Sakura Hime: The Legend of Princess Sakura, Vol. 9

桜姫華伝 [Sakura Hime Kaden] #9

by Arina Tanemura, Tetsuichiro Miyaki (Translator )

Sakura is the granddaughter of a mysterious moon princess who slew demons with her Blood Cherry Blossom sword. All her life Sakura has been forbidden to look at the full moon without knowing why. Then one night, unhappy over her impending marriage, Sakura gazes up at the moon, only to see a demon attacking her...

Princess Sakura has been staying at the estate of Fujimurasaki, the future emperor. Fujimurasaki tells Sakura he loves her and keeps her hidden from Aoba. Sakura yearns to be reunited with Aoba, but he's to marry Princess Yuri...

Genres: Manga, Fantasy, Romance, Shojo, Historical, Graphic Novels, Adventure

184 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

About the author

Name in Japanese: 種村有菜 (Tanemura Arina)
Western Zodiac: Pisces

Arina Tanemura was born on March 12, 1978. She's the author of Full Moon O Sagashite, Time Stranger Kyoko, Kamikaze Kaito Jeanne, The Gentlemen's Alliance Cross, Sakura Hime Kaden, and more.

Her favorite hobby is Karaoke. One song that she sings is Smile, originally by Myco. She has two cats, named Riku and Kai. She has one elder and one younger sister and one brother. She's the type who hates to lose in anything. She also likes Ribon.

Reviews

[DonutKnow · Rating 3 out of 5]

Awww Fujimurasaki! I think he’s a pretty cool guy ❤️❤️

[Lydiah☾ · Rating 1 out of 5]

It’s so bad…but I need to finish it

[Katja · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is one important chapter about Aoba in this volume but otherwise this felt a bit of a lull in the story. Sure, it's laying foundation for the next events which probably will have drama and action to balance this volume.

I still don't get Fujimurasaki, he's doing whatever and going which ever way the wind blows and I hope there will be explanations for his behaviour. Princess Yuri was more of a plot device than actual character but with big cast, not every side character can get super deep story and motivations. I haven't had opinion on Hayate to one way or another but this volume at least made him a bit more interesting character in my eyes.
It was also nice that after that scene with Fujimurasaki, Sakura and Aoba talked and apologized and reassured each other instead of misunderstandings continuing further!

There has sadly been very little of Sakura's "magical girl" side for a big chunk of the story but the final arc probably will deliver on that front too. I guessed the series would veer to the drama/romance side of things but I hoped the fantasy stuff would be featured plenty too. Of course it's always on the background but I would've liked a bit more of it. I still like the series a lot, don't get me wrong! But as this was a bit slower volume, I'm typing here some of my general thoughts of the series so far.

I like a lot how this series has highlighted Sakura's love for her friends and how they all care about each other. One of the best moments in this volume was when she mused about her fate and her friends.

And again a heart for Arinacchi's art: ♥

[Holly Letson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I won't lie. I decided to try this, 9 volumes in, because I like Arina Tanemura's art. Her art in mangas is beautiful.
That said, the only parts of this volume that really kept my attention were the short strips and the romance between Hayate and Rurijo.
The romance didn't really develop much, and was moreso only hinted at from Hayate's POV. But, it was really sweet to see Hayate continuing to visit the water each day, just to visit Rurijo. But, as she is a decoy/copy of Princess Sakura, created to keep Enju--the enemy--happy, I knew there would be a bad ending. (I'll talk about that in my Vol.10 review!)
The ending of this volume definitely makes you want to read Vol.10!
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This volume was provided to me by VIZ Media, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are my own.

[Luke Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

This volume was super cute and much better than the past couple! Aoba and Sakura are still adorable together (although Aoba made some remarks that came across as creepy and like a possessive alpha male), and the story is heading towards another interesting path that might involve the whole kingdom (dun dun DUN!).

I also really enjoyed Hayate and Rurijo together. Their scenes were cute, and I liked Rurijo's confessional nature. The scene where Hayate was a human and she pulled him into the lake was probably the best one. SO CUTE <3. I'm interested in finding out if Rurijo's feelings were false or not, as she told Enju about Hayate and is now trying to make Hayate immortal and one of Enju's soldiers. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

I'm looking forward to the next volume!

