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livinliterary's reviews
1591 reviews
I'll Be Waiting by Kelley Armstrong
Even when the outcome seemed predictable, I found it nearly impossible to put the book down. By the halfway mark, the story had me completely captivated, with its twists and turns keeping me guessing until the very end. The conclusion was both satisfying and surprising, wrapping up loose ends while delivering a shocking twist that left me stunned. The creeping unease Armstrong maintained throughout made it a true standout in the horror genre.
While the ending was well-crafted, I did feel the final portion of the book was slightly rushed. That said, it didn’t detract much from my overall enjoyment. Armstrong’s ability to create a sense of dread while also crafting complex, relatable characters kept me immersed from start to finish.
This is a must-read for horror fans who love a fast-paced, character-driven story with an eerie atmosphere. Just be sure to read it with the lights on!
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Kelley Armstrong delivers another gripping read with I'll Be Waiting, a fast-paced horror novel that masterfully combines suspense and character development. From the very first page, the book hooks you with an electrifying opening and doesn’t let go, even as the pace slows just enough to dive into the backstory. Armstrong balances this beautifully, weaving in flashbacks and memories that add depth while keeping the tension high and the reader engaged.
Even when the outcome seemed predictable, I found it nearly impossible to put the book down. By the halfway mark, the story had me completely captivated, with its twists and turns keeping me guessing until the very end. The conclusion was both satisfying and surprising, wrapping up loose ends while delivering a shocking twist that left me stunned. The creeping unease Armstrong maintained throughout made it a true standout in the horror genre.
While the ending was well-crafted, I did feel the final portion of the book was slightly rushed. That said, it didn’t detract much from my overall enjoyment. Armstrong’s ability to create a sense of dread while also crafting complex, relatable characters kept me immersed from start to finish.
This is a must-read for horror fans who love a fast-paced, character-driven story with an eerie atmosphere. Just be sure to read it with the lights on!
A Sign of Affection, Volume 5 by suu Morishita
The dynamic between Yuki and Itsuomi remains endearing, and their small, heartfelt moments feel so genuine that they bring a smile to my face. The artwork, as always, beautifully captures the emotions and tender exchanges between the characters, enhancing the overall charm of the story.
Although this volume leans more on maintaining the status quo, I’m eagerly hoping for the narrative to pick up in future volumes. I’m especially looking forward to seeing how their relationship evolves, both emotionally and in terms of the challenges they face as a couple.
A Sign of Affection consistently brings a blend of sweetness and authenticity that’s hard to find, making it one of my all-time favorite manga series. I can’t wait to see where their journey leads next!
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Every time I pick up A Sign of Affection, I’m reminded why this manga holds a special place in my heart—it’s an absolute gem! Volume 5 continues to deliver the same level of adorableness that I’ve come to expect from this series. While nothing major happens plot-wise, it’s so wonderfully wholesome and cute that I can’t help but be obsessed.
The dynamic between Yuki and Itsuomi remains endearing, and their small, heartfelt moments feel so genuine that they bring a smile to my face. The artwork, as always, beautifully captures the emotions and tender exchanges between the characters, enhancing the overall charm of the story.
Although this volume leans more on maintaining the status quo, I’m eagerly hoping for the narrative to pick up in future volumes. I’m especially looking forward to seeing how their relationship evolves, both emotionally and in terms of the challenges they face as a couple.
A Sign of Affection consistently brings a blend of sweetness and authenticity that’s hard to find, making it one of my all-time favorite manga series. I can’t wait to see where their journey leads next!
Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol. 5 by Asuka Konishi
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol. 4 by Asuka Konishi
One standout element of this volume is Yoshino. She fully embraces her inner badass queen, commanding attention with her sharp wit and unflinching resolve. I couldn't get enough of her in this role, and I’m eagerly hoping for more moments where she takes charge and shines.
As the plot unfolds, the blend of revenge, drama, and romance continues to captivate. The narrative is layered with just the right balance of action and character dynamics, keeping the story engaging without losing its emotional depth. The evolving relationship between Yoshino and Kirishima adds another layer of complexity, making you root for them while keeping you on edge about their future.
If you’ve been following this series, Volume 4 doesn’t disappoint—it’s a thrilling installment that leaves you hungry for what’s next. Fans of fierce heroines and tense, gritty storytelling will love this one!
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
The stakes are rising, and the tension thickens in Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii, Vol. 4. This volume ramps up the intrigue, reintroducing the troublemakers Yoshino and Kirishima tangled with in a Tokyo club while searching for the missing girl. Now, these adversaries return with a vengeance, making for a thrilling setup as the couple must confront their past missteps.
