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桜姫華伝 [Sakura Hime Kaden] #4
Sakura Hime: The Legend of Princess Sakura, Vol. 4
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...
184 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
12 people are currently reading
406 people want to read
About the author
Arina Tanemura
182 books1,018 followersName 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 8, 2025
My ratings for the individual volumes of this series have been wobbling between 3 and 4 stars, and this one's no exception.
In a shoujo manga like this one, often you can work under the assumption that every single character is thinking about the heroine--whether to love her, hate her, lust after her, sabotage her, etc. At least so far, Sakura hasn't been making decisions with no apparent logical or emotional center to them, as Haine in Gentlemen's Alliance Cross did, so these attentions feel like they have a more "worthy" object. Maybe, finally, I can say that a Tanemura heroine isn't a leaf carried away by the whims of whatever situation she's in.
Though this story still isn't hitting as hard as it ought to. Reading Tanemura's sidebars, I have the impression she has insights into her characters that unfortunately don't make it across into the stories themselves all that well. (I had a similar complaint about Matsuri Hino's Vampire Knight.)
I'm not super fond of incestuous teases in manga/anime, and this volume features one. Oh joy. Sakura's brother Enju--also a human/moon people hybrid--creates a creature out of elm wood and a gem, that looks exactly like Sakura. Rurijo is completely unselfconscious about nudity, and is described once or twice as Enju's lover. What else am I supposed to think is going on in Enju's mind? Thankfully, he never behaves indecently toward Sakura herself, and none of this is drawn out for titillation's sake. Still, I think that whole triangle-like dynamic, with both young women feeling envious about the other's relationship with Enju, would work just as well if Rurijo looked nothing like Sakura.
The extra material in the back of this volume was cute and fun, and I liked the short story about Asagiri. In both her story and Maimai's, the question is raised about whether Sakura and Mai were acting kindly to Asagiri and Den (Maimai's original name) out of a sense of pity, or of self-satisfaction with being kind. Of course, that isn't true in either case because heroines are virtuous. :)
That idea's come up several times in other places for me recently, which is kind of strange. Maybe it's the increase in visible poverty in my area. To me, it isn't useful to second-guess the intentions behind an act of kindness. If the giver approaches things modestly--without conditions, the expectation the favor being returned, self-congratulation or display--it's fine. It's perfectly valid to question giving that comes with an audience of millions attached, as you see with influencers like Mr. Beast.
In a shoujo manga like this one, often you can work under the assumption that every single character is thinking about the heroine--whether to love her, hate her, lust after her, sabotage her, etc. At least so far, Sakura hasn't been making decisions with no apparent logical or emotional center to them, as Haine in Gentlemen's Alliance Cross did, so these attentions feel like they have a more "worthy" object. Maybe, finally, I can say that a Tanemura heroine isn't a leaf carried away by the whims of whatever situation she's in.
Though this story still isn't hitting as hard as it ought to. Reading Tanemura's sidebars, I have the impression she has insights into her characters that unfortunately don't make it across into the stories themselves all that well. (I had a similar complaint about Matsuri Hino's Vampire Knight.)
I'm not super fond of incestuous teases in manga/anime, and this volume features one. Oh joy. Sakura's brother Enju--also a human/moon people hybrid--creates a creature out of elm wood and a gem, that looks exactly like Sakura. Rurijo is completely unselfconscious about nudity, and is described once or twice as Enju's lover. What else am I supposed to think is going on in Enju's mind? Thankfully, he never behaves indecently toward Sakura herself, and none of this is drawn out for titillation's sake. Still, I think that whole triangle-like dynamic, with both young women feeling envious about the other's relationship with Enju, would work just as well if Rurijo looked nothing like Sakura.
The extra material in the back of this volume was cute and fun, and I liked the short story about Asagiri. In both her story and Maimai's, the question is raised about whether Sakura and Mai were acting kindly to Asagiri and Den (Maimai's original name) out of a sense of pity, or of self-satisfaction with being kind. Of course, that isn't true in either case because heroines are virtuous. :)
That idea's come up several times in other places for me recently, which is kind of strange. Maybe it's the increase in visible poverty in my area. To me, it isn't useful to second-guess the intentions behind an act of kindness. If the giver approaches things modestly--without conditions, the expectation the favor being returned, self-congratulation or display--it's fine. It's perfectly valid to question giving that comes with an audience of millions attached, as you see with influencers like Mr. Beast.
