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オメガ・メガエラ #1
Omega Megaera 1
In a world where people have one of three sexes-alpha, beta, or omega-in addition to being male or female, alphas have pushed their way to the top. Omegas are oppressed, their status determined by whether or not they successfully bear alpha children. An omega named Saimon marries into the prolific Hanabusa family, a major conglomerate, but is unable to produce an heir for his alpha husband Seijuro, and is shunned as a “Megaera,” a creature that brings ill fortune. One day, Saimon is summoned by the family patriarch Zenjiro and ordered to locate the man's illegitimate son. Saimon finds the boy, Mamiya, who has been making a life for himself on the streets while hiding the fact that he's an omega. Desperate to regain his position as Seijuro's top spouse, Saimon proposes an audacious pass Mamiya off as an alpha heir and try to gain the headship of the Hanabusa family.
160 pages, Paperback
First published July 6, 2018
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56 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
October 14, 2025
I'll start my review saying that looking at other comments about this manga, it feels like it's very misunderstood, which is a shame because this is a story that reflects a lot of ugliness in society in a fictional setting but unfortunately people are taking it the other way.
Starting by the plot, this is an omegaverse that tells the story of the Hanabusa family. The alpha son of the family's head has three wives. One of them, the protagonist, is considered a 'megaera', which means an omega that brings misfortune to their family. A new task is given to him by his father-in-law that could change his fate: to find an illegimate son and turn into his mother if he is an alpha.
I really liked how the story adds its own details to the 'omegaverse rules' that make it unique and in tune to what it wants to tell. It is a dark world if one sits down to think about it, and it shows new elements along the ride in a way that allows the narrative to flow without it being turned into info dumping.
Now, I rather adress the elephant in the room before continuing: the debatable themes surrounding this manga. I feel like it can be easy for people to judge, especially for some that aren't familiar with asian BL omegaverse in general (or that don't bother to have a wider perspective with the cultural differences). It's true that the story uses gendered terms such as calling mother and wife to omegas, while for alphas it is father and husband. I personally don't have an issue with this, although I understand that not everyone might feel the same, but I still think it is unfair to disregard everything else this manga accomplishes for that.
While it is only volume 1, it's a story that wants to tackle difficult themes from the beginning. Even when the base is a traditional omegaverse (not bad in itself, it's fiction after all), I like that it touches important topics such as the way people are expected to fulfill certain role and how they're treated when they cannot do it (eg. concieve a child). There's also the present subject of how rigid such roles are that even female alphas and male alphas that don't fit expectations are treated as less. The loss of power once an omega enters a marriage to the point of not being able to say no to someone that is in a 'higher' position is another topic that I hope to see explored more in future volumes.
About the pairings, the set up between the young alpha and the new addition to the family is interesting and it adds good drama to the story. They have a forbidden love vibe that has me very excited. I have mixed feelings about the omega protagonist and his husband, but that isn't to say I don't like them together - I feel that they're tragic because both are a product of their enviroment. They're flawed characters (the protagonist being more of a victim, totally, but that doesn't mean he is perfect) which is great for me because the more imperfect they are, the more they hold my attention.
I can't wait for the second volume. I was excited when I saw this title because I knew this author from their Pornographer and Mood Indigo mangas (also BL), which surprisingly told stories in a mature and introspective way. I have high expectations, and so far this vol. 1 felt like a good introduction, so I'm hoping the rest delivers as well.
-I received a copy of this book for free through NetGalley and I am leaving an honest review voluntarily.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Dynamic:
Starting by the plot, this is an omegaverse that tells the story of the Hanabusa family. The alpha son of the family's head has three wives. One of them, the protagonist, is considered a 'megaera', which means an omega that brings misfortune to their family. A new task is given to him by his father-in-law that could change his fate: to find an illegimate son and turn into his mother if he is an alpha.
I really liked how the story adds its own details to the 'omegaverse rules' that make it unique and in tune to what it wants to tell. It is a dark world if one sits down to think about it, and it shows new elements along the ride in a way that allows the narrative to flow without it being turned into info dumping.
Now, I rather adress the elephant in the room before continuing: the debatable themes surrounding this manga. I feel like it can be easy for people to judge, especially for some that aren't familiar with asian BL omegaverse in general (or that don't bother to have a wider perspective with the cultural differences). It's true that the story uses gendered terms such as calling mother and wife to omegas, while for alphas it is father and husband. I personally don't have an issue with this, although I understand that not everyone might feel the same, but I still think it is unfair to disregard everything else this manga accomplishes for that.
While it is only volume 1, it's a story that wants to tackle difficult themes from the beginning. Even when the base is a traditional omegaverse (not bad in itself, it's fiction after all), I like that it touches important topics such as the way people are expected to fulfill certain role and how they're treated when they cannot do it (eg. concieve a child). There's also the present subject of how rigid such roles are that even female alphas and male alphas that don't fit expectations are treated as less. The loss of power once an omega enters a marriage to the point of not being able to say no to someone that is in a 'higher' position is another topic that I hope to see explored more in future volumes.
About the pairings, the set up between the young alpha and the new addition to the family is interesting and it adds good drama to the story. They have a forbidden love vibe that has me very excited. I have mixed feelings about the omega protagonist and his husband, but that isn't to say I don't like them together - I feel that they're tragic because both are a product of their enviroment. They're flawed characters (the protagonist being more of a victim, totally, but that doesn't mean he is perfect) which is great for me because the more imperfect they are, the more they hold my attention.
I can't wait for the second volume. I was excited when I saw this title because I knew this author from their Pornographer and Mood Indigo mangas (also BL), which surprisingly told stories in a mature and introspective way. I have high expectations, and so far this vol. 1 felt like a good introduction, so I'm hoping the rest delivers as well.
-I received a copy of this book for free through NetGalley and I am leaving an honest review voluntarily.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Dynamic:
November 9, 2025
An omega who can’t bear children finally gets his wish, but not in the way that he wanted.
I have to admit, Omegaverse is a big guilty-pleasure of mine and I absolutely love it to bits. So when I saw Omega Megaera on Netgalley I immediately applied for a review copy without thinking twice. And I sure don’t regret it! This was an absolute joy to read, exactly how I like my Omegaverse manga.
Surprisingly enough, it doesn’t even has that much spice. There has only been some closed-door smut, which is refreshing in an omegaverse manga. And the second couple? Oh my, take my heart right now!!
The art style is what I expected from a BL-manga, but the characters were an absolute delight. A female Alpha, an Alpha who basically is a good-for-nothing idiot (I love him though, he is my favourite!) and an Omega impersonating an Alpha. All the yesssss to everything! Give me more!
I can’t wait for the 2nd volume of this manga and definitely will be keeping an eye out on Netgalley. Because I love it so much! It is definitely going directly into my favourites.
Disclaimer:
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for a honest review.
I have to admit, Omegaverse is a big guilty-pleasure of mine and I absolutely love it to bits. So when I saw Omega Megaera on Netgalley I immediately applied for a review copy without thinking twice. And I sure don’t regret it! This was an absolute joy to read, exactly how I like my Omegaverse manga.
Surprisingly enough, it doesn’t even has that much spice. There has only been some closed-door smut, which is refreshing in an omegaverse manga. And the second couple? Oh my, take my heart right now!!
The art style is what I expected from a BL-manga, but the characters were an absolute delight. A female Alpha, an Alpha who basically is a good-for-nothing idiot (I love him though, he is my favourite!) and an Omega impersonating an Alpha. All the yesssss to everything! Give me more!
I can’t wait for the 2nd volume of this manga and definitely will be keeping an eye out on Netgalley. Because I love it so much! It is definitely going directly into my favourites.
Disclaimer:
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for a honest review.
Read
October 14, 2025Thank you to Netgalley and Kodansha for a review copy!
This would be a really solid introduction into non-shifter omegaverse! Everything is explained clearly and pretty much the only thing you need to keep track of is who is who in the family lol. There is a family portrait at the start though which is really pretty in colour, I loved that, and I imagine if this was a physical copy I would be referencing it a bit.
My favourite character ended up being Mamiya, the kid the main character Saimon adopts to win back his husband. He’s just so funny and spunky and I love how he’s snarky towards his mother but actually really depends on him, because he’s better than his biological mother.
The relationship between Saimon and Seijuro is intriguing too, I loveeeeee me some fated mates and when it’s like “forbidden” ???? Yes please. (forbidden because Saimon could not bear a child himself - also, I’m not huge on mpreg but this wasn’t explicit, it’s like one frame on page and the rest is implication)
This family is messyyyyyyyyyy (positive) and I want to know if the patriarch (I hate this guy I hate him he’s SO GROSS) is behind the attack on Saimon…?
All in all, this was ridiculous (as omegaverses often are, don’t take them seriously lol) but it was a good time and I will probably be on the look out for the next volume.
This would be a really solid introduction into non-shifter omegaverse! Everything is explained clearly and pretty much the only thing you need to keep track of is who is who in the family lol. There is a family portrait at the start though which is really pretty in colour, I loved that, and I imagine if this was a physical copy I would be referencing it a bit.
My favourite character ended up being Mamiya, the kid the main character Saimon adopts to win back his husband. He’s just so funny and spunky and I love how he’s snarky towards his mother but actually really depends on him, because he’s better than his biological mother.
The relationship between Saimon and Seijuro is intriguing too, I loveeeeee me some fated mates and when it’s like “forbidden” ???? Yes please. (forbidden because Saimon could not bear a child himself - also, I’m not huge on mpreg but this wasn’t explicit, it’s like one frame on page and the rest is implication)
This family is messyyyyyyyyyy (positive) and I want to know if the patriarch (I hate this guy I hate him he’s SO GROSS) is behind the attack on Saimon…?
All in all, this was ridiculous (as omegaverses often are, don’t take them seriously lol) but it was a good time and I will probably be on the look out for the next volume.
January 15, 2026
This was messy, toxic, possibly incestuous, and so very compelling. There's scheming family drama on a soap opera level, and I'm hooked on the chaos. There's also themes that are uncomfortably real reflections of our current society shown within, giving this another layer. Definitely looking forward to more.
Read
December 1, 2025Turns out, I was not the target audience for this.
I hope that old man dies a painful death at some point (his eldest son, as well).
I hope that old man dies a painful death at some point (his eldest son, as well).
December 8, 2025
An omega verse is always what I need when I don't know what to read
November 2, 2025
This was a bit of a departure from my usual BL reads, but Omega Megaera turned out to be a relevant surprise, especially in the context of our current dumpster fire society.
The story introduces a three-tiered world where Alphas dominate positions of power, Betas live relatively nondescript lives, and Omegas are confined to the role of tradwives, valued only for their ability to bear Alpha children. Within the powerful Hanabusa family, each Alpha takes on multiple Omega 'wives' (a term applied regardless of gender), all striving to produce the most successful heir and earn coveted 'first wife' status.
But not all Omegas are fertile. Those deemed infertile become outcasts known as Megaeras, who are symbols of bad luck, unworthy of family or society. Saimon, our main protagonist, is unfortunately one of them. In a desperate attempt to regain his place as first wife to the man he believes is his soulmate, he agrees to track down his father-in-law’s illegitimate Omega child and raise him as his own. However, the child must be passed off as an Alpha to have any chance of success.
The plot is complex and introduces a large cast early on, which might overwhelm some readers, but I found the family portrait at the start quite helpful for keeping track of who's who and how they're related.
What I enjoyed most was the sharp social commentary woven through the story. The parallels between the treatment of Omegas and the expectations placed on women in modern society are striking, particularly the way those who reject traditional gender roles are ostracised, much like the Megaeras themselves. The author doesn’t exactly do it with subtlety, but the exaggeration works. It’s a clever take on the omegaverse trope, using it as a mirror for real-world inequality.
Overall, I really enjoyed this manga. The layered family drama and scheming kept me hooked, and the social commentary gave it interesting depth. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where the story goes next as more volumes are translated.
*I was given an advanced copy for free, but I am leaving this review voluntarily*
The story introduces a three-tiered world where Alphas dominate positions of power, Betas live relatively nondescript lives, and Omegas are confined to the role of tradwives, valued only for their ability to bear Alpha children. Within the powerful Hanabusa family, each Alpha takes on multiple Omega 'wives' (a term applied regardless of gender), all striving to produce the most successful heir and earn coveted 'first wife' status.
But not all Omegas are fertile. Those deemed infertile become outcasts known as Megaeras, who are symbols of bad luck, unworthy of family or society. Saimon, our main protagonist, is unfortunately one of them. In a desperate attempt to regain his place as first wife to the man he believes is his soulmate, he agrees to track down his father-in-law’s illegitimate Omega child and raise him as his own. However, the child must be passed off as an Alpha to have any chance of success.
The plot is complex and introduces a large cast early on, which might overwhelm some readers, but I found the family portrait at the start quite helpful for keeping track of who's who and how they're related.
What I enjoyed most was the sharp social commentary woven through the story. The parallels between the treatment of Omegas and the expectations placed on women in modern society are striking, particularly the way those who reject traditional gender roles are ostracised, much like the Megaeras themselves. The author doesn’t exactly do it with subtlety, but the exaggeration works. It’s a clever take on the omegaverse trope, using it as a mirror for real-world inequality.
Overall, I really enjoyed this manga. The layered family drama and scheming kept me hooked, and the social commentary gave it interesting depth. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where the story goes next as more volumes are translated.
*I was given an advanced copy for free, but I am leaving this review voluntarily*
October 20, 2025
I can't deny it any longer. I have a thing for omegaverse. It's hooked me up from the moment one of my friends introduced me to it, a couple years ago, and now, whenever I get the chance to read something about this particular yet compelling world, I dive straight into it.
"Omega Megaera" has been a huge surprise. When I sent my request for an ARC of this to NetGalley, I did it just because the title included the word "omega". I would've never guessed I'd just found a five star read. This is easily one of the best, most accurate omegaverse stories I've ever read. Despite I haven't read much of them, I can tell this piece of work is very good stuff.
Before diving deeper into my endless thoughts about the manga, let's get a better sight of the whole plot: we follow an omega named Saimon, married to an alpha named Seijuro, who's part of the Hanabusa family, a major conglomerate. However, Saimon is unable to produce an heir for his alpha, and this lead to him being shunned as a “Megaera,” a creature that brings ill fortune.
One day, Saimon is summoned by the family patriarch Zenjiro and ordered to look for the man’s illegitimate son, Mamiya. Mamiya has been making a life for himself on the streets, hiding the fact that he’s an omega. Desperate to regain his position as Seijuro’s top spouse, Saimon proposes a plan to Mamiya: pass him off as an alpha heir and try to gain the headship of the Hanabusa family.
Now. I've got a lot of stuff I LOVED about this manga. First of all, the world we're set in--the omegaverse--is introduced to the reader perfectly, starting off from the very beginning. I really appreciated it, realizing how good someone who's utterly unaware of what omegaverse is could understand the way it works and how the characters' life's like, depending on their gender. Reason why I strongly recommend this manga to anyone who's been looking for a good book to get into this world. It's the best one I've read so far. Then, I also adored the whole story, the characters, the relationships between them. I particularly grew fond of Mamiya.
I can't wait to read the second volume of this delightful piece of work!
I'd like to thank NetGalley to have given me the chance of getting an ARC ebook copy of this manga. Looking forward to more of these!
"Omega Megaera" has been a huge surprise. When I sent my request for an ARC of this to NetGalley, I did it just because the title included the word "omega". I would've never guessed I'd just found a five star read. This is easily one of the best, most accurate omegaverse stories I've ever read. Despite I haven't read much of them, I can tell this piece of work is very good stuff.
Before diving deeper into my endless thoughts about the manga, let's get a better sight of the whole plot: we follow an omega named Saimon, married to an alpha named Seijuro, who's part of the Hanabusa family, a major conglomerate. However, Saimon is unable to produce an heir for his alpha, and this lead to him being shunned as a “Megaera,” a creature that brings ill fortune.
One day, Saimon is summoned by the family patriarch Zenjiro and ordered to look for the man’s illegitimate son, Mamiya. Mamiya has been making a life for himself on the streets, hiding the fact that he’s an omega. Desperate to regain his position as Seijuro’s top spouse, Saimon proposes a plan to Mamiya: pass him off as an alpha heir and try to gain the headship of the Hanabusa family.
Now. I've got a lot of stuff I LOVED about this manga. First of all, the world we're set in--the omegaverse--is introduced to the reader perfectly, starting off from the very beginning. I really appreciated it, realizing how good someone who's utterly unaware of what omegaverse is could understand the way it works and how the characters' life's like, depending on their gender. Reason why I strongly recommend this manga to anyone who's been looking for a good book to get into this world. It's the best one I've read so far. Then, I also adored the whole story, the characters, the relationships between them. I particularly grew fond of Mamiya.
I can't wait to read the second volume of this delightful piece of work!
I'd like to thank NetGalley to have given me the chance of getting an ARC ebook copy of this manga. Looking forward to more of these!
January 2, 2026
Love the concept. I tend to like the omegaverse, but this one takes it to another level. This is a family dispute succession style, and I'm here for it! And the way it ends the first volume? omg I need to know what will happen next!!
November 17, 2025
When I saw an omegaverse manga on NetGalley, I just had to request to read it — and I made the right choice!
It's not your usual omegaverse manga focused on explicit scenes and the difficulties omegas have in controlling their heat, but rather a dramatic manga in which the sexual aspects of the genre itself are not the most important part.
It's a story about a prestigious alpha family that still doesn't have an alpha heir that can permit to one of the three wives of the family's scion to be "First Wife" of the family — among these wives there's is a "megaera", a sterile omega who cannot have children and has therefore been demoted to last wife, despite being the first to marry in the family.
A glimmer of hope appears in his life when the head of the family/father-in-law asks him to search for his stepson, who was born as a result of rape a few years earlier.
It is a dramatic manga, with strong themes and family dynamics worthy of the best TV dramas — I devoured the first volume and can't wait to read the next ones!
[Read it's ARC on NetGalley]
It's not your usual omegaverse manga focused on explicit scenes and the difficulties omegas have in controlling their heat, but rather a dramatic manga in which the sexual aspects of the genre itself are not the most important part.
It's a story about a prestigious alpha family that still doesn't have an alpha heir that can permit to one of the three wives of the family's scion to be "First Wife" of the family — among these wives there's is a "megaera", a sterile omega who cannot have children and has therefore been demoted to last wife, despite being the first to marry in the family.
A glimmer of hope appears in his life when the head of the family/father-in-law asks him to search for his stepson, who was born as a result of rape a few years earlier.
It is a dramatic manga, with strong themes and family dynamics worthy of the best TV dramas — I devoured the first volume and can't wait to read the next ones!
[Read it's ARC on NetGalley]
November 20, 2025
This exceeded my expectations. When I read manga set in this particular world, there is usually a formula that plays out, and I am happy to reread that formula over and over. Imagine my surprise and delight when this one not only doesn't follow that formula, but sets up a world and story that feels just like a soap opera in the best way. While there are a lot of serious topics discussed and it is very clearly a serious story, there are bits of over the top expressions and dramatic interactions that help keep things from being *too* serious.
But also, the writing is just so good. It has taken this trope and really elevated it to something that can be really taken seriously. There is so much drama going on, and I am here for it. I can't wait for things to get even more messy. I will say, though, trigger warning that I wish I had:
The art style is fantastic. Very lovely. I also like that there are a few pages in the front with a family photo that has the main cast of characters with their names so you can reference back and forth if you need to. For someone like me who sometimes has trouble keeping a lot of characters straight, it's nice to have there if I need to be reminded who is who.
Thanks to Netgalley and Kodansha for the DRC! I can't wait to read the next volume!
But also, the writing is just so good. It has taken this trope and really elevated it to something that can be really taken seriously. There is so much drama going on, and I am here for it. I can't wait for things to get even more messy. I will say, though, trigger warning that I wish I had:
The art style is fantastic. Very lovely. I also like that there are a few pages in the front with a family photo that has the main cast of characters with their names so you can reference back and forth if you need to. For someone like me who sometimes has trouble keeping a lot of characters straight, it's nice to have there if I need to be reminded who is who.
Thanks to Netgalley and Kodansha for the DRC! I can't wait to read the next volume!
October 13, 2025
I was SO excited for this book when I got it but it was absolutely not it. The only reason I finished it is I don't review books I don't finish because I'm not fully informed and I wanted to be informed when I ranted about this.
Male omegas are referred to as "wife" and "mother" and like?? What was the reason? Like did you want MM but didn't want to fully commit? Why even have a male omega then, just make them all women. Patriarchy prevails I suppose.
Mamiya? It's just casually thrown out he's the product of rape because his father slept with a thirteen year old girl and impregnated her. It's okay though because her parents gave her to him. Like it's glossed over. And that brings us to the brother/sister incest insinuations. Like we're really hitting the trifecta. That all leads us to the point where Saimon's supposed soul mate finds out he's been raped repeatedly by his father. His first reaction? Ask him why he didn't say no.
Like bffr. Omegas are supposed to be weak and pitiful and pathetic and you're mad that he couldn't stop your own father from raping him? Gross.
Will not be reading the next installment.
thank you to the publisher for the gifted arc
Male omegas are referred to as "wife" and "mother" and like?? What was the reason? Like did you want MM but didn't want to fully commit? Why even have a male omega then, just make them all women. Patriarchy prevails I suppose.
Mamiya? It's just casually thrown out he's the product of rape because his father slept with a thirteen year old girl and impregnated her. It's okay though because her parents gave her to him. Like it's glossed over. And that brings us to the brother/sister incest insinuations. Like we're really hitting the trifecta. That all leads us to the point where Saimon's supposed soul mate finds out he's been raped repeatedly by his father. His first reaction? Ask him why he didn't say no.
Like bffr. Omegas are supposed to be weak and pitiful and pathetic and you're mad that he couldn't stop your own father from raping him? Gross.
Will not be reading the next installment.
thank you to the publisher for the gifted arc
February 21, 2025
Comentaré en este mis pensamientos generales después dd haber terminado el manga por completo.
Ha sido el mejor omegaverse que he leído, no solo por la calidad sociopolítica de la obra sino también por la complejidad de los personajes.
Sus relaciones interpersonales me parecieron increíbles. No sólo porque se tocan varios temas que me tocan al corazón como: amar a varias personas al mismo tiempo de forma genuina, amor verdadero entre alfa/omega, el volver a amar después de una decepción amorosa profunda, etc.
Me encanta la variedad de parejas y sus tipos, mostrando que existen amores interesantes no solo en una pareja omega/alfa.
100/10. Recomendado♡
Ha sido el mejor omegaverse que he leído, no solo por la calidad sociopolítica de la obra sino también por la complejidad de los personajes.
Sus relaciones interpersonales me parecieron increíbles. No sólo porque se tocan varios temas que me tocan al corazón como: amar a varias personas al mismo tiempo de forma genuina, amor verdadero entre alfa/omega, el volver a amar después de una decepción amorosa profunda, etc.
Me encanta la variedad de parejas y sus tipos, mostrando que existen amores interesantes no solo en una pareja omega/alfa.
100/10. Recomendado♡
November 24, 2025
Omegaverse stories routinely examine what sexism would look like in a world with three additional genders (or, if you want to punnet square it, 6 completely unique genders), but tend to focus on the sexism of the Alpha-Beta-Omega dynamic. This manga does that, but ALSO examines “traditional” misogyny, with a plot heavily concerned with an alpha female, disenfranchised by her binary sex, whereas she feels entitled to respect due to her trinary sex.
But she’s not even the main focus! The story is told from the point of view of two omegas: the infertile love-match man who has been demoted to third (and lowest) wife in a powerful man’s harem, and the undocumented bastard son of the head of that family, who now seeks to front as an alpha in order to take over the family.
There’s an additional complication to this omegaverse where only omegas are capable of birthing alphas (and only with an alpha or, rarely, beta). Despite their value, they are basically breeding stock. At the same time, there’s commentary that the breeding programs have resulted in a higher percentage of alpha births, and speculation on what a shift in the ratios could do to society.
I am FASCINATED by this book, and desperately need volume 2 already. There’s a little bit of that desire and desperation you’d expect in an omegaverse story, but this is far more a DRAMA. And, so far, not even a romance drama! It’s political, it’s familia, it’s socio-sexual. I love this, I will definitely be continuing the series!
But she’s not even the main focus! The story is told from the point of view of two omegas: the infertile love-match man who has been demoted to third (and lowest) wife in a powerful man’s harem, and the undocumented bastard son of the head of that family, who now seeks to front as an alpha in order to take over the family.
There’s an additional complication to this omegaverse where only omegas are capable of birthing alphas (and only with an alpha or, rarely, beta). Despite their value, they are basically breeding stock. At the same time, there’s commentary that the breeding programs have resulted in a higher percentage of alpha births, and speculation on what a shift in the ratios could do to society.
I am FASCINATED by this book, and desperately need volume 2 already. There’s a little bit of that desire and desperation you’d expect in an omegaverse story, but this is far more a DRAMA. And, so far, not even a romance drama! It’s political, it’s familia, it’s socio-sexual. I love this, I will definitely be continuing the series!
October 24, 2025
Okay now that is what I’d call an interesting concept for an omegaverse manga. This was less about the romance, because this takes place almost 20 years after they were married. Saimon was the first omega wife to Seijuro, but when he couldn’t produce an alpha heir, a second wife was found and then a third. All in the hopes that they would have a male alpha successor.
Omega Megaera is about the succession of the family name, who will run the business, and become the new head of the Hanabusa clan. But for first wife Saimon, he gets his chance at finally knowing motherhood when the current head, Zenjiro, sends him to find his bastard child. His one stipulation is that the only reason to return with him would be if he’s an alpha. Unfortunately, Mamiya is in fact an omega. But this gives them the perfect chance to disrupt the balance and hierarchy by putting an omega into the line of succession.
Unlike most omega mangas that I’ve read, there was no smut in the first book. That isn’t to say there will be moving forward, but for now, none has been seen or heard from. There were some themes that made me do a double take… and question what I was reading… so I’m not sure how I felt about that. But we’ll see going forward.
Overall, I loved the action mystery of it all and am excited to see where the story goes.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my gifted eARC.
Omega Megaera is about the succession of the family name, who will run the business, and become the new head of the Hanabusa clan. But for first wife Saimon, he gets his chance at finally knowing motherhood when the current head, Zenjiro, sends him to find his bastard child. His one stipulation is that the only reason to return with him would be if he’s an alpha. Unfortunately, Mamiya is in fact an omega. But this gives them the perfect chance to disrupt the balance and hierarchy by putting an omega into the line of succession.
Unlike most omega mangas that I’ve read, there was no smut in the first book. That isn’t to say there will be moving forward, but for now, none has been seen or heard from. There were some themes that made me do a double take… and question what I was reading… so I’m not sure how I felt about that. But we’ll see going forward.
Overall, I loved the action mystery of it all and am excited to see where the story goes.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my gifted eARC.
October 8, 2025
I won’t beat around the bush, I hated this.
This was the most uncomfortable omegaverse world building i’ve come across.
Male omegas are called "wife" and "mother", it’s not even a disguised misogyny replica anymore. Women are still seen as inferior, yet omega and beta males are more oppressed than alpha women on the same basis as irl misogyny (being child bearers and having a "weaker" body) which rubs me the wrong way. I’m not here to see men suffer from "misogyny" while they still look down on women. This was shown by a male omega saying he didn’t want to be an omega bc he wanted to live a man’s life.
Furthermore, the main character’s "soul mate" and love interest blamed him for being raped.
This was the moment i very badly wanted to DNF as I couldn’t take this anymore but thought I needed to fully read the volume to see if there was some redeeming factor to all of this — there was not.
Finally, it is sold as a family drama/thriller and not a BL yet this first volume does not pass the bechdel test, there is a 7 men to 4 women ratio in the family and none of them had significant page time.
This was the most uncomfortable omegaverse world building i’ve come across.
Male omegas are called "wife" and "mother", it’s not even a disguised misogyny replica anymore. Women are still seen as inferior, yet omega and beta males are more oppressed than alpha women on the same basis as irl misogyny (being child bearers and having a "weaker" body) which rubs me the wrong way. I’m not here to see men suffer from "misogyny" while they still look down on women. This was shown by a male omega saying he didn’t want to be an omega bc he wanted to live a man’s life.
Furthermore, the main character’s "soul mate" and love interest blamed him for being raped.
This was the moment i very badly wanted to DNF as I couldn’t take this anymore but thought I needed to fully read the volume to see if there was some redeeming factor to all of this — there was not.
Finally, it is sold as a family drama/thriller and not a BL yet this first volume does not pass the bechdel test, there is a 7 men to 4 women ratio in the family and none of them had significant page time.
October 22, 2025
Saimon, a third wife of a heir to the Hanabusa family, is a Megaera - an omega who’s unable to have a child. Megaera’s are seen by society as people who bring ill fortune. He’s desperate to become his husband’s first wife again, so when his father in law asks him to find his illegitimate child, and bring him home only if he turns out to be an alpha, Saimon agrees.
However he finds out that the child is an omega called Mamiya. Being promised to be the first wife and raise the child as his own, Saimon convinces Mamiya to play an alpha so Mamiya can try to gain the headship of the Hanabusa family, and Saimon can be with his husband who he believes is his soulmate.
This is a really interesting take on omegaverse. Omegas are oppressed here (as they are in most omegaverse stories), but even female alphas are seen as less than male alphas.
This is definitely a darker story. It shows the ugly side of omegaverse society and also the messed up hierarchy of the Hanabusa family.
I’m really excited for the next volume.
However he finds out that the child is an omega called Mamiya. Being promised to be the first wife and raise the child as his own, Saimon convinces Mamiya to play an alpha so Mamiya can try to gain the headship of the Hanabusa family, and Saimon can be with his husband who he believes is his soulmate.
This is a really interesting take on omegaverse. Omegas are oppressed here (as they are in most omegaverse stories), but even female alphas are seen as less than male alphas.
This is definitely a darker story. It shows the ugly side of omegaverse society and also the messed up hierarchy of the Hanabusa family.
I’m really excited for the next volume.
November 2, 2025
Thank you to Maki Marukido and Kodansha Comics for giving me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was low-key devastating. Not for its action or intensity, but for the emotional weight behind every argument and glance. The tension between the characters is thick and messy, built on frustration, misunderstanding, and the kind of emotional dependency that leaves you aching.
The art style is absolutely gorgeous. Clean, expressive, and perfectly suited for the tone. But I did find myself wishing for a little more momentum or action. Most of the story unfolds through bickering and emotional standoffs, which gives it a slow-burn psychological feel rather than a dramatic one.
Still, it lingers. It’s the kind of read that unsettles you quietly rather than loudly. And that’s its own kind of powerful.
This was low-key devastating. Not for its action or intensity, but for the emotional weight behind every argument and glance. The tension between the characters is thick and messy, built on frustration, misunderstanding, and the kind of emotional dependency that leaves you aching.
The art style is absolutely gorgeous. Clean, expressive, and perfectly suited for the tone. But I did find myself wishing for a little more momentum or action. Most of the story unfolds through bickering and emotional standoffs, which gives it a slow-burn psychological feel rather than a dramatic one.
Still, it lingers. It’s the kind of read that unsettles you quietly rather than loudly. And that’s its own kind of powerful.
November 24, 2025
A Unique Take on the Omegaverse!
Omega Megaera Vol. 1 is a dark, gripping entry into the omegaverse that uses its fantastical hierarchy to explore real-world issues of power, gender, and societal control. Marukido crafts a tense, character-driven drama centered on Saimon, an omega branded as a “Megaera” for failing to bear children. The drama ensues from here as Megaeras are labelled as cursed by the rest of society. Saimon hatches a desperate plan brought on by the current head of the clan to reclaim his position of honor and to try to reach the Alpha that left him. Marukido does a great job nailing the oppression in this society; it is harrowing at times and definitely makes the suspense pop off the page. Some of the familial bonds do get a bit confusing at times, but I am thrilled to try more within this universe!
Omega Megaera Vol. 1 is a dark, gripping entry into the omegaverse that uses its fantastical hierarchy to explore real-world issues of power, gender, and societal control. Marukido crafts a tense, character-driven drama centered on Saimon, an omega branded as a “Megaera” for failing to bear children. The drama ensues from here as Megaeras are labelled as cursed by the rest of society. Saimon hatches a desperate plan brought on by the current head of the clan to reclaim his position of honor and to try to reach the Alpha that left him. Marukido does a great job nailing the oppression in this society; it is harrowing at times and definitely makes the suspense pop off the page. Some of the familial bonds do get a bit confusing at times, but I am thrilled to try more within this universe!
November 19, 2025
Omega Megaera 1 was a delightful story that I can't wait to see more from! I enjoyed this story and this approach to the omegaverse. I thought the author did an amazing job on the graphics and facial expressions. The art design is gorgeous and engaging. I feel like each character is captured very well.
The family dynamics and drama are so well-captured. I can't wait to see what happens next. We follow the Hanabusa Family with its multi-layered relationships and dynamics. With their own heiracrchy and in-fighting and the future of the family on the line, this story delviers. I recommend if you want an intriguing read! Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The family dynamics and drama are so well-captured. I can't wait to see what happens next. We follow the Hanabusa Family with its multi-layered relationships and dynamics. With their own heiracrchy and in-fighting and the future of the family on the line, this story delviers. I recommend if you want an intriguing read! Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2025
I didn’t expect this first volume to be quite so heavy on the drama, but it turned out to be a brilliant start to what seems like a very character-driven series. There are loads of personalities introduced, and it’s surprisingly easy to get drawn into their tangled relationships. I really liked how it takes a slightly different approach to the omegaverse.
My only small gripe is that I wish this edition included some trigger warnings, as a few of the aspects mentioned can be rather intense. Otherwise, it’s an engaging and promising opening to what’s clearly going to be a dramatic and compelling series. I’m already invested.
My only small gripe is that I wish this edition included some trigger warnings, as a few of the aspects mentioned can be rather intense. Otherwise, it’s an engaging and promising opening to what’s clearly going to be a dramatic and compelling series. I’m already invested.
November 15, 2025
3 ⭐️
This was surprisingly ok. The start and the hierarchy was weird but closer to the end I really liked it cause in my mind I called it!! I love a good delinquent alpha type x pretty but not a push over omega dynamic.
But the secrets, the scheming. I def want to continue this one to see where it goes.
Also lowkey mamiya reminded me of Ash from banana fish 😭 (still crying over that show mannn)
Thank you NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the ARC
This was surprisingly ok. The start and the hierarchy was weird but closer to the end I really liked it cause in my mind I called it!! I love a good delinquent alpha type x pretty but not a push over omega dynamic.
But the secrets, the scheming. I def want to continue this one to see where it goes.
Also lowkey mamiya reminded me of Ash from banana fish 😭 (still crying over that show mannn)
Thank you NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the ARC
October 18, 2025
4.5 rated up
*Thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha for early copy for review*
The omegaverse dynamics in this manga are very interesting. We have alphas with multiple wives and omega being the only one to give birth to alphas. I love when stories change up the omegaverse. The characters in this look like they're going on a dramatic ride and I'm ready to join. Give me the rest of the volumes!
*Thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha for early copy for review*
The omegaverse dynamics in this manga are very interesting. We have alphas with multiple wives and omega being the only one to give birth to alphas. I love when stories change up the omegaverse. The characters in this look like they're going on a dramatic ride and I'm ready to join. Give me the rest of the volumes!
October 28, 2025
I really enjoyed Omega Megaera Vol. 1! The worldbuilding immediately pulled me it’s very unique, I liked the added layer of mythological undertones that give the story a lot of depth. The concept of humans once being whole and then split apart by the gods was fascinating and added a creative spin to the omegaverse structure. I loved how the story starts in a classroom setting, teaching about: Alpha, Beta, and Omega being the main focus, and how society functions within that framework. The exploration of roles, expectations, and the hierarchy between them was thought-provoking and made me reflect on how power and identity are portrayed in fiction. The emotional weight of the story was strong too. I found myself really intrigued by the way it blends drama, myth, and personal conflict. The writing style and pacing kept me hooked, and I’m already curious to see where the next volume goes, especially with the setup involving the father-in-law and the “megaera” concept tied to vengeance and legacy. I wish it was a bit longer… it was a little more than 100 pages. Overall, I’m looking forward to continuing the series!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2025
I love a BL omegaverse….when done right. this was not one of those times. this book was sexist and included rape and incest. overall I was not a fan
November 30, 2025
5.0⭐
Thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Five stars so well deserved!
Omega Megaera 1 completely captivated me from the very first pages. I flew through it without even realizing how quickly I was reading until I reached the end and stared in disbelief.
The worldbuilding is outstanding: immersive, detailed, and full of social nuance. I’ve always enjoyed stories set in the omegaverse, but what sets this manga apart is how the author approaches the genre with a critical and insightful lens. It explores its society’s dynamics with depth and intention, turning familiar tropes into something bold and thought-provoking. There was no smut in it, and I honestly appreciated that, there was no need for it in this first volume.
It’s a fascinating, emotionally charged read that lingers long after finishing. Easily one of my favorite reads of the year and of all time. I can’t wait for the next volume!
Thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Five stars so well deserved!
Omega Megaera 1 completely captivated me from the very first pages. I flew through it without even realizing how quickly I was reading until I reached the end and stared in disbelief.
The worldbuilding is outstanding: immersive, detailed, and full of social nuance. I’ve always enjoyed stories set in the omegaverse, but what sets this manga apart is how the author approaches the genre with a critical and insightful lens. It explores its society’s dynamics with depth and intention, turning familiar tropes into something bold and thought-provoking. There was no smut in it, and I honestly appreciated that, there was no need for it in this first volume.
It’s a fascinating, emotionally charged read that lingers long after finishing. Easily one of my favorite reads of the year and of all time. I can’t wait for the next volume!
November 12, 2025
Not sure how i feel about this book, left me wanting more but at the same time im not sure if i liked every aspect of it, like the whole complicated family dynamic, maybe it could’ve been more explored. Still it was a good beginning of the story, gave us a lot of information about this world and its laws, showing how unfair everything is. Ended on a cliffhanger, so i will read the next book.
Received an e-arc from netgalley in exchange for as honest review. Thank you for the opportunity!
Received an e-arc from netgalley in exchange for as honest review. Thank you for the opportunity!
November 3, 2025
4.25 ⭐ Thank you, NetGalley, and the author for providing a free copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
One of the things I love about the omegaverse is how 9/10 times, there will be some sort of political aspect in the story. Omega Megaera is unique in the fact that, unlike pretty much all omegaverse stories I've read to date, I would not consider this a romance. Sure, there are relationships in the story, but they are not the main priority for our characters, and are often placed on the back burner in favour of familial politics.
In this world, omegas are barely considered citizens, with their sole purpose in society being to mother alpha children with their affluent alpha spouses. "Megaera's" are omegas that are incapable of having children, considered a curse on a household. The story does an amazing job of setting up the world and its social structures, positioning each of the many characters we have firmly in their place. Without giving too much away, this story is a familial, political drama with romance undertones, with a main focus on working the governments and society's systemic oppression of omegas.
Right off the bat, I was intrigued by the use of Greek mythology. In this world, the concept of soulmates derives from the Greek myth of soulmates originally being one body split into two by the gods, destined to search for each other. And the term "Megaera" was, I'm assuming, derived from Medusa, who in this case is only described as "a hideous, jealous goddess of vengeance." I don't usually see a mythological origin for things like soulmates or certain vocabulary in omegaverse stories, so this was a very welcome addition that not only expanded the world for me, but also provided something familiar to connect to.
Discrimination and abuse (especially by the grandfather, who is a repeat sexual and pedophilic abuser) run rampant in this world where the government has taken complete control of the perception and treatment of omegas.
The concept that the very notion of soul mates and bite marks presents a threat to their rule, and therefore is now considered a barbaric practice, convincing the masses that alphas taking as many wives as possible is better, has to be one of my favourite aspects of the story. I'm watching Andor right now, and one of the biggest themes in these first few episodes I've watched is that the oppression of the Empire is happening so slowly and in minute ways that the people aren't even realizing it's happening, so they don't even know they need to start fighting back. This is the same idea. Implementing small, seemingly meaningless things into the fabric of society, and it becomes easy to control that society in any way you deem fit.
Blocking this section because of possible spoilers
Overall, I absolutely loved this story and can't wait to see where it goes in the future.
Edit: Looking at other early reviews of the story, I feel that others are misunderstanding some of the core components that make up this world. In writing this, I'm not trying to change people's minds in their view of the story, but to help new readers gain a different understanding they can use when they read it.
A lot of the main criticisms I see from other reviews are that they believe the story to be misogynistic by calling male omegas "wives" and "mothers" and putting them in a lower position than female alphas. I'm not going to say these feelings are wrong, but I feel they are surface-level and lack an intersectional framework. This world is inherently misogynistic and patriarchal. It is quite literally the point. It's not about 'seeing men suffer from the patriarchy' (which also happens in real life as EVERYONE suffers from patriarchy), it's about seeing the different ways these patriarchal misogynistic systems affect each designation. It's not as linear as men over women as in a world like this, designation trump's gender first. Without that base understanding, I can see how the story seems prejudiced and unthoughtful.
Hierarchy goes as follows:
Male alphas -> female alphas -> male betas -> female betas -> omegas (general, as an omega's worth is solely dependent on their ability to produce alpha children)
Female alphas can be prejudiced against "lower designations" and also suffer from the misogynistic aspect of the patriarchy, and male omegas can also be misogynistic towards female omegas if they have the same social standing. It's a lot more complicated societal and cultural amalgamation of bias that can't really be looked at from just our understanding of sexism.
The other major criticism I see is how it seems that the sexual abuse and victim-blaming is glossed over, which I also feel tends to be a surface-level evaluation. These characters live with the horrors of sexual abuse inflicted by the grandfather every day. It is a fact of life for them. To me, it's not "glossed over" so much as it's dreadful but unsurprising and something out of their control.
This isn't even to mention I don't really believe there is even really enough space in such a short book to address it in the way it deserves, that's something that can be fleshed out throghout the volumes.
I also think it's worth addressing that the character that "victim-blames" has one line in which he says, "Why didn't you say no?" which is, in fact, a heartless thing to say to someone who has been raped at the hands of your own father, no less. But I feel it's also important to remember that the situation surrounding this moment has changed familial dynamics greatly, and he's probably under a lot of emotional and mental distress, all while feeling personally betrayed by something supposed to be on his side. Again, this doesn't excuse his behaviour, but there are many layers to all the happenings in the story, it deserves this level of thought and understanding (I said as someone who doesn't even particularly like any of the characters)
One of the things I love about the omegaverse is how 9/10 times, there will be some sort of political aspect in the story. Omega Megaera is unique in the fact that, unlike pretty much all omegaverse stories I've read to date, I would not consider this a romance. Sure, there are relationships in the story, but they are not the main priority for our characters, and are often placed on the back burner in favour of familial politics.
In this world, omegas are barely considered citizens, with their sole purpose in society being to mother alpha children with their affluent alpha spouses. "Megaera's" are omegas that are incapable of having children, considered a curse on a household. The story does an amazing job of setting up the world and its social structures, positioning each of the many characters we have firmly in their place. Without giving too much away, this story is a familial, political drama with romance undertones, with a main focus on working the governments and society's systemic oppression of omegas.
Right off the bat, I was intrigued by the use of Greek mythology. In this world, the concept of soulmates derives from the Greek myth of soulmates originally being one body split into two by the gods, destined to search for each other. And the term "Megaera" was, I'm assuming, derived from Medusa, who in this case is only described as "a hideous, jealous goddess of vengeance." I don't usually see a mythological origin for things like soulmates or certain vocabulary in omegaverse stories, so this was a very welcome addition that not only expanded the world for me, but also provided something familiar to connect to.
Discrimination and abuse (especially by the grandfather, who is a repeat sexual and pedophilic abuser) run rampant in this world where the government has taken complete control of the perception and treatment of omegas.
"If the whole point is to produce alphas as efficiently as possible, this 'soul mate' thing would only get in the way."
The concept that the very notion of soul mates and bite marks presents a threat to their rule, and therefore is now considered a barbaric practice, convincing the masses that alphas taking as many wives as possible is better, has to be one of my favourite aspects of the story. I'm watching Andor right now, and one of the biggest themes in these first few episodes I've watched is that the oppression of the Empire is happening so slowly and in minute ways that the people aren't even realizing it's happening, so they don't even know they need to start fighting back. This is the same idea. Implementing small, seemingly meaningless things into the fabric of society, and it becomes easy to control that society in any way you deem fit.
Blocking this section because of possible spoilers
Overall, I absolutely loved this story and can't wait to see where it goes in the future.
Edit: Looking at other early reviews of the story, I feel that others are misunderstanding some of the core components that make up this world. In writing this, I'm not trying to change people's minds in their view of the story, but to help new readers gain a different understanding they can use when they read it.
A lot of the main criticisms I see from other reviews are that they believe the story to be misogynistic by calling male omegas "wives" and "mothers" and putting them in a lower position than female alphas. I'm not going to say these feelings are wrong, but I feel they are surface-level and lack an intersectional framework. This world is inherently misogynistic and patriarchal. It is quite literally the point. It's not about 'seeing men suffer from the patriarchy' (which also happens in real life as EVERYONE suffers from patriarchy), it's about seeing the different ways these patriarchal misogynistic systems affect each designation. It's not as linear as men over women as in a world like this, designation trump's gender first. Without that base understanding, I can see how the story seems prejudiced and unthoughtful.
Hierarchy goes as follows:
Male alphas -> female alphas -> male betas -> female betas -> omegas (general, as an omega's worth is solely dependent on their ability to produce alpha children)
Female alphas can be prejudiced against "lower designations" and also suffer from the misogynistic aspect of the patriarchy, and male omegas can also be misogynistic towards female omegas if they have the same social standing. It's a lot more complicated societal and cultural amalgamation of bias that can't really be looked at from just our understanding of sexism.
The other major criticism I see is how it seems that the sexual abuse and victim-blaming is glossed over, which I also feel tends to be a surface-level evaluation. These characters live with the horrors of sexual abuse inflicted by the grandfather every day. It is a fact of life for them. To me, it's not "glossed over" so much as it's dreadful but unsurprising and something out of their control.
This isn't even to mention I don't really believe there is even really enough space in such a short book to address it in the way it deserves, that's something that can be fleshed out throghout the volumes.
I also think it's worth addressing that the character that "victim-blames" has one line in which he says, "Why didn't you say no?" which is, in fact, a heartless thing to say to someone who has been raped at the hands of your own father, no less. But I feel it's also important to remember that the situation surrounding this moment has changed familial dynamics greatly, and he's probably under a lot of emotional and mental distress, all while feeling personally betrayed by something supposed to be on his side. Again, this doesn't excuse his behaviour, but there are many layers to all the happenings in the story, it deserves this level of thought and understanding (I said as someone who doesn't even particularly like any of the characters)
October 13, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for providing an advance copy.
Perfect for those readers who like their Omegaverse with an extra dose of dystopian worldbuilding, like yours truly.
Taking place in early Shōwa-era Japan, Omega Megaera introduces us to a world where recent strides in omega rights have been clawed back by a more conservative government taking power.
Our POV starts with Saimon, an omega whose place in in his family and the world at large are not what they once were. He's been demoted to the last wife of his spouse due to his infertility. He also used to be a scientist on the cutting edge of research into heat suppressants, before it was decided he could better serve his country as the principal of a third-rank high school for omegas – where the curriculum specializes in teaching them how to be “good wives and mothers.”
One day, Saimon is called into a meeting with his truly disgusting father-in-law, who has a proposition that might change at least the circumstances of Saimon’s home life: find his father-in-law’s illegitimate child and – if he is an alpha – bring him back to be groomed as a potential successor to the family business and fortune. In exchange, Saimon will be designated as the child’s mother and retake his place at his husband’s side as first wife.
If all this sounds heavy and somewhat unpleasant, it is. The series does not shy away from the topics it raises, and like many family dramas, it has a cast of imperfect-at-best, nightmarish-at-worst characters.
There’s also a lot of incidental worldbuilding that makes it clear that for all that it truly sucks to be an omega man in this world, misogyny towards women in general remains unchanged. For example, when explaining what can happen to an infertile omega, we see an omega man being sent back to his birth family – it’s the omega women we see reduced to prostitution in order to survive. Likewise, Saimon’s family already has a perfectly qualified heir: Reiko, a female alpha. However, it is the head’s dissatisfaction with leaving his headship to an alpha woman instead of an alpha man that kickstarts the entire plot. Even her privileged status as an alpha does not save Reiko from misogyny.
The translation for this volume is overall a delight. It reads smoothly in English and captures the relationships between the characters accurately – with one exception that I’d feel remiss not to bring up. In a conversation between Mamiya and Saimon,「俺はアンタらみたいに首に輪っかつけられて生きるならのた野垂れ死んだほうがマシだよ」is translated as “You can keep your collars. I might die a dog’s death, but at least I’ll live a man’s life.” That isn’t an inaccurate translation, but it rings odd when being “a man” isn’t brought up in the original.
After all, Mamiya is well aware that he lives in a world where being born a man does not mean protection from the worst society has to offer.
Perfect for those readers who like their Omegaverse with an extra dose of dystopian worldbuilding, like yours truly.
Taking place in early Shōwa-era Japan, Omega Megaera introduces us to a world where recent strides in omega rights have been clawed back by a more conservative government taking power.
Our POV starts with Saimon, an omega whose place in in his family and the world at large are not what they once were. He's been demoted to the last wife of his spouse due to his infertility. He also used to be a scientist on the cutting edge of research into heat suppressants, before it was decided he could better serve his country as the principal of a third-rank high school for omegas – where the curriculum specializes in teaching them how to be “good wives and mothers.”
One day, Saimon is called into a meeting with his truly disgusting father-in-law, who has a proposition that might change at least the circumstances of Saimon’s home life: find his father-in-law’s illegitimate child and – if he is an alpha – bring him back to be groomed as a potential successor to the family business and fortune. In exchange, Saimon will be designated as the child’s mother and retake his place at his husband’s side as first wife.
If all this sounds heavy and somewhat unpleasant, it is. The series does not shy away from the topics it raises, and like many family dramas, it has a cast of imperfect-at-best, nightmarish-at-worst characters.
There’s also a lot of incidental worldbuilding that makes it clear that for all that it truly sucks to be an omega man in this world, misogyny towards women in general remains unchanged. For example, when explaining what can happen to an infertile omega, we see an omega man being sent back to his birth family – it’s the omega women we see reduced to prostitution in order to survive. Likewise, Saimon’s family already has a perfectly qualified heir: Reiko, a female alpha. However, it is the head’s dissatisfaction with leaving his headship to an alpha woman instead of an alpha man that kickstarts the entire plot. Even her privileged status as an alpha does not save Reiko from misogyny.
The translation for this volume is overall a delight. It reads smoothly in English and captures the relationships between the characters accurately – with one exception that I’d feel remiss not to bring up. In a conversation between Mamiya and Saimon,「俺はアンタらみたいに首に輪っかつけられて生きるならのた野垂れ死んだほうがマシだよ」is translated as “You can keep your collars. I might die a dog’s death, but at least I’ll live a man’s life.” That isn’t an inaccurate translation, but it rings odd when being “a man” isn’t brought up in the original.
After all, Mamiya is well aware that he lives in a world where being born a man does not mean protection from the worst society has to offer.
October 12, 2025
omega megaera (vol.1) is not usually what I would expect from an omegaverse story, or even a bl. the author also doesn't really consider this a bl as romance is not an important part of this story. rather, they wanted to create something with the sf traits of the omegaverse. and in my opinion, they've done a really good job.
the best way I can describe this is as a dystopian omegaverse (that can hit a little too close to home sometimes). here, alphas are the pinnacle of humanity - the strongest and brightest. every alphas strives to leave behind a legacy of alpha children and the only ones who can birth alpha children are, of course, omegas. so the very worth of omegas as members of society, and to their families, is measured by the kind of children they have. the unlucky ones who can't bear any children are called "megaera", shunned and thought to bring ill-luck.
saimon is a megaera, barely welcomed into his own marital house, and rarely if ever sees his husband, seijuro, anymore, who has married and produced other offspring after saimon's failure to do so. saimon's discontent with life rears its ugly head when his creepy, perverted father-in-law offers him a proposal - find zenjiro's illegitimate child, and if they are an alpha, bring them to the hanabusa house and rear them as saimon's own, finally giving saimon the title of mother and his place back at seijuro's side. this is where our story begins.
mamiya, brilliant, wonderful, spit-fire mamiya is not an alpha. but that doesn't stop saimon from planning to plant mamiya as the next hanabusa heir.
I hated everything happening in this manga, just as much as I loved the story that it made. it feels so tense and uneasy. even the lighthearted parts seem to be a precursor to something awful happening. its great.
these characters are so good and interesting - saimon and his twisted devotion to seijuro (who enables it), willing to do anything to be by his husband's side again, even if it ruins them both; mamiya and his will to live beyond the life biology set out for him. even the little we get to see about the other hanabusa children and the wives of seijuro. its just a really interesting dynamic playing out. I can't wait to see how it develops further.
the best way I can describe this is as a dystopian omegaverse (that can hit a little too close to home sometimes). here, alphas are the pinnacle of humanity - the strongest and brightest. every alphas strives to leave behind a legacy of alpha children and the only ones who can birth alpha children are, of course, omegas. so the very worth of omegas as members of society, and to their families, is measured by the kind of children they have. the unlucky ones who can't bear any children are called "megaera", shunned and thought to bring ill-luck.
saimon is a megaera, barely welcomed into his own marital house, and rarely if ever sees his husband, seijuro, anymore, who has married and produced other offspring after saimon's failure to do so. saimon's discontent with life rears its ugly head when his creepy, perverted father-in-law offers him a proposal - find zenjiro's illegitimate child, and if they are an alpha, bring them to the hanabusa house and rear them as saimon's own, finally giving saimon the title of mother and his place back at seijuro's side. this is where our story begins.
mamiya, brilliant, wonderful, spit-fire mamiya is not an alpha. but that doesn't stop saimon from planning to plant mamiya as the next hanabusa heir.
I hated everything happening in this manga, just as much as I loved the story that it made. it feels so tense and uneasy. even the lighthearted parts seem to be a precursor to something awful happening. its great.
these characters are so good and interesting - saimon and his twisted devotion to seijuro (who enables it), willing to do anything to be by his husband's side again, even if it ruins them both; mamiya and his will to live beyond the life biology set out for him. even the little we get to see about the other hanabusa children and the wives of seijuro. its just a really interesting dynamic playing out. I can't wait to see how it develops further.
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