Comics / Manga

Pavane For a Dead Girl Volume 1

By Chris Zimmerman
April 2, 2011 - 09:40

In the Meiji Era in Tokyo, Nanao Kaga goes against her father’s wishes for an arranged marriage and instead enrolls herself in the Marianne Music Academy for girls in order to find her soul mate. After hearing the haunting melodies of the Prince of Harmony, Nanao falls under his thrall and decides to teach herself how to play the violin.

Upon reaching the academy, Nanao once again feels the influence of the Prince of Harmony, but just as suddenly as he appears, leaving behind a brooch that Nanao finds and cherishes. When they finally meet again, the brooch has changed color and the prince requests Nanao keep the brooch as a gift. But not all is as it seems and the young prince might be closer to a demon.

I was very taken aback by Pavane for a Dead Girl. I wasn’t expecting much from the initial premise, but what I got was an especially engrossing love story, filled with twists and turns that build enough intrigue to keep readers invested for another volume. There’s a sprinkle of humor thrown in, but it isn’t overbearing, nor does it distract from the dark drama.

Readers who enjoy gothic romance and shojo fantasy will find themselves caught under the sway of Pavane for a Dead Girl.

Rating: 8 /10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12