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The Case Files of Jeweler Richard #2
The Case Files of Jeweler Richard (Light Novel) Vol. 2
This highly acclaimed mystery tale about a young man teaming up with a handsome jewelry appraiser inspired a popular anime--and a manga adaptation (also from Seven Seas)!
When Seigi Nakata rescued a handsome young jewelry appraiser from a group of drunken assailants, he got more than he bargained for! The appraiser is Richard Ranasinghe de Vulpian, a brilliant and mysterious British jewelry expert. Seigi hires him to appraise a family heirloom...and that is just the beginning. Together, they unlock the secret messages hidden in the hearts of precious stones–and those who possess them.
When Seigi Nakata rescued a handsome young jewelry appraiser from a group of drunken assailants, he got more than he bargained for! The appraiser is Richard Ranasinghe de Vulpian, a brilliant and mysterious British jewelry expert. Seigi hires him to appraise a family heirloom...and that is just the beginning. Together, they unlock the secret messages hidden in the hearts of precious stones–and those who possess them.
262 pages, Paperback
First published May 20, 2016
22 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 14, 2022
I could keep reading about these two for just as long as Seigi can wax poetics about Richard's unparalleled beauty (forever).
April 27, 2025
4.26.25
It's really hard to describe this series sometimes. It is such a soft, thoughtful read - a complete and total slice of life for anyone who's just trying to decompress. At its heart this is simply a story about living and learning and growing. We realize that there are so many different people, going through so many struggles, with so many hopes and dreams, and everyone is just trying their hardest to stay afloat. Seigi makes a perfect vehicle in this story because a lot of the growth and the realization come through him and his interactions.
He is 19 years old and he is experiencing a world broader than the one he knew - realizing that one way of thinking isn't always perfect or right, and that everyone will struggle with something in their life and he does this all while still being as kind and sincere and genuine as he is.
Honestly though I would probably read this story for the amount of the times this dude tells his boss how utterly gorgeous he is and how his face just shines like the sun lol. It's lovely seeing Richard just...not compute when faced with Seigi's utter sincerity.
It's really hard to describe this series sometimes. It is such a soft, thoughtful read - a complete and total slice of life for anyone who's just trying to decompress. At its heart this is simply a story about living and learning and growing. We realize that there are so many different people, going through so many struggles, with so many hopes and dreams, and everyone is just trying their hardest to stay afloat. Seigi makes a perfect vehicle in this story because a lot of the growth and the realization come through him and his interactions.
He is 19 years old and he is experiencing a world broader than the one he knew - realizing that one way of thinking isn't always perfect or right, and that everyone will struggle with something in their life and he does this all while still being as kind and sincere and genuine as he is.
Honestly though I would probably read this story for the amount of the times this dude tells his boss how utterly gorgeous he is and how his face just shines like the sun lol. It's lovely seeing Richard just...not compute when faced with Seigi's utter sincerity.
April 27, 2023
Format read: paperback
Reading time: 4h
Tags: slice-of-life, mystery, short story, Japan, lgbt
Own a copy: yes
Reread likelihood: 10/10
Summary
In volume 2 of the 'Case Files' series, we have 4 short stories and 1 extra chapter, same as with the first volume. Here's a breakdown of each:
1. The Cat's Eye of Insight: An elementary school boy turns up at Richard's jewellery store looking to buy a cat's eye stone that matches one he already owns. The boy's wish is to protect his unborn baby brother from harm, the same way his beloved cat, Milk, protected the family. Seigi and Richard find out that the cat has mysteriously gone missing, which creates tension between the boy and his family.
2. The Fighting Garnet: A young woman named Yamamoto wishes to purchase a garnet ring for herself after a bad breakup with a long-term boyfriend. Yamamoto is convinced that she is ugly and thus undeserving of a 'pretty' stone like a ruby or sapphire. Yamamoto puts pressure on Richard as a beautiful person, insisting that he has an easier life than most because of his looks, much to Seigi's disapproval. Seigi and Richard end up helping the young woman in realising that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and that her ex is not worth her time and attention.
3. The Dance of the Emeralds: Tanimoto introduces her middle school friend, a ballet dancer named Shinkai, to Seigi. Little does he know, Shinkai's boss, Kataura, wants Richard's help in solving a crime at the ballet company, yet Richard is desperately trying to avoid it. One of the costume pieces, a magnificent emerald necklace, has nearly been stolen a few times, and the dancers believe that the piece is cursed. Richard doesn't want to play detective, but Seigi accidentally gets him involved anyway. The two work on solving the mystery so that the ballet performance can take place as scheduled.
4. The Opal of Reunion: Seigi reminisces about an old friend from his karate club when said friend turns up one day at the same train station as him. The two friends reconnect, with Hase taking Seigi out to dinner weekly despite his precarious monetary situation. Seigi recommends Richard's shop to his friend, and Hase takes the opportunity to try to sell a beautiful opal he obtained from an old lady with dementia. Seigi soon realises that his friend is not the same person he once knew, and the two come to odds because of their different ethics and principles. Richard shows a new side of himself when he comforts Seigi over the loss of his friend.
Extra: The Serendipity of Euclase: Seigi finally does good on his promise to make some flan pudding for his boss. Despite Richard's refined palate and picky habits, he praises Seigi's cooking skills and truly enjoys the heartfelt offering.