[Hot Mess Sommelière ~ Caro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Re-read 2022: uprated from 2 to 4 stars.

[Bibliothecat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review for complete series



Princess Sakura is a descendant of the creatures of the moon whose hand has been promised to the Imperial Prince Oura. To hide the powers that lurk inside her, Princess Sakura has been raised in isolation. But Sakura is unwilling to enter a marriage without love and chooses to run away - even at the risk of her true nature being exposed.

Sakura Hime: The Legend of Princess Sakura is everything wrong with The Gentlemen's Alliance Cross done right - it includes the best of all Tanemura's previous works. After the mess that was The Gentlemen's Alliance Cross, I was really worried that the then newest series of a long time favourite mangaka of mine would disappoint again. Luckily, that was far from the case!

The setting of the Heian Period allowed for interesting folklore and absolutely gorgeous designs for the characters; all those beautiful kimono and long flowing hair! Just the art alone makes this a pleasure to read. And thanks to the fantasy setting, many story elements that fell flat in The Gentlemen's Alliance Cross unfolded beautifully; there certainly was drama, but it suited the circumstances and we are, after all, talking about an Imperial Court. And I was so pleased to see her old humour, which I so love, return.

Although I felt that the romance developed very rapidly, I can't say that it bothered me. The first volumes do revolve around Sakura and Oura, but the plot focuses on so much more than just the two once the story gets going. Thanks to the romance not being the only focus, this story was rich in wonderful characters who all had their share of spotlight. There were wonderful friendships, family bonds, court intrigues, action and a plot that keeps you guessing. It was just such a beautifully well-rounded story from beginning to end.

This is one of those stories that has so many great characters, I wouldn't even know where to begin looking for a favourite. Although I am tempted to say that it is Sakura's little spirit friend Asagiri, there are so many others that are equally lovable. Sakura herself is also a nice character, I loved how she was sincere and naive yet would also simply be lazy and childish. There is a lot of character growth - not only for her but for the majority of characters. As there are so many characters to love, it's so easy to get emotionally invested and there's a lot of sadness the cast needs to overcome. It is also great how, as the story progresses, the line between good and evil dims more and more.

The only thing I would criticise about Sakura Hime is how conveniently everyone seems to be connected. Every character is related to someone else one way or another. After a while, it felt like a repetitive plot twist when yet another character was revealed to be someone's long-lost lover, friend or sibling. However, given all the wonderful elements of this plot, it is a small matter that can easily be ignored.

A delightful surprise through and through - I am utterly in love with the setting, characters and plot and after this am inclined to believe that Tanemura's stories work out best if there is at least a hint of fantasy involved! Now if only there were an artbook...

[Laura A. Grace · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Tell me that my existence is not meaningless Sakura."

I really feel volume seven spoiled me on this series because I so desperately miss the action we had in the first half of this series. *cries* I wouldn't say it's "bad" now because I know the beginning had similar romantic troubles, but it's much harder for me to get invested in Sakura's story the same way I did before. One minute she is mad at Aoba, the next she is hitting herself "to come to her senses" and begging for forgiveness, to wanting to be physically closer to Aoba than ever before. I realize romance IS part of her story, but I felt she should have never apologized for getting angry and "running away." (And good thing that Aoba DID apologize very quickly after she did because I would have been very upset otherwise!) She totally had a right to be upset, but OH MY GOODNESS!

Any respect I had for Lord Fujimurasaki went out the window after the beginning! I'm not going to expand on that further because it just makes me angry and upset...

Even though I felt disappointed with the opening chapter, I was surprised by Aoba's backstory in this volume! I never connected the dots of his magical abilities until we saw his struggle and admired Sakura for wanting to be there for him and comfort him. However, I was even more surprised by her suggestion (not sexual) of what he could do so they could be together for a long long time! Out of anyone suggesting it (and him readily agreeing!!), I NEVER expected it to be her! It makes me thankful the creator leaves notes on every chapter because I guess the idea wasn't completely out of nowhere for Aoba? It totally felt like it was in how quickly he agreed though...

I really disliked the chapter with Hayate and Rurijo. With how much partial nudity there was in this chapter, it was hard to enjoy the chapter itself.