June 5, 2013
Read in: January 2013, June 2013.
We get a lot of history in this series. Select characters are beginning to tell their stories and reveal their intentions. Maimai tells us why his beauty is so important and Asagirl tells us how she came to be in Sakura's household. I feel we have some battles ahead of us and look forward to what is to come.
The love between Sakura and her brother is a bit disturbing though- just throwing that out there.
We get a lot of history in this series. Select characters are beginning to tell their stories and reveal their intentions. Maimai tells us why his beauty is so important and Asagirl tells us how she came to be in Sakura's household. I feel we have some battles ahead of us and look forward to what is to come.
The love between Sakura and her brother is a bit disturbing though- just throwing that out there.
December 21, 2018
Whoa, there are some unexpectedly intense parts in this series 😲🤔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2019
I loved to see the backstory to Rurijo and Maimai. It was heartbreaking and beautiful and set the story up beautiful for the fight.
January 14, 2015
This volume was really interesting and I especially enjoyed the bonus chapter at the end.
Contains Chapters 12 - 15
12.) The Other Princess Sakura
13.) Loving Without Being Loved
14.) A Passionate Heart
15.) Things that are not Beautiful Should Cease to Exist
Bonus Story: Asagiri Snow Legend
Contains Chapters 12 - 15
12.) The Other Princess Sakura
13.) Loving Without Being Loved
14.) A Passionate Heart
15.) Things that are not Beautiful Should Cease to Exist
Bonus Story: Asagiri Snow Legend
November 6, 2013
I like this volume because of the back story about Rurijo . That's not to say that's the only good thing about it. I know there are some flaws in this series,but I love it anyway. Some of the characters annoy the hell out of me and some I can't help but love. Rurijo is one of those characters.
October 28, 2025
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...
November 8, 2022
Zum Inhalt:
Den Schock, dass Enju und ihr tot geglaubter Bruder Kai ein- und dieselbe Person sind, hat Prinzessin Sakura noch nicht überwunden, da wird sie von ihm und dessen Gefährten in das Reich des Mondes entführt. Weit entfernt vom Prinzen Aoba bringt sie der Trennungsschmerz beinahe um. Doch die Prinzessin muss Stärke beweisen, wenn sie ihren Geliebten je wiedersehen will.
Nachdem Sakura sich dazu entschlossen hat mit ihrem Bruder zu gehen, bringt dieser sie auf das Schloß Shura Yugenden, dem Reich des Mondes. Begleitet wird die Prinzessin nicht durch ihren Bruder Kai - Enju - sondern auch durch dessen Handlanger Mai-Mai, Rurijo und Shuri. Während Sakura im Schloß dem Geheimnis der Begleiter von Enju auf den Grund geht, verzehrt sie sich nach Prinz Aoba und ihren Freunden. Diese machen sich auf den Weg, um Sakura aus den Fängen der Mondwesen zu befreien. Als Sakura die Quelle aufsucht, welche Menschen zu Mondwesen macht und die nur durch Menschenknochen aufrecht erhalten werden kann, begegnet sie Rurijo, die ihr unglaublich ähnlich sieht und sie abgrundtief hasst. Plötzlich hängt Sakuras Leben am seidenen Faden.
Der vierte Teil von "Prinzessin Sakura" aus der Feder von Arina Tanemura birgt wieder wunderbare Zeichnungen, wenn auch mit altbekannten Charakterdesigns. Die Story geht zügig voran und endlich bekommt man etwas mehr Hintergrundwissen rund um Sakura und die anderen Charaktere. So erfährt man die tragische Geschichte von Rurijo und auch Mai-Mai wird näher betrachtet. Außerdem gibt es eine Bonusstory in der die Geschichte der Schneejungfrau Asagiri aufgegriffen wird.
