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The Case Files of Jeweler Richard #10
The Case Files of Jeweler Richard (Light Novel) Vol. 10
TANGLED WEBS AND TWISTED WORDSOctavia, the wealthy young lady who has stymied Richard at every turn, invites Richard and Seigi to a hotel in Nuwara Eliya, a city that boasts the finest mountain resorts in all Sri Lanka. The duo will need help from every ally they can summon, including Jeffrey and Henry, to thwart Octavia's schemes--but what exactly is the young mastermind planning? And what does this mean for Richard and Seigi's relationship?
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2020
8 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
September 27, 2025
Okay, somehow I thought they’d be together in this volume, but I was wrong! My goodness, I hate how the author keeps circling around the subject and makes Seigi be like someone from out of this world with how clueless he is. Like, is he asexual? No, right? So which part about a romantic relationship doesn’t he get?
Instead of a relationship progress, we have to suffer through the drama that is Octavia, and a wrap-up where every character makes an appearance, like giving their last bow. There’s also all the philosophical part, hate on past colonialism (which is good, and yet a bit too goody goody if you know what I mean), and the whole pointless “redeeming the villain” thing.
Maybe because I had a different expectation, but I’m so fed up with this one, and I feel like this has been a total waste of time.
Instead of a relationship progress, we have to suffer through the drama that is Octavia, and a wrap-up where every character makes an appearance, like giving their last bow. There’s also all the philosophical part, hate on past colonialism (which is good, and yet a bit too goody goody if you know what I mean), and the whole pointless “redeeming the villain” thing.
Maybe because I had a different expectation, but I’m so fed up with this one, and I feel like this has been a total waste of time.
March 8, 2025
As it turns out, this is what the entire Octavia arc has been about:
I’ve been mostly ignoring her these last volumes and I cannot pretend I care much about her. I’m sorry she’s lived through such a horrible trauma, but that truly doesn’t justifie her actions. I guess she really was just a teenager in need of a healthy adult support system and gladly she has one now.
Now for the good stuff:
* This installment of Keeping Up with the Claremonts was quite eventful. So much happened. Aristocracy will always be unbeatable as a source of juicy gossip.
* I’m 99,9% sure Richard was about to kiss Seigi but then Seigi had to say “oh could you tell me your feelings instead of showing? I love the sound of your voice” which is adorable and a very Seigi thing to say BUT MY GOD did this made me upset
*Seigi and Richard had a very intense simp off in this volume and although Richard didn’t hold any punches, he cannot beat Seigi in this field. That’s his expertise and Seigi himself thinks so too, because he decided to make Richard his job. Because he loves Richard too much to ever be able to dedicate himself wholeheartedly to anything else 😀 (and yes, I’m not ok)
* So Seigi “proposed” and “confessed” to Richard a bazillion times in this volume and he can frame it as a very intense friendship as much as he wants, but I consider them married now (Richard agrees with me, that’s canon). The end ✌🏼
I’ve been mostly ignoring her these last volumes and I cannot pretend I care much about her. I’m sorry she’s lived through such a horrible trauma, but that truly doesn’t justifie her actions. I guess she really was just a teenager in need of a healthy adult support system and gladly she has one now.
Now for the good stuff:
* This installment of Keeping Up with the Claremonts was quite eventful. So much happened. Aristocracy will always be unbeatable as a source of juicy gossip.
* I’m 99,9% sure Richard was about to kiss Seigi but then Seigi had to say “oh could you tell me your feelings instead of showing? I love the sound of your voice” which is adorable and a very Seigi thing to say BUT MY GOD did this made me upset
*Seigi and Richard had a very intense simp off in this volume and although Richard didn’t hold any punches, he cannot beat Seigi in this field. That’s his expertise and Seigi himself thinks so too, because he decided to make Richard his job. Because he loves Richard too much to ever be able to dedicate himself wholeheartedly to anything else 😀 (and yes, I’m not ok)
* So Seigi “proposed” and “confessed” to Richard a bazillion times in this volume and he can frame it as a very intense friendship as much as he wants, but I consider them married now (Richard agrees with me, that’s canon). The end ✌🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2021
yeah i'm gonna need like a full week to recover from this. absolutely beautiful
July 23, 2025
"Richard. It had to be Richard."
Yes, it did indeed take me a whole month to be able to sit down and formulate this review. Not just because my new job - as a civil servant, just like Seigi always wanted to be! - has been eating my time, but also because I just had to absorb this volume in its entirety. When I started reading this series, I knew the tenth volume would be the volume, the one that basically turns everything on its head. The previous volumes did lead up to all that happens here, so it's not as shocking, but we've come a long way from the first volume, that's for sure.
I think that is what I appreciate the most about the Jeweler Richard series. The evolution of it. The stories grow alongside Seigi, as you bear witness to his world growing bigger and bigger thanks to his chance meeting with Richard.
You start with a light novel that presents itself in episodic bursts, with life lessons tucked in between the standalone - but somehow, still intertwined - gemstone cases that Seigi and Richard resolve. But over the course of the series it has moved on from that and into something a little more profound. Gemstones are still a big part of the story, of course, but this volume is more of a culmination of all the relationships that Seigi and Richard have forged through the course of their lives, rather than a volume of "cases" that need to be solved.