As much as I didn't want to see anything bad happen in that closing chapter, I am hoping that the action is about to begin because I am ready!! Our couple is (I hope!) officially solid and can go fight the bad guys, so let's see it!

Also, this is one of my favorite covers in the series!

[mandarina · Rating 1 out of 5]

Re-read. It s so sexist. Very cliche and a bit underwhelming. At the beginning with the soon-to-be-emperor (forgot his name) when he is about to kiss her, that's romenticized desite being pretty near rape. It's sexual assault, but they turn it into this super romantic thing. And then, to top it off, Sakura has to apologize to Aoba because the almost emperor forced her to kiss him, despite the fact that SHE didn't want to So that's just... NO. I was hoping for a slap but nothing happened. Then Sakura apologizes because poor Auba, he got drunk and maybe slept with Yuri. But it's Sakura's fault for being jealous.
There's more. And the Rurijo-Hayate romance is extremely cliché, boring and toxic.

[Pinky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aoba tells Sakura everything that transpired between him and Yuri and the plot to have her wed off to the chief councilor if he didn't entertain the idea of having Princess Yuri as a second wife. Fujimurasaki sends a marriage proposal to Princess Yuri setting things straight for Sakura and Aoba. Hayate falls for Rurijo and she gives him a kiss but he doesn't return, to his human form. Rurijo tricked Hayate by Lord Enju's orders and plans to turn him into a youko.

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

The group is looking for Enju,who is reportedly making moves in the capital.

Hayate happened to run into Rurijo when he was going for a swim,and ended up being friends with her. Secretly though,she’s working with Enju to capture him,and he hasn’t said a word to his friends.

And Sakura is getting ready to see the emperor.

[Sandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The whole thing between Hayate and Rurijo is annoying since I dislike Rurijo. Also hate how things were "resolved" with Yuri and Fujimurasaki.

[Mai · Rating 3 out of 5]

after years...I still can't believe those two are a thing 😂

[-moonprismpower- · Rating 4 out of 5]

Omg I can’t be the only one who was shipping Hayate and Rurijo?????? But the ending makes me sad!!!!!

[Judyth · Rating 4 out of 5]

~3.5/5
[Also available on my blog.]


This volume… Ugh, this volume, the ending, is so mean. I’m not happy about it.

First, though, the beginning of the volume had the conclusion to the Princess Yuri plot line, which was a bit anticlimactic, and not nearly as exciting or intense or violent as I had been expecting. I’m not going to spoil Yuri’s reasoning behind what she was doing to Aoba and Sakura, but the whole thing seemed to have started from something small that was blown out of proportion, and then Yuri does this thing to do with Fujimurasaki, and I just didn’t really care much for Yuri anymore at that point. I’m kind of done with her.

Although, I am a tiny bit confused. Aoba was being forced into having a concubine, and the elders chose Yuri, but I don’t think it was cleared up as to whether or not he’s still going to have to choose another one? Maybe I missed that part, but it didn’t seem like the only option was Yuri, and like it would have to be someone. I mean, Aoba did work it out with Sakura, the whole being forced into it and how he really only wants her, but after that thing happened with Yuri, it just seemed to all be ignored. So…?

Anyway, then there are a couple of chapters focused on Aoba and Sakura. Because he won’t stay the night with her (only to sleep, nothing else), and she gets upset and curious, and ends up finding this thing out about him. I’m not going to spoil it, but it was a bit sad, and gave the opportunity for some very sweet scenes between the two. I don’t really see why he wanted to keep it a secret, why he was so worried, given the similarities between him and their friends, but at the same time I do kind of understand. I think he should have told her, that she was obviously going to accept it, but I still kind of understand.

Now, aughhh, the last plot point of this volume. I don’t want to spoil it, but… Well, first, we find out that the group is talking with Shuri, who I guess is done following Enju, and they talk about not knowing where Enju or Rurijo are, and then she shows up, and her and Hayate start doing this thing, and she does this other thing, and it’s horrible.

I told you I don’t want to spoil it, so I’m staying extra vague, but given how much I love Hayate, it is horrible. I am not happy about it, and I’m mad at Rurijo for it, and Hayate for being so stupid, and I want to know what happens so bad. I want the next book so badly, because I do not like there being a cliffhanger to such an important thing with Hayate. It is not okay. I’m not okay with it.

