QQ Sweeper 2

QQスイーパー [QQ Sweeper] #2

by Kyousuke Motomi, Manuel Chillagano (Translator)

Nachdem sie den Aufnahmetest bestanden hat, lebt und arbeitet Fumi nun im Hause Horikita. Doch dieses friedliche Leben hat schnell ein Ende, als Fumi aus heiterem Himmel heraus von einem Mitschüler angegriffen und gewürgt wird. Sofort befürchtet sie, von ihrer Pechsträhne eingeholt worden zu sein, und beschließt, Kuytaro und seine Familie zu verlassen …

Genres: Manga, Fantasy, Romance, Shojo, Young Adult, Graphic Novels, Supernatural

192 pages, Paperback

First published February 26, 2015

About the author

Kyousuke Motomi (最富キョウスケ Motomi Kyōsuke) is a Japanese mangaka whose stories have frequently been published in the monthly Betsucomi magazine. She is most currently working on Dengeki Daisy.

She uses a male pseudonym and draws herself as a man, but she's actually female."If my stories can touch you, make you laugh, forget unhappy things, or even give you that 'good job' feeling, then I'll be super, super happy!" - Kyousuke Motomi

Reviews

[Laura A. Grace]

VIDEO REIVEW HERE: https://youtu.be/IAxXfJtrNL0

Updated Review 6/17/23: "I…I'll NEVER give up hope. I won't. Maybe it's not HERE but there's gotta be a place for me somewhere."

Another incredible volume!

I think it's interesting to read my original review and how this time I was deeply struck by Fumi's determination to remain hopeful. No matter how many horrible things she is told time and time again, she refuses to give up hope in her situation. It made me get emotional seeing her say it AND seeing the art because with every line and detail, you can see her passion in that statement. Makes ME hopeful that hope is the foundation of this story because hope is such a beautiful and powerful thing, especially in light of what these sweepers too. They inspire me to want to be more diligent in my own mental health, but also in those around me too. When Kyutaro was explaining about the bugs and curses, my heart ached knowing how true his words were that so many people are trapped.

While it's on a completely different note, that last scene with Kyutaro and Fumi!!! :o :o :o Oh my goodness!! I'm like what is going to happen next because even though I've read QQ Sweeper before, I don't remember what happens and need to see them (hopefully!!) have their own romance form and bloom!

So excited to read more!!

Original Review 12/11/22: "But the good news is basically anything is possible. As long as we have faith."

WOW! This volume hit me HARD! I'm not even sure I can put all my words into this review, except that I will be buying this series ASAP! (I haven't decided if I'll get Queen's Quality yet, even though I do have all the volumes checked out from my library currently!)

We see a lot more into Fumi's backstory, which was definitely VERY surprising, but the reason I loved this volume so much is the focus on community and how we are not alone. These sweepers have come together as more than just coworkers, but as a family who loves and cares for one another. They spoke about more or less sharing their burdens with each other because the jobs they do can be wearisome on the spirit and I just could not even because that resonated so deeply with me, especially in relation to Fumi's struggles. She is always searching, but here she has found her people, her family, who are willing to teach her and walk with her as they all grow together. Plus the themes of never stop hoping and faith were very moving. Truly, it was extremely powerful.

So powerful in fact, that I honestly feel I need to reread this volume to soak everything in. Such a great and fantastic volume and even more excited to read the final volume of this prequel series to Queen's Quality!

[Lauren]

This series keeps getting better! Really enjoyed this volume despite it being as creepy as ever. We learn more about Fumi’s past and her identity! I really hope Kyutaro and Fumi get together <3

[Rebecca]

Even better than volume one. I'm officially invested.

[Sarah Ryder]

Wow, things got intense for both Fumi and Kyutaro in this volume in both good and bad ways. Kyutaro’s past and his missing friend broke my heart and made me feel so much for him especially since I could relate to not having friends while growing up and being seen as “weird” by other kids, which is why her leaving is just so sad for Kyutaro and helped me understand and connect with him on a deeper level.

And poor Fumi! I feel so bad for her being blamed for things that aren’t or weren’t her fault and being called cursed and other horrible things she doesn’t deserve as she’s amazing and so bright and cheerful. I’m so glad she has the sweepers now and that they fight so hard to keep her and be there for her no matter what, not to mention each other. I love their family dynamic so much. 🥰🥰

The art is stunning as always and I love how you can just FEEL what’s going on or how the characters react to things and it’s just so powerful and I love it. I also love how this story is so serious and handles dark topics but also has humor sprinkled throughout at just the right moments that often had me cracking up or smiling. The mangaka strikes the perfect balance between these two that is just borderline, Yona of the Dawn masterful, and I love it.

