If you are a fan of shojo manga, you may have heard of Mitsubachi Miyuki, the creator of popular series like Cheeky Brat and Stray Cat & Wolf. Today, we are diving into the first volume of their current series, Spring Storm and Monster. Let’s take a closer look at this story.
The plot revolves around high school student Ranko Haruno, who leads a solitary life at school and enjoys playing video games at home with her pet pig, Magosuke. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when her mother announces her plans to remarry, introducing Ranko to her new step-brother, Kaya Amamine. Kaya, a delinquent with a violent past, immediately clashes with Ranko, especially when he threatens her beloved pet pig.
As the story progresses, we learn about the painful pasts of both Ranko and Kaya, which have shaped their current attitudes towards life. Despite Kaya’s aggressive behavior, Ranko makes an effort to understand him and help him find happiness. Their relationship evolves, and a hint of romance blossoms between the two characters.
While the artwork in Spring Storm and Monster Volume 1 stays true to Miyuki’s signature style, some readers may find Kaya’s character portrayal uncomfortable due to his violent tendencies. However, the depth of the characters and the exploration of their backgrounds add layers to the story, making it intriguing.
The English translation of the manga by Emma Schumacker and Chiho Christie is seamless, and the inclusion of color pages adds to the visual appeal of the volume. With five volumes already released in Japan, fans can look forward to the upcoming English release of Volume 2 in January.
Overall, Spring Storm and Monster Volume 1 presents a compelling narrative with complex characters, despite some initial concerns about the character dynamics. The series has garnered popularity in Japan, and it will be interesting to see how future volumes address the evolving relationship between Ranko and Kaya.
While the manga may not be for everyone due to its themes, it offers a unique perspective on the dynamics of relationships and personal growth. As we await the next installment, readers can appreciate Miyuki’s storytelling prowess and the emotional depth of the characters in Spring Storm and Monster.