Review
Seigi and Richard are at it again! The slow burn is so delicious in this volume, especially in chapter 3 at the ballet company. Seigi's inner monologue is more and more honest with regard to his feelings, and even though he doesn't quite understand it himself, he has no qualms with constantly praising and admiring his boss. We're slowly starting to see Richard break out of his shell, too. Even though he is still very much the master of self-restraint, he falters a few times in this volume. I could essentially quote the whole book, but here are a few excerpts that are just too swoon-worthy to pass up. Most of these are just Seigi being an obtuse doofus who doesn't understand himself and cannot read the signs to save his life (I say this lovingly).
Whenever I was near Richard, I kept finding that all the things I'd locked away deep in my heart just started spilling out. He really was an enigma of a man. (p.32)
Richard looked at me and smiled. He has such a nice smile. My body wasn't exactly built to feel joy every time I saw a beautiful person smile, but Richard's smile in particular had a peculiar soothing quality to it. ... His smile in that moment was incredible. It was a stony beauty, like a cathedral painted by an impressionist master with every ounce of passion in their body. I did not voice this thought, of course. (p.56-57)
I stared vacantly at him as he pulled a pair of gloves out of his bag, nimbly put them on, and bowed before picking up the emerald necklace. I thought I'd be used to it by now, but this man--no, this human, no, this creature--was impossibly beautiful. He was beautiful even when he wasn't doing anything at all, but he really shone when he was up against something difficult like this. (p.132-133)
"That's not western script--that's your name! I'm capable of remembering the names of important people in my life."
Richard aggressively averted his eyes, grabbed his cup, and began drinking his water. He must have been really thirsty because he downed the whole thing. (p.143)
"How do I look?"
"What?"
Richard got my attention and spun around in front of the ticket counter.
"It's not terribly strict, but there is a dress code. Do I look all right? Nothing on my suit or in my hair?"
"You look perfect like you always do. The most beautiful man in the whole world is standing in front of me." (p.179-180)
"Sorry, I didn't mean to bore you by talking your ear off about karate."
"I find it quite interesting, actually. I was listening respectfully. However, I must admit, I think I find watching you talk at such length more interesting than the subject matter," Richard said in a completely flat tone before taking another sip of tea I'd made." (p.191)
"His jokes were just silly enough and his voice just gentle enough to tell me that even if I wasn't doing a great job of covering it up, he wouldn't mind if I cried a little more. He was the one who told me not to say things that could give people listening to what I saying the wrong idea--like calling him beautiful or pretty. But surely he meant that in the context of when other people were around. We were alone in his car. There was no invisible person sitting in the back seat.
"I don't know what the hell I'm saying right now, so just wipe this from your memory in ten seconds. I'm really glad I met you. I feel like I owe those drunks from Yoyogi Park a box of cookies. I'm just so glad I met you... thank you."
Car stereos sure are useful. (p.241)
........ This pairing might just be the death of me.
Reading time: 4h
Tags: slice-of-life, mystery, short story, Japan, lgbt
Own a copy: yes
Reread likelihood: 10/10
Summary
In volume 2 of the 'Case Files' series, we have 4 short stories and 1 extra chapter, same as with the first volume. Here's a breakdown of each:
1. The Cat's Eye of Insight: An elementary school boy turns up at Richard's jewellery store looking to buy a cat's eye stone that matches one he already owns. The boy's wish is to protect his unborn baby brother from harm, the same way his beloved cat, Milk, protected the family. Seigi and Richard find out that the cat has mysteriously gone missing, which creates tension between the boy and his family.
2. The Fighting Garnet: A young woman named Yamamoto wishes to purchase a garnet ring for herself after a bad breakup with a long-term boyfriend. Yamamoto is convinced that she is ugly and thus undeserving of a 'pretty' stone like a ruby or sapphire. Yamamoto puts pressure on Richard as a beautiful person, insisting that he has an easier life than most because of his looks, much to Seigi's disapproval. Seigi and Richard end up helping the young woman in realising that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and that her ex is not worth her time and attention.
3. The Dance of the Emeralds: Tanimoto introduces her middle school friend, a ballet dancer named Shinkai, to Seigi. Little does he know, Shinkai's boss, Kataura, wants Richard's help in solving a crime at the ballet company, yet Richard is desperately trying to avoid it. One of the costume pieces, a magnificent emerald necklace, has nearly been stolen a few times, and the dancers believe that the piece is cursed. Richard doesn't want to play detective, but Seigi accidentally gets him involved anyway. The two work on solving the mystery so that the ballet performance can take place as scheduled.
4. The Opal of Reunion: Seigi reminisces about an old friend from his karate club when said friend turns up one day at the same train station as him. The two friends reconnect, with Hase taking Seigi out to dinner weekly despite his precarious monetary situation. Seigi recommends Richard's shop to his friend, and Hase takes the opportunity to try to sell a beautiful opal he obtained from an old lady with dementia. Seigi soon realises that his friend is not the same person he once knew, and the two come to odds because of their different ethics and principles. Richard shows a new side of himself when he comforts Seigi over the loss of his friend.