At the end of the volume, there were some comic strips that were cute and funny, and one had a sweet scene between Kohaku and Hayate. They were all rather funny, though.

I’m just… not over the thing with Hayate. And I’m ready for the next volume. Although, apparently, I'm going to have to wait till June. I mean, I knew that we were pretty much caught up with Japan, and that there'd be a longer wait, but I didn't think it would be that long.

[S.Q. Eries · Rating 2 out of 5]

In Summary

Sakura Hime continues to take a break from Youko attacks and battles with moon people to focus on intrigue and romance. In fact, the only time Chizakura shows up in this volume is when Sakura has a jealous fit. The trouble stirred up by Princess Yuri gets resolved much too easily, and the Rurijo/Hayate chapters make me lose all respect for Hayate as a ninja, but the volume does provide new insight into Oura’s past that makes him a much more interesting character.

The Review

With Volume 9, we get the conclusion of the Princess Yuri introduction arc, which is lighthearted in one respect but heavy on the other. Regarding Yuri’s anger toward Sakura, its basis turns out to be something completely stupid, and she quickly folds as a rival for Oura’s affections, thanks to conveniently well-timed intervention from Fujimurasaki.

On the other hand, we discover that Oura struggles with his own curse. I’d thought his wolf form was the result of magic skills training, but his situation is actually closer to Asagiri’s. I should note that in the pages where Sakura witnesses the effects of Oura’s nightmare, it is unclear which panels depict reality and which are Oura’s thoughts. At any rate, this revelation not only deepens Oura as a character, it heightens Sakura’s feelings for him and adds a layer of urgency and tragedy to their romance.

The story then shifts from politicking to espionage – of sorts. Of Kohaku and Hayate, I’d considered Hayate to be the more capable ninja, but I am reconsidering that assessment. Apparently, Hayate has his weaknesses, and though his interactions with Rurijo were probably intended to showcase his kindness, he winds up looking pathetic as a ninja (and a man). Shuri, on the other hand, makes for a much more impressive ninja. He only appears on three pages in this volume, but that’s enough to get you wondering what kind of game the double agent is playing. Between his and Rurijo’s activities, a rematch with Enju’s forces appears to be imminent.

By the way, Volume 9 includes several extras including bonus funnies and closing remarks from Tanemura-sensei and her assistants.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, this has got to be my favorite book in the WHOLE series! We discover new secrets, new characters(maybe), and more trouble. :C
Ok, in the las volume Lord Fujimurasaki, confesses to Sakura that he loves her(which is really weird). And as for me, I dont like him. I really dont. Anyways, (laughs) He wont freaking take no for an answer until this volume(which I had to wait 4 months for). You know what, I am gonna skip that part. Moving on, we discover some new secrets about Prince Oura. You know, he can transform into a wolf(so cool) but have you ever wondered how he got it? Turns out that one of his guards gives him a wolf's blood(to drink) and it has a curse upon it. He was told to turn into a beast and die. He teetered on the brink of life and death for 7 days. When he first transformed he killed the guards who were watching him. He is just like Asagiri, or is he? Cuz everytime he uses his wolf powers he shortans his life span. Just like Asagiri. Everytime she uses her snow spirit powers, she shortans her life span also. So if they keep using their powers, the bigger the scar spreads(a scar spreads when you use 2 powers at once), and the fewer the years, months, weeks or days they have of living. Meaning they will die. I really dont want them to die! They are like my favorite characters! I hope they live!

[Mello ❣ Illium ✮Harry✮ ☀Myrnin☀ Torin Ichimaru · Rating 4 out of 5]

Princess Sakura has been staying at the estate of Fujimurasaki, the future emperor. Fujimurasaki tells Sakura he loves her and keeps her hidden from Aoba. Sakura yearns to be reunited with Aoba, but he's to marry Princess Yuri...

My Thoughts:

This is a surprising volume. The thing with Princess Yuri comes to a close in an unexpected way. Fujimurasaki is a great guy. I hope he'll be happy in the future.

Aoba has been hiding something that I probably should have expected considering he can turn into a wolf, but it never even occurred to me. What will happen to him?