This is such a hidden gem of a manga series and I look forward to reading more!


‼️Content‼️

Language: what the heck; heck; freakin’; what the; sucks

Violence: a guy grabs a girl and takes her into a shed; a guy chokes a girl; a girl hits a guy in self defense; a guy tackles a girl running away from him (played as humorous); a guy fights giant bees/wasps (nothing over PG-13);

Sexual: a kiss; a guy says a girl won’t get pregnant by lying next to him (this is played for humor)

Drug/Alcohol: adults drink some whiskey

Other: giant bugs mentally “infest” people; magic; supernatural powers; characters go into people’s minds and clean out bad/negative thoughts/emotions; a girl is called a curse; the use of hypnosis for medical reasons; characters’ spirits step out of their bodies; a creepy black egg starts to hatch in a nightmare; a mention that high school students see a fortune teller (not said in a good light)

[Scarlett (Carrie)]

This was even better than the first one!

Fumi finally tells the family that she is cursed and she doesn't know why. She doesn't have a single memory from over ten years ago. She tells them she has to leave so they won't get hurt as those closet to her get hurt the worst. They tell her no, that she has to stay because she works for them. Really, they just want to help her and knew she'd stay if they guilted her.

Kyutaro's struggling with how much Fumi reminds him of the little girl he met and fell in love with years ago. He is the one that catches her trying to run away and dries her back into the house where they have their long talk. He finally thinks he knows for sure if she is the girl from ten years ago by the way she eats the candy.

This one is so cute in parts, action filled in some parts, and rather icky from the wicked bug in other parts. The story is so much fun and I can't wait to get to the next volume!

[D E N Z]

There is just something about this series that makes me continue reading it more. Honestly, this is not the type of series I ever thought I would read, but something about the leads' past, and the vagueness and mystery behind this story that makes me want to continue reading this. In this volume, some of the mysteries start getting answered a bit, but then we end up with another question by the end. I think Motomi-sensei does a pretty good job writing this, as it makes the readers want more but at the same time, it doesn't make them feel like they're not getting anything. Idk if what I said made sense but whatever the case, I am excited to read the last volume of QQ Sweeper. :)

[Jenny Clark]

This is a much more adventurous volume, with more danger and mystery! Who is Fumi really? The idea of the collective unconscious was interestingly done, and as Fumi thinks about it her confusion mirrors mine when trying to think about something like that! A darker story, but still really good.

Check out my YouTube channel for bookish videos and monthly wrap ups!

[dovesnook]

I’M SO INVESTED! The ending thickened the plot so much, on every account… especially knowing how Queen’s Quality starts off. If I wasn’t so tired I’d start the third volume rn, but it’ll have to wait for tomorrow. The art is 10/10 omg.

[Intisar Khanani]

Actual rating 3.5. Another fun installment, with cleaning tips, bugs, and plot twists.

[Nao ♡]

THIS SLAYED

[Ami_is_tired]

This was so good actually!

[Online Eccentric Librarian]

More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/

Admittedly, I wasn't sold on the story from the first Volume - cleaning as a special attack? A broom as a weapon against demons? Pages devoted to cleaning tips? Somehow, watching our heroine ecstatically cleaning a toilet doesn't necessarily make for a riveting scene. But with volume 2, the cleaning takes a back seat to finally bringing us the true story: a mysterious past for Fumi that may just tie directly in with "Q" Kyutaru as well.

Story: Kyutaro agonizes over memories of Fuyu - a girl who kept him company when his family disappeared - and then disappeared herself. Fumi reminds him so much of her but he can't understand why since both girls are so different. When a school friend attacks Fumi, the Sweeper team is brought in to exorcise him. But Fumi is sure she is the catalyst - a cursed girl who causes grief everywhere. And with that realization comes a desperate bid by Fumi to save the Sweepers by leaving them permanently.

The plot is making sense now and we're finally get a taste of Motomi's writing strength. I absolutely adored Dengeki Daisy but admit it carried on much too long. I am hoping with QQ Sweeper, the story will stay focused on Fumi's mysterious past and not go off on tangents. Certainly, this Volume 2 was a page turner and kept me interested to the end.

Motomi has a great way with romantic moments but she definitely spaces them out. With QQ Sweeper, her art has matured and there aren't as many overly-busy small panels. There are parallels to Dengeki Daisy, yes, and certainly this story doesn't stray too far from that mold (strong willed girl with mysterious link to bad things - and the strong willed guy who is going to protect/save her). But there's a great story in here now and I am looking forward to seeing where it goes. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.