Extra: The Serendipity of Euclase: Seigi finally does good on his promise to make some flan pudding for his boss. Despite Richard's refined palate and picky habits, he praises Seigi's cooking skills and truly enjoys the heartfelt offering.
Review
Seigi and Richard are at it again! The slow burn is so delicious in this volume, especially in chapter 3 at the ballet company. Seigi's inner monologue is more and more honest with regard to his feelings, and even though he doesn't quite understand it himself, he has no qualms with constantly praising and admiring his boss. We're slowly starting to see Richard break out of his shell, too. Even though he is still very much the master of self-restraint, he falters a few times in this volume. I could essentially quote the whole book, but here are a few excerpts that are just too swoon-worthy to pass up. Most of these are just Seigi being an obtuse doofus who doesn't understand himself and cannot read the signs to save his life (I say this lovingly).
Whenever I was near Richard, I kept finding that all the things I'd locked away deep in my heart just started spilling out. He really was an enigma of a man. (p.32)
Richard looked at me and smiled. He has such a nice smile. My body wasn't exactly built to feel joy every time I saw a beautiful person smile, but Richard's smile in particular had a peculiar soothing quality to it. ... His smile in that moment was incredible. It was a stony beauty, like a cathedral painted by an impressionist master with every ounce of passion in their body. I did not voice this thought, of course. (p.56-57)
I stared vacantly at him as he pulled a pair of gloves out of his bag, nimbly put them on, and bowed before picking up the emerald necklace. I thought I'd be used to it by now, but this man--no, this human, no, this creature--was impossibly beautiful. He was beautiful even when he wasn't doing anything at all, but he really shone when he was up against something difficult like this. (p.132-133)
"That's not western script--that's your name! I'm capable of remembering the names of important people in my life."
Richard aggressively averted his eyes, grabbed his cup, and began drinking his water. He must have been really thirsty because he downed the whole thing. (p.143)
"How do I look?"
"What?"
Richard got my attention and spun around in front of the ticket counter.
"It's not terribly strict, but there is a dress code. Do I look all right? Nothing on my suit or in my hair?"
"You look perfect like you always do. The most beautiful man in the whole world is standing in front of me." (p.179-180)
"Sorry, I didn't mean to bore you by talking your ear off about karate."
"I find it quite interesting, actually. I was listening respectfully. However, I must admit, I think I find watching you talk at such length more interesting than the subject matter," Richard said in a completely flat tone before taking another sip of tea I'd made." (p.191)
"His jokes were just silly enough and his voice just gentle enough to tell me that even if I wasn't doing a great job of covering it up, he wouldn't mind if I cried a little more. He was the one who told me not to say things that could give people listening to what I saying the wrong idea--like calling him beautiful or pretty. But surely he meant that in the context of when other people were around. We were alone in his car. There was no invisible person sitting in the back seat.
"I don't know what the hell I'm saying right now, so just wipe this from your memory in ten seconds. I'm really glad I met you. I feel like I owe those drunks from Yoyogi Park a box of cookies. I'm just so glad I met you... thank you."
Car stereos sure are useful. (p.241)
........ This pairing might just be the death of me.
October 23, 2022
las dinoaventuras de Richard y su ayudante bisexual del clóset (el cual carece de filtro a la hora de hablar y cree que es normal fantasear con casarse con sus amigos varones)
April 5, 2023
Reading for the second time (this time a proper translation), and I must say I missed these two. I love how Seigi and Richard started to warm up to each other in this instalment. I cannot wait for the next book! :)
December 27, 2022
I really loved the first volume of the Jeweler Richard light novel, but I think the second volume is now my favorite one so far. There is so much more depth from both Seigi and Richard as characters in these four cases - especially in the last two in the book. I can't tell you how many times I paused and physically reacted with joy, shock, laughter, etc. to several scenes included in the stories.
The best part for me was reading a new case that wasn't featured in the anime (the third case in this volume). I got to experience it completely fresh, which made it all the more fun and exciting to read. Even for the cases that were in the anime, there are so many moments that are portrayed differently which just adds vibrancy and another layer to the plot at hand.
SUCH great mysteries, character & relationship development, and truly heartwarming lessons. I fell in love with this series all over again!
The best part for me was reading a new case that wasn't featured in the anime (the third case in this volume). I got to experience it completely fresh, which made it all the more fun and exciting to read. Even for the cases that were in the anime, there are so many moments that are portrayed differently which just adds vibrancy and another layer to the plot at hand.
SUCH great mysteries, character & relationship development, and truly heartwarming lessons. I fell in love with this series all over again!
October 26, 2023
This series is way more comedic and witty than the premise would lead you to believe. It’s such a fun read. There were some really heart wrenching cases in this volume, but my favorite was definitely the last one. I both love and hate how we only see Richard through Seigi’s eyes — I’d give anything to get a second in his head.
July 5, 2023
We continue with Jewelery Étranger odd cases, this time, we deal with a cursed emeral necklace, a stolen opal and a missing cat.
When it comes to the missing cat, it turns out that the owners just asked some relatives to take care of the cat until the owner gives birth, because she's susceptible to toxoplasmosis (there are ways to keep your cat with you even if you are, so I'm not sure why they didn't just keep the cat indoors and took prevention measures instead of just sending him away). Of course the whole misunderstanding is that they didn't tell their son what they had done and pretended everything was fine, as if the child wouldn't notice the cat was gone. Thankfully everything worked out in the end.