Then an unexpected development between Hayate and Rurijo begins to form. Maybe if Kohaku hadn't been so stubborn about waiting to reveal her feelings, it wouldn't have turned out like this. Rurijo isn't really all that bad of a person, but I just can't root for her.

[Heffa · Rating 5 out of 5]

An dem Band hat mich vor allem überrascht, dass keine weibliche Charaktere auf dem Cover zu sehen ist. Das bedeutete schon, dass es eine andere Geschichte, als gewöhnlich werden würde. Und das war auch wirklich so. Es fehlte nicht an Leidenschaft und Dramatik. Aber vor allem viele Fragen am Ende. Ich musste fast weinen, als am Ende die Geschichte von zwei Nebencharakteren auf einmal eine neue Wendung erfahren würde.

Als kleines Special gab es dieses Mal wieder ein “4-Panel-Special”.

Mehr: http://www.secretsofrock.net/2013/02/...

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even when it's ridiculous, this series never gets boring. The latest volume of Arina Tanemura's Sakura Hime runs the complete gamut of what has made this such a popular Shojo Beat title: love triangles! Silly misunderstandings! Swords! Magic! Tastefully covered nudity! Sparkly shiny pretty artwork! All that and a sudden plot twist at the end of the volume relating to everyone's favorite talking frog makes number nine a book to remember.

You can read the rest of my review of Sakura Hime volume nine over at my manga blog, Nagareboshi Reviews: http://nagareboshi-reviews.blogspot.com/

[Miss Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

not the strongest volume. i'm not sure whether the aoba marriage plotline is done -- the way tanemura got yuri out of the way was kind of silly and i'd object but i think the underlying issue of aoba's councilors still stands so it might be early to judge. there's a lot of reviews here commenting that hayato comes off as a terrible ninja this volume? which umm. ahahahaha. this is arina tanemura! i don't expect her characters to be realistically competent, just full of feelings. xD plus rurijo's a cutie, i'm not going to complain about a plotline that brings her back in. 3 stars

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read in: February 2013, June 2013.

The drama of all the additional love triangles has been eliminated and I'm happy about that. This volume brings in some of the history of Aoba and how he can transform and also an illicit affair between Rurijo and Hayate. At the end, Rurijo forces Hayate to drink moonwater so he will be an immortal like the rest of them. Sakura also arrives to meet the Emperor.

[Chiara · Rating 4 out of 5]

2013 original read: This volume, in my opinion, was the best so far. I loved the insight into Aoba's past, and why he is pushing Sakura away. I also enjoyed the development of Hayate and Rurijo's relationship.
As always, the art was breathtaking, and I look forward to the next volume as this one finished with such a cliff-hanger!

[Lynna Le · Rating 5 out of 5]

AWESOME!!! Cannot believe Hayate falls for Rurijo!Princess Yuri sucks!! Hate her pussy attitude!! i have a theory of whats going to happen if Hayate drinks the moon spring water--maybe he'll turn back to a human officially...or Kohaku swoops in the save her b/f. Many possiblities. i loved the twist of events.

[Nohely · Rating 2 out of 5]

I love Arina Tanemura and I was enjoying this series as well as her others, but I hated this volume with a passion. I personally dislike Rurijou and seeing her developing a romance with Hayate, who is supposed to be in love with Kohaku really got on my nerves! I personally found it stupid and unnecessary.

[Miss Ryoko · Rating 3 out of 5]

MUCH better than the last volume! The storyline was far more interesting and got back to some of the twists and turns you aren't expecting, especially from Tanemura-san. I hope the story keeps picking up the pace here and getting back to the things I like most about this series.

3 more volumes to go! Let's see how it all pans out.

[Riane · Rating 4 out of 5]

You would think that after years of reading her work I'd be used to the things she does, but nope. Why Arina, why?! It was predictable and yet the feels are still so strong. I can't stay away though, I adore your art style too much.

[Jenny Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

What is with Rurijo????? I love this series and the new side we see of rurijo, as well as the truth about the minister of the rights daughter

[Holly Letson · Rating 4 out of 5]

☺

[Eden · Rating 3 out of 5]

I hate the Princess Yuri, but there is an obvious emotion Yuri feels towards Prince Oura and it seems like shes just doing what she is told.