Dass Sakura mit Enju geht, geschieht nicht ganz freiwillig, weshalb sich ihre Freunde auf den Weg machen, um sie zu befreien. Dass sie dabei zu Schaden kommen könnten nehmen sie in Kauf, was eindeutig beweist, dass sie alle nur das Beste für die junge Prinzessin wollen. Auch Aoba lernt man nun von einer völlig neuen Seite kennen, was ihn in der Beliebtheitsskala wieder ordentlich aufsteigen lässt. Was mich in diesem Teil besonders fasziniert hat ist, dass alle, die Enju um sich herum geschart hat, früher Menschen waren, die ein ganz besonderes Ziel verfolgt haben - wenn man von Rurijo einmal absieht, aber auch sie hat ein ganz besonderes Los und eine hochinteressante Geschichte. Da hat Arina Tanemura wieder richtig tief in ihre Ideenkiste gegriffen. Allein wegen Rurijo und wegen Sakura muss man sich fragen, ob die Wesen vom Mond denn wirklich so grausam sind, wie sie dargestellt werden oder ob nicht die Menschen diejenigen sind, die das Böse in sich tragen. Das ist wirklich spannend gemacht.
Empfehlen möchte ich den Manga allen Magical-Girl und Arina-Tanemura-Fans. Wer von den gleichen Designs und einigen Szenensprüngen absehen kann, der bekommt hier wieder einmal eine ganz tolle Fanatsystory präsentiert. Sehr schön.
Idee: 5/5
Zeichnungen: 4/5
Charaktere: 4/5
Logik: 4/5
Gesamt: 4/5
ISBN:9783842032866
Sprache:Deutsch
Ausgabe:eBook (Download)
Umfang:196 Seiten
Verlag:TOKYOPOP
Erscheinungsdatum:21.07.2016
Den Schock, dass Enju und ihr tot geglaubter Bruder Kai ein- und dieselbe Person sind, hat Prinzessin Sakura noch nicht überwunden, da wird sie von ihm und dessen Gefährten in das Reich des Mondes entführt. Weit entfernt vom Prinzen Aoba bringt sie der Trennungsschmerz beinahe um. Doch die Prinzessin muss Stärke beweisen, wenn sie ihren Geliebten je wiedersehen will.
Nachdem Sakura sich dazu entschlossen hat mit ihrem Bruder zu gehen, bringt dieser sie auf das Schloß Shura Yugenden, dem Reich des Mondes. Begleitet wird die Prinzessin nicht durch ihren Bruder Kai - Enju - sondern auch durch dessen Handlanger Mai-Mai, Rurijo und Shuri. Während Sakura im Schloß dem Geheimnis der Begleiter von Enju auf den Grund geht, verzehrt sie sich nach Prinz Aoba und ihren Freunden. Diese machen sich auf den Weg, um Sakura aus den Fängen der Mondwesen zu befreien. Als Sakura die Quelle aufsucht, welche Menschen zu Mondwesen macht und die nur durch Menschenknochen aufrecht erhalten werden kann, begegnet sie Rurijo, die ihr unglaublich ähnlich sieht und sie abgrundtief hasst. Plötzlich hängt Sakuras Leben am seidenen Faden.
Der vierte Teil von "Prinzessin Sakura" aus der Feder von Arina Tanemura birgt wieder wunderbare Zeichnungen, wenn auch mit altbekannten Charakterdesigns. Die Story geht zügig voran und endlich bekommt man etwas mehr Hintergrundwissen rund um Sakura und die anderen Charaktere. So erfährt man die tragische Geschichte von Rurijo und auch Mai-Mai wird näher betrachtet. Außerdem gibt es eine Bonusstory in der die Geschichte der Schneejungfrau Asagiri aufgegriffen wird.
Dass Sakura mit Enju geht, geschieht nicht ganz freiwillig, weshalb sich ihre Freunde auf den Weg machen, um sie zu befreien. Dass sie dabei zu Schaden kommen könnten nehmen sie in Kauf, was eindeutig beweist, dass sie alle nur das Beste für die junge Prinzessin wollen. Auch Aoba lernt man nun von einer völlig neuen Seite kennen, was ihn in der Beliebtheitsskala wieder ordentlich aufsteigen lässt. Was mich in diesem Teil besonders fasziniert hat ist, dass alle, die Enju um sich herum geschart hat, früher Menschen waren, die ein ganz besonderes Ziel verfolgt haben - wenn man von Rurijo einmal absieht, aber auch sie hat ein ganz besonderes Los und eine hochinteressante Geschichte. Da hat Arina Tanemura wieder richtig tief in ihre Ideenkiste gegriffen. Allein wegen Rurijo und wegen Sakura muss man sich fragen, ob die Wesen vom Mond denn wirklich so grausam sind, wie sie dargestellt werden oder ob nicht die Menschen diejenigen sind, die das Böse in sich tragen. Das ist wirklich spannend gemacht.