The case of the Cursed Emeralds is so good! Richard really outsmarted everyone with this one and I'm glad that the drug operation got busted! As it turns out, Minako's ghost might've been there after all stopping the crime for occurring. It also in this case that Seigi starts to realize he'd rather be with his boss than with Tanimoto. He expressed fear of him walking out of his life. Richard means a lot to Seigi, but Seigi is not yet fully aware of how much.
Seigi unexpectedly reunited with a classmate from middle school (Seigi seems to have had a crush on this guy), but it goes south when this man turns up at the jewelery trying to sell a stolen opal. We understand that he was in great financial difficulty but it's not okay to steal, especially from a patient with dementia. When Seigi tries to help Hase, he turns him away, which leaves Seigi heartbroken. Richard's there to pick up the pieces though. He waited 5 hours for Seigi and let him scream in his car (the scene where they listen to Finnish death metal was so funny). He's perhaps the most important person to Seigi at this time and he helps him everytime.
When it comes to the missing cat, it turns out that the owners just asked some relatives to take care of the cat until the owner gives birth, because she's susceptible to toxoplasmosis (there are ways to keep your cat with you even if you are, so I'm not sure why they didn't just keep the cat indoors and took prevention measures instead of just sending him away). Of course the whole misunderstanding is that they didn't tell their son what they had done and pretended everything was fine, as if the child wouldn't notice the cat was gone. Thankfully everything worked out in the end.
The case of the Cursed Emeralds is so good! Richard really outsmarted everyone with this one and I'm glad that the drug operation got busted! As it turns out, Minako's ghost might've been there after all stopping the crime for occurring. It also in this case that Seigi starts to realize he'd rather be with his boss than with Tanimoto. He expressed fear of him walking out of his life. Richard means a lot to Seigi, but Seigi is not yet fully aware of how much.
Seigi unexpectedly reunited with a classmate from middle school (Seigi seems to have had a crush on this guy), but it goes south when this man turns up at the jewelery trying to sell a stolen opal. We understand that he was in great financial difficulty but it's not okay to steal, especially from a patient with dementia. When Seigi tries to help Hase, he turns him away, which leaves Seigi heartbroken. Richard's there to pick up the pieces though. He waited 5 hours for Seigi and let him scream in his car (the scene where they listen to Finnish death metal was so funny). He's perhaps the most important person to Seigi at this time and he helps him everytime.
September 4, 2023
Volume 2 of The Case Files of Jeweler Richard is just as fun as the first. Now there’s some added Sherlock Holmes vibes in there? A little contrived, sure, but I’m here for it!
In volume 2, we get to see Seigi and Richard take on some more high-stakes cases with darker themes. But author Tsujimura Nanako’s humor still comes through in Seigi and Richard’s banter and misunderstandings. Seriously, how does Seigi continue to be this dense?!
It was also a privilege to see more sides of Richard in is volume. It’s clear from the first case that these stories will peel back more layers from his put-together exterior, revealing more of his kind, gentle, and sheepish moments. It was delightful. On to the next!
In volume 2, we get to see Seigi and Richard take on some more high-stakes cases with darker themes. But author Tsujimura Nanako’s humor still comes through in Seigi and Richard’s banter and misunderstandings. Seriously, how does Seigi continue to be this dense?!
It was also a privilege to see more sides of Richard in is volume. It’s clear from the first case that these stories will peel back more layers from his put-together exterior, revealing more of his kind, gentle, and sheepish moments. It was delightful. On to the next!
October 15, 2025
What a great read has been this light novel, delightful.
My only take away is a little translation detail that, overall, didn't really diminish my enjoyment.
My only take away is a little translation detail that, overall, didn't really diminish my enjoyment.
January 3, 2023
Oh God, I need the next volume now.
The whole chapter with the Opal? Had me reading with my mouth open. These two are finally warming up to each other, Seigi just keeps making marriage comments in Richard's general direction.
And I love how Seigi is hit with how even nice and helpful people make enemies by simply existing the way they are. There just are people out there who will not like you, as tragic as that is.
I love learning about jewels, it is amazing.
The whole chapter with the Opal? Had me reading with my mouth open. These two are finally warming up to each other, Seigi just keeps making marriage comments in Richard's general direction.
And I love how Seigi is hit with how even nice and helpful people make enemies by simply existing the way they are. There just are people out there who will not like you, as tragic as that is.
I love learning about jewels, it is amazing.
October 26, 2022
I love this because to my surprise, this is not just a collection of stories of people with similar problems. The first story was from the perspective of a child. The second story was about self-esteem. Third, international crime. And last one touches on an aspect of a work culture that exist but not prominent.
January 8, 2023
So so so good. I can't wait to have the next book.
I love the conversations and gemstone trivia and the main characters and everything.
I love the conversations and gemstone trivia and the main characters and everything.
April 21, 2023
These guys are silly silly silly, I love them.
April 25, 2023
I stay loving this series. I love watching Seigi and Richard's relationship grow as they work together in the shop. All of the cases are interesting and fun but even if you don't care much about the cases there are plenty of exciting moments with Seigi and Richard to keep you entertained. These are just great light-hearted and relaxing books if you're looking for something light to read.