[Nikki in Niagara]

Really enjoyed this second volume! The prince charming and cleaning temes are downplayed in this volume as the story arc gets started. We found out Fumi has a big problem and the story firmly sets itself in the paranormal as the Sweepers gather together to help Fumi find out who is after her. Fumi joins the group and does a sweeping with them to clear the mind of a boy from school who had attacked her. I really liked the paranormal aspect of this manga, with bugs as the bad guys, you can't go wrong with giving me the willies and I like that the sweepers help people in mental distress. The humour side is fun and this looks like it's going to be an excellent mix of paranormal romance. Can't wait for the next volume to see if it continues in the same vein.

[Nadina]

I saw "Queen's Quality" in the library before learning it was a sequel to this and checked the first volume of that out first. I did not read past the first few pages, but I see how this series is really setting up the story for the next series.
This volume had a decent pace with lots of clues to foreshadow what may happen next.
I like the main characters(Fumi, Q, Granny and Koichi) and also like the way they are drawn.
I quite like all the illustrations in this manga.
I am excited to see how this story continues.

[Jana Denardo]

Who could have predicted I'd like a UF manga where cleaning is the focal point.

[Donna]

Cleaner Kyutaro and apprentice Fumi fight evil bugs to cleanse a boy's mind.

I'm not really loving this series: there's not enough happening and the character building is too dreamy for me (close up of faces with soft edges with light flashes). If you're an apprentice, I feel you should follow the directions of your trainer, particularly when someone's mental health/life is involved, so Fumi whooshing off on her own bothers me. I'll read the next one but mostly because I know it's the final volume.

[Shae]

Oh how I love so much about this series! The art, the story, the characters, all of it! I don't know that I will have enough of these characters by the end. The whole concept of going in and cleaning out the negativity in people is amazing! I love the visual that this creates. I am ready to dive into Queen's Quality now, and can't wait!

[marcia]

Vol. 1 ★★★☆☆

This volume delves into the backstories of the characters and expands on the worldbuilding. It strikes a good balance between mystery and humor. On top of that, Kyutaro and Fumi have a great dynamic together and it's fun to see them interact.

[Rasha | رشا]

حبيت الكروس الاوفر مع دينجيكي ديزي , الفوليوم كان ممتع ولطيف وحبيب وطبعا طلعت فومي هي نفسها فويو , الشي الي استغربه هي حطت اليد على الراس , في العالم الحقيقي انا مستعده آكل اصابيع اي احد يحط يده على راسي أكره الحركه هذي 1000 , ما ادري ايش سرها مع اليابانيين يحبوها

[Lissa Hawley]

This is clever and sweet.

[Hisgirl85]

4.5 stars.

[Lynn]

Today's post is on QQ Sweeper volume 2 by Kyousuke Motomi. It is 192 pages long and is published by Shojo Beat. It is the second in her QQ Sweeper series, you need to have read the first volume to understand what is going on. The cover is blue with the three main characters on it. The intended reader is someone who likes shojo, cute characters, and an interesting world. There is no foul language, no sex, and no violence in this volume. The story closely follows the main female character. There Be Spoilers Ahead.

From the back of the book- Fumi's image keeps overlapping with that of Fuyu, Kyutaro';s childhood crush, who remains in his thoughts to this day. Meanwhile, Fumi starts to work as a Sweeper with Kyutaro's family, but she struggles with keeping her past a secret. Has Fumi finally found a place to call home or will her cursed past catch up to her?

Review- We get Fumi's past or at least what she can remember of it, which is not much. Her memories only go back ten years, which when Kyutaro's friend disappeared and something terrible happened to the sweepers in the area. Kyutaro realized that Fumi is his childhood friend and we ,the reader's, see that someone is hunting her. The two adults in the series know that too by the end of the volume but no one knows why anyone would want to hunt Fumi. The plot is moving along nicely and I have really enjoyed the character growth in this volume. Only one more volume in this first series and Queen's Quality is starting here in America in September. Motomi is quickly becoming one of my favorite shojo manga-kas.

I give this volume a Five out of Five stars. I get nothing for my review and I bought this manga with my own money.

[Chelsea]

This is a very sweet, short series. The art style is clean and one that I gravitated towards instantly. I loved that this volume gave me more character interactions. I am a sucker for character development and plot. While some of the plot points were expected, it did not detract from the enjoyment I had while reading.

[Jenna]

Loving this series SO MUCH. Hate that I have to wait for more..

[Katt Hansen]

Are we dealing with a curse? Or something else entirely? The plot becomes more intense, as do the emotions as the mystery of Fumi is unraveled...somewhat. Really loving this concept.