Empfehlen möchte ich den Manga allen Magical-Girl und Arina-Tanemura-Fans. Wer von den gleichen Designs und einigen Szenensprüngen absehen kann, der bekommt hier wieder einmal eine ganz tolle Fanatsystory präsentiert. Sehr schön.
Idee: 5/5
Zeichnungen: 4/5
Charaktere: 4/5
Logik: 4/5
Gesamt: 4/5
ISBN:9783842032866
Sprache:Deutsch
Ausgabe:eBook (Download)
Umfang:196 Seiten
Verlag:TOKYOPOP
Erscheinungsdatum:21.07.2016
December 26, 2017
I have always been an HUGE admirer of Arina Tanemura since I purchased Full Moon O Sagashite. Her art style, her writing, everything about that series had me hooked! She is one of my favorite mangaka. I was a bit hesitant to actually read Sakura Hime when I read the short summary about it.
I'm thrilled I pushed past my timid and unsure thoughts... I REALLY like this series! It's definitely different than what her previous series: Full Moon o Sagashite, Gentlemen's Alliance Cross and Kamikaze Kaitou Jeanne.
The art still is slightly the same though. I remember when I read the first volume and I was shocked by how similiar Aoba looks to Takuto (Full Moon) and Takanari (Gentlemen's Alliance). Even the MC, Sakura, has a striking resemblance to Haine(Gentlemen's Alliance). I wish she put a bit more effort in shaping and drastically changing the faces/hairstyles of her characters.
This volume in particular was definitely a must needed emphasis on the antagonist within the series. When Sakura discovers that Enjo has created an exact replica of his little sister, which others have referred to as "his lover"...I think this cemented how DAMAGED, DISTURBED, and CRAZY he is. Dying the same death over and over for five years really did make him insane. He wasn't kidding when he said that lol.
I was very repulsed by this and I honestly feel sympathy for Rurijo... she was basically made as a substitute and unfortunately fell in love with Enjo. I hate that she is told to refer to him as her master. The subservience she displays towards him, her 'creator'... I understand why but it just leaves a bad taste in the mouth. I hope toward the end of the series she quits lying to herself that he will ever love her and leaves him. She deserves better!
Sakura and Enjo have a borderline incestual relationship, at least that was my interpretation. The way how Sakura refers to him as her 'first love', that he never sees her as a woman but only as a girl, the jealousy she shows when she finds out that he has lover...etc. While, the manga (when showing flashbacks) never showed any scenes about Enjo and Rurijo *doing* anything... it's still creepy lol.
I love that Aoba was able to tell the difference between Sakura and Rujijo. I truly enjoy their romance; it's very simple and pure with just enough angst. I look forward to finding out more about the Moon prince's henchmen in the next volume.
I'm thrilled I pushed past my timid and unsure thoughts... I REALLY like this series! It's definitely different than what her previous series: Full Moon o Sagashite, Gentlemen's Alliance Cross and Kamikaze Kaitou Jeanne.
The art still is slightly the same though. I remember when I read the first volume and I was shocked by how similiar Aoba looks to Takuto (Full Moon) and Takanari (Gentlemen's Alliance). Even the MC, Sakura, has a striking resemblance to Haine(Gentlemen's Alliance). I wish she put a bit more effort in shaping and drastically changing the faces/hairstyles of her characters.
This volume in particular was definitely a must needed emphasis on the antagonist within the series. When Sakura discovers that Enjo has created an exact replica of his little sister, which others have referred to as "his lover"...I think this cemented how DAMAGED, DISTURBED, and CRAZY he is. Dying the same death over and over for five years really did make him insane. He wasn't kidding when he said that lol.
I was very repulsed by this and I honestly feel sympathy for Rurijo... she was basically made as a substitute and unfortunately fell in love with Enjo. I hate that she is told to refer to him as her master. The subservience she displays towards him, her 'creator'... I understand why but it just leaves a bad taste in the mouth. I hope toward the end of the series she quits lying to herself that he will ever love her and leaves him. She deserves better!
Sakura and Enjo have a borderline incestual relationship, at least that was my interpretation. The way how Sakura refers to him as her 'first love', that he never sees her as a woman but only as a girl, the jealousy she shows when she finds out that he has lover...etc. While, the manga (when showing flashbacks) never showed any scenes about Enjo and Rurijo *doing* anything... it's still creepy lol.