I also can't help but be attached to side characters, even ones that used to present themselves as more antagonistic like Jeff and Vince. (And everyone knows how much I adore Jeff.) And they get a fair bit of spotlight here too.
Beautiful series as always. Now that Seigi has chosen a path and made one of the most profound decisions of his life, I can't wait to see where he and Richard will go from here.
Yes, it did indeed take me a whole month to be able to sit down and formulate this review. Not just because my new job - as a civil servant, just like Seigi always wanted to be! - has been eating my time, but also because I just had to absorb this volume in its entirety. When I started reading this series, I knew the tenth volume would be the volume, the one that basically turns everything on its head. The previous volumes did lead up to all that happens here, so it's not as shocking, but we've come a long way from the first volume, that's for sure.
I think that is what I appreciate the most about the Jeweler Richard series. The evolution of it. The stories grow alongside Seigi, as you bear witness to his world growing bigger and bigger thanks to his chance meeting with Richard.
You start with a light novel that presents itself in episodic bursts, with life lessons tucked in between the standalone - but somehow, still intertwined - gemstone cases that Seigi and Richard resolve. But over the course of the series it has moved on from that and into something a little more profound. Gemstones are still a big part of the story, of course, but this volume is more of a culmination of all the relationships that Seigi and Richard have forged through the course of their lives, rather than a volume of "cases" that need to be solved.
I also can't help but be attached to side characters, even ones that used to present themselves as more antagonistic like Jeff and Vince. (And everyone knows how much I adore Jeff.) And they get a fair bit of spotlight here too.
Beautiful series as always. Now that Seigi has chosen a path and made one of the most profound decisions of his life, I can't wait to see where he and Richard will go from here.
January 2, 2026
1 ✨️
I remember discovering this story by chance, just as its protagonists did: Richard Ranasinghe of Vulpian and Seigi Nakata.
Perhaps most readers fell in love with them and ended up hoping they would fall in love with each other and share their lives together, regardless of the form: as colleagues, friends, a couple…
However, although I know the story doesn't end in this volume, I've researched enough to understand that the dynamic doesn't change, and that's why I wanted to share my personal interpretation.
In the end, Richard and Seigi don't live happily ever after. They don't become lovers, or even friends, but rather:
- boss and employee
- capitalist and resource
- master and dog
- god and follower
This story wasn't written to raise awareness about toxic relationships, but to promote their acceptance, based on the premise that there are people with problems so complex that no professional could understand them.
The real lesson was already summarized at the end of volume 3, in a twistedly aesthetic phrase:
“You trust people too much. Sometimes they hurt you, but that’s life. Remember that.”
And the other, similar one, directed by Richard to Seigi—though it could be directed at all readers—:
“Don’t blame me… if you regret saying you like me.”
I don’t regret it.
I liked Richard a lot for a while, and then I realized he’s exactly the kind of person I wouldn’t want in my life.
The only star I’m giving this book—and the work in general—is for Seigi:
someone who was born human, grew up like a dog, and ended up like a cockroach, crushed day after day, but who, for us, remains, so far, a survivor.
He hasn’t yet breathed his last, and his hell with Richard continues.
---
Recuerdo que conocí esta historia por casualidad, del mismo modo en que sus protagonistas se conocen:
Richard Ranasinghe de Vulpian y Seigi Nakata.
Quizás la mayoría de los lectores nos enamoramos de ellos y terminamos esperando que se enamoren entre sí y acaben compartiendo la vida juntos, sin importar la forma: como colegas, amigos, pareja…
Sin embargo, aunque sé que la historia no termina en este volumen, he investigado lo suficiente como para entender que la dinámica no cambia, y por eso quisiera compartir mi lectura personal al respecto.
Al final, Richard y Seigi no viven felices para siempre.
No se convierten en amantes, ni siquiera en amigos, sino en:
- jefe y empleado
- capitalista y recurso
- amo y perro
- dios y seguidor
Esta historia no fue escrita para generar conciencia sobre las relaciones tóxicas, sino para promover su aceptación, bajo la premisa de que hay personas con problemas tan complejos que ningún profesional podría comprenderlas.
La enseñanza real ya se sintetizaba al final del volumen 3, en una frase retorcidamente estética:
“Confías demasiado en la gente. A veces te hiere, pero así es la vida. Recuérdalo.”
Y la otra, similar, dirigida por Richard a Seigi —aunque podría estar dirigida a todos los lectores—:
“No me culpes… si lamentas decir que te agrado.”
Yo no lo lamento.
Richard me agradó mucho durante un tiempo y luego entendí que es exactamente el tipo de persona que no quisiera que se cruce en mi vida.
La única estrella que dejo a este libro —y a la obra en general— es para Seigi:
alguien que nació humano, creció como un perro y terminó como una cucaracha, aplastada día tras día, pero que para nosotros sigue siendo, hasta ahora, un sobreviviente.
Aún no exhala su último aliento, y su infierno junto a Richard continúa.
I remember discovering this story by chance, just as its protagonists did: Richard Ranasinghe of Vulpian and Seigi Nakata.
Perhaps most readers fell in love with them and ended up hoping they would fall in love with each other and share their lives together, regardless of the form: as colleagues, friends, a couple…
However, although I know the story doesn't end in this volume, I've researched enough to understand that the dynamic doesn't change, and that's why I wanted to share my personal interpretation.