August 20, 2022
My favourite were the Opal of Reunion and the extra chapter! The Opal of Reunion surprisingly made me teared up while the extra chapter is just super wholesome.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2022
they drive me CRAZY this reread in the official english translation was great
May 23, 2023
3.5 stars
“I may not know what the future holds, but was that really such a bad thing? Dreams are a human privilege, after all.”
The second volume of The Case Files of Jeweler Richard might be better than the first. While there is a mystery element to the cases - as in volume one - it's more pronounced in this installment. There are several references to Sherlock Holmes, to top it off: in one case, Richard 'reads' a customer like Holmes and deducts what their profession is. In another, he's actually called on to help solve a mystery surrounding emeralds. There are subtler parallels: just as Watson would be taken in by Holmes's genius abilities, so is Seigi by Richard's sharp eyes. Seigi also talks about how Richard's beauty sharpens when he's chasing a lead, much like how Watson said Holmes's eyes glint when he's close to catching the culprit (can you tell I'm a JohnLock shipper yet?).
I liked this volume more than the first because Seigi and Richard are already familiar with one another, and you see their relationship grow over time. They bicker with each other, and act terribly domestic (Seigi making Richard sweets and tea, them discussing when to buy more milk for the shop). I also like how Richard isn't just a caricature of a perfect love interest (handsome, smart, rich) like he is in the anime. Richard can be grumpy, and even venomous when he's angry. He also has a very decided weakness for desserts, which is endearing and funny.
The rest of this review is going to talk about their relationship, and is going to be spoilery. You've been warned. As I said in the review for the last volume, there's something going on between Seigi and Richard. A lot of the time, we have Seigi getting Richard flustered - not with intention, but because he inadvertently reveals feelings that Richard doesn't know to trust, since Seigi believes himself to like Tanimoto. Cases in point are below.
Exhibit A: Seigi saying Richard is important to him, and that's why he memorized his name.
Exhibit B: Seigi telling Richard exactly how gorgeous he thinks he is.
I can't tell if Seigi's utter obliviousness to all this is hilarious (I mean, I was laughing), frustrating (this happens multiple times in the book), or tragic (poor Richard). I think it's a combination of the three.
There is reason to believe that Seigi likes men. I was wondering if the series would go the gay-for-you route, but thankfully, it seems to be addressing Seigi's possible feelings for Richard as part and parcel of his overarching attraction to men. In case four (The Opal of Reunion), Seigi admits that he once thought of an old school friend romantically: I do remember that back in my first year of junior high, I was pretty convinced that if I had to marry someone, he probably wouldn’t have been a bad choice.
We do get moments that feel romance-themed in this book: Seigi making desserts for Richard and talking about acting like a married couple (which is quickly rebuffed by Richard), Richard comforting Seigi after an upsetting conversation, both Richard and Seigi going to a ballet together on what Seigi was hoping would be a date with Tanimoto.
I am still hoping they become a canon queer couple. I can't tolerate any of the 'they have a deep friendship!' thing when the two "friends" are literally in love (see: Banana Fish, which I still have feelings about). Fingers crossed that this slow-burn is rewarding. The Case Files of Jeweler Richard seems trustworthy, but I'll keep you posted on how my ship is doing.
“I may not know what the future holds, but was that really such a bad thing? Dreams are a human privilege, after all.”
The second volume of The Case Files of Jeweler Richard might be better than the first. While there is a mystery element to the cases - as in volume one - it's more pronounced in this installment. There are several references to Sherlock Holmes, to top it off: in one case, Richard 'reads' a customer like Holmes and deducts what their profession is. In another, he's actually called on to help solve a mystery surrounding emeralds. There are subtler parallels: just as Watson would be taken in by Holmes's genius abilities, so is Seigi by Richard's sharp eyes. Seigi also talks about how Richard's beauty sharpens when he's chasing a lead, much like how Watson said Holmes's eyes glint when he's close to catching the culprit (can you tell I'm a JohnLock shipper yet?).
I liked this volume more than the first because Seigi and Richard are already familiar with one another, and you see their relationship grow over time. They bicker with each other, and act terribly domestic (Seigi making Richard sweets and tea, them discussing when to buy more milk for the shop). I also like how Richard isn't just a caricature of a perfect love interest (handsome, smart, rich) like he is in the anime. Richard can be grumpy, and even venomous when he's angry. He also has a very decided weakness for desserts, which is endearing and funny.
The rest of this review is going to talk about their relationship, and is going to be spoilery. You've been warned. As I said in the review for the last volume, there's something going on between Seigi and Richard. A lot of the time, we have Seigi getting Richard flustered - not with intention, but because he inadvertently reveals feelings that Richard doesn't know to trust, since Seigi believes himself to like Tanimoto. Cases in point are below.
Exhibit A: Seigi saying Richard is important to him, and that's why he memorized his name.
“Remind me again who was incredibly smug about having memorized all of my names?”
“That’s not western script—that’s your name! I’m capable of remembering the names of important people in my life.”
Richard aggressively averted his eyes, grabbed his cup, and began drinking his water. He must’ve been really thirsty because he downed the whole thing.