I love that Aoba was able to tell the difference between Sakura and Rujijo. I truly enjoy their romance; it's very simple and pure with just enough angst. I look forward to finding out more about the Moon prince's henchmen in the next volume.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2019
4,5 stars. Review of the Finnish edition.
In the end of the volume three Enju kidnapped Sakura and now he's taken her to his palace where he is trying to convince Sakura to become a ruler of the Moon and restore the magical well. That means killing humans though...
So Sakura is torn by multiple sides: Enju is her beloved brother (albeit transformed) but she doesn't want to kill people but if she doesn't help Enju, the Moon people die. And there's the risk of her turning into a monster too...
Despite these heavy things weighing on Sakura, she's mostly taking backseat in this book. She's there yes but she's not very active. Instead the spotlight is on the others and especially on the bitter Rurijoo who is a sentient stone given a wood body in form of Sakura. She's interesting character and works as a great mirror for Sakura. She's powerful but feels inferior because she's just a copy. She desires to be Sakura, not just an image of her. I am interested to learn more of her and see where her path will take her.
Maimai, from Enju's Moon group, is given a back story too. Her gender identity gets "omg what" reaction from Sakura and not-so-nice line from one of the other Moon people but she's not laughed at which is nice. Could be so much worse.
And in true drama fashion, almost all of the Moon people seem to be connected to Sakura and her friends in some way... It's not a bad thing, it sure adds an extra layer of emotions, but it's also a quite used trope and usually a bit stretched in believability.
I was slightly disappointed that Sakura was so passive and damsel in distress in this volume because she's been more versatile with being strong and active vs needing support (physical and emotional). But maybe she takes action after she gets over the shock of finding her brother and seeing Rurijoo.
Despite that I liked this volume a lot, it had a lot of big exciting reveals and Sakura trying to make sense of them. There was no dull moment in this volume.
There's also a bonus story about Asagiri. It tells how Asagiri became Sakura's friend and what drives her. It was a fine little story, it was nice to learn more about one of my favourite characters in this series. Like most of Arina's characters, she has also her sad/tragic side.
As always, art is on the level of AMAZING PLUS, nothing tops Arina's pictures in my eyes. I just love all the details and the beautiful eyes...! ♥
In the end of the volume three Enju kidnapped Sakura and now he's taken her to his palace where he is trying to convince Sakura to become a ruler of the Moon and restore the magical well. That means killing humans though...
So Sakura is torn by multiple sides: Enju is her beloved brother (albeit transformed) but she doesn't want to kill people but if she doesn't help Enju, the Moon people die. And there's the risk of her turning into a monster too...
Despite these heavy things weighing on Sakura, she's mostly taking backseat in this book. She's there yes but she's not very active. Instead the spotlight is on the others and especially on the bitter Rurijoo who is a sentient stone given a wood body in form of Sakura. She's interesting character and works as a great mirror for Sakura. She's powerful but feels inferior because she's just a copy. She desires to be Sakura, not just an image of her. I am interested to learn more of her and see where her path will take her.
Maimai, from Enju's Moon group, is given a back story too. Her gender identity gets "omg what" reaction from Sakura and not-so-nice line from one of the other Moon people but she's not laughed at which is nice. Could be so much worse.
And in true drama fashion, almost all of the Moon people seem to be connected to Sakura and her friends in some way... It's not a bad thing, it sure adds an extra layer of emotions, but it's also a quite used trope and usually a bit stretched in believability.
I was slightly disappointed that Sakura was so passive and damsel in distress in this volume because she's been more versatile with being strong and active vs needing support (physical and emotional). But maybe she takes action after she gets over the shock of finding her brother and seeing Rurijoo.
Despite that I liked this volume a lot, it had a lot of big exciting reveals and Sakura trying to make sense of them. There was no dull moment in this volume.
There's also a bonus story about Asagiri. It tells how Asagiri became Sakura's friend and what drives her. It was a fine little story, it was nice to learn more about one of my favourite characters in this series. Like most of Arina's characters, she has also her sad/tragic side.
As always, art is on the level of AMAZING PLUS, nothing tops Arina's pictures in my eyes. I just love all the details and the beautiful eyes...! ♥
September 12, 2023
2.5 stars
I feel bad, but I really don't like any of these new characters except maybe one?