[Adek Fbree]

Hehe... mulai berasa deh romannya ;-9

[Victoria]

Definitely a slow start in volume 1 but I loved this volume!! I’m super into it

[Maddie]

As you can probably guess by the well-loved condition of this volume, I borrowed this from the library! I wasn’t quite sure if I wanted to collect the series after reading the first volume, but after finishing volume two, this has been solidified as a series I absolutely need in my collection. I think I will be buying the sequel, Queen’s Quality, without sampling it at all prior. I have faith that the story will be exceptional, and I’ve quickly grown to love how the author depicts both familial and romantic relationships.

My absolute favourite thing about this volume was the connection between Fumi and Fuyu. For a bit of context, about 10 years ago, when Kyutaro was left alone for an extended period of time, a mysterious girl named Fuyu appeared. The two quickly became friends who hung out every day, but she disappeared before the winter ended. As he was the only one in his family to have laid eyes on her, the majority of his family believe she was just a hallucination caused by his loneliness. Fumi, our protagonist, not only looks somewhat similar to Fuyu, but also has memory loss.


In volume one, we’re introduced to Fumi as she’s on her search for her prince charming. At the beginning of volume two, we watch as Kyutaro struggles as he keeps seeing traces of Fuyu in Fumi. Fuyu, who to him, had the mannerisms and looks of a princess. So… Fumi is looking for her prince charming who will undoubtedly end up being Kyutaro, and Kyutaro sees Fuyu, who is most likely Fumi, as a princess. They could not be any more well-match if they tried.

The entirety of volume two revolves around the trauma that Fuyu left Kyutaro with when she dissapeared. The more of Fuyu he sees in Fumi, the more he struggles. A lot of these feeling are kept to himself as he tries his best to put out a brave face—something absolutely necessary in his line of work. He only lets his vulnerable side show when Fumi is going through a hard time and needs a bit of compassion.

In this volume, we finally get a glimpse into Fumi’s past, and my is it ever dark and mysterious. I think she really lucked out when she got picked up by the sweeper family, as who better to deal with a curse than them!? As we were only fed crumbs when it comes to her history, I’m really hoping we learn more about her past in the next volume. At the very least I would love to know who put the curse on her.

The way her eventual break down and attempted escape was portrayed felt very realistically, as was the way the family decided to deal with it. I would be lying if I said I didn’t momentarily hated Koichi for how he chose to convince her to stay at the manor…but it was effective. I just felt so bad for Kyutaro when he discovered her trying to run away—he just told her he has trauma from being abandoned, and here she is, trying to abandon him!

I wonder whether the root of her curse will be solved in the next volume, or if it will span across the sequel series Queen’s Quality. It’s clearly something much more complex than what we’ve seen so far, as there are no “bugs” physically on her. It’s almost like it only latches on to those that are near her, but can’t actually affect her. I know this is a prequel meant to ease readers into the story, but I hear that you don’t necessarily need to read QQ Sweeper to understand Queen’s Quality. I’m looking forward to seeing how many callbacks there are, if any.

[Lauren loves llamas]

When this volume picks up, Fumi’s been living with the Horikitas for a month. Q calls her a “shameless little miss sunshine” which honestly is true. Whether she’s making up silly cleaning songs or giving her search for Prince Charming her full attention, Fumi’s determination not to give up hope despite her past (more on that in a minute) is, frankly, utterly sweet and somewhat awe-inspiring. And anyway, what’s a better counterpoint to all of Kyutaro’s talk of mental illness than hope?



Fumi finally begins to open up to the Horikitas about her past and her “curse.” Among other things, Fumi reveals that her earliest memory is only from ten years ago – something that lines up with a pivotal occurrence in Kyutaro’s life.

A large part of the plot revolves around the mysterious Fuyu and Kyutaro’s relationship with her. Kyutaro only knew her for one winter – during a particularly bad period of his life – but has never been able to forget her. Whether the rest of his family believe she’s real or just something a lonely boy imagined up, Kyutaro still has a lot of trauma around the way she left. Strangely enough, many of Fumi’s actions seem to be stirring up his memories of Fuyu.

Up until now, besides Fumi’s doubts, the main antagonists have been the bugs. The end of this volume teases a new and much more active villain role, something that I’m hoping reveals more clues about Fumi’s past! On to the next!

[Ruthsic]

Warnings: physical assault

This book delves into the backstory of the characters, and a bit about the lore of the Sweepers. When Fumi is attacked by a senior at school, who had become corrupted by the evil, she is reminded by the past she is running from. After she tries to leave the Horikitas, there is a whole confrontation and Fumi's past is revealed as a kid who seems to be cursed, and people who have been giving up on her, but she herself still searching for a place she can belong. Meanwhile, Kyutaro starts to see more and more similarities between her and the childhood friend he had met one winter 10 years ago, and who disappeared. Fumi's lack of memories prior to 10 years ago also solidly points out that she may be the girl called Fuyu, but whether she is cursed or not really remains to be seen, as she is once again folded back into the family.