Exhibit B: Seigi telling Richard exactly how gorgeous he thinks he is.
“It’s not terribly strict, but there is a dress code. Do I look all right? Nothing on my suit or in my hair?”
“You look perfect like you always do. The most beautiful man in the whole world is standing in front of me.”
The woman behind the counter suddenly started coughing really loud. Maybe she had a cold. If I had any caramels left, I would’ve offered her one. Richard gave my name to the woman behind the counter and got our tickets. He passed me mine over his shoulder and began walking at impressive speed into the theater. Maybe he was excited to be going out, or maybe he was nervous? He sure has some nerve when he’s just a last-minute replacement for Tanimoto.
I can't tell if Seigi's utter obliviousness to all this is hilarious (I mean, I was laughing), frustrating (this happens multiple times in the book), or tragic (poor Richard). I think it's a combination of the three.
There is reason to believe that Seigi likes men. I was wondering if the series would go the gay-for-you route, but thankfully, it seems to be addressing Seigi's possible feelings for Richard as part and parcel of his overarching attraction to men. In case four (The Opal of Reunion), Seigi admits that he once thought of an old school friend romantically: I do remember that back in my first year of junior high, I was pretty convinced that if I had to marry someone, he probably wouldn’t have been a bad choice.
We do get moments that feel romance-themed in this book: Seigi making desserts for Richard and talking about acting like a married couple (which is quickly rebuffed by Richard), Richard comforting Seigi after an upsetting conversation, both Richard and Seigi going to a ballet together on what Seigi was hoping would be a date with Tanimoto.
I am still hoping they become a canon queer couple. I can't tolerate any of the 'they have a deep friendship!' thing when the two "friends" are literally in love (see: Banana Fish, which I still have feelings about). Fingers crossed that this slow-burn is rewarding. The Case Files of Jeweler Richard seems trustworthy, but I'll keep you posted on how my ship is doing.
December 20, 2022
This volume only earns four stars because of the second-to-last story: The Opal of Reunion. Even that story itself can be a struggle at times, with the hallmarks of the rest of the volume: a frustrating protagonist who wrestles with weird versions of benevolent sexism and homophobia, awkwardness, and naivete to the point of rudeness. But it compensates for all that with the angst and heart that made me love it in the anime adaptation, as well, but I think more heavily emphasized in the original novel.
Up until that point, this book was a weirdly compelling slog. Everything that made Seigi annoying is cranked up 10x this volume, even if he is still trying to learn. It just seems like he only learns briefly and goes back to doing what he was doing, though there are increasing number of moments where he is actually trying, and pushing back against Richard not exactly being all that helpful with his lessons. And given Richard's lessons to Seigi, and life lessons in general, are kind of stupid, I support Seigi pushing back on them. The individual cases are forgettable and overly drawn out. The side characters aren't that great, either. But Seigi and Richard's relationship is somewhat enjoyable, and it gets particularly good in Opal.
As a minor quibble, I think there are actually more typos in this volume than volume 1. I'm really happy I was able to get an ebook copy of this from Seven Seas, because I honestly don't want a physical one on my shelf at this point.
Also again, there are no internal illustrations, at least in the ebook version. I've read light novel ebooks from Yen Press, and those had illustrations in them, as did Seven Seas' danmei novels (I know it's a different country and different kind of book, but same publisher with sporadic illustrations, like light novels typically have), so I don't know why these don't have any internal illustrations. I also know of at least one other light novel series that has internal illustrations. It's just odd. But if you're looking for more than the cover in terms of art, you're not going to find it. It's not annoying to me, exactly, because this has a manga and the anime exists, but still. It's weird.
Overall, I truly can't recommend this if you haven't already seen and liked the anime first. There's a lot that wasn't kept for the anime but is still in the book, particularly with Seigi being , but overall it's... not something I would have had any fun with if I didn't know what's coming down the line. Even Shen Yuan from "The Scum Villain's Self-Saving System" at his worst sometimes feels less frustrating to deal with than Seigi, and that's saying something. But if you'd like to see what the anime left out... there are definitely rewards here for that.
Up until that point, this book was a weirdly compelling slog. Everything that made Seigi annoying is cranked up 10x this volume, even if he is still trying to learn. It just seems like he only learns briefly and goes back to doing what he was doing, though there are increasing number of moments where he is actually trying, and pushing back against Richard not exactly being all that helpful with his lessons. And given Richard's lessons to Seigi, and life lessons in general, are kind of stupid, I support Seigi pushing back on them. The individual cases are forgettable and overly drawn out. The side characters aren't that great, either. But Seigi and Richard's relationship is somewhat enjoyable, and it gets particularly good in Opal.
As a minor quibble, I think there are actually more typos in this volume than volume 1. I'm really happy I was able to get an ebook copy of this from Seven Seas, because I honestly don't want a physical one on my shelf at this point.
Also again, there are no internal illustrations, at least in the ebook version. I've read light novel ebooks from Yen Press, and those had illustrations in them, as did Seven Seas' danmei novels (I know it's a different country and different kind of book, but same publisher with sporadic illustrations, like light novels typically have), so I don't know why these don't have any internal illustrations. I also know of at least one other light novel series that has internal illustrations. It's just odd. But if you're looking for more than the cover in terms of art, you're not going to find it. It's not annoying to me, exactly, because this has a manga and the anime exists, but still. It's weird.