In fact, it was the bonus chapter that really reminded me of why I really liked the first three volumes in the first place and that is because of the characters we already have a relationship with as a reader. I'm not sure if it's because of my strong attachment to them or if it's because these new characters are villains, but I couldn't find it in me to be excited for any of these new people.
The only one I didn't mind TOO much is Rurijo and I think it's because of what the manga creator said in one of her notes. Rurijo is pretty straightforward and doesn't keep secrets or manipulate as the others do. She makes her intentions clear of how she wants to harm or destroy someone, unlike the other characters (though I'm thinking of one certain male character specifically who is obviously using the people around him for his own goals).
I'm hoping this arc won't be TOO long because I'm like "Take me back to the previous arc please!" BUT! With how things unfolded in that last battle, I don't think things can go back to how they were which really worries me. I want NONE of the original cast to get harmed or hurt, but it's definitely looking like that WON'T be the case.
One thing I CAN say about the villains though is that Maimai is not who I expected. Their backstory was really heart-wrenching, but then seeing the choice they made in the end…I was completely disgusted. I can give the creator props for making villains who have no kind of remorse for their actions and are truly evil. (I think Rurijo could maybe be an exception, but I think it's too early to say.)
The bonus chapter was so heartbreaking but also had a very moving and touching ending! I loved it and it was definitely my favorite part of this volume!
I'm going to keep reading and hope that these characters can safely escape this place they're at and go back home with Sakura in tow because I'm ready for Enju and his minions to be out of the picture…
(Heads up for those who want to know, there is partial non-graphic nudity.)
I feel bad, but I really don't like any of these new characters except maybe one?
In fact, it was the bonus chapter that really reminded me of why I really liked the first three volumes in the first place and that is because of the characters we already have a relationship with as a reader. I'm not sure if it's because of my strong attachment to them or if it's because these new characters are villains, but I couldn't find it in me to be excited for any of these new people.
The only one I didn't mind TOO much is Rurijo and I think it's because of what the manga creator said in one of her notes. Rurijo is pretty straightforward and doesn't keep secrets or manipulate as the others do. She makes her intentions clear of how she wants to harm or destroy someone, unlike the other characters (though I'm thinking of one certain male character specifically who is obviously using the people around him for his own goals).
I'm hoping this arc won't be TOO long because I'm like "Take me back to the previous arc please!" BUT! With how things unfolded in that last battle, I don't think things can go back to how they were which really worries me. I want NONE of the original cast to get harmed or hurt, but it's definitely looking like that WON'T be the case.
One thing I CAN say about the villains though is that Maimai is not who I expected. Their backstory was really heart-wrenching, but then seeing the choice they made in the end…I was completely disgusted. I can give the creator props for making villains who have no kind of remorse for their actions and are truly evil. (I think Rurijo could maybe be an exception, but I think it's too early to say.)
The bonus chapter was so heartbreaking but also had a very moving and touching ending! I loved it and it was definitely my favorite part of this volume!
I'm going to keep reading and hope that these characters can safely escape this place they're at and go back home with Sakura in tow because I'm ready for Enju and his minions to be out of the picture…
(Heads up for those who want to know, there is partial non-graphic nudity.)
December 6, 2020
Lord Enju created Rurijo in the image of Princess Sakura. Aoba misses Sakura, but there is nothing he can do. He'll just have to wait until Sakura returns from the moon. He is greeted by Sakura, or Sakura's look-a-like Rurijo, Aoba is taken in by her looks and doesn't realize she is not Sakura. Thankfully, Kohaku realizes odd things like the gem in her forehead that distinguish Rurijo and Sakura from each other. Aoba wasn't really convinced Rurijo was Sakura, but he wanted to capture her and find out about Sakura's whereabouts. Rurijo leaves a part of herself with Aoba, so they can find Sakura and take her back. Maimai and Byakuya face off, Maimai might actually beat Byakuya much to the worry of Sakura.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2023
Another good addition to the series.
We find out how Asagiri came to be with Sakura.
Enju has a lover that looks identical to Sakura.
Sakura’s friends try to save her from the clutches of the moon squad.
We find out how Asagiri came to be with Sakura.
Enju has a lover that looks identical to Sakura.
