, Bond of Love, Vol. 3 – Yaya Sakuragi
Genre: GLBT, Romance
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Ao’s in good spirits now that he’s realized he was never truly rejected by Ryomei. Ryomei, on the other hand, has become a little too aware of Ao and is fantasizing about him every day! But just as the two become closer, Ao finds out he may have to move away. Will their blossoming love be over before it’s had its chance to bloom?

Thoughts:
Well, once I got over Ao, the series was better. I still like most of the other characters more, even his twin, but as the story has advanced, there has been less weirdness and more storyline. And I think the artwork is improving. There’s one more volume after this, and since I’ve come this far with the series, I will be reading that one as well.

3. Bond of Dreams, Bond of Love, Vol. 4 – Yaya Sakuragi
Genre: GLBT, Romance
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Ryomei has been steadily refusing Ao’s advances, but when Ao says this could be the last time they see each other for a while he decides it’s time to make a move. Unfortunately, unforeseen circumstances halt their night of passion, and things get even more complicated when Ao perceives Ryomei’s sudden interest as pity. What will it take to convince Ao that this time it’s the real deal?

Thoughts:
Well, Ao has sort of grown on me. I guess I liked how the series ended. It could have been much worse. It’s certainly not for everyone’s taste. It was a little out there for me. But I’m a sucker for good artwork and when it’s good and has at least a decent storyline I tend to stick with it. That’s the thing about graphic novels. I can easily get through a few volumes in the time it would take to decide to put down a novel. So, not anywhere close to a four star, but for a late night read in bed it was okay.

4. Brother x Brother, Vol. 1 - Hirotaka Kisaragi
Genre: GLBT
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By- Pick Up)

Summary:
After being told that his dad passed away, Souichirou came back to the house that was his home 8 years ago, and found out about the existence of his 2 older brothers, Masato and Kaname. In order to receive rights to the house, Souichirou has to live together with them, and despite the chaos and arguments, it's fine by Souichirou if it means he can get the house. But one day, he accidentally sees Masato kissing Kaname.

Thoughts:
I will say right away that while at first glance this looks like a series about fraternal incest, there is clearly something deeper going on than that. I began it due to the gorgeous artwork and a few pages in I was hooked. There is a lot of intrigue going around and suspicious characters saying suspicious things. I’m not sure where this is going and I’m a little confused by the whole volume – it brought up a lot of questions – but I’m interested in finding out more.

5. A Bride's Story, Vol. 2 - Kaoru Mori
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Acclaimed creator Kaoru Mori's tale of life on the nineteenth-century Silk Road continues as the young bride, Amira Halgal, struggles to remain with her new groom despite the wishes of her family, who would see her wed another. Will Amira be able to preserve the bonds she has cultivated in her new home?

Thoughts:
The artwork is still gorgeous and the story is still intriguing. Half of this volume focused on the fight to steal Amira back and the other half is spent on some history of the culture taking place here. I enjoyed the second half of the book, especially the appreciation for the embroidery. The series has a slow pace so far, but it doesn’t seem to hinder the books. I would expect something of this setting and plot to be slow. It's more about the appreciation for the historical rendition than anything. I am enjoying the series and plan on continuing with it.

6. A Bride's Story, Vol. 3 - Kaoru Mori
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Acclaimed creator Kaoru Mori (Emma, Shirley) brings the nineteenth-century Silk Road to lavish life, chronicling the story of Amir Halgal, a young woman from a nomadic tribe betrothed to a twelve-year-old boy eight years her junior. Coping with cultural differences, blossoming feelings for her new husband, and expectations from both her adoptive and birth families, Amir strives to find her role as she settles into a new life and a new home in a society quick to define that role for her.

Thoughts:
Ah. We’ve moved beyond Amira and her husband. I enjoyed following Mr. Smith. It put the mood more on the differences and wonders that those in Asia’s lifestyles. It focuses on the food, the shelters, the work of the women and the work of the men, the customs of marriage, etc. It was pretty educational when you get right down to it and are willing to learn as you read. The artwork is fantastic as always. We even get to see Mr. Smith’s eyes for once. If I can get excited about that, the artwork is special. I’m looking forward to seeing more of this series. It’s not particularly page turning, but it’s very enjoyable.

7. A Bride's Story, Vol. 4 - Kaoru Mori
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 192
Rating: 5 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Acclaimed creator Kaoru Mori's tale of life on the nineteenth-century Silk Road turns westward, following Englishman Mr. Smith on his long journey to Ankara. Passing through a fishing village along the Aral Sea, Smith and his guide encounter a pair of spirited young girls named Laila and Leily-identical twins who are fishing not for sturgeon, but for husbands! Despite their efforts to find two wealthy, healthy, and handsome brothers to wed, Laila and Leily's plans generally only land them in loads of trouble!

Thoughts:
This was such a fun volume. I really enjoyed Laile and Leily. I’ve liked almost all the characters that have been introduced so far but these two made me giggle. There was some of Amira and Kurluk so I know Mori hasn’t left them behind for long, but most of it focused on the twins. And this was definitely a “bride’s” story. It was still pretty educational. I love seeing these cultures in the artwork. I can’t say for sure how authentic it really is but it looks authentic and I can bet that Mori did her research. I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes historical fiction, history, and or Asia and its cultures.

8. A Bride's Story, Vol. 5 - Kaoru Mori
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Acclaimed creator Kaoru Mori's tale of life on the nineteenth-century Silk Road takes on an air of celebration as, at long last, Laila and Leily's wedding day arrives! But the marriage ceremony may be even more taxing for the girls than their search for a pair of grooms. Sitting still and silent as their guests celebrate and eat is a trial that will push the girls' patience to its limit, not to mention that of Sami and Sarm! As the twins finally make their vows and commit themselves to their husbands, the gravity of the moment finally sets in. Though they have dreamed of marriage for years, only now do they realize that everything in their lives is about to change.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 23-27, and focuses mostly on the twins, but moved back to Amira and Kurluk in the last part of the volume. The twins are a riot and I got a kick out of the brother’s helping them. As always, the artwork is very very well done. It’s got a slow pace but the detail is well worth it. And I am learning as I read. I am looking forward to seeing more of this series. Thanks Mori!

9. Brother x Brother, 02 - Hirotaka Kisaragi
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Kaname has left and can’t be found. Souichirou and Masato look but they can’t think of a place that Kaname might go. But Souichirou deserves to know the truth so Masato tells him about Kaname’s condition. Perhaps Souichirou can find and help Kaname better than Masato has been able to.

Thoughts:
Well, the series still has a … interesting… premise. But! It’s still got me hooked. The beginning of this book has a family tree diagram and I have finally figured out how these three brothers relate. Masato is not related by blood to either Souichirou or Kaname, but was just raised by their father. It’s a very complicated situation for the three of them. The majority of this volume focused on the past and why Masato and Kaname ended up sleeping together. I’d not be surprised to see something like this in real life happen. Knowing the full story makes the book more real, more relatable now. And when I found out Masato was not related to Kaname I lost most of my hesitation about this series. I’m not very conservative and I don’t like to judge, but incest still hits on some ingrained dogmas. But, hey, no incest. FANTASTIC artwork. Intriguing storyline. That’s a four star and enough to keep me reading.

10. Berserk, Vol. 37 - Kentaro Miura
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Guts the Black Swordsman has again donned the accursed Berserker armor, and he'll need all its unholy power to battle the titanic Sea God - from the inside! As the creature takes on an army of beautiful merrow, Guts plunges deep within the God to find its sole vulnerability and pierce its living heart. But even if he can manage this impossible task deep within the leviathan, how will Guts get back out?

Thoughts:
This volume has chapters 325-333. It finishes up the Sea God arc, has a flashback scene of Guts when he was boy and ends on some scenes of Griffith’s army, and introduces the new arc – the elf island. If he’ll ever get there! Now that I’m caught up on this series I’m now at the mercy of the spread out publications. And the time between each is around eleven months each. This one was longer. It’s been over a year since volume 36 was released. I don’t know if I can wait that long. This series is fantastic and the artwork is wonderful and I will read every last volume written. But I’m ansty about these long waits. I’ve heard Miura is taking a hiatus to write something else. As long as this one isn’t left in the dust I suppose I’ll survive. And if this wait is the price to pay for the quality of the artwork, I guess I’ll survive as well. :( I do hope some more chapters come out in the near future however.

11. Brother x Brother, 03 - Hirotake Kisaragi
Genre: GLBT
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
The three 'brothers' are back under the same roof. Only now Souichirou must follow up on the condition he agreed on to get the address of Kaname's old house when the man had been missing. The condtion? He and his brothers film a scene for the new movie. Which doesn't matter that much to Souichirou because he's busy trying block the advances of one of his co-workers and worrying about why it hurts so much to see Kaname's wounded expression when the man see's him and his co-worker together.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 12-16. And I may have spoke too soon on my review of the last volume. Because while Masato and Kaname were not related by blood, Kaname and Souichiroiu are, and it is beginning to look like Souichiroiu has some feelings for Kaname now. I study Anthropology. It is not uncommon for siblings to have feelings for each other, especially if they did not grow up together. It happens. There are plenty of theories on why it’s such a universal taboo, and the biggest reason is evolutionary: incestuous coupling resulting in children can cause deleterious genes, unharmful alone, to cause mishaps in DNA. But there is not children produced between two men. So does this make a situation like this okay? Who knows? I’m probably going too deep into the issue, but reading this series takes me back to the lectures I listened to and material I helped tutor about incest taboos. Why is it such a taboo, everywhere. I don’t dislike this series because of its premise, but there’s still something there that keeps me at a distance. Anywho, props to Kisaragi for pulling it off so well. The series certainly isn’t for everyone. Still, the artwork is great. As for the plot in this volume itself. I thought it lost some of the power it had in the first and second volume. It picked it up a little I the second half of the volume. I suppose it was due to the transition. I’m sure I will be picking up the next book soon.

12. Brother x Brother, 04 - Hirotake Kisaragi
Genre: GLBT
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
More than three weeks have passed and the three Skirakawa brothers – Masato, Kaname and Souichirou have started living together. Kaname is facing his traumatic past and has become mutual lovers with Souichirou. While in the midst of things, the film production of “Hikari to Kage no Jounetsu” is to be receive a fund from Houduki because of financial difficulties. And it looks like Masato’s and Kaname’s talent are the compensations. How will the brothers protect Kaname and their bonds?

Thoughts:
Well, I’m still reading. And I’m this far, so I’m positive I will also be reading the next and last book in this series. Artwork is still fantastic. Not that there hasn’t been before, but there is some rough sex scenes here. I feel the story could have been handled a little better overall, but I’m still flipping pages.

13. Brother x Brother, 05 - Hirotaka Kisaragi
Genre: GLBT
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
The 20 million yen debt to Kouduki must be repaid. The three brothers get a got in the TU remake of “Hikarito kage no jounetsu”. Can Kaname and Souichirou’s relationship progress under such harsh conditions? Volume 5 wraps up the story of the three brothers.

Thoughts:
I felt this Kisargi slacked a little in this volume, as if she/he (?) were just trying to finish the series. The artwork didn’t seem as detailed and cared for as usual. And there’s not much going on the volume. The conflicts have all mostly been resolved. So nothing all that exciting. The series defiantly wasn’t what I was expecting. I’m walking away with some mixed feelings. Didn’t really dislike it, but I didn’t really end up really enjoying the reads either. Now if only we can have the artwork from the first four volumes here put to an amazing plotline and we’d have a masterpiece.

14. Black Butler, Vol. 17 - Yana Toboso
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 176
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Due in no small part to Sebastian, his uncommon butler, Earl Ciel Phantomhive finally succeeds in earning an audience with the enigmatic headmaster of Weston College following the outcome of the annual cricket tourney. As moon-pale petals bloom on the lapels of the students who have been granted a place at the Midnight Tea Party, the man who holds all authority at the school reveals himself to his guests. Will his appearance shed light on the fate of the students who have gone missing, or will the mysteries continue to pile up within these hallowed school grounds?

Thoughts:
This series is still going strong. The artwork is great as always, the plot is pretty good. This particular arc is not as intriguing as some of the previous ones, but it’s still got me hooked. I’d eventually like more on Ciel and Sebatian’s past. I don’t know if that’s in the running for later or not, but the little shown in previous volumes was fascinating. I don’t know how far this series is going to go, but I’m sure I’ll be there till the end.

15. Betrayal Knows My Name, Vol. 5 - Hotaru Odagiri
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 336
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Though the Zweilt are together at last, the calm before the inevitable storm of battle lingers. With no sign of activity from the camp of their sworn enemy, Reiga, Yuki and his allies are beguiled into a sense of peace. But even the distraction provided by a retreat to the Hidden Springs of the Giou to rest weary hearts and souls will not prepare Yuki for Sairi's revelations about the brave but terrible end met by the Light of God through the ages...And when Takashiro is called in to investigate a pair of suspicious deaths, the winds of war begin to pick up in a frenzy.

Thoughts:
I'm still enjoying this series very much. This volume is sort of a transition volume but I liked almost as much as all the others. It really is the calm before the storm, and you're treated with some emotional conversations between partners. I wouldn't call any of it character development, but it was nice to see the different fears and strengths come up again. As always the artwork is great. There was some humor and enough aw-moments to keep me content. I'm looking forward to the next volume.

15. Vampire Knight, Vol. 18 - Matsuri Hino
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Yukio and Zero team up to go after Kaname. Yuki and Kaname fight each other in the headquarters of the Hunter Society while Sara tries to control Zero through her blood. The female progenitor’s origin metal intervenes, and Yuki realizes there is only one way to stop Kaname.

Thoughts:
This is the last volume in the series. It’s been an interesting journey. The ending was a little surprising for me, but I suppose it was time. And after this arc, there was not much else to write about. Not and make it a long-winded series. The artwork has been consistently good throughout the series. Zero was and will always be my favorite character. Recommended if you like vampire fiction in manga format.

17. Betrayal Knows My Name, Vol. 6 - Hotaru Odagiri
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 144
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
When Shuusei and Tooko drop off the radar while on a special mission to Kyoto, concern for their safety reaches a fever pitch at Twilight Hall. While preparing to rush to their rescue, Yuki and company are relieved to hear word that Tooko has been found. Still, with no word from Shuusei, a party heads to Kyoto to locate their ally. But while they’re away, the suspicious deaths around the city are confirmed to be the work of the Duras. Will the remaining Zweilt be able to confront the enemy and save the innocent with their forces so severely depleted?!

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 49-52. Must shorter than the usual volumes - about half the length. This was suprising and a little dissapointing but I still really enjoyed the story. It seems to be picking up in intensity. I picked it up from the library this afternoon and finished it within the hour. The artwork is fantasic as always and the characters are all lovable. I'm really looking forward to the next installment.

18. Naruto, 67 - Masashi Kishimoto
Genre: Epic Fantasy
Pages: 208
Rating: 5 Stars
(New)

Summary:
It doesn't look good for the allied forces. They're being pushed back again and again and they're losing men and women. Even the kage are being beat down. It's not about winning now. It's about being saved.

Thoughts:
I'm going to have to come back and read this whole battle arc together once it's over just to get more of a solid feel on it. Waiting for each volume really really draws this out. I really like the story plot - it's exciting and keeps me turning the pages - but I feel like it's been going on forever. Because really in my reality it's been going on for months, not the days it's spread across in the manga. I know a lot of people who don't like how the manga is turning out but I don't mind. I read this for enjoyment' sake, and I'm enjoying them. Enough said there for me at the moment. Anyways, I'm looking forward to the next installment.

19. Claymore, 25 - Norihiro Yagi
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
The battle rages on against the awakened ones.

Thoughts:
This is another series where I feel the present battle arc has just gone on forever due the monthly updates and wait time between volumes. However, it is still engaging. The artwork varies but mostly I've come to not mind it. I'm looking forward to seeing how this arc ends. I wonder if that will be it or if there will be another arc. It's probably a good place to end it but I never know anymore, there's so many series out there that just keep going.

20. A Bride's Story, Vol. 6 - Kaoru Mori
Genre: Historical Fantasy
Pages: 194
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
In the year since his marriage, Karluk has grown a good deal, but Amir can't help but feel overprotective of her much younger husband. Karluk wants nothing more than to prove that he can be a strong and competent man-and he may soon have the opportunity to prove just that. Desperate for land to feed their flocks, Amir's former tribe prepares to attack the village with a fearsome arsenal of cannons and guns provided by their new allies. This time the Halgals are not interested in capturing Amir-no one is safe from their terrible assault!

Thoughts:
I love this series. It's slow but beautiful because of that. I've come to really enjoy these characters. And I say this every time but the artwork is just fantastic. This series is going to spoil me on the artwork side of it. I will never look at graphic novel art the same way again. This volume starts with a lot of character development and then moves into action and suspense. The series is definitely worth a read.

21. Crimson Spell, Vol. 5 - Ayano Yamane
Genre: GLBT, High Fantasy
Pages: 186
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
On his quest to find the one behind the curse on his sword, Vald manages to sneak into the empire’s capital. His target is the greatest sorcerer in Zenedoura—Asterdol. However, in the midst of his search, Vald is captured by servants of the emperor. Fortunately for him, his capture brings an unexpected boon—the very sorcerer Vald is looking for comes straight to him! What will Vald do when he discovers that the man behind the curse looks exactly like Limris? And now that he’s facing his greatest danger yet, will Halvir come to Vald’s rescue?

Thoughts:
I though this series was on permanent hiatus for a while so I was thrilled to see this new volume out. I like both Yamane's series, but I absolutely love Havi in this series. He's well drawn all the time. I wish the wait in between each volume wans't so long but you take what you can get right? I'm waiting once again for another installment. Maybe I'll go reread the series to take in the artwork again.

22. Deadlock, 1 - Yuh Takashina
Genre: Gothic Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Yuuto Lenix, a former DEA investigator, was arrested and received a life in prison for the murder of his partner, which he claims he didn't commit and was framed for the murder. While serving his sentence, an FBI agent offers him a deal to look for a particular criminal hiding in the same prison. If he successfully delivers what the FBI is searching for, then Lenix will go home free. He accepts this "under cover" assignment, hoping to be set free.

Thoughts:
Hmm, this is an interesting series so far. The artwork caught my attention and it didn't disappoint. The artwork is very well done and realistic. And the plot looks like it could go somewhere interesting. It's always hard to tell with first volumes to know how it will turn out but I have high hopes for this one.

23. Wolverine: Origins Vol. 1 - Born in Blood – Daniel Way
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 128
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Picking up where House of M and Wolverine: Origins and Endings left off! Armed with the one thing that could kill him, as well as key clues to his very existence, Logan embarks on the first leg of a long and bloody quest for vengeance against those who once enslaved him. No longer feeling the need to play it quiet, Logan's first strike elicits a Condition Critical response from the U.S. government. With no other choice, they drop their bomb - and you won't believe who it is!

Thoughts:
I've been interested in getting into these graphic novels for a while but I never know where to start. My library certainly doesn’t have all of the Marvel comics by far. I think I finally found a website to help me keep them all straight and this first novel was listed as belonging in the 1st era. However it certainly didn’t start where I thought it would. Perhaps I’m basing too much off of the movie, but I’m sure there as much more of a beginning. However the summary sort of tells me I should go to House of M and Wolverine: Origins and Endings, whatever that is.  I can imagine it will be a little frustrating to read these in any order but I’m going to try some semblance of order. As for the book: I’m not used to this kind of artwork in the graphic novels I read but I got used to it quickly. I’m also not used to color, so that was kind of nice. I like the story since I like Wolverine so much. All in all, it’s a pretty solid four star. I’m looking forward to the next one from this author.

24. Wolverine: Origins Vol. 2 - Savior - Daniel Way
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 128
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Completely shattered by recent revelations, Logan must now ask himself some hard - almost impossible - questions, such as whether he can continue on his quest... or if he even should. Though he now remembers who he was, the more pressing question becomes who - and what - is he now? Answering these questions will take the help of one of Logan's closest friends and one of his deadliest enemies: Omega Red!

Thoughts:
This volume collects Wolverine: Origins #6-10. Whatever that means. :) I'm still a little confused on how everything fits together and what is overlap and what isn't. I assume those were the 'chapter' issues in the comics first given out in the mid 1900s. This series is clearly not the beginning, where I wanted to start but I think I found a list to help me sort through them - at least those dealing with Wolverine. While I wait for those to come in, I will be enjoying the rest of this series. This one ends on a cliffhanger so beware and have the third volume close at hand. The color is slightly distracting sometimes because I don't always like the color combinations, but hey you take the little weird things with all the good things. The story is getting more intense, and new characters are being introduced from Logan's past. Looking forward to more.

25. Wolverine: Origins Vol. 3 - Swift and Terrible - Daniel Way
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 120
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Having finally seen his face, Wolverine sets out to rescue his son from the grasp of the shadow society that once enslaved him. But Logan's son doesn't want to be saved - he wants revenge... against Logan, the father who abandoned him.

Thoughts:
This volume collects Wolverine: Origins #11-15. The intensity has hit a peak. I've only really watched the X-Men and Wolverine movies so I had no idea he had a son. This is all new to me and thus exciting. The artwork is pretty consistent throughout these volumes. I have to say that the actor who plays Logan in the wolverine movies fits the artwork very well. As always, looking forward to more.

26. Wolverine: Origins Vol. 4: Our War - Daniel Way
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 160
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Collects Wolverine: Origins #16-20 & Annual #1. Wolverine's past with Captain America revealed! From the island nation of Madripoor to occupied France to the Tunisian desert, one of the most requested stories in Marvel history can finally be told! Also featuring Bucky and Nick Fury, and Wolverine's long-awaited return to Madripoor in the present day!

Thoughts:
This volume is mostly flashbacks; Logan looking back to when he first met Captain America. Since I’m still confused on the order of things this was a little confusing because I didn’t know where to place it in the story except in the past somewhere. The fact that I don't know who Nick Fury or Bucky are, also didn't help matters. But more is being revealed about how much Logan has been used and manipulated in his past. I didn’t particularly like the Annual # 1 at the end of the volume. It’s a totally different artwork style and that threw me a little because I hadn’t really realized that we’d moved to a totally different story track. But I’m still interested and still reading. I’ll figure it all out eventually. Until then I’ll just keep reading what I can get my hands on.

27. Wolverine: Origins Vol. 5: Deadpool - Daniel Way
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 168
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Collects Wolverine: Origins 21-27. Wolverine and Deadpool go head-to-head in a battle to the finish! Two men, both products of the Weapon X program, both highly trained killers. One claims to be the best he is at what he does, though what he does isn't very nice - but the other is the Merc with a Mouth, and he might just have something to say about that claim!

Thoughts:
This volume was basically just a battle. That’s all. This wasn’t too bad because it isn’t a long book. But it kind of snuck up on me. It just started all of the sudden. But it all comes together and makes sense at the end of the volume. The artwork changed again between first five chapters and the last two, which threw me off a little. I prefer my artwork to be consistent. So we’ll see if this continues to happen. This looks like the last in the series by Daniel Way, so there’s bound to be change in the next series of Wolverine I can find and pick up.

28. Wolverine: Origins & Endings - Daniel Way
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 168
Rating: 3 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Left shaken at ground zero after the cataclysmic events of House M, Logan has no choice but to soldier on, as he's done so many times before - but has the burden now become too great? In his lifetime, Logan has been both a hero and a villain, a player and a pawn... but what is he now? Don't miss out on the beginning of an epic more than a century in the making!

Thoughts:
This volume just confused me. I'm still not getting what I consider "origins". You know, the beginning of Logan's life. I want his life-story. Not just a part of his life. Also this book goes before the last five volumes I just finished reading so perhaps I would have found it better if I'd read it before the others. But I was still confused even having read the next five. I think it's more about what happened before, in House of M, whatever that is, then connecting much to what happens later. The artwork was not consistent either, again. And it looks like there is more to this particular series, I just don't have them in any libraries near me. I'll have to find them some other way. I like most of the artwork so I'm sure I'll look at getting my hands on those.

29. Wolverine: Origin - Paul Jenkins
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 200
Rating: 5 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Marvel's best-kept mutant mystery revealed! Before the X-Men, before Weapon X, Wolverine's struggle with his subconscious savagery first flourished in family tragedy. Some of Marvel's most acclaimed creators unite to tell the tale that shaped mutantdom's mightiest misfit. Collects ORIGIN #1-6.

Thoughts:
I really liked this volume. As evidenced by the five star rating. I loved the artwork. I loved the story. That about sums it up! It’s not what I saw in the movie, but I already imagined that the movie would not be accurate according to the comics. They aren’t usually total correct. I liked this story better than the story in the movie. For one it was much more involved. Of course. It’s a book. It was also much more of a mystery. I liked it. This is the origins that I was looking for originally to start with. I would like to read more from Jenkins in the future.

30. Wolverine: Logan - Brian K. Vaughan
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 112
Rating: 3 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Finally armed with long-lost memories from his past, Wolverine returns to one of his first battlefields to settle an old score in an all-new adventure with a shocking revelation about the man known as Logan. Collects Logan #1-3.

Thoughts:
This takes us back to Hiroshima. I didn't particularly care for this volume beyond the fact that I'm looking to see all the Marvel volumes on Wolverine. It was too short and too simple. You risk getting that in a graphic novel/comic, but it does happen. Just not here. Not enough meat on these bones. And I didn't particularly like the artwork either.

31. Wolverine - Chris Claremont
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 114
Rating: 3 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
The master of mutants joins the master of ninjas in Wolverine's first solo series - replete with romance, intrigue, and mayhem! Our beleaguered berserker's in Japan on a mission of the heart, if he can survive the Hand first! Plus: the introduction of everyone's favorite riotous ronin, Yukio! Collects Wolverine #1-4, plus Uncanny X-Men #172-173.

Thoughts:
This one was interesting. I'm pretty sure the new Wolverine movie (The Wolverine) which is set in Japan is based off of these chapters but I could be wrong because it didn't follow the story basically at all. I'm unclear on where this fits chronologically but oh well. I'm also not used to colored graphic novels so it threw me off just a little, but if I get past that I can see that the artwork is really good. The blatant and badly colored panels just distract me from it.

32. The Essential Wolverine, Vol. 1 - Chris Claremont
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 528
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Experience Wolverine's battle to keep the feral berserker within in check, while trying to be the best there is at what he does. Special guest appearance by the Incredible Hulk. Collects Wolverine #1-23.

Thoughts:
This was an interesting read. I didn’t realize until recently that this is a collection of Wolverine’s comic but that it’s a collection of the Volume 2 chapters which go up into the triple digits. I’m still working through what is chronological, and slowly I’m beginning to see how these all fit together. The artwork is on the lower end of what I like but I got used to it. It wasn’t hard to put down and pick up later, which is good for my school, but it means I’m not flying through these comics either. That’s okay. I’m looking forward to more of Wolverine.

33. The Essential Wolverine, Vol. 2 - Larry Hama
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 528
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Essential Wolverine volume 2 is Essential! This collection reprints Wolverine #24-47 written by Larry Hama and art by Marc Silvestri and others. Wolverine encounters many experiences like fighting the Japanese Yakuza, Lady Deathstrike, Albert and Sabertooth. The book also has guest appearance of the Amazing Punk, Nick Fury, and Cable.

Thoughts:
This book had more of the hero/villain actions that I was expecting from the series. Perhaps it was just because a lot of it was set outside of Japan. The artwork seems to be improving. I suppose it just depends on who the artist is of each issue. I liked this artwork more than the artwork in the first volume of these Essentials. I don’t mind the black and white that they go for. I’m used to my graphic novels and comics being black and white. I am looking forward to more Wolverine.

34. Bleach, Vol. 61 - Tite Kubo
Genre: Epic Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
The new threat is fast becoming problematic. Soul Society will never be the same again.

Thoughts:
First of all, I don't know what happened here but it took forever for the real manga to be shown on amazon.com, librarything.com, etc. The cover and author name was all screwed up. I have no idea why that happened, but finally it's been fixed. Only now it's been much longer than normal since I've read this actual volume. But I do remember liking the volume. The series is getting up there in numbers, but this is the last arc, or is suppose to be the last arc, so I’m expecting this arc to be fairly long and drawn-out. I’m looking forward to seeing what Kubo throws at us next.

35. Bleach, Vol. 62 - Tite Kubo
Genre: Epic Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Everyone in Soul Society is being pushed to their limits, and some are pushing themselves beyond those limits to help destroy the threat.

Thoughts:
We’ve gotten to the part in the arc where everyone secondary character is going to have a mini arc of their battle with one of the enemies. While sometimes interesting, it is one of the big factors that makes the arcs very drawn-out. Ichigo is nowhere to be seen. I can tell this is going to be a long one. But I'm still mostly looking forward to seeing what happens. I'm certainly not giving up this far into the game.

36. Naruto, Vol. 68 - Masashi Kishimoto
Genre: Epic Fantasy
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Can Obito be saved? Naruto is certainly going to try.

Thoughts:
This is beyond doubt the longest arc yet in Naruto. But it’s supposed to be the last arc. And so much needs to happen so I’m not complaining too loud. But once again, I’m going to have to come back and reread this arc once it’s done and all the volumes are out. It’s been a very long few months waiting as this arc gets told. But it’s a good arc; intriguing, action-packed, heart-warming, etc. Bring me more please.

37. Black Butler, Vol. 18 - Yana Toboso
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Their elaborate schoolroom deception at an end, Earl Ciel Phantomhive and his peerless manservant, Sebastian, finally hit upon the truth behind the incident of the vanished students at Weston College. Just what tragic steps did the elites of the school, spurred on by their overwhelming sense of justice, take to stamp out the bullying running rife in the halls of their institution?! What began as a seemingly simple case of missing persons goes round and round, spinning out of control into a great menace, one capable of perplexing even a devil.

Thoughts:
This series is still going strong. And has hit the end of this current school arc. I am looking forward to seeing what the next arc is about, as this one didn’t grab me like some of the previous arcs did. I do love the artwork, and I do love Sebastian. I certainly would like more from this series.

38. Essential Wolverine, Vol. 3 - Larry Hama
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 528
Rating: 3 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
At the start of the book Wolverine asks Prof X to help him dig deeper into his memories where he learns of a place called Shiva. Turns out, Shiva is a robot killing machine that can never die the same way (it comes back to life every time you destroy it) meant to prevent Wolverine from unlocking his memories. With the help of the X-Men, Wolverine is able to repel it for the time being. On another story, Wolverine along with Jubilation teams up with Mystique and Spiral to prevent Mojo from destroying the entire universe. From There Wolverine heads to Japan and reunites with his love Mariko. Here he deals with The Hand who plot to take over the entire underground criminal organization. It is at this time that Matsuo Tsurayaba, leader of The Hand, kills Mariko leaving Wolverine in a depressive state. From here Wolverine delves deeper into his past by finding his former team members who include Victor Creed (Sabertooth), John Wraith, Maverick, and Silverfox. (Curtsey of Donald, amazon.com)

Thoughts:
Consists of Wolverine 48 through 69. This volume confused me. Maybe it’s because I haven’t read the X-Men comics yet or maybe it just jumped around too much but I was a little lost for the majority of the volume, especially the last five or so chapters. Something would happen but I couldn’t tell if it was in the past or present or if it had really happened or not. This could have also been purposeful to show the confusion Logan is going through but in this format it was too choppy and not “flowy” enough. And sometimes it took a few moments to figure out what was going on in the artwork. Due to my confusion I have rated it lower than the previous two volumes. The artwork is better than the artwork in the first volume and first half of the second volume. Different artists and I certainly like it more. I am looking forward to the next volume however. Wolverine is one of my favorite marvel characters so I'm not quitting now.

39. Mercy Thompson: Homecoming - Patricia Briggs
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 112
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Mercy Thompson is a walker, a magical being with the power to transform into a coyote. She lives on the fine line dividing the everyday world from a darker dimension, observing the supernatural community while standing apart.

Thoughts:
I'm a big fan of Patricia Brigg's Mercedes series. I've had an inkling that there were graphic novels out there on the series but I never thought to pick one up. However when it was staring me in the face from my sister's pile of books, I grabbed it. It wasn't bad. It is set before the first book, so it was enjoyable to see how Mercy came to be in Tri-Cities. But a lot of the characters do not look the way they do in my head. There's always that risk when you create books into images for movies or graphic novels. Besides that I was just a little lost in the beginning and a few parts that skipped around a little. I would have liked a better introduction to what the graphic novel was going to present. Overall, not bad, but I certainly love the books much more.

40. Patricia Briggs' Mercy Thompson: Moon Called, Vol. 2 - Patricia Briggs
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 120
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
In the past week, coyote shapeshifter Mercy Thompson has seen her friends kidnapped, killed, and assaulted - and things are about to get worse! A war between werewolves is erupting, and Mercy is caught smack in the middle! Can she unravel the secrets of the dark conspiracy that threatens them all in time to save her friends... and herself? Scores are settled and secrets revealed in the thrilling climax of Patricia Briggs' Mercy Thompson: Moon Called. Collecting issues #5-8 of the series, along with an all-new, never-before-published 8-page bonus story, and a complete cover gallery.

Thoughts:
Well it took me a little bit to realize that this was a volume two. Thus I was very confused as to why the story was starting in the middle of Moon Called. My bad. The artwork is growing on me. I don't mind how some of the characters look. Actually I really liked how Mac looked in this graphic novel. And Stefan is very quickly growing on me. However I have decided I probably won’t be reading the rest of these graphic novels. I've already read the books and I get more enjoyment out of the books. And I already know the story. So I don't feel the need. But they're kind of nice to see put into images.

41. The Essential Wolverine, Vol. 4 - Larry Hama
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 544
Rating: 3 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
The deadliest X-Man's on the edge of death when his unbreakable adamantium advantage is eliminated! Even with his claws stripped to the bone, Wolverine's up to some of the choicest challenges from his past and future - but how far will he go to make his latest fight with Sabretooth the Final one? Plus: cyborgs, Sentinels, the Savage Land and then some! Guest-starring Gambit, Ghost Rider and more! Collects Wolverine #70-90.

Thoughts:
First of all I was expecting a bit more to the Magneto ripping the adamantium out of Wolverine than the brief flashback we got here. There was also an arc that was never completed. There was one page of prose explaining that the X-Men and Wolverine save the day. I’m not positive if that was what was given originally in the comics or if we’re missing material here. There were a lot of instances where I found myself thinking I should have read the essential X-Men first before getting into this series. There is a lot of referencing back to X-Men stories. And as is becoming common there seems to be a lot of skips and jumps from story to story. Perhaps that’s a trait of comics and I’m just not aware of it, but sometimes it throws me for a loop trying to figure out how things connect. I’m still very interested in Wolverine and will continue. The last couple of chapters had great artwork. I’m looking forward to some of the same later on.

I absolutely LOVE your threads! :) I just stumbled across this one and scanned through your 2011-2013 threads, and really love your layout. I don't read a lot of manga/graphic novels, but you have a lot books I'd love to eventually read. Thanks for the recs! And I'll definitely stop by more often. :)

Welcome Sara!! The one disadvantage to seperating my GN reads from my Novel reads like this is that the GNs don't get that much notice, so I'm thrilled someone is taking some recommendations from here. :) But I do like this format as well. Thank you for stopping by!

PS. I noticed that you have movies added as a collection. I wasn't aware that was possible. :) I might have to look into it.

Thanks! :) I didn't know you separated your GN reads from your Novel reads. Do you have another thread going for those? I'd be interested in seeing what else you read. Scratch that. I just found your thread on your profile. :)

As for my movies (and music), I used to have them listed on various online catalogs (RateYourMusic.com, MyFilmz.net, etc), but I figured it made more sense to have them all in one place on LT. It's a pain in the butt (most of them aren't searchable on Overcat or the Library of Congress), so I have to manually add each one; but having everything organized makes it worth it. :) I found this brief how-to on cataloging dvds, if you're interested.

Interesting. :) Thanks for that info.

42. The Essential Wolverine, Vol. 5 - Larry Hama
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 568
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Whether in Japan, Greece, Madripoor, or elsewhere, Wolverine doesn't have to go looking for trouble - it's always waiting for him! Against the likes of Cyber, Chimera, Genesis, and others, everyone's favorite feral fighter may need the support of not only the X-Men and Alpha Flight - but also of Landau, Luckman, and Lake, the most mysterious collection of extra-dimensional expediters ever to cash a villain's check for him! Ninjas, giant robots, murderous mutants, and more make for action hotter than a house afire (although we've got that, too)! Also featuring Elektra and Generation X! Collects Wolverine #91-110 and 1996 Annual, and Uncanny X-Men #332.

Thoughts:
There’s been quite a few characters appearing that I didn’t know where related to the X-men and wolverine series. And some characters that I had no idea were even related to Marvel, such as the Ghost Rider. That was a little bit of a shock to see. But also kind of interesting. There were a few artists in this volume that I didn’t like but mostly the artwork was great. And comparatively I liked the first half of the book more than the second half, most likely due to the inner turmoil Logan was going through, rather than the normal hero fighting the bad guys. I have more on my desk to read.

43. The Essential Wolverine, Vol. 6 - Larry Hama
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 520
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
The ol' canucklehead returns in another bumper crop of modern classics! Wolverine faces the ghost of his former mentor Ogun, the menace of Bastion and his Prime Sentinels, Russian werewolf Volk, the Scottish assassin known as McLeish, Madripoor enforcers Roughouse and Bloodscream, and a souped-up Sabretooth - now packing a secret weapon! But all of them pale in comparison to the fi erce foe that Wolverine must now face - his new bride, Viper! Plus: a look back at Wolverine's past, as he tries to learn the secrets of his Adamantium skeleton! Guest starring Captain America and the X-Men!

Thoughts:
This volume collects Wolverine 111-128. I mostly liked most of this volume. But I just got confused by the last few chapters. Marriage to Viper? What the heck is going on? Once again, I feel that I am missing critical pieces here. This volume seemed to jump all over the place. Plots that began with the big action already happening, plots that never get resolved - like what ever happened to Cyclops after he was injured? And once again I wonder if this is a trait of all comics? I certainly hope not. Many of the artists were great, some were really not to my taste. I've found a loll in this series. I may take a break from this confusion for a while, take a step back from it.

44. Marvel Comics Presents Wolverine, Vol. 1 - Chris Claremont
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 104
Rating: 3 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Ever wonder what Wolverine gets up to when he's not out saving the world with the X-Men? More mayhem than you can shake a "SNIKT" at! Here, Logan makes his first foray into Madripoor - an island nation where anything goes, and everything is for sale - in this prelude to Wolverine Classic Vol. 1! Collects Marvel Comics Presents #1-10.

Thoughts:
These Marvel Comics Presents volumes seem to be what happens to Wolverine before anything that happens in the Essentials. I'm still trying to figure it out but it looks like there is these (all the way up to 116 chapters although some seem to be missing from this collection) sort of like a Wolverine season 1. Then the essentials which cover "wolverine season 2 with around 186 chapters. Then season 3 with 80 some chapters and season 4 with 20 chapters? That doesn't seem completely right, because then there’s other volumes with chapters 300 and on which I have no clue where to fit. Anyways, this prelude is about how Tyger Tiger became the crime lord of Madripoor and how Wolverine was involved. Interesting. Artwork is not what I like but I can put up with it for Wolverine.

45. Vinland Saga, Vol. 1 - Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Histrorical Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
As a child, Thorfinn sat at the feet of the great Leif Ericson and thrilled to wild tales of a land far to the west. But his youthful fantasies were shattered by a mercenary raid. Raised by the Vikings who murdered his family, Thorfinn became a terrifying warrior, forever seeking to kill the band's leader, Askeladd, and avenge his father. Sustaining Throfinn through his ordeal are his pride in his family and his dreams of a fertile westward land, a land without war or slavery...the land Leif called Vinland.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapter 1 through 4. The story is just barely getting started. All we really know so far is that Thorfinn was taken hostage and her father died to protect him. Now he wants vengeance but it seems like those he wants vengeance on are those he is living with. I'm sure it was all be explained in full soon. The artwork isn't bad, and I'm hoping it will get even better. I sure most of this series will be fiction but I do like the idea of basing it on the history of the Vikings. There is such little known of them so it will be interesting to see a rendition of what they history might have been like.

46. Vinland Saga, Vol. 2 - Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Histrorical Fiction
Pages: 232
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
As a child, Thorfinn sat at the feet of the great Leif Ericson and thrilled to wild tales of a land far to the west. But his youthful fantasies were shattered by a mercenary raid. Raised by the Vikings who murdered his family, Thorfinn became a terrifying warrior, forever seeking to kill the band's leader, Askeladd, and avenge his father. Sustaining Throfinn through his ordeal are his pride in his family and his dreams of a fertile westward land, a land without war or slavery...the land Leif called Vinland.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 5-16 and is all a flashback into Thorfinn's past when we sees his father, Thors, murdered. This explains his need for vengenge, although it still hasn't been explained why he is under his father's murderer's keeping. The artwork is better here than in the first volume. The story isn't hugely intriguing yet but interesting enough to keep me reading.

47. Vinland Saga, Vol. 3 - Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Histrorical Fiction
Pages: 232
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
The foolish King Ethelred has fled, and Askeladd's band is one of hundreds plundering the English countryside. Yet victory brings no peace to the elderly Danish King Sweyn, who worries that his untested, sensitive son Canute will never be ready to take the throne. The king's attempt to force his son to become a man places the young prince within the grasp of the gleeful killer Thorkell! Whoever holds Canute holds the key to the thrones of England and Denmark – and Askeladd has his own reasons for joining the fray.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 17-21. England is at war. Thorfinn is still trailing Askeladd’s army, looking for his next chance to duel Askeladd to the death for his father’s murder. The artwork is steadily improving but I didn’t enjoy this volume as much as the previous one. I’m much more interested in Thorfinn than the war going on although if the series gets good enough like I hope that will pull me in soon as well. It’s certainly a series I’m interested in continuing.

48. Vinland Saga, Vol. 4 - Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 204
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
The foolish King Ethelred has fled, and Askeladd's band is one of hundreds plundering the English countryside. Yet victory brings no peace to the elderly Danish King Sweyn, who worries that his untested, sensitive son Canute will never be ready to take the throne. The king's attempt to force his son to become a man places the young prince within the grasp of the gleeful killer Thorkell! Whoever holds Canute holds the key to the thrones of England and Denmark – and Askeladd has his own reasons for joining the fray!

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 22-28. Things are starting to heat up. We’re learning new things about Askaladd that will have very big implications. And the Brother Friar has some secrets as well. Still not much on Thorfinn himself though he is present but mostly silent. His protection of the prince may have some implications for the story later on.

49. Vinland Saga, Vol. 5 - Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 205
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
In a gambit to become the power behind the Danish and English thrones, Askeladd has taken the prince, Canute, and plunged deep into a winter storm behind enemy lines. Canute's father, King Sweyn, gives him up for dead in his haste to suppress English resistance. But Askeladd's small band can't outrun the tenacious maniac Thorkell forever.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 29-35. Things are turning around for Askeladd and not for the good. He’s so tricky though that I have to wonder sometimes if it isn’t all just a part of his plan. Obviously not as is obvious at the end of this volume but still, I never quite know with him. We do know a lot more about him now. And Thorfinn; I’m invested in him, probably because the whole volume about his past and why he’s how his is, but he’s certainly a rough character. Doesn’t care if a woman gets raped in front of him or villages massacred as long as he’s near Askeladd, so that he can take his chance to get his vengeance. He’s no hero yet as one reviewer put it. The artwork is pretty good at this point. Nothing that distracts me from the story, which is also picking up. I’m looking forward to the next volume.

50. Naruto, Vol. 69 - Masashi Kishimoto
Genre: Epic Fantasy
Pages: 200
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Madara is just getting stronger and stronger. And Naruto and Sasuke may be out of action... for good.

Thoughts:
This was an intense volume. Due to the spacing between each chapter it feels as if this last battle/war has been going on for months! And yet when I read each chapter it's worth the wait. I've become so invested in this series it's a little crazy. I am certainly going to have to read this whole arc over again when it's finally done to get the feeling of real time. You think it's almost over and then no, Madara just pulls a new one on you. It keeps me biting my nails. As an aside I really enjoyed the flashback to when Guy and Kakashi were little kids. That was a treat. Guy was never a favorite of mine but he's slowly growing on me in this arc.

51. Dengeki Daisy, Vol. 14 - Kyousuke Motomi
Genre: Romance
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Teru and Kurosaki finally get a hold of “M’s Last Testament,” and they discover the truth behind their nemesis Akira’s past! While Teru opposes helping Akira with his current predicament, Kurosaki is forced to investigate further…with dire consequences for the both of them!

Thoughts:
I’m basically just reading this series now because I’m half way through it. I’m mostly not interested anymore. It was cute in the beginning but there’s not really the sweetness between Teru and Kurosaki and much more of the mystery of Akira and M’s Last Testament which isn’t holding my attention. The artwork is only on par with its best some of the time as well. The other times, it’s not the artwork I would usually deal with for a good story. Maybe it will turn around but I’m not holding my breath.

52. Vinland Saga, Vol. 6 - Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 205
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Askeladd's small band can't outrun the tenacious maniac Thorkell forever, and when the warriors finally clash, a storm of sweat and gore ensues that will turn a boy into a man and a hostage into a ruler of men!

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 35-42. It was an interesting volume. The Prince really comes into his own and Thorfinn has a very big battle to contend with that might even change him. The artwork is probably at its peak by this point which is okay because it’s pretty good. I think we’re coming to a big turning point in the series. Maybe another volume and then we’ll see. I am interested in seeing where the author took this plot.

53. Vinland Saga, Vol. 7 – Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 3 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Pushed to the brink of despair after his father attempted to have him killed, Prince Canute has experienced an awakening, transforming him from a timid, gentle boy into a clear-eyed man with the heart of a king. But a king needs a crown, and Canute now knows that nothing will be given to him. If he wants to rule, he will have to prove his ruthlessness with a plot that will change the fate of the kingdom and spatter the throne with blood!

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 43-49. Mostly it is about Canute and Askeladd. I saw Canute’s name somewhere while traveling in the last week and realized he is based on a true man. I suppose I knew that before but it didn’t really hit me before that this really is history. Askeladd still confuses me a little with what he is ultimately after. Towards the end of the volume there is more of Thorfinn and believe it or not Leif! That was the best chapter of the book when the two recognize each other. It does solidify however how rough mannered and cruel Thorfinn has turned out to be. But there is hope now. Overall this volume dragged for me as there was more politics than action, although there were a couple of duels played out. Recommended if you are already reading the series and like it.

54. Vinland Saga, Vol. 8 – Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Pushed to the brink of despair after his father attempted to have him killed, Prince Canute has experienced an awakening, transforming him from a timid, gentle boy into a clear-eyed man with the heart of a king. But a king needs a crown, and Canute now knows that nothing will be given to him. If he wants to rule, he will have to prove his ruthlessness with a plot that will change the fate of the kingdom and spatter the throne with blood! Thorfinn watches events unfold that could steal away the vengeance he has waited so long to achieve.

Thoughts:
This volume surprised me. I did not expect Askeladd to do what he did. And I certainly didn’t see ahead of time what would end up happening to Thorfinn. What a twist! It’s definitely going to be a different kind of story from here on out. The artwork has been consistently good as always. I am looking forward to the next installment.

55. Vinland Saga, Vol. 9 – Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Thorfinn is no longer who he once was. While Prince Canute fights against his brother for the crown, the young Icelander is working on Ketil’s farm to earn his freedom back. Only it seems like he doesn’t care for his freedom as much as his new companion Ernil.

Thoughts:
This volume is definitely much different than the previous volumes. Thorfinn is off the battlefield for once since he was five years old. I doubt that he will stay off it however. I get the feeling that his past will come back at him sooner rather than later. I do like the new character, Ernil. I’m hoping the two of them become friends – Thorfinn could use one. Perhaps he can become what his father wanted for him now, not the ill-mannered teenager out for vengeance. Consistent artwork, good story; I recommend the series if you like graphic novels and/or historical fiction.

56. Vinland Saga, Vol. 10 – Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 3 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Thorfinn is no longer who he once was. While Prince Canute fights against his brother for the crown, the young Icelander is working on Ketil’s farm to earn his freedom back. Only it seems like he doesn’t care for his freedom as much as his new companion Eirnal.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 65-71. I thought this volume dragged a bit. Looking back on it after finishing it, I know a lot of it was important for the series, but I didn’t have the urge to flip through the pages as much as before. The last two chapters of the volume were the most interesting because we finally get to see what Thorfinn has been dreaming about that makes him wake up screaming. He also makes a very important decision that will be sure to effect the rest of the series. But he’s reminding me more of his dad than before. I’m hoping this slave arc will end soon so that he can really put his resolve to the test and fully grow up.

57. Vinland Saga, Vol. 11 – Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 3 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
King Canute must have more revune if he is to continue to support his army but he can’t risk raising the taxes or risk revolt. His other option is to take farmlands by force. And he has his eyes set on Kelit’s farmlands.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 72-78. This volume was better than the last. I got through it pretty fast. But it still didn’t feel like a four star to me. And yet still intriguing enough to keep me reading and looking forward to the next installment. Especially after the fiasco at the end of this volume. I really beginning to dislike Canute now. Kings have to make hard decisions but he doesn’t seem overly upset by his orders and actions where he might have once. Although I think he looks much better now than he did; stronger I suppose. And poor Lief; still searching for Thorfinn. I am looking forward to seeing their second reunion. The next installment is sure to be a central one to the series.

58. Vinland Saga, Vol. 12 – Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
When a runaway slave kills five men and heads for Kenlit’s farm it’s unclear what he’s after until he sees Arneas, his long lost wife. Will Thorfinn and Ernal help the two escape or hinder them like any good slave would do.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 79-86. Not many more volumes are published after this. But I don’t know how mnay arcs are planned for the series. There may be a lot more on the way. This volume wasn’t what I was expecting. After the last installment I expected to see King Canute appearing. Instead the runaway slave plot was focused on and concluded. It also caused Throfinn some internal strife as he had to decide to cause harm to help others or stick to his vow of never harming again. As the shadow of Askeladd asks, which makes you the true warrior? I think Thorfinn chose right. There’s some good character development going on with Thorfinn in these last few volumes. I’m glad he’s finding his way.

59. Vinland Saga, Vol. 13 – Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Canute’s army arrives on Kenlit’s farm, looking to take the land by force if necessary. But Kenlit won’t let it go that easily, even against the king. Can Thorfinn, Einar, and Arneas help but be pulled into the war?

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 87-93. This volume was a little heart-wrenching. Leif and Thorfinn have their reunion in the midst of war preparations and Canute is just as cruel as he has recently become. Kenlit seems to have come off his rocker but I can’t say I blame him after the framing of murder the king placed on him all as a ruse to take his farm from him. Too bad Arneas got caught up in his madness too. I did lie that this volume had a lot of central life lessons. And Thorfinn makes a conviction to find Vinland, the unknown land across the ocean where there are no wars or slavery. I’m looking forward to seeing him do it.

60. Vinland Saga, Vol. 14 – Makoto Yukimura
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Before Thorfinn returns home after being away for 16 years, he must confront King Canute one last time in an attempt to save the farm. And to see if Canute is still looking to create paradise.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 93-100, and is the last volume that has been published for the series so far. It was a good ending to what has happened so far. Canute does have a conscience after all. And Thorfinn finally returns home to reunite with his mother and sister. And plan for his voyage to Vinland. I’m a little sad to be caught up with the series and am certainly looking forward to seeing Thorfinn again. I recommend the series if you enjoy historical fiction and/or graphic novels.

61. Bleach, Vol. 63 - Tite Kubo
Genre: Epic Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(New)

Summary:
And the battle for Soul Society continues.

Thoughts:
In this volume, Rukia has to figth fear itself. Not something easy, but of course she succeds. The battles are still coming. I'm sure we'll see battles between all the memebers of the Soul Society before Ichigo ever turns up. I have to say that this arc is dragging on and on a bit much for me.

62. Dengeki Daisy, Vol. 15 - Kyousuke Motomi
Genre: Romance
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Teru gets kidnapped, and Kurosaki rushes to find out where she’s being held. The search takes him to an uninhabited island where Akira is determined to find “M’s Last Testament.” With the entire island rigged to blow up, will Kurosaki save both Teru and Akira in time?

Thoughts:
I still wish the artwork was consistently good but it's not. Theres some panels that are great but most of the artwork is not up to par with what I usually tolerate. If the artwork was better I believe I would like the story a bit better. As it is, I'm having a hard time continuing this. We'll see. It might be soon when I give up on this. But at the same time I feel as it the story is coming to a close soon, so we'll see.

63. Renai Idenshi XX, Vol. 1 - Eiki Eiki
Genre: Romance, GLBT
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
A sci-fi story set in a future where men have died off. Women have been divided into two groups: Adams and Eves. Each has a set role in society. The protagonist, an Adam, has just entered Kingdom Academy. Romantic relationships between Adams are forbidden there, so I'm sure you can all guess where this is going...

Thoughts:
This was an interesting story. No men at all. Hmmm. :) The artwork is pretty good. I enjoyed the story and the cute romance beginning here. There is a lot fo nudity here with not much left to your imagination, so I'd only recommend this to those who enjoy and appreciate women's bodies. This won't be a long series I'm sure, but it's entertaining.

64. Renai Idenshi XX, Vol. 2 - Eiki Eiki
Genre: Romance, GLBT
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
A sci-fi story set in a future where men have died off. Women have been divided into two groups: Adams and Eves. Each has a set role in society. The protagonist, an Adam, has just entered Kingdom Academy. Romantic relationships between Adams are forbidden there, so I'm sure you can all guess where this is going...

Thoughts:
Most of this story and series was predictable - two people fall in love when they're forbidden too and get caught at it. It kind of reminds me of the Romeo and Juilet play to tell the truth. Perhaps that was the inspiration. It's a short series and I liked this second volume less than the first due to it's rushed ending but it was still an okay series. It kept me entertained.

65. The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger Born - Peter David
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 240
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
"The man in black fled across the desert, and the gunslinger followed." With those words, millions of readers were introduced to Stephen King's Roland - an implacable gunslinger in search of the enigmatic Dark Tower, powering his way through a dangerous land filled with ancient technology and deadly magic. Now, in a comic book personally overseen by King himself, Roland's past is revealed!

Thoughts:
Hmmm... I picked this book up because I never did get into the actual 'Dark Tower' series of Kings' and dropped it after three books. I thought maybe I could still get the overall story without actually reading them here, but a lot of this volume was a retelling of things that were only skimmed over in the book. And while that was interesting, it did not pull me in. I struggled to get through this as with the books. I think King is just not my cup of tea. The artwork was interesting - it focused on shadows a lot which became sort of irksome. I felt I hardly ever saw the character's faces or expressions. I'm sure I could read more in this graphic novel series and perhaps get something out of it, but I just picture not getting very much of anything, and I'd rather not waste the time at the moment. Maybe someday in the future I will try something else from King but for now I think I have given up on the Dark Tower series.

66. A Game of Thrones: The Graphic Novel: Volume One - George R R Martin
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 240
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
You’ve read the books. You’ve watched the hit series on HBO. Now acclaimed novelist Daniel Abraham and illustrator Tommy Patterson bring George R. R. Martin’s epic fantasy masterwork A Game of Thrones to majestic new life in the pages of this full-color graphic novel. Comprised of the initial six issues of the graphic series, this is the first volume in what is sure to be one of the most coveted collaborations of the year.

Thoughts:
This was a treat. It’s not the books, by far. But I really enjoyed seeing the artwork of a series I love so much played out like this. Mostly it was for fun, me reading this. The artwork is fantastic and the forward by George R. R. Martin was interesting to read. I’m not sure if I’ll read the whole graphic novel rendition of the series – I’m not even sure how far they will go with this, but it was a great bedtime read.

67. A Game of Thrones: The Graphic Novel: Volume Two - George R R Martin
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 240
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Novelist Daniel Abraham and illustrator Tommy Patterson are not merely turning George R. R. Martin’s epic fantasy A Game of Thrones into a graphic novel: They are meticulously translating one art form into another, and capturing the intricate nuances of Martin’s novels just as HBO is doing with the blockbuster series. The Abraham/Patterson collaboration is more than just a faithful adaptation. It is a labor of love—and a thrilling masterwork in its own right.

Thoughts:
My thoughts from reading the first of this graphic novel series still stand. I enjoy the artwork very much. The story is no surprise as I know everything that is going to happen already, but it’s worth it to read an abridged version again along with the artwork.

#71: I read that one, too, this year, and my reaction was about the same. I only made it through the first Dark Tower book, so you're way ahead of me there.

Nice reads and reviews, as always! :)

Thanks Sara!

68. Bleach, Vol. 64 - Tite Kubo
Genre: Epic Fantasy
Pages: 200
Rating: 3 Stars
(New)

Summary:
The war rages.

Thoughts:
And it goes on and on and on. Again, I think a lot of my problem is reading each chapter weekly, which is making it seem like it drags on more than it actually does. But even with that I feel as if it's is dragging on more so than usual. Also, since we have these individual battles every arc, we already know each character's fighting style. Sometimes it's interesting when something unexpected happens, and a lot of unexpected things are happening. Maybe too many unexpected things happening now? Something is certainly off from how this series started out years ago which drew me into it. I hope things pick up a little.

69. Attack on Titan, Vol 1 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
In this post-apocalytpic sci-fi story, humanity has been devastated by the bizarre, giant humanoids known as the Titans. Little is known about where they came from or why they are bent on consuming mankind. Seemingly unintelligent, they have roamed the world for years, killing everyone they see. For the past century, what's left of man has hidden in a giant, three-walled city. People believe their 100-meter-high walls will protect them from the Titans, but the sudden appearance of an immense Titan is about to change everything.

Thoughts:
I ended up watching the anime before reading this because I didn’t like the artwork as much as actually watching the story. However the anime is not caught up with the story and I couldn’t wait for it to catch up before getting more. However I did decide to go back and start from the manga beginning. It just means I will get the great story again in a different format. The artwork isn’t too bad, but it’s not great either in my opinion. However I hear that it gets better with time. As for the story: the story is amazing. Horrific and heart-wrenching, and amazing because of that. This is a deep story and it doesn’t go easy on the reader. On that note, this volume ends on a really really huge terrible cliff-hanger so make sure you have the next volume on hand. I don’t think I cried, but I came close. Since I watched the anime I know what happens up to a point. I am looking forward to getting to the part where the manga will be new for me.

Interesting. I don't count my Graphic Novels / Mangas / Mahnwas among my Book count either. While I have since the last couple of years been keeping track of my readings, I haven't time stamped them. I think I should also atleast list them out in another thread, like yours, here on LT.

I've enjoyed having moved all my GNs over here. There was one year that GNs seemed to dominate and this way I feel I can get a look at both types of readings seperately and more accurately. :) If you do create a thread I'd love to see what GNs mangas etc you've been/will be reading.

70. Attack on Titan, Vol 2 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
The Colossal Titan has breached humanity’s first line of defense, Wall Maria. Mikasa, the 104th Training Corps’ ace and Eren’s best friend, may be the only one capable of defeating them, but beneath her calm exterior lurks a dark past. When all looks lost, a new Titan appears and begins to slaughter its fellow Titans. Could this new monster be a blessing in disguise, or is the truth something much more sinister?

Thoughts:
I think the artwork is getting better already. Or I’m just getting more used to it. This is where the story really gets interesting. The first volume had to set the story up. Then it ended on a horrific note which makes the reader have to continue reading just to figure out if what happened really did happen. This volume deals with the consequences and you’re teary eyed and about to wonder if you want to continue reading when the author throws you for another loop. Now you have to keep reading to figure out exactly what happened, because what you thought happened didn’t. I remember watching these events and hoping Eren would be back in some form or another, but even I wasn’t expecting what happened the first time around. I highly recommend this series to anyone if you read graphic novel formatted books.

71. Attack on Titan, Vol 3 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 208
Rating: 5 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
The last thing Eren remembers before blacking out, a Titan had bitten off his arm and leg and was getting ready to eat him alive. Much to his surprise he wakes up without a scratch on him, with a crowd of angry soldiers screaming for his blood. What strange new power has he awakened, and what will happen when the boy devoted to destroying the Titans becomes one himself?

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 10-13, with a small side story added in as an intro. Most of this volume is a question. What the heck is happening to Eren? Where did these sudden powers come from? And are they powers that will help or will they make things worse if he can’t control them? Some interesting things are brought up here as well, concerning Eren’s father, who is a complete mystery at the moment. One thing I like about these volumes is that they don’t shy away from human fragility. The series is pretty good at depicting the horror these characters are going through. It would break anyone, and it breaks a lot of these characters, those that survive. I can’t even imagine the survivor’s guilt and the bone deep terror they go through every time titans are around. And yet most still prevail. It’s not an easy topic to think about when reading this, the huge losses of people dealt so that even more might survive, when even one person’s death seems to many. But what else do you do when five hundred dead can save five thousand? What choice do you make? I do not envy the decisions these officers have to make. Especially when there is not guarantee those five hundred dead really will save the rest. Anyways, if you’re into psychology you might enjoy this horror trip of a series. I can’t put them down myself.

72. Attack on Titan, Vol 4 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
The Survey Corps develop a risky gambit – have Eren in Titan form attempt to repair Wall Rose, reclaiming human territory from the monsters for the first time in a century. But Titan-Eren’s self-control is far from perfect, and when he goes on a rampage, not even Armin can stop him! With the survival of humanity on his massive shoulders, will Eren be able to return to his senses, or will he lose himself forever?

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 14-18. The first half deals with the fight to seal the broken gate, which is dependent on Eren getting control of himself. The second half of the book is a flashback to the two years that the characters first joined the academy to become soldiers. Both were treats. The first half for the pride the reader feels and joy that humanity has had its first win. And the second half because we can see the characters in their series development when they were still raw with emotion to make a difference and do something about the life they must live and die in. There is already some clear character development happening. Artwork is becoming more tolerable for me as well which helps things along. I’m looking forward to continuing on with the series and seeing what the anime hasn’t gotten to yet.

73. Attack on Titan, Vol 5 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Thanks to Eren, humanity has taken the town of Trost back from the Titans. Exhausted, Eren falls into a coma for three days – and wakes in shackles, staring at Erwin Smith, leader of the Survey Corps. Certain that Eren’s father’s research holds the key to the mystery of the Titans’ rise, Smith wants an expedition to retrieve it from the house where Eren grew up. But that’s deep in Titan territory, and to get there Eren will need to master a power he still doesn’t fully understand.

Thoughts:
This volume has much less action in it then the previous volumes but important transitions happen instead and Eren’s life or death is determined. Something that this series gets right as well is portraying the unfairness of the world. Some things have unintended consequences and things have to brought back into balance even if that means people die at the hands of fellow humans. The rich and influential win, while the weak and poor, and usually innocent, lose. I see some of this in the series, which makes it a realistic world and thus pulls the reader into the story further. I’m still enjoying seeing this story again in GN format and am looking forward to catching up and continuing with the part of the story that I am unfamiliar with.

74. Attack on Titan, Vol 6 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 208
Rating: 5 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
On the way to Eren’s home, deep in Titan territory, the Survey Corps ranks are broken by a charge led by a female Titan! But this Abnormal is different – she kills not to eat but to protect herself, and she seems to be looking for someone. Armin comes to a shocking conclusion: She’s a human in a Titan’s body, just like Eren!

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 23-26. And it dumps us right back into the action of humans against titans. And this time the titan is intelligent, which is a scary thought. This series doesn’t go for very long before throwing more twists into the story, which is something I like about it. It certainly keeps me reading when I should be doing other things, like sleeping. There’s a lot of death in this volume, so beware. At this point it’s starting to become crucial that readers have read previous volumes before this. But the volumes aren’t long and the artwork is getting better than how it was in the first volume. I don’t understand some of the proportions of some of the titans depicted but I have a suspicion that even that will be explained at some point. That’s another thing. I like that we the readers are discovering the titans along with the characters, - it creates intensity and emotion. A highly recommend manga series with some gore/maturity warnings laid in there.

75. Attack on Titan, Vol 7 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 5 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
The Survey Corps sets a cunning trap to capture the mysterious Abnormal Titan that broke through their ranks. As Armin tries to determine the grotesque creature’s identity and purpose, scouts report Titans closing in on all sides! But they don’t seem to be after the humans – instead they’re targeting the Titan!

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 27-30. There’s lots of hidden intrigue in this volume, so if you like that you’re in luck. And there are some nice fight scenes between titans and humans and titans and titans. More about the female titan is revealed and it is shocking. Things are starting to fit together in a way that is still confusing but leads the reader to even more hidden clues. The artwork is getting better, definitely.

76. Attack on Titan, Vol. 8 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 5 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
The expedition outside the wall was Eren's chance to prove himself. But it failed, and the female Titan is free once more! With his squad dead, Eren faces a royal summons. Will Mikasa and Armin have to betray their king to save their friend? And can they discover the female Titan's identity before she kills again?

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 31-34. Halfway through this volume is where the anime ends, so the second half of the volume was a surprise for me. A big surprise. I was so used to knowing what was going to happen that I forgot how shocking the twists in this series are. Seriously, it’s one thing after another, and this one might take the cake. It certainly keeps you reading. I also started to see some changes from the manga to the anime and I think I like the events in the manga better. I am really looking forward to seeing what comes next in this series.

77. Attack on Titan, Vol. 9 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 5 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Eren is still resting from his brutal fight with the female Titan, when word reaches the interior that the impossible has happened: Wall Rose itself has been breached, and Titans are pouring through the gap! The emergency casts new urgency over Armin and Hange's questions about how the walls were built, and what humanity can do to restore them.

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 35-38. Again with the mind blowing twists. One after the other after the other. I’m gonna get whiplash from it all. But in a good way – way to hook the reader. There is still as much gore as usual. It’s pretty great artwork by this point so that makes the gore more real too. Great, heart wrenching, confusing story. Highly recommend if you think you can handle it.

78. Attack on Titan, Vol. 10 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 5 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
With no combat gear and Wall Rose breached, the 104th scrambles to evacuate the villages in the Titans' path. On their way to the safety of Wall Sheena, they decide to spend the night in Utgard Castle. But their sanctuary becomes a slaughterhouse when they discover that, for some reason, these Titans attack at night!

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 39-42. Warning. This volume ends on a very big cliffhanger. Not that all the previous volumes didn’t, but this one is … well I know I use this word a lot when describing this series – shocking. I always feel like the series reaches a point that it can’t outdo, and then it goes and does just that. These surprises are becoming exponential. You really can’t be sure of anyone anymore. Anyone could be an enemy. But what exactly does that mean? I’m sure we’ll find out soon enough. I’m catching up to the manga quickly. I’m not sure what I’ll do when that happens, maybe cry.

79. Attack on Titan, Vol. 11 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 5 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Thanks to Eren's timely arrival, the 104th has managed to turn the tide at Wall Rose. But this momentary victory forces two more traitors into a corner – and the identity of the Titans who have been destroying the walls is revealed! What can Eren do against the two most dangerous monsters humanity has ever faced? And who else might be an enemy in disguise?

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 43-46. I can’t say how glad I am that I let my brother talk me into watching the anime that this series has begun to be converted to, which then made me read these manga novels. This is definitely up there on my list alongside Berserk. I’m gonna have to start buying these volumes and I only buy manga that I really really like and will read a million times again. This volume also ends on a bit of a cliffhanger. I should be sleeping but instead I am going to read a little more. I believe I am addicted.

80. Attack on Titan, Vol. 12 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 5 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Erwin and the Survey Corps desperately mount a rescue operation to take Eren back from the Colossus Titan and Armored Titan. But without the numbers to form up properly outside the walls, how can the humans catch up before they're all slaughtered? Just whose side is Ymir on? And will Eren ever see his friends again?

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 47- 50. This volume is chalk full of intense battle to get Eren back from the clutches of the “evil guys”. I can’t quite tell how evil they are yet. There’s been a few hints dropped that something even bigger than them is going on and perhaps there is more behind why they did what they did to humanity although I can’t begin to guess what it is. This series is full of intrigue. And full of horror. Something is up. There was the breach in the wall and then nothing for five years. And now, one thing after another keeps happening – something big is certainly going on.

81. Attack on Titan, Vol. 13 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 5 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
At great cost to the Garrison and the Survey Corps, Commander Erwin has managed to recover Eren from the Titans who tried to carry him off. But during the battle, Eren manifested yet another power he doesn’t understand. As Eren and Krista find new enemies, the Survey Corps faces threats from both inside and outside the walls. And what will happen to Ymir, now that she has decided to make herself the Titans’ prize?

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 51-54. First off I have to say the cover for this volume is my favorite of all of them. The volume itself is more about the internal intrigue now brewing in the cities. It’s becoming much more political. At this point in the series however it’s needed, because more and more we are seeing that some of the external problem of the titans might have to do with the government, scary as that seems. The environment is becoming more nasty, and I’m beginning to wonder just how much involvement the government has. Could it be that the titans are not the real enemies here? I can’t guess because Isayama is so good at plot twists, but it would not be a new idea that humans have the potential to be the worst monsters. I’m really looking forward to the last volume. Once I finish that volume I don’t know how I’m going to handle not have more chapters to read. *Sad face*

82. Attack on Titan, Vol. 14 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 5 Stars
(TBR)

Summary:
Commander Erwin has finally come to a decision: Putting their own wealth and position ahead of the survival of humanity, the royal government is no longer fit to lead. To execute their leader’s most audacious plan yet, Eren and Krista will have to put themselves in peril yet again, and Armin, Mikasa, and the rest of the Survey Corps will have to turn from humanity’s guardians into traitors. If they fail this time, they’ll face not a Titan’s gaping mouth, but the gallows.

Thoughts:
Oh no! This is the last published volume. *Sad Face* It always sucks to catch up to your favorite series and then have nothing left to read. This volume consists of chapters 55-60. As the summary says, this volume has human against human action, which can be sometimes be more disturbing than human against titan action. I’m glad Erwin has some people on his side. We don’t see Eren very much in this volume since he’s been kidnapped by the government, and it doesn’t look good for him. Some of the volume was a tiny bit confusing. Intelligent titans become intelligent and able to go between human and titan form when they eat a human with that same ability. But then where did the first one come from? It’s the chicken and egg question. And titans are dead humans? Thing aren’t adding up for the moment, but I’m sure it will be explained soon. Hopefully.

>93 Kassilem: Sorry to hear it's the last published volume. I only have Attack on Titan: Volume 1, but I may give it a try this year. Thanks for the rec! :)

>94 saraslibrary: You are welcome! I do hope you like it. They have a pretty fast pace.

83. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 1 - Kumiko Suekane
Genre: Science Fiction
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
History repeats itself... Or does it? St. Kleio Academy is a very exclusive school: all of the students are clones of famous historical figures such as Beethoven, Queen Elizabeth I, Napoleon, Mozart, and Freud. All of them, that is, except for Shiro Kamiya. As Shiro struggles to adapt to this unusual campus, St. Kleio's first graduate, the clone of John F. Kennedy, is killed. Are the clones doomed to repeat the fate of their genetic progenitors, or can they create their own destinies? And how does a normal boy like Shiro fit in?

Thoughts:
This is an interesting start to a new manga. I’ve always been fascinated with genes and clones, so I knew this was a series to try out. I didn’t realize the art would be so good. It’s interesting the characters picked for this series as well. And somewhere in here I can see the beginnings of a very interesting inner battle. What does it mean to be told your fate and have to exceed at something picked for you. And Shiro; his story is a mystery which I’m sure will play a big part later on. I’m looking forward to more.

84. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 2 - Kumiko Suekane
Genre: Science Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
JOAN OF ARC (1412-1431) A patriotic young French maiden. After beginning to hear voices at the age of 13, Joan led the French army in the liberation of Orleans in the Hundred Years' War against Britain. But not long afterward, she was convicted of heresy by a religious tribunal and burned to death at the stake.

Thoughts:
This volume ends on an intriguing note. Shiro’s mystery just got more mysterious. As well as the motivation of some of the clones in the school. A lot of things are up in the air right now, with no clear clue as to what is going to happen. I have a bad feeling about what is going to happen in the next volume however.

>96 Kassilem: & >97 Kassilem: Those look awesome! I thumbed your reviews, btw. :)

thumbed? I've never heard that expression before, so I have to ask :)

85. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 3 - Kumiko Suekane
Genre: Science Fiction
Pages: 200
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Napoleon Bonaparte (1769–1821) Leader of France during the first French Empire. Became known as a hero for his victories as a general and went on to seize absolute control of the state in a coup d'état. As emperor, Napoleon's rule spanned almost all of Europe, but opposition to his rule grew widespread after his army suffered a bitter defeat by the cruel Russian winter, leading to his eventual seizure and exile. Even then, Napoleon managed to return to power for a time, only to be exiled once again. He died on Saint Helena Island.

Thoughts:
Ah I knew it. Something fishy is going on here! There is a lot of intrigue in this series it turns out. It’s pretty good about dropping interesting hints too. They make you think you've got an idea of what’s going on. We’ll see if the hints are right or only a distraction. Recommended if you like manga and intrigue.

86. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 4 - Kumiko Suekane
Genre: Science Fiction
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Florence Nightingale (1820–1910) British nurse who made tremendous contributions to the modern nursing system. Received her nursing education in Germany before serving as chief nurse in a London hospital. Drafted into military service during the Crimean War, Nightingale strove to improve sanitation amid the wretched conditions of the military field hospital she managed. Also recognized as a pioneering statistician for her tireless compilation of statistical materials. During her military service, her beneficence and dedication to her hospital rounds at night earned her the nicknames “the Lady with the Lamp” and “the Angel of the Crimea.”

Thoughts:
Woah. Things got serious here. And wow, there are a lot of Shiro’s around. Definitely something going on here. The pace is pretty quick in this series. And the artwork is very good. Charles Darwin was introduced in this volume and as he is a favorite of mine, it was great to see he makes an appearance. It will be interesting to see where Suekane takes this series.

>99 Kassilem: Oh, sorry, I'll explain. :) On the book's main page, it has member reviews about halfway down; and under each review, to the right, is this----which people can click on if they thought the review was helpful. So, thumbed is a good thing. :)

>102 saraslibrary: Oh nice. :) All these new features. Thank you. I'll have to go check it out myself I think :)

You're welcome. I know: LT keeps adding some really super spiffy features. Have fun with it. :)

87. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 5 - Kumiko Suekane
Genre: Science Fiction
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
ADOLF HITLER (1889–1945) Adolf Hitler was the infamous ruler of fascist Germany. In his youth he aspired to be a painter but was rejected from art school. He worked as a day laborer before enlisting in the army and serving in World War I. After the war he became involved in the National Socialist German Worker’s Party (the Nazi Party), expanding its influence and becoming its leader. Hitler’s charismatic oratory garnered many followers and led to his appointment as chancellor. In that position, he disbanded all rival political parties and established a single-party dictatorship. He declared himself the “Fuhrer,” or supreme ruler, and called his reign the “Third Reich.” Germany’s invasion of Poland instigated World War II, while domestically Hitler maintained strict control of the ideology of the citizenry, initiating the genocide of the Jewish people known as the “Holocaust.” Hitler committed suicide in his underground bunker in 1945 after Berlin fell to the Allies.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 25-30. It’s a little confusing. Things are beginning to be explained but a lot of it just adds more questions. However the volume ends without a conclusion – and on a bit of a cliffhanger - on the story being told to the younger generation of clones, which means it should be concluded in the next volume. As also the artwork is great, and the story if good when it isn’t confusing. Even then there is something there that keeps you reading to figure it all out. This is certainly a very interesting series.

87. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 6 - Kumiko Suekane
Genre: Science Fiction
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
ELIZABETH I (1533–1603) Elizabeth I was an English Queen. The second daughter of Henry VIII, Elizabeth’s royal standing was called into question for a period of time following her mother’s execution. At the age of 25 she succeeded the throne after the death of her sister Mary I. Her appointment was warmly welcomed by her subjects. Under her reign, England defeated the Spanish Armada in 1588, achieving a major advancement in the nation’s international standing. The country enjoyed great industrial, economic and cultural prosperity during Elizabeth’s rule, and the period is often considered a golden age. Elizabeth never married and was consequently known as the “Virgin Queen.”

Thoughts:
This volume is the conclusion of the story behind the older generation of clones. A lot of the story is disturbing in an ethical sense which is why the older generation turned out the way they did. I have a hard time keeping track of which Kai is which in this volume but I think that is intended. And Rockwell is becoming a character that I can’t predict. I thought I had him figured out but he’s more dimensional that first shown. Mystery! Things will change after this for sure. And yet I can’t say what. That’s the nice thing here – you don’t know what’s going to happen so you have to continue reading to figure it out. Recommended if you are interested in cloning and/or graphic novels.

89. Attack on Titan: Before the Fall, Vol. 1 - Ryo Suzukaze
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
A prequel series to the number one bestseller in Japan. Humanity has learned to live in complacency behind its high walls, protected from the giant Titans. But when a Titan-worshiping cult opens one of the gates, a Titan wreaks havoc, consuming the cultists. After the rampage is over, two young Survey Corps members are shocked to discover a pregnant woman's partially digested corpse - with her baby still alive inside it! What will the fate of this "child of the Titans" be? And how will humanity learn to cope with the Titan threat?

Thoughts:
I just stumbled across this prequel series and since I loved Attack on Titan some much I thought I'd give this one a try. I'm not sure if it is really written by a different author than the original series or not, but the artwork looks a little different - darker with more shading. I'm not sure where this is gonna go at this early point but it looks to be intriguing.

90. Attack on Titan: Before the Fall, Vol. 2 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Kuklo had spent his entire life in cages, feared and hated as "the Titan's son." Then he met Sharle Inocencio, a young girl who defied her father and brother to care for and educate the abused boy in secret — and plot his escape from the dungeon, and her escape from her betrothal. But the night they've dreamed of brings new horrors with it, and Kuklo becomes obsessed with proving that he is not the monster everyone has always assumed him to be. That means meeting a Titan for himself, in person.

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 4-7. The story has picked up quickly. Kuklo wants to see a titan to prove to himself that he isn't one of them, that he's human. The sentiment is there but it's also a stupid idea. Luckily in most manga series, this turns out to be the turning point in the series that allows the character to begin a new life with purpose. I was worried about what would happen here because the Attack on Titan series is known to no follow that rule and kill off characters when you least expect it. However it does seem like this series is written by a different author either if Isayama's name is on the cover. It's still not on par with Isayama's series, but it's not too bad either. I enjoy the world and the characters are sure to grow on me.

91. Attack on Titan: Before the Fall, Vol. 3 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 3 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Kuklo becomes obsessed with proving that he is not the monster everyone has always assumed him to be. That means meeting a Titan for himself, in person. And he gets his wish, up close and personal.

Thoughts:
This volume only had two chapters - 8-9. That seems kind of a rip-off to only have two chapters but oh well. The Survey Corps are still fighting the Titan with Kuklo in their midst. He'c certainly found out that he is not a monster like these titan's are. The artwork isn't bad. I like Kuklo as a character but I'm not sure I like his new haircut. Overall the series is interesting, but it does come off as what it is - just a spin-off of the original masterpiece. I'll keep my eye on this one nonetheless.

92. Attack on Titan: No Regrets, Vol. 1 - Gun Snark
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
The young Erwin Smith is a rising star in the Survey Corps, humanity’s only hope of defeating the man-eating monsters known as Titans. Ruthless and dispassionate, Erwin’s mind is devoted to strategies and intrigue. But beneath Erwin’s feet is another world, the Underground, where humans are born and die surrounded by the garbage the Capital throws away. Here, the criminal Levi survives on his wits and agility. But when these two ambitious men cross paths, who will prove himself stronger?

Thoughts:
I already like this spin-off of the Attack on Titan series better than the Before the Fall spin-off. Probably because it features two characters from the original series that I like - Erwin and Levi. There were hints in Isayama's series about Levi's past but here is some concrete facts. I don't know if Isayama gave Snark the information she had in mind or is this will be a small series that doesn't go far so as not to change too much from the original story line. Since there is only two volumes to this I'm assuming the latter. The artwork in this volume is also pretty good, basically on par with the original series. I'm looking forward to the second half of this short prequel.

93. Attack on Titan: No Regrets, Vol. 2 - Gun Snark
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Erwin’s political enemies have hired Levi and his crew to take back some incriminating documents. Their reward: the right to live a proud life above ground, in the royal capital. But deep in Titan territory, it’s going to be tough to break formation and steal from a squad leader, and Levi still insists on killing the man who humiliated him after the mission is complete. Of course, beyond the walls anything can happen, and a sudden change in Levi’s fortunes will force him to face the greatest regret in his life.

Thoughts:
This is the second and last volume in the small spin-off from Attack on Titan, detailing Levi's journey into the Survey Crops. It's got the flare that the original series has, and the harsh deaths as well. But since Levi's companions aren't featured in the original series, you knew something would happen to them. The artwork, as mentioned for the previous volume, is great, on par with the original. I enjoyed this side story and look forward to any other spin-off series from the amazing series.

94. Afterschool Charisma, Vol. 7 - Kumiko Suekane
Genre: Science Fiction
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(Walk By-Pick Up)

Summary:
Sigmund Freud (1856-1939) Sigmund Freud was an Austrian psychopathologist. He studied at the University of Vienna and joined he faculty there after graduation. He pursued research in neurology and worked as a clinical physician, treating patients suffering from hysteria and similar conditions. Based on this work, Freud went on to pioneer the discipline of psychoanalysis. He developed a very close relationship with the psychologist Carl Gustav Jung, despite the difference in their age, but later in life the two became estranged due to differences in their psychological beliefs. As a Jew, Freud was forced into exile in London due to the rise of the Nazis, where he died a year later at the age of 83.

Thoughts:
This volume contains chapters 37-42. It took the series on a little twist, one that I did not expect. A lot has been exposed about who is who now and yet the reader is still left feeling like they are missing something. You think you have it figured out and then a character smirks evilly behind someone's back and you're no longer sure again. I'm interested in seeing where this goes and how the ethical and moral issues of cloning continue to be addressed. Artwork is great. Story is great. Recommended.

95. Claymore, Vol. 26 - Norihiro Yagi
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
In a world where monsters called Yoma prey on humans and live among them in disguise, humanity's only hope is a new breed of warrior known as Claymores. Half human, half monster, these silver-eyed slayers possess supernatural strength but are condemned to fight their savage impulses or lose their humanity completely. And this is the end of the fight.

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 144-149. It is also the last volume of the series. It's been quite the journey. I do appreciate that this series did not go on and on for dozens of volumes. Some story-lines can accommodate that but not this one. When I first started the series the artwork was not on par with what I usually set my standard at. However I persisted and am glad I did because the artwork got better and by this volume it was fairly good. The story was good as well, full of action and plot. If you are interested in swordplay and/or high fantasy, I'd recommend trying this series out.

96. Naruto, Vol. 70 - Masashi Kishimoto
Genre: Epic Fantasy
Pages: 192
Rating: 5 Stars
(New)

Summary:
Naruto has recovered enough to join the fight again, but will it be enough?

Thoughts:
If you're this far in the series you're in for the rest of the ride, since there's only two more volumes. I can't believe this series is almost done! It has been such a long time coming it feels like. And yet this last arc has not been a disappointment. There have been moments where it dragged a little but overall the last battle has been nail-biting emotional stuff. This volume in particular was a page turner. I do recommend this series to anyone who enjoys manga/graphic novels. Seriously, I had my doubts in the beginning but if you give it a few volumes it grows on you and keeps growing until you're so addicted it's not funny. Highly recommended.

97. Black Butler, Vol. 19 - Yana Toboso
Genre: Gothic Fantasy
Pages: 176
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
In accordance with the wishes of Queen Victoria, young Earl Ciel Phantomhive embarks on a jaunt to Germany with his elite butler, Sebastian, in tow. Gruesome and mysterious deaths are occurring on the continent, and along with the fear of contagion that permeates the air there are also rumors of witches and werewolves running amok. When Ciel's party heads right into the heart of a cursed forest where supernatural creatures are said to dwell, they run straight into a witch! In fact, several of them! And the village head is none other than a little girl who appears as though she's stepped out of a fairy tale?!

Thoughts:
This volume consists of chapters 88-92, and on starts a new arc. I don't know how many arcs are planned for this series; perhaps Toboso does not even know. This one seems to promise some interesting things however, with the werewolves and the sickness, etc. But of course things are never as they seem. I am interested in more history between Ciel and Sebastian, but I can wait for those small moments. I am looking forward to seeing what Toboso brings us in this arc.

98. Attack on Titan, Vol. 15 - Hajime Isayama
Genre: High Fantasy
Pages: 208
Rating: 4 Stars
(New)

Summary:
A homicidal MP leads a squad that abducts Eren and Krista and throws the Corps into disarray. With Erwin arrested and the Survey Corps on the edge of dissolution, are Levi and Hange finally out of options?

Thoughts:
This volume consists on chapters 59-62. There's a lot of action in this volume as men fight men. After seeing humanity fight for survival against the titans for the majority of this series it is sad to see them turn on each other, but I am not surprised. However I am looking forward to seeing this resolved. I have a feelings a lot of questions will be answered by that point. At least I'm hoping for some answers. :)

Well this is the end of my GN reading in 2014. 98 graphic novels! Not bad. :)

If you are following my GN reading thread please join my in my new threads for 2015!
Melissa's 2015 Graphic Novel Reads
Kassilem's (Melissa) 2015 Reading

98 is hella impressive! Good job! :)

Thanks Sara!

You're welcome! :) I plan on reading more graphic novels next year, but I highly doubt I'll reach 98. Maybe 10 or 20. ;) You're an inspiration to me to read more manga/graphic novels. Thanks for keeping your thread going!