Overall, I truly can't recommend this if you haven't already seen and liked the anime first. There's a lot that wasn't kept for the anime but is still in the book, particularly with Seigi being , but overall it's... not something I would have had any fun with if I didn't know what's coming down the line. Even Shen Yuan from "The Scum Villain's Self-Saving System" at his worst sometimes feels less frustrating to deal with than Seigi, and that's saying something. But if you'd like to see what the anime left out... there are definitely rewards here for that.
March 29, 2025
So good. Seigi called Richard beautiful approximately sixty times in this book, but he learned some basic bits of decency and voiced only half of those thoughts out loud.
Or let's not forget them going to the theatre together and Richard asking Seigi if he looks alright, and Seigi just confidently saying, “You look perfect like you always do. The most beautiful man in the whole world is standing in front of me.”
Richard comforting Seigi was one of my favourite moments so far. And the sweets bribery thing Seigi has going on with Richard - Richard seems mad? Time to feed him candy with my own hand.
The whole emerald case was so intriguing too, shame it wasn't in the anime! (The cover... So goddamn pretty.) The friendship between them seems much more delicate and forming much more slowly, which I like very much. But at the same time... I'M SO IMPATIENT. I WANT MORE. KNOWING THAT THEY LITERALLY WON'T EVEN KISS FOR THE NEXT HOWEVER MANY VOLUMES IS TORTURE
5 stars. Will reread when missing my two oblivious boys.
I thought I’d be used to it by now, but this man—no, this human, no, this creature—was impossibly beautiful. He was beautiful even when he wasn’t doing anything at all, but he really shone when he was up against something difficult like this.
Or let's not forget them going to the theatre together and Richard asking Seigi if he looks alright, and Seigi just confidently saying, “You look perfect like you always do. The most beautiful man in the whole world is standing in front of me.”
Richard comforting Seigi was one of my favourite moments so far. And the sweets bribery thing Seigi has going on with Richard - Richard seems mad? Time to feed him candy with my own hand.
The whole emerald case was so intriguing too, shame it wasn't in the anime! (The cover... So goddamn pretty.) The friendship between them seems much more delicate and forming much more slowly, which I like very much. But at the same time... I'M SO IMPATIENT. I WANT MORE. KNOWING THAT THEY LITERALLY WON'T EVEN KISS FOR THE NEXT HOWEVER MANY VOLUMES IS TORTURE
5 stars. Will reread when missing my two oblivious boys.
July 4, 2020
流石です。いつも通り、全部よかった。エメラルドとオパールは特に！！
全体的に一番好きだったの��エメラルドでした。クラシックなミステリー小説な雰囲気があって、物語のオチもとても上手に整えました。そしてまた宝石について色々勉強になった。宝石って綺麗に輝く人を幸せにするものだけでなく、犯罪を実行する道具にもなるものです。マネーロンダリングとか麻薬取引とかなんてこと！宝石にとって怖くて悲しい現実ですね。でも第三者の読者として本当に面白い展開を一つ一つ楽しみました。
オパールの車のシーンは言葉で表現できないほど神でした。感情の発展はすごくよくできました。泣いているのは正義だけでなく私もちょっとボロボロした。
「あなたの正しさの根底にあるのは、己の道を押し通そうとする頑迷ではなく、暗闇の中でも他者に優しくあろうとする気高さだからです。私はそういうありかたを尊いと思います。心から。時には羨ましくなるほどに」
「『他者に優しくあろうとする』なんて、俺じゃなくてこいつにこそあてはまる言葉だろう。だからもしこいつが、俺のそういうところが羨ましいなんて何割かでも本気で思っているのなら。こいつは間違いなく、優しすぎて苦労してきた人間だと思う。」
二つの台詞の対称を見てみて！やばいでしょう絶対に泣くでしょう？？？
また全体的な話に戻りますが、うっかり愛情を表現する正義と赤面するリチャードのシーンは多くて、毎回大爆笑する。リチャードの本当の笑顔は稀に見えますので見せてくれると本当にガチャでURカードを引いたような喜びが湧いてくる。いまだにリチャードと正義の育ち方の詳細は分からないけど、幼い頃あまり自分と同い年の友達がいないしやりとりできる相手もいないし、今のやりとりを随分楽しんでいるじゃないでしょうか。二人とも絶対に認めないけどね。
そして辻村七子先生は宝石や歴史について真剣にリサーチを努力したこと、それはよく伝わりました。本当にありがとう。続きは楽しみどころか今すぐにでも読みたいです！！！
全体的に一番好きだったの��エメラルドでした。クラシックなミステリー小説な雰囲気があって、物語のオチもとても上手に整えました。そしてまた宝石について色々勉強になった。宝石って綺麗に輝く人を幸せにするものだけでなく、犯罪を実行する道具にもなるものです。マネーロンダリングとか麻薬取引とかなんてこと！宝石にとって怖くて悲しい現実ですね。でも第三者の読者として本当に面白い展開を一つ一つ楽しみました。
オパールの車のシーンは言葉で表現できないほど神でした。感情の発展はすごくよくできました。泣いているのは正義だけでなく私もちょっとボロボロした。
「あなたの正しさの根底にあるのは、己の道を押し通そうとする頑迷ではなく、暗闇の中でも他者に優しくあろうとする気高さだからです。私はそういうありかたを尊いと思います。心から。時には羨ましくなるほどに」
「『他者に優しくあろうとする』なんて、俺じゃなくてこいつにこそあてはまる言葉だろう。だからもしこいつが、俺のそういうところが羨ましいなんて何割かでも本気で思っているのなら。こいつは間違いなく、優しすぎて苦労してきた人間だと思う。」
二つの台詞の対称を見てみて！やばいでしょう絶対に泣くでしょう？？？
また全体的な話に戻りますが、うっかり愛情を表現する正義と赤面するリチャードのシーンは多くて、毎回大爆笑する。リチャードの本当の笑顔は稀に見えますので見せてくれると本当にガチャでURカードを引いたような喜びが湧いてくる。いまだにリチャードと正義の育ち方の詳細は分からないけど、幼い頃あまり自分と同い年の友達がいないしやりとりできる相手もいないし、今のやりとりを随分楽しんでいるじゃないでしょうか。二人とも絶対に認めないけどね。
そして辻村七子先生は宝石や歴史について真剣にリサーチを努力したこと、それはよく伝わりました。本当にありがとう。続きは楽しみどころか今すぐにでも読みたいです！！！
April 26, 2025