In the end, Richard and Seigi don't live happily ever after. They don't become lovers, or even friends, but rather:
- boss and employee
- capitalist and resource
- master and dog
- god and follower
This story wasn't written to raise awareness about toxic relationships, but to promote their acceptance, based on the premise that there are people with problems so complex that no professional could understand them.
The real lesson was already summarized at the end of volume 3, in a twistedly aesthetic phrase:
“You trust people too much. Sometimes they hurt you, but that’s life. Remember that.”
And the other, similar one, directed by Richard to Seigi—though it could be directed at all readers—:
“Don’t blame me… if you regret saying you like me.”
I don’t regret it.
I liked Richard a lot for a while, and then I realized he’s exactly the kind of person I wouldn’t want in my life.
The only star I’m giving this book—and the work in general—is for Seigi:
someone who was born human, grew up like a dog, and ended up like a cockroach, crushed day after day, but who, for us, remains, so far, a survivor.
He hasn’t yet breathed his last, and his hell with Richard continues.
---
Recuerdo que conocí esta historia por casualidad, del mismo modo en que sus protagonistas se conocen:
Richard Ranasinghe de Vulpian y Seigi Nakata.
Quizás la mayoría de los lectores nos enamoramos de ellos y terminamos esperando que se enamoren entre sí y acaben compartiendo la vida juntos, sin importar la forma: como colegas, amigos, pareja…
Sin embargo, aunque sé que la historia no termina en este volumen, he investigado lo suficiente como para entender que la dinámica no cambia, y por eso quisiera compartir mi lectura personal al respecto.
Al final, Richard y Seigi no viven felices para siempre.
No se convierten en amantes, ni siquiera en amigos, sino en:
- jefe y empleado
- capitalista y recurso
- amo y perro
- dios y seguidor
Esta historia no fue escrita para generar conciencia sobre las relaciones tóxicas, sino para promover su aceptación, bajo la premisa de que hay personas con problemas tan complejos que ningún profesional podría comprenderlas.
La enseñanza real ya se sintetizaba al final del volumen 3, en una frase retorcidamente estética:
“Confías demasiado en la gente. A veces te hiere, pero así es la vida. Recuérdalo.”
Y la otra, similar, dirigida por Richard a Seigi —aunque podría estar dirigida a todos los lectores—:
“No me culpes… si lamentas decir que te agrado.”
Yo no lo lamento.
Richard me agradó mucho durante un tiempo y luego entendí que es exactamente el tipo de persona que no quisiera que se cruce en mi vida.
La única estrella que dejo a este libro —y a la obra en general— es para Seigi:
alguien que nació humano, creció como un perro y terminó como una cucaracha, aplastada día tras día, pero que para nosotros sigue siendo, hasta ahora, un sobreviviente.
Aún no exhala su último aliento, y su infierno junto a Richard continúa.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2025
did I ever in my wildest dreams imagine I would get a nuanced take on the tension in the relations between Sri Lanka and India given their history with colonialism from a japanese novel about a jeweller and his apprentice? no I did not. Did I expect characters to speak Tamil? no I did not. Did I expect the ending? Maybe. But it gave Pride and Prejudice cut scene in the best way possible.
In summary, I love love love this series, the author-Nanako Tsujimura is now my religion.
In addition to the very educated history the volume offered found family, hope, resilience and had the perfect showcase of surrendering to those you love. I am forever in awe and need 10 more volumes stat.
edit: (don't listen to take my hand by matt berry as you read the last part of the book you'll sob)
In summary, I love love love this series, the author-Nanako Tsujimura is now my religion.
In addition to the very educated history the volume offered found family, hope, resilience and had the perfect showcase of surrendering to those you love. I am forever in awe and need 10 more volumes stat.
edit: (don't listen to take my hand by matt berry as you read the last part of the book you'll sob)
November 14, 2025
“Do you understand, Seigi? You are a part of me, and I—I am a part of you.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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June 9, 2025Vol.10 wasn’t my favourite in the series by any stretch, but there were some good moments. At times the book felt very rushed to me, particularly the second half. But I will definitely keep reading because I enjoy this series so much, and I am very interested to see where the story goes next!
March 19, 2025
the longest slow-burn ive had the pleasure of reading in my entire life also, these two have changed me so much.... seigi and richard i will keep you in my heart forever
April 27, 2025
If you would have told me in 2021 that I would get to read this book in English in its entirety, hold it in my hands, I don't think I would've believed it.
The slowest of slowburn, still simmering, I adore everything about this series. I would die for Seigi and Richard and the entire cast. I can't believe the last novel in Japanese is publishing this year. I'm going to cry.
The slowest of slowburn, still simmering, I adore everything about this series. I would die for Seigi and Richard and the entire cast. I can't believe the last novel in Japanese is publishing this year. I'm going to cry.
May 10, 2025
I love the series. Seigi lived such a full life in these 4 years!!
This arc though, was boring. I still don't understand the motivation behind all the events that's happened. The jewels, the butler, Octivia, everything!
This arc though, was boring. I still don't understand the motivation behind all the events that's happened. The jewels, the butler, Octivia, everything!
June 29, 2025
And we're on the 10th volume of The Case Files of Jeweler Richard already! Time sure flies, yet I'm always very happy to read one of these novels. They give me this nostalgic, cozy feeling.
We got a flashback to when Seigi and Richard first met but from Richard's POV! He was as mesmerized by Seigi as Seigi was by him. It's adorable.
We also finally got to know about Octavia and what made her this way. Octavia's parents died to keep her warm during a snowstorm accident. She was only ten years old and is extremely traumatized. This sort of explains why she's so emotionally unregulated and why she's so hellbent on getting back at Richard for "taking away her second chance at a family". She intends to get him back with Deborah, to witness a "happy ending", and then end her own life. She's severely depressed and honestly needs so much therapy...
Meanwhile, Laurent, the Claremont butler, schemed with her in order to blackmail Jeffrey into having an heir. He's completely obsessed with old notions of earldom and since none of them had a child, he believes it's an end to his family's employment. He blackmailed Jeffrey by threatening to out him as gay. But Henry found out and he was pissed. I have to admit, it was interesting to see him angry, he always seemed so calm and collected.
The brothers try their hardest to help Octavia move on and understand she's not alone, especially to convince her to not take her life. They did their best to communicate with her through that video game to show her that they'll make an effort, that life is still worth living. Henry went as far as asking her to be his daughter, which I think was good for them. She's believed people she loves are hurt because of her and Henry also knows what that feels like. They understand with each other and perhaps heal from what happened to them.
Vince is also a true friend to Octavia, having stayed at her side only to make sure she wouldn't actually kill herself.
We meet Jeffrey's boyfriend! Joachim is such a nice guy. He balances out Jeffrey's seriousness, even though they're both sly and sassy guys. Jeffrey has a need to help everyone and shoulder all the responsabilities, but Joachim knows how to lessen his load.
Another unexpected meetings was ahen Seigi met Deborah (Richard's ex)! I was skeptial, but it went perfectly fine. Deborah is fine on her own with her kids and has no desire to get back with Richard, especially since she knows about him and Segi. Still, it was nice to see that even after all the drama, she and Richard both ended up alright.
Seigi and Richard had a meaningful discussion about their relationship, since he was worried he was robbing Richard of better opportunities. "You are a part of me and I am a part of you." That's what they truly are to each other, After so many years together, their impact on each other's lives is bigger than they can describe. The way they just kissed each other's hands in devotion, they're adorable.
Two years later, Seigi ended up deciding to become Richard's personal assistanto, to make sure they'd always be together, how sweet. At this point a marriage would be easier, but well this is wute the slow burn. He just knew this is what makes him happiest. Marian and Vince are also having a baby! I'm so excited tp see how that goes!
Yet, despite all these changes, 5 years after they met, they're still sitting in the shop, with Seigi making Richard tea. Somethings never change and it's better that way.
This concludes Seigi's journey as the main narrator of this series! He grew so much and I'm honestly very excited for what the future holds with the new narrator!
TW: talks of colonization, mentions of death and snowstorms, trauma, suicidal ideation, homophobia.
We got a flashback to when Seigi and Richard first met but from Richard's POV! He was as mesmerized by Seigi as Seigi was by him. It's adorable.
We also finally got to know about Octavia and what made her this way. Octavia's parents died to keep her warm during a snowstorm accident. She was only ten years old and is extremely traumatized. This sort of explains why she's so emotionally unregulated and why she's so hellbent on getting back at Richard for "taking away her second chance at a family". She intends to get him back with Deborah, to witness a "happy ending", and then end her own life. She's severely depressed and honestly needs so much therapy...
Meanwhile, Laurent, the Claremont butler, schemed with her in order to blackmail Jeffrey into having an heir. He's completely obsessed with old notions of earldom and since none of them had a child, he believes it's an end to his family's employment. He blackmailed Jeffrey by threatening to out him as gay. But Henry found out and he was pissed. I have to admit, it was interesting to see him angry, he always seemed so calm and collected.
The brothers try their hardest to help Octavia move on and understand she's not alone, especially to convince her to not take her life. They did their best to communicate with her through that video game to show her that they'll make an effort, that life is still worth living. Henry went as far as asking her to be his daughter, which I think was good for them. She's believed people she loves are hurt because of her and Henry also knows what that feels like. They understand with each other and perhaps heal from what happened to them.
Vince is also a true friend to Octavia, having stayed at her side only to make sure she wouldn't actually kill herself.
We meet Jeffrey's boyfriend! Joachim is such a nice guy. He balances out Jeffrey's seriousness, even though they're both sly and sassy guys. Jeffrey has a need to help everyone and shoulder all the responsabilities, but Joachim knows how to lessen his load.
Another unexpected meetings was ahen Seigi met Deborah (Richard's ex)! I was skeptial, but it went perfectly fine. Deborah is fine on her own with her kids and has no desire to get back with Richard, especially since she knows about him and Segi. Still, it was nice to see that even after all the drama, she and Richard both ended up alright.
Seigi and Richard had a meaningful discussion about their relationship, since he was worried he was robbing Richard of better opportunities. "You are a part of me and I am a part of you." That's what they truly are to each other, After so many years together, their impact on each other's lives is bigger than they can describe. The way they just kissed each other's hands in devotion, they're adorable.
Two years later, Seigi ended up deciding to become Richard's personal assistanto, to make sure they'd always be together, how sweet. At this point a marriage would be easier, but well this is wute the slow burn. He just knew this is what makes him happiest. Marian and Vince are also having a baby! I'm so excited tp see how that goes!
Yet, despite all these changes, 5 years after they met, they're still sitting in the shop, with Seigi making Richard tea. Somethings never change and it's better that way.
This concludes Seigi's journey as the main narrator of this series! He grew so much and I'm honestly very excited for what the future holds with the new narrator!
TW: talks of colonization, mentions of death and snowstorms, trauma, suicidal ideation, homophobia.
July 21, 2025
Another beautifully written book by Nanako Tsujimura.
Alright, Volume 10 might not be my absolute fave, but I still really enjoyed it! I loved the way Seigi described the beauty around him—seriously, the man could make a teacup sound poetic. The historical bits were told in such a simple, digestible way too, which I really appreciated.
Now, I’ll be honest—I didn’t quite get what the point was of Octavia renting out an entire hotel floor just to play a game with Seigi and Richard. But I let that slide, because to be fair, the game was actually kinda fun. Also, I wasn’t too sure why Octavia would open up about wanting to end her life to Seigi of all people—like, he’s a total stranger to her. But after going back and rereading it... damn. That scene was written so beautifully it hit me right in the gut. The emotion in their conversation was raw and delicate at the same time. And the way Octavia’s confession made Seigi realise how selfish his own self-destructive thoughts were? That was powerful stuff.
But wait—did I get this right? When Octavia started asking Seigi about his happy ending, was she actually hoping he’d give one to Richard? Since she couldn’t reunite Richard and Deborah anymore? Was she trying to find peace through Seigi’s answer? Like, was she testing him? Please tell me if I misunderstood, but from what I gathered, even though Octavia resented Richard and Deborah for ruining the happy ending she once dreamed of, deep down she still hoped they’d get one somehow, so she could end her own life peacefully? It’s tragic, really. Girl’s holding so much in her heart.
Now. LAURENT. Don’t even get me started on that man. You’re just a butler at Claremont Mansion—how dare you meddle in Claremont family matters like that?! Even using Octavia? Stressing Jeffrey? Just to secure your job?? I get that you’re scared of losing your job, but come on—was all that scheming necessary? Couldn’t you have just sat everyone down and said, “Hey, could one of you get married and have an heir so we don’t all lose our jobs?” Or, “Hey, maybe we should do something about those fake diamonds?” Honestly, that would've gone down smoother than dragging everyone into a massive mess. Even Henry had a solution ready, for heaven’s sake! I feel so bad for Octavia now. I thought she was the one behind the sbshsnj in volume 7 and 8, but nope—it was bloody Laurent. Damn you, Laurent.
Speaking of which—massive shoutout to Henry for cussing Laurent out. I laughed so hard, and I’m also grateful he said what we were all thinking. But Haruyoshi... mate, what exactly have you been teaching Henry? 😂
Also—I owe Vince an apology. After Volume 9, I was fully on the “meh” side about him, but seeing him handle Octavia so gently in this volume made me change my tune. Who knew that under that frosty face was someone who actually knows how to be kind? However, Vince—if this was how you behaved when trying to get close to Richard before, then yeah... I totally get why Richard never opened up to you. Lol.
And Henry, again—thank you for becoming Octavia’s new family. That girl needed someone like you to pull her away from the darkness. Bless her.
AND SEIGI. WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT.
You got on your knees and kissed Richard’s hand and I—I blacked out. You broke me, you absolute menace. I haven’t recovered since.
Oh, and let’s not forget the ridiculously silly conversation between Richard, Seigi, and Saul about Seigi’s next move. Richard and Saul weren’t the only ones gobsmacked—I was absolutely floored by Seigi’s decision. The lad is so head over heels for Richard, he made a life-changing decision like it’s nothing... AND HE STILL DOESN’T REALISE IT. Someone, please slap him for me.
Anyway, that’s all from me. Judging by the way I just ranted about it—you can probably tell this book’s got a cracking story, right? Yeah.
Alright, Volume 10 might not be my absolute fave, but I still really enjoyed it! I loved the way Seigi described the beauty around him—seriously, the man could make a teacup sound poetic. The historical bits were told in such a simple, digestible way too, which I really appreciated.
Now, I’ll be honest—I didn’t quite get what the point was of Octavia renting out an entire hotel floor just to play a game with Seigi and Richard. But I let that slide, because to be fair, the game was actually kinda fun. Also, I wasn’t too sure why Octavia would open up about wanting to end her life to Seigi of all people—like, he’s a total stranger to her. But after going back and rereading it... damn. That scene was written so beautifully it hit me right in the gut. The emotion in their conversation was raw and delicate at the same time. And the way Octavia’s confession made Seigi realise how selfish his own self-destructive thoughts were? That was powerful stuff.
But wait—did I get this right? When Octavia started asking Seigi about his happy ending, was she actually hoping he’d give one to Richard? Since she couldn’t reunite Richard and Deborah anymore? Was she trying to find peace through Seigi’s answer? Like, was she testing him? Please tell me if I misunderstood, but from what I gathered, even though Octavia resented Richard and Deborah for ruining the happy ending she once dreamed of, deep down she still hoped they’d get one somehow, so she could end her own life peacefully? It’s tragic, really. Girl’s holding so much in her heart.
Now. LAURENT. Don’t even get me started on that man. You’re just a butler at Claremont Mansion—how dare you meddle in Claremont family matters like that?! Even using Octavia? Stressing Jeffrey? Just to secure your job?? I get that you’re scared of losing your job, but come on—was all that scheming necessary? Couldn’t you have just sat everyone down and said, “Hey, could one of you get married and have an heir so we don’t all lose our jobs?” Or, “Hey, maybe we should do something about those fake diamonds?” Honestly, that would've gone down smoother than dragging everyone into a massive mess. Even Henry had a solution ready, for heaven’s sake! I feel so bad for Octavia now. I thought she was the one behind the sbshsnj in volume 7 and 8, but nope—it was bloody Laurent. Damn you, Laurent.
Speaking of which—massive shoutout to Henry for cussing Laurent out. I laughed so hard, and I’m also grateful he said what we were all thinking. But Haruyoshi... mate, what exactly have you been teaching Henry? 😂
Also—I owe Vince an apology. After Volume 9, I was fully on the “meh” side about him, but seeing him handle Octavia so gently in this volume made me change my tune. Who knew that under that frosty face was someone who actually knows how to be kind? However, Vince—if this was how you behaved when trying to get close to Richard before, then yeah... I totally get why Richard never opened up to you. Lol.
And Henry, again—thank you for becoming Octavia’s new family. That girl needed someone like you to pull her away from the darkness. Bless her.
AND SEIGI. WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT.
You got on your knees and kissed Richard’s hand and I—I blacked out. You broke me, you absolute menace. I haven’t recovered since.
Oh, and let’s not forget the ridiculously silly conversation between Richard, Seigi, and Saul about Seigi’s next move. Richard and Saul weren’t the only ones gobsmacked—I was absolutely floored by Seigi’s decision. The lad is so head over heels for Richard, he made a life-changing decision like it’s nothing... AND HE STILL DOESN’T REALISE IT. Someone, please slap him for me.
Anyway, that’s all from me. Judging by the way I just ranted about it—you can probably tell this book’s got a cracking story, right? Yeah.
September 15, 2025
probablemente mi libro favorito del año
dije “solo voy a leer un poquito del prólogo porque extraño a Richard y Seigi” y terminé devorándome el libro entero. arrancar con Richard recordando lo que pensó y sintió la primera vez que vio a Seigi fue un golpe directo al corazón. cómo iba a soltarlo después de eso? imposible
la trama con Octavia… meh. entiendo de dónde nace su enojo, pero nunca logré conectar del todo con ella. igual, admito que el Keeping Up with the Claremonts hizo que el proceso fuera mucho más entretenido (y vince también, su presencia siempre es un regalo). además, las reuniones familiares para matar a Sans de Undertale fueron TAN absurdas que me reí durante páginas enteras. que Henry lo comparara con Jeffrey fue glorioso, y encima las últimas palabras de Sans calzan perfecto con la situación, como si Octavia se las estuviera diciendo a Seigi. esas coincidencias me hicieron sentir que tenía 10 años (y una obsesión muy intensa con Undertale) de vuelta, y posta que se me ponía la piel de gallina de la emoción
pero lo que de verdad me partió en mil fueron Richard y Seigi. que el libro abra con Richard pensando: “Whomsoever becomes the ‘rightful place’ of this man with a heart of living gemstone shall be a lucky soul indeed” sobre Seigi y cierre con Seigi diciéndole: “I hope my rightful place winds up being right next to you” nono es CINE!!! pura acción poética. la clase de simetría narrativa que me hace querer correr por toda la casa
su relación en este tomo es tan intensa que me volvió incoherente. sí, me dieron ganas de cagarme a trompadas con Seigi cuando prefirió que Richard le explique sus sentimientos con palabras en lugar de acciones, pero lo entiendo: si Richard llegaba a actuar en ese momento ni Seigi ni yo hubiéramos sobrevivido (somos de corazón débil. qué hubieramos hecho si Richard lo besaba? morir, seguro). de todas formas el amor de Seigi sigue siendo una locura. dejó sus dos carreras sin pensarlo demasiado, solo para dedicar su vida a Richard. lo ves feliz de convertirse en un perrito faldero cada vez que Richard lo elogia (ese praising kink no se esconde), y mientras grita en el fondo de su alma I DID WANT TO BE WITH THE MAN I LOVED
lo que más me conmueve es la naturalidad con la que Seigi acepta cualquier etiqueta para su relación. no le importa lo que diga el resto, ni si lo entienden o no. él solo quiere estar con Richard, en cualquier forma que eso tome, y durante todo el tiempo que Richard se lo permita. esa devoción absoluta me destruye y me reconstruye al mismo tiempo
no tengo palabras para expresar lo mucho que los amo. si en 2020 me hubieran dicho que aquel anime caótico y sin sentido que vi en plena pandemia iba a arrastrarme a esta obsesión, no me lo hubiese creído. y sin embargo acá ando. también me encuentro un poco en negación porque nos acercamos al final, pero al mismo tiempo estoy feliz!! y es que sé que voy a disfrutar cada paso de este recorrido hasta la última página :]
dije “solo voy a leer un poquito del prólogo porque extraño a Richard y Seigi” y terminé devorándome el libro entero. arrancar con Richard recordando lo que pensó y sintió la primera vez que vio a Seigi fue un golpe directo al corazón. cómo iba a soltarlo después de eso? imposible
la trama con Octavia… meh. entiendo de dónde nace su enojo, pero nunca logré conectar del todo con ella. igual, admito que el Keeping Up with the Claremonts hizo que el proceso fuera mucho más entretenido (y vince también, su presencia siempre es un regalo). además, las reuniones familiares para matar a Sans de Undertale fueron TAN absurdas que me reí durante páginas enteras. que Henry lo comparara con Jeffrey fue glorioso, y encima las últimas palabras de Sans calzan perfecto con la situación, como si Octavia se las estuviera diciendo a Seigi. esas coincidencias me hicieron sentir que tenía 10 años (y una obsesión muy intensa con Undertale) de vuelta, y posta que se me ponía la piel de gallina de la emoción
pero lo que de verdad me partió en mil fueron Richard y Seigi. que el libro abra con Richard pensando: “Whomsoever becomes the ‘rightful place’ of this man with a heart of living gemstone shall be a lucky soul indeed” sobre Seigi y cierre con Seigi diciéndole: “I hope my rightful place winds up being right next to you” nono es CINE!!! pura acción poética. la clase de simetría narrativa que me hace querer correr por toda la casa
su relación en este tomo es tan intensa que me volvió incoherente. sí, me dieron ganas de cagarme a trompadas con Seigi cuando prefirió que Richard le explique sus sentimientos con palabras en lugar de acciones, pero lo entiendo: si Richard llegaba a actuar en ese momento ni Seigi ni yo hubiéramos sobrevivido (somos de corazón débil. qué hubieramos hecho si Richard lo besaba? morir, seguro). de todas formas el amor de Seigi sigue siendo una locura. dejó sus dos carreras sin pensarlo demasiado, solo para dedicar su vida a Richard. lo ves feliz de convertirse en un perrito faldero cada vez que Richard lo elogia (ese praising kink no se esconde), y mientras grita en el fondo de su alma I DID WANT TO BE WITH THE MAN I LOVED
lo que más me conmueve es la naturalidad con la que Seigi acepta cualquier etiqueta para su relación. no le importa lo que diga el resto, ni si lo entienden o no. él solo quiere estar con Richard, en cualquier forma que eso tome, y durante todo el tiempo que Richard se lo permita. esa devoción absoluta me destruye y me reconstruye al mismo tiempo
no tengo palabras para expresar lo mucho que los amo. si en 2020 me hubieran dicho que aquel anime caótico y sin sentido que vi en plena pandemia iba a arrastrarme a esta obsesión, no me lo hubiese creído. y sin embargo acá ando. también me encuentro un poco en negación porque nos acercamos al final, pero al mismo tiempo estoy feliz!! y es que sé que voy a disfrutar cada paso de este recorrido hasta la última página :]
January 21, 2026
So I was tragically misinformed when I came across a spoiler declaring that "Book 10 is where it gets romantic."
Excuse me, were we reading the same book?
When our protagonists DO finally get some time together - which seems to be less and less with each volume - some feelings are expressed, yes. But what does it lead to?
Nothing. It just hangs there and almost immediately returns to "status quo." As a reader, I think I felt more dejected and gaslit than the character did.
Now, ok, I know that *supposedly* these two will get together by the end, but my fear is that the author will just do another convenient timeskip and leave out all of that stuff. Y'know like the fun "stuff" being the romance, the courtship, how they both get on the same page - the love story! And no, I'm not demanding smut, but give me some "BL," dammit! Isn't that why most of us are here?
Also, I've got another gripe. I know that a big part of this series is about the mysteries, family drama, and the intrigue of the jewelery world, and that stuff can be very interesting for sure. In small doses. Not when it overshadows the heart of the story: The leads. Seigi and Richard. Like I said, there's been less of them together with each latest volume.
And dont get me started on the supporting characters. I know they are necessary for many of the ongoing plots, but they really wear out their welcomes when it takes time away from Richard and Seigi.
Did we really need to hear about Saul's entire spiritual journey from the time he was a boy to the present? Did we need to spend so much time on Vince's entire backstory when it could have been explained much more efficiently? The Octavia and the butler stuff dragged out so long only for it to be resolved in such an anticlimactic fashion.
I'm not even sure I care to read the next volume. Supposedly, it's mostly short stories concerning the side characters.
*Sigh*
I couldn't care less about Tanimoto's life as a teacher or Jeffrey and his secret boyfriend. Do. Not. Care.
Damn it. On to another series for now. I think Volume 12 comes out in July 2026, so I'll pick up from there. Let's hope things improve.
Excuse me, were we reading the same book?
When our protagonists DO finally get some time together - which seems to be less and less with each volume - some feelings are expressed, yes. But what does it lead to?
Nothing. It just hangs there and almost immediately returns to "status quo." As a reader, I think I felt more dejected and gaslit than the character did.
Now, ok, I know that *supposedly* these two will get together by the end, but my fear is that the author will just do another convenient timeskip and leave out all of that stuff. Y'know like the fun "stuff" being the romance, the courtship, how they both get on the same page - the love story! And no, I'm not demanding smut, but give me some "BL," dammit! Isn't that why most of us are here?
Also, I've got another gripe. I know that a big part of this series is about the mysteries, family drama, and the intrigue of the jewelery world, and that stuff can be very interesting for sure. In small doses. Not when it overshadows the heart of the story: The leads. Seigi and Richard. Like I said, there's been less of them together with each latest volume.
And dont get me started on the supporting characters. I know they are necessary for many of the ongoing plots, but they really wear out their welcomes when it takes time away from Richard and Seigi.
Did we really need to hear about Saul's entire spiritual journey from the time he was a boy to the present? Did we need to spend so much time on Vince's entire backstory when it could have been explained much more efficiently? The Octavia and the butler stuff dragged out so long only for it to be resolved in such an anticlimactic fashion.
I'm not even sure I care to read the next volume. Supposedly, it's mostly short stories concerning the side characters.
*Sigh*
I couldn't care less about Tanimoto's life as a teacher or Jeffrey and his secret boyfriend. Do. Not. Care.
Damn it. On to another series for now. I think Volume 12 comes out in July 2026, so I'll pick up from there. Let's hope things improve.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2025
Octavia arc was fun! She is cute and I liked her quite a bit, and especially her bond with Vince.
But uhm.
GETTING ON ONE KNEE, KISSING RICHARD'S HAND AND THEN TELLING HIM HE WOULD LIKE TO BE BY HIS SIDE FOREVER???? IN PUBLIC??? SURE SEIGI NO HOMO AND THEN RICHARD KISSES HIS HAND BACK? INTIMATELY???? GUYS
I can't DO THIS ANYMORE. They're just out here discussing having a second child (read: dog) together after watching the stars together and basically confirming they're dating (except they're dumb about it so they didn't).
'sAUL WAS RIGHT; DID WANT TO BE WITH THE MAN I LOVED' HWAT THE HELL DO U MEAN UR JOB IS RICHARD. WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU HOPE YOU CAN BE TOGETHER FOREVER. WHAT DO YOU MEAN DEAR PARTNER
But uhm.
GETTING ON ONE KNEE, KISSING RICHARD'S HAND AND THEN TELLING HIM HE WOULD LIKE TO BE BY HIS SIDE FOREVER???? IN PUBLIC??? SURE SEIGI NO HOMO AND THEN RICHARD KISSES HIS HAND BACK? INTIMATELY???? GUYS
I can't DO THIS ANYMORE. They're just out here discussing having a second child (read: dog) together after watching the stars together and basically confirming they're dating (except they're dumb about it so they didn't).
'sAUL WAS RIGHT; DID WANT TO BE WITH THE MAN I LOVED' HWAT THE HELL DO U MEAN UR JOB IS RICHARD. WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU HOPE YOU CAN BE TOGETHER FOREVER. WHAT DO YOU MEAN DEAR PARTNER
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2025
I always get a little worried when it takes us a while to get any real Seigi and Richard screentime but I kept telling myself to have faith because the last few books have not only rewarded said faith but also moved the relationship forward and, once again, I worried for nothing! I cannot believe how lucky we got with that epilogue.
Seigi: What would I like to do in the future.... what's my passion... what's the only thing I can imagine caring about..... hrm. Richard.
Richard *pinching bridge of nose, not making eye contact with Saul*: .... Okay.
HOW AM I MEANT TO SURVIVE THEM HONESTLY????
Seigi: What would I like to do in the future.... what's my passion... what's the only thing I can imagine caring about..... hrm. Richard.
Richard *pinching bridge of nose, not making eye contact with Saul*: .... Okay.
HOW AM I MEANT TO SURVIVE THEM HONESTLY????
July 12, 2025
honestly, i still need to process what happened but!! this moved me fr. i actually teared up. i loved how everyone's relationships were written. i don't this was a perfect novel, but there was just so much heart & sincerity that i just can't help loving it. there is something so fundamentally human in tsujimura's writing that every time i read a JR novel, suddenly the sun is shining, the birds are chirping, & life is good.
also, richard was definitely going to kiss seigi in the museum. fight me.
also, richard was definitely going to kiss seigi in the museum. fight me.
April 4, 2025
ITS PEAAAAKKKKKKKKK HOW DOES EACH BOOK KEEP GETTING BETTER...
I found that the inclusion of suicide awareness was really good. i really appreciated how much care the author took to outline just how pervasive passive suicidality is.
I also cant believe seigi and richard are basically married. but under the pretense of "work" like wtf . JUST ADMIT YOU HAVE FEELINGS FOR EACH OTHER IN A NORMAL WAYYYYY
I found that the inclusion of suicide awareness was really good. i really appreciated how much care the author took to outline just how pervasive passive suicidality is.
I also cant believe seigi and richard are basically married. but under the pretense of "work" like wtf . JUST ADMIT YOU HAVE FEELINGS FOR EACH OTHER IN A NORMAL WAYYYYY
August 12, 2025
This was so bad and I don't know why. Seigi and his inner thoughts were so annoying in this one. I really disliked this book and honestly still dont know why Seigi was even part of the hotel situation. And why did he care so much about Octavia? Putting his nose where it doesn't belong. Also the video game parallels were annoying too. I actually almost hated this volume.
April 26, 2025
I just... yes I love this series so much
April 27, 2025
Hey girl. what.
May 4, 2025
AAAHH I love it 😭
June 5, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up because the main issue was resolved without much of Seigi's involvement, which was definitely for the best.
January 17, 2026
I love that Seigi’s biggest dream is to be a kept boy. Honestly, relatable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2025
FINALLY
May 14, 2025
Actual Rating: 3.75
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