Sakura’s friends try to save her from the clutches of the moon squad.
August 11, 2017
4.5/5 stars.
February 19, 2020
Not my favourite volume, but it had some interesting moments. I also really loved the bonus story (Asagiri's backstory) <3
February 1, 2022
Ce tome était plein d'actions et de jolis combats. Hate de voir comment ca va continuer
April 19, 2023
There's some weird sibling love in this one. idk. I really liked the little story about Asagiri though.
January 13, 2024
Auftritt Rurijo, mit Asagiri mein liebster Charakter 🖤
September 1, 2024
The story seems to be getting on track now but I just don’t know if I care??! Do I even like Sakura?. I do however, like the ninja characters. They’re funny lol
November 11, 2011
In Summary
The plot gets vastly more interesting, thanks to the introduction of some fascinating characters on Enju’s side. The battle aspect of this series continues with Aoba and company launching an assault on Enju’s fortress, but as Tanemura-sensei mentions in her closing notes, the shonen story she originally aimed for has taken more of a shojo flavor with past histories and complicated relationships taking center stage.
The Review
The story really picks up in Volume 4, mainly because of the introduction of Enju’s minions. Though the Youko had given Sakura and company enemies to face against, the monsters weren’t that interesting and didn’t last that long. Team Enju, on the other hand, is not only comprised of a unique array of personalities, but two out of the four have some past relationship with Sakura’s friends.
All of Enju’s henchmen have had moon power bestowed upon them, and these chapters include lengthy flashbacks on the origins of Rurijo and Maimai. These detours don’t detract from the story though; they actually make those individuals and their actions more compelling. The flashbacks also provide additional layers of depth to Enju’s character.
As for Aoba and company, they aren’t completely sidelined. With Sakura trapped in the enemy’s lair, they of course must play hero, and their assault against Enju’s fortress is where we get most of the action in this volume. Even so, it’s the bad guys who steal the show, and the nice thing is that Enju lays out fairly clearly what he’s after and why. After Aoba’s earlier waffling between killing and loving Sakura, Enju’s straightforwardness is rather refreshing.
By the way, Volume 4 includes several extras including a bonus story about Asagiri, comics created by Tanemura-sensei’s assistants, and a special interview between Tanemura and one of her assistants.
The plot gets vastly more interesting, thanks to the introduction of some fascinating characters on Enju’s side. The battle aspect of this series continues with Aoba and company launching an assault on Enju’s fortress, but as Tanemura-sensei mentions in her closing notes, the shonen story she originally aimed for has taken more of a shojo flavor with past histories and complicated relationships taking center stage.
The Review
The story really picks up in Volume 4, mainly because of the introduction of Enju’s minions. Though the Youko had given Sakura and company enemies to face against, the monsters weren’t that interesting and didn’t last that long. Team Enju, on the other hand, is not only comprised of a unique array of personalities, but two out of the four have some past relationship with Sakura’s friends.
All of Enju’s henchmen have had moon power bestowed upon them, and these chapters include lengthy flashbacks on the origins of Rurijo and Maimai. These detours don’t detract from the story though; they actually make those individuals and their actions more compelling. The flashbacks also provide additional layers of depth to Enju’s character.
As for Aoba and company, they aren’t completely sidelined. With Sakura trapped in the enemy’s lair, they of course must play hero, and their assault against Enju’s fortress is where we get most of the action in this volume. Even so, it’s the bad guys who steal the show, and the nice thing is that Enju lays out fairly clearly what he’s after and why. After Aoba’s earlier waffling between killing and loving Sakura, Enju’s straightforwardness is rather refreshing.
By the way, Volume 4 includes several extras including a bonus story about Asagiri, comics created by Tanemura-sensei’s assistants, and a special interview between Tanemura and one of her assistants.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2015
I give this 4 stars. Lovely illustrations. Nice to get the back stories for the characters. Lots of couples emerging which I like a lot.
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Spoiler
Note to Self:Heian Era
Princess Sakura(14yo,sis,Princess Kaguya's(moon princess)granddaughter,orphan,immortal(mixed blood),pal)+Prince Oura(Aoba,17yo,betrothed,nephew,transforms to wolf,pal2),Fujimurasaki(Togu(next emperor),uncle),Asagiri(mononoke(spirit),mini,snow spirit,blood cursed,companion pal),Priestess Byakuya (old,mononoke(spirit),immortal,pal),Kohaku (ninja,8th ninja village leaders daughter,pal2)+ Hayate(frog,human ninja, pal2),Enju(older bro Kai,immortal,insane due to repeated drowning), Maimai(Den,male,immortal,Enju's team),Rurijo(Sakura elm doll,Enju's lover),Shuri(ninja,immortal, Enju's team,pal2),Ukyo(Asagiri's lover,immortal,Enju's team).
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Spoiler
Note to Self:Heian Era
Princess Sakura(14yo,sis,Princess Kaguya's(moon princess)granddaughter,orphan,immortal(mixed blood),pal)+Prince Oura(Aoba,17yo,betrothed,nephew,transforms to wolf,pal2),Fujimurasaki(Togu(next emperor),uncle),Asagiri(mononoke(spirit),mini,snow spirit,blood cursed,companion pal),Priestess Byakuya (old,mononoke(spirit),immortal,pal),Kohaku (ninja,8th ninja village leaders daughter,pal2)+ Hayate(frog,human ninja, pal2),Enju(older bro Kai,immortal,insane due to repeated drowning), Maimai(Den,male,immortal,Enju's team),Rurijo(Sakura elm doll,Enju's lover),Shuri(ninja,immortal, Enju's team,pal2),Ukyo(Asagiri's lover,immortal,Enju's team).
January 17, 2016
Der vierte Band der Sakura-Reihe schließt ebenfalls nahtlos an das Geschehen an. Ich glaube, Arina mag keine Pausen ;)
Die Spannung der Geschichte steigt für mich deutlich an. Neue Charaktere werden vorgestellt und es wird nach und nach auch deren Hintergrundgeschichte enthüllt. Die Athmosphäre wird düsterer und trauriger. Vor allem die neuen Charaktere sorgen dafür, aber es passt sehr gut in die Geschichte und macht es bisher für mich zum besten Band der Reihe.
Zwischendurch gibt es aber auch einige amüsante Rückblicke oder Erinnerungen, die das ganze auflockern und viel Spaß beim Lesen/Anschauen machen.
Die Spannung der Geschichte steigt für mich deutlich an. Neue Charaktere werden vorgestellt und es wird nach und nach auch deren Hintergrundgeschichte enthüllt. Die Athmosphäre wird düsterer und trauriger. Vor allem die neuen Charaktere sorgen dafür, aber es passt sehr gut in die Geschichte und macht es bisher für mich zum besten Band der Reihe.
Zwischendurch gibt es aber auch einige amüsante Rückblicke oder Erinnerungen, die das ganze auflockern und viel Spaß beim Lesen/Anschauen machen.
September 28, 2013
Tanemura goes on about how embarrassed she is to draw all the nudity (and no, Rurijo's markings really don't make much difference, although it is helpful to be able to tell her apart) but the really disturbing panel is the one where Enju and Sakura are curled up together. i wish i didn't know enough about Japanese memes to realise this is probably not unintentional, and i'd be more OK with it if Ribon's target audience was older than the 9-13 range. also, still way too much screentone for my tastes, although i have to admit it works brilliantly for the evil moon-eyes.
May 22, 2015
Despite only seeing Aoba for a panel or two we learn so much about the characters involved. This is an excellent use of backflash - it inherently feels material to the plot and adds to the current situation! Yes!
BOTTOM LINE: Back history of secondary characters from both sides.
BOTTOM LINE: Back history of secondary characters from both sides.
August 30, 2015
Actual rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Still enjoying this! Rurijo is a fascinating character , and even though she acts like a foil to Sakura now, I wonder if they'll potentially bond.
Still enjoying this! Rurijo is a fascinating character , and even though she acts like a foil to Sakura now, I wonder if they'll potentially bond.
December 14, 2015
This volume was much better than the last one. I am excited to get to know a little bit more about the supporting characters in this series. The Asagiri special at the end was super cute.
Bring on the battles! I can't wait to see how it all plays out!
Bring on the battles! I can't wait to see how it all plays out!
January 22, 2011
awww their so cute
January 8, 2014
I didn't like this volume as well as I did the others.
February 18, 2014
Ah, okay. The story is starting to flush out a bit. This is a hard manga to get into, you have to stick with it for the first three or four before things start making sense.
March 29, 2016
I HATE Rurijo. PERIOD.
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