After reading the second volume, I began to notice an aspect of Richard’s character that always reminds me of someone. The way he speaks to his customers and his demeanour reminded me of Sherlock Holmes. No wonder I’m always so amazed by him.
Oh, and I couldn’t stop giggling every time Seigi mentioned how beautiful his boss was. I’ve lost count of how many times he’s said it—it’s more than my ten fingers can manage! And when Seigi remarked that they were like an old married couple, I nearly burst out giggling like a maniac.
Overall, the story is captivating. I thoroughly enjoyed every part of this book to the point that I didn’t even realise I’d finished it in just three days. I’m absolutely looking forward to moving on to Volume 3. Also, Seigi and Richard, please adopt me as your child!
Oh, and I couldn’t stop giggling every time Seigi mentioned how beautiful his boss was. I’ve lost count of how many times he’s said it—it’s more than my ten fingers can manage! And when Seigi remarked that they were like an old married couple, I nearly burst out giggling like a maniac.
Overall, the story is captivating. I thoroughly enjoyed every part of this book to the point that I didn’t even realise I’d finished it in just three days. I’m absolutely looking forward to moving on to Volume 3. Also, Seigi and Richard, please adopt me as your child!
March 1, 2023
This second book in the series is similar to the first, though perhaps slightly better. We meet more customers with particular problems, but I don’t learn much more about Richard and Seigi from this one than I did from the first. Except that we get more detail about Seigi’s involvement with karate; and Richard seems to be allergic to anyone (male or female) taking a sexual interest in him. Perhaps he just has no interest in sex; or is he more complicated than that?
The author (via Richard) always has something new to say about gemstones. Although I can tolerate receiving the information, I don’t feel in particular need of it.
The author (via Richard) always has something new to say about gemstones. Although I can tolerate receiving the information, I don’t feel in particular need of it.
July 1, 2025
having read up to volume 9, i have to admit that i've gotten rather impatient with these earlier novels because i really, really want to get to the meatier part of the series. still, i found myself enjoying this (despite my impatience) & i just . i love seigi & richard so much. reading their interactions at the early stages of their relationship is such a treat now that i know how much it will develop. they are just so precious. i can no longer think of pudding & not associate it with seigi & richard.
April 14, 2024
This comment is for the English translation and editing team, please double check your translations for spelling and grammatical errors. It's really immersion breaking to see the main protagonists name missing a letter and complete sentences missing needed words.
As for the stories, the cat eye chapter was cute, and I will always take more Richard and Seigi moments. I really hope this series isn't just teasing the readers forever though.
As for the stories, the cat eye chapter was cute, and I will always take more Richard and Seigi moments. I really hope this series isn't just teasing the readers forever though.
March 27, 2025
Yup, dropping. The MC is incredibly annoying, the author is repetitive and every character other than Richard, have the personality of an annoying toothache! The idea of the series was good but so poorly developed and the MC suffers from verbal diarrhea. If I were to meet someone like him, I will punch his teeth off. Nice to watch as an anime awfully painful to read it as a novel. Onto my next adventure, Happy Readings!!!
January 4, 2023
It's still a charming, funny, and rather relaxed read despite the conflicts faced by Richard's customers. I guess the main piece in this volume is the story about the emerald, but I found the story about the opal the best written one. It might contain some serendipities like the other stories, but the emotional turmoil feels extra real.
July 1, 2024
Solid sequel to the first novel. Some cases i really liked, eg. The Cats Eye of Insight and The Opal of Reunion(!!!!!!!). I fucking hated The Dance of the Emeralds tbh but the rest of the chapters + the *characters* kept this at a 4*. There’s plenty of development in our characters and their relationships which is extremely fun to read!
February 29, 2024
เราชอบเล่มนี้เพิ่มขึ้นