Thanks to barnesandnoble.com for the cover image.

Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”

Akane Motomiya was a normal high school student; then, she and two of her friends, Shimon and Tenma, were transported back to a world that resembles Japan during the Heinan Era (795-1185 A.D./C.E.).  In the capital city, Akane learns that she has been foreordained to lead the people as the Priestess of the Dragon God against Akram, the head of the Demon Clan.

In Haruka, Vol. 2, Akane finds herself in the deadly clutches of Shirin, a dancer who is popular with the nobles.  Shirin is jealous of any other female who gets the attention of a man that Shirin is wooing.  Akane has just gained the notice of Fujiwara-No-Takamichi, the Vice Minister of Civil Affairs – a man who ignored Shirin.

THE LOWDOWN:  Historical fiction meets fantasy romance in manga-ka (creator) Tohko Mizuno’s Haruka, but this series is also based upon a video game by Ruby Party.  Although the court intrigue, political machinations, and teen romance are interesting, the real treat here is Mizuno’s beautiful art, which she makes using delicate lines and a veritable symphony of rich textures and lavish patterns.  All these pretty costumes and constant scheming might make a reader think she’s reading a comic book version of the 1988 film, Dangerous Liaisons.

POSSIBLE AUDIENCE:  Haruka is part of VIZ Media’s “Shojo Beat” line of manga and will appeal to that audience.

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