One standout element of this volume is Yoshino. She fully embraces her inner badass queen, commanding attention with her sharp wit and unflinching resolve. I couldn't get enough of her in this role, and I’m eagerly hoping for more moments where she takes charge and shines.
As the plot unfolds, the blend of revenge, drama, and romance continues to captivate. The narrative is layered with just the right balance of action and character dynamics, keeping the story engaging without losing its emotional depth. The evolving relationship between Yoshino and Kirishima adds another layer of complexity, making you root for them while keeping you on edge about their future.
If you’ve been following this series, Volume 4 doesn’t disappoint—it’s a thrilling installment that leaves you hungry for what’s next. Fans of fierce heroines and tense, gritty storytelling will love this one!
Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol. 3 by Asuka Konishi
A significant portion of this volume introduces new characters who clearly hold importance for both Kirishima and Yoshino. Their presence hints at bigger conflicts and more complex plotting to come, but it also means the story spends more time laying groundwork than delivering the high-stakes drama or emotional depth I’d been hoping for.
One of my biggest hopes for this series is the development of Kirishima and Yoshino's relationship, and while there were moments of potential in this volume, it didn’t quite deliver. Their dynamic remains compelling, but it feels like the series is holding back, teasing growth and depth without fully committing to it yet.
Overall, while Vol. 3 wasn’t as strong for me, I still see the potential in the series. With the foundation laid in this installment, I’m cautiously optimistic that the next volume will bring the development and drama I’ve been craving.
dark
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.5
The initial volumes of Yakuza Fiancé hooked me with their unique premise and intriguing mix of romance and yakuza drama. However, by the third volume, my enthusiasm has waned slightly. While the story retains its quirky blend of dark humor and lighthearted moments, this installment feels more like a setup for future events rather than a fully fleshed-out continuation of the narrative.
A significant portion of this volume introduces new characters who clearly hold importance for both Kirishima and Yoshino. Their presence hints at bigger conflicts and more complex plotting to come, but it also means the story spends more time laying groundwork than delivering the high-stakes drama or emotional depth I’d been hoping for.
One of my biggest hopes for this series is the development of Kirishima and Yoshino's relationship, and while there were moments of potential in this volume, it didn’t quite deliver. Their dynamic remains compelling, but it feels like the series is holding back, teasing growth and depth without fully committing to it yet.
Overall, while Vol. 3 wasn’t as strong for me, I still see the potential in the series. With the foundation laid in this installment, I’m cautiously optimistic that the next volume will bring the development and drama I’ve been craving.
Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol. 2 by Asuka Konishi
Shouma’s appearance in this volume provides a much-needed hint about the underlying reasons behind Yoshino’s engagement, giving us a glimpse into the intricate motivations at play. Kirishima’s own motives remain somewhat murky, but we start to see more of his character through subtle clues, which keeps the tension high and the mystery compelling.
Yoshino truly shines as a heroine in this volume. She’s not just a pretty face—she’s tough, independent, and refuses to back down. Her ability to defend herself in a tricky situation demonstrates how far she’s come since the first volume, where she was primarily reacting to the overwhelming chaos of her engagement. Now, she stands her ground, even when Kirishima’s actions don’t quite line up with her expectations. And let’s be honest, she’s the best kind of heroine: gorgeous, assertive, and not afraid to call out Kirishima when he’s being an idiot (which, let’s face it, happens more than a few times).
The tension between them intensifies when it’s revealed that Kirishima has a few other women on the side, something expected from a yakuza, but not something Yoshino is willing to tolerate. Her stance on this issue adds a refreshing layer of agency to her character, marking a significant shift from the first volume where she mostly reacted to Kirishima’s unpredictable behavior.
Overall, this volume is a significant improvement from the first, moving past Yoshino’s initial shock and
giving her more agency in the relationship. The stakes are higher, the emotions more palpable, and the dynamics between the characters are rich with tension and growth. If you enjoy stories with tough, independent heroines, complex relationships, and a dash of yakuza intrigue, this series is definitely one to check out. I’m looking forward to seeing how Yoshino and Kirishima’s relationship evolves further in the next volume!
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.5
Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Volume 2 continues the thrilling, intriguing, and often amusing story that began in the first volume. This installment picks up with more insight into the complex world surrounding Yoshino and her yakuza fiancé, Kirishima, as new developments add depth to their relationship and the story.
Shouma’s appearance in this volume provides a much-needed hint about the underlying reasons behind Yoshino’s engagement, giving us a glimpse into the intricate motivations at play. Kirishima’s own motives remain somewhat murky, but we start to see more of his character through subtle clues, which keeps the tension high and the mystery compelling.
Yoshino truly shines as a heroine in this volume. She’s not just a pretty face—she’s tough, independent, and refuses to back down. Her ability to defend herself in a tricky situation demonstrates how far she’s come since the first volume, where she was primarily reacting to the overwhelming chaos of her engagement. Now, she stands her ground, even when Kirishima’s actions don’t quite line up with her expectations. And let’s be honest, she’s the best kind of heroine: gorgeous, assertive, and not afraid to call out Kirishima when he’s being an idiot (which, let’s face it, happens more than a few times).
The tension between them intensifies when it’s revealed that Kirishima has a few other women on the side, something expected from a yakuza, but not something Yoshino is willing to tolerate. Her stance on this issue adds a refreshing layer of agency to her character, marking a significant shift from the first volume where she mostly reacted to Kirishima’s unpredictable behavior.
Overall, this volume is a significant improvement from the first, moving past Yoshino’s initial shock and
giving her more agency in the relationship. The stakes are higher, the emotions more palpable, and the dynamics between the characters are rich with tension and growth. If you enjoy stories with tough, independent heroines, complex relationships, and a dash of yakuza intrigue, this series is definitely one to check out. I’m looking forward to seeing how Yoshino and Kirishima’s relationship evolves further in the next volume!
Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol. 1 by Asuka Konishi
The male protagonist is a far cry from the typical "nice boy" in romance stories. He’s cold, dangerous, and deeply entrenched in the violent world of the Yakuza. Calling him "hardcore" is an understatement. His character is complex, but it’s clear from the start that this is not a safe, gentle love interest. His actions reflect his brutal world, and while this adds depth to his character, it also makes him someone to be wary of.
The female protagonist, while cute, comes off as a bit simple. She’s portrayed as a country-bumpkin from Kyoto, though I personally felt this characterization didn’t quite land as strongly as intended. Despite her simplicity, she’s relatable and holds her own in a dangerous world. The dynamic between her and the male lead, as well as the other men in her life, sets up the central drama of the story, especially with the "live together until we get married" trope.
The violence is a significant aspect of the manga, and the stakes feel high from the very beginning. It’s not the type of series for readers who are sensitive to graphic content, as the brutality and bloodshed are pervasive throughout the plot. This is a series that doesn’t hold back, and that might be a turn-off for some.
Overall, I enjoyed Yakuza Fiancé and am eager to see where the story goes next. The characters are intriguing, the tension is palpable, and the world-building gives a real sense of danger. However, I’d recommend this series cautiously, especially to readers who may be put off by its violent nature. If you’re in the mood for something dark, intense, and filled with complicated characters, this might just be the series for you.
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii Vol. 1 is an intense, action-packed manga that delivers a unique and gritty take on the reverse harem and love triangle tropes. This series is far from the typical cutesy romance; it’s brutal, violent, and bloody, with a level of darkness that can be off-putting for some readers.
The male protagonist is a far cry from the typical "nice boy" in romance stories. He’s cold, dangerous, and deeply entrenched in the violent world of the Yakuza. Calling him "hardcore" is an understatement. His character is complex, but it’s clear from the start that this is not a safe, gentle love interest. His actions reflect his brutal world, and while this adds depth to his character, it also makes him someone to be wary of.
The female protagonist, while cute, comes off as a bit simple. She’s portrayed as a country-bumpkin from Kyoto, though I personally felt this characterization didn’t quite land as strongly as intended. Despite her simplicity, she’s relatable and holds her own in a dangerous world. The dynamic between her and the male lead, as well as the other men in her life, sets up the central drama of the story, especially with the "live together until we get married" trope.
The violence is a significant aspect of the manga, and the stakes feel high from the very beginning. It’s not the type of series for readers who are sensitive to graphic content, as the brutality and bloodshed are pervasive throughout the plot. This is a series that doesn’t hold back, and that might be a turn-off for some.
Overall, I enjoyed Yakuza Fiancé and am eager to see where the story goes next. The characters are intriguing, the tension is palpable, and the world-building gives a real sense of danger. However, I’d recommend this series cautiously, especially to readers who may be put off by its violent nature. If you’re in the mood for something dark, intense, and filled with complicated characters, this might just be the series for you.
7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! (Manga) Vol. 2 by Hinoki Kino, Touko Amekawa
However, there are moments where the narrative feels a bit wordy. Some sections tend to lean more on telling rather than showing, which can momentarily slow the pacing. Thankfully, this doesn't detract too much from the overall experience. The focus on the characters and their interactions still keeps me engaged, and I find myself excited to see what Rishe will do next in her efforts to change her fate.
Arnold remains somewhat of a mystery, and I’m eager to learn more about him in future volumes. His development is slow, but it feels like there's more beneath the surface that will be revealed in time. Overall, this volume keeps the momentum going, and I’m looking forward to continuing the series to see where it takes Rishe and Arnold next. If you're looking for a fun, feel-good manga that doesn't require too much emotional investment but still delivers some intriguing character growth, this one fits the bill.
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
Volume 2 of 7th Time Loop continues to be a delightful, lighthearted read that offers just the right balance of comfort and charm. The story remains full of fluffy moments, and Rishe's quirky personality shines through as she navigates yet another cycle of her time-looped life, this time married to Arnold, her self-proclaimed worst enemy. While the series maintains its playful tone, there's an intriguing layer to their relationship that makes it hard to put down.
However, there are moments where the narrative feels a bit wordy. Some sections tend to lean more on telling rather than showing, which can momentarily slow the pacing. Thankfully, this doesn't detract too much from the overall experience. The focus on the characters and their interactions still keeps me engaged, and I find myself excited to see what Rishe will do next in her efforts to change her fate.
Arnold remains somewhat of a mystery, and I’m eager to learn more about him in future volumes. His development is slow, but it feels like there's more beneath the surface that will be revealed in time. Overall, this volume keeps the momentum going, and I’m looking forward to continuing the series to see where it takes Rishe and Arnold next. If you're looking for a fun, feel-good manga that doesn't require too much emotional investment but still delivers some intriguing character growth, this one fits the bill.
Carmilla by J. Sheridan Le Fanu
That said, there were moments that showed promise. The story had some poignant and intriguing elements, particularly in its portrayal of the mysterious Carmilla, but these moments were too few and far between. The final stretch of the book, with its heavy exposition, really tested my patience.
Despite my disappointment, I'm still glad I read it, as it holds historical significance and offers a glimpse into early vampire fiction. However, Carmilla didn't live up to the expectations I had going in, and for me, it ultimately didn’t deliver the gothic thrill I was hoping for. If you have the patience for slow builds and long passages of setup, you may find it more rewarding, but for me, it was just hard to get through.
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.5
I had high hopes going into Carmilla, but unfortunately, it was a struggle to finish. The book ended up being more of a chore than an enjoyable read. The plot was predictable, and I found myself trudging through the story, especially after about the first quarter. By the time I hit the 60% mark, I was forcing myself to keep going. The pacing felt sluggish, and the story dragged on, leaving me uninterested and disengaged for long stretches.
That said, there were moments that showed promise. The story had some poignant and intriguing elements, particularly in its portrayal of the mysterious Carmilla, but these moments were too few and far between. The final stretch of the book, with its heavy exposition, really tested my patience.
Despite my disappointment, I'm still glad I read it, as it holds historical significance and offers a glimpse into early vampire fiction. However, Carmilla didn't live up to the expectations I had going in, and for me, it ultimately didn’t deliver the gothic thrill I was hoping for. If you have the patience for slow builds and long passages of setup, you may find it more rewarding, but for me, it was just hard to get through.
A Sign of Affection, Volume 4 by suu Morishita
Yuki remains as adorable as ever, and her determination to get a job and navigate the challenges of her life makes her even more endearing. I admire her resilience and the quiet strength she shows throughout, which really adds depth to her character. She’s just so precious and continues to grow in such a relatable, genuine way.
The ending? What a twist! It may not be a plot twist in the traditional sense, but it was certainly unexpected and has left me desperately wanting more. I didn't see that turn of events coming at all, and now I’m more invested than ever in seeing what happens next.
Overall, this volume continues to be a beautiful mix of romance, character growth, and just the right amount of drama to keep you hooked. If you’re a fan of the series, you’ll enjoy seeing these two characters continue to develop in their relationship. I can’t wait to see where this story takes us next!
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Volume 4 of A Sign of Affection continues to charm with its heartwarming moments and deep character development. In this volume, Itsuomi truly shines, showing a more relaxed and vulnerable side that feels like a breath of fresh air. We've seen glimpses of his softer nature before, but this volume allows him to truly be himself, especially in the presence of Yuki, who sees him in his element. Their dynamic feels more natural than ever, and you can’t help but root for their connection.
Yuki remains as adorable as ever, and her determination to get a job and navigate the challenges of her life makes her even more endearing. I admire her resilience and the quiet strength she shows throughout, which really adds depth to her character. She’s just so precious and continues to grow in such a relatable, genuine way.
The ending? What a twist! It may not be a plot twist in the traditional sense, but it was certainly unexpected and has left me desperately wanting more. I didn't see that turn of events coming at all, and now I’m more invested than ever in seeing what happens next.
Overall, this volume continues to be a beautiful mix of romance, character growth, and just the right amount of drama to keep you hooked. If you’re a fan of the series, you’ll enjoy seeing these two characters continue to develop in their relationship. I can’t wait to see where this story takes us next!