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Reviewed by Ysabet Reinhardt MacFarlane Rasetsu Hyuga may be the title character of Rasetsu, but despite her ample amount of "screen" time in the fourth volume, this book doesn't feel like it's as focused on her as the earlier volume I read (vol. 2) was. Rather--and it's hard to say this without sounding as if I'm dismissing her role here--this time around she's mainly one factor in what seems to be a growing rivalry between two of her male coworkers, Yako and Kuryu. That doesn't mean she's passive or doesn't have anything to do during this volume, but most of her attention is given to the male leads, which means readers look there too. Volume 4 is as episodic as volume 2 was, but it feels less so, probably because the characters only actually go out on one assignment. Instead, the first half of the book is devoted to the rivalry I mentioned. Kuryu uses his kotodama to antagonize Yako in a few small ways, which doesn't work out quite as (presumably) planned, but Yako is able to get some payback later on. The second half of the volume brings a case to the forefront of the action, and provides both a glimpse into Kuryu's past and a reminder of how precarious Rasetsu's situation is. There's a fair bit of relationship exploration going on this time out: Rasetsu is figuring out her feelings for Yako (which is nicely handled), and while I'm not really a fan of two guys posturing at each other, we do at least get character development out of the antagonism between Yako and Kuryu. I can't say that I actually like either of them all that much, but they're interesting. Rasetsu comes across as a more pleasant character than either of them, although she can be equally stubborn and difficult. My impression of Rasetsu is largely unchanged: this isn't a mind-blowing series, but it's fun and readable. Volume 4 of Rasetsu includes one page of bonus manga. Review copy provided by VIZ Media. Interested in writing for MangaLife? We're always looking for talented reviewers and columnists, so drop us a line!
Charles Webb
Editor-in-Chief, MangaLife.com
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20 July 2010 19 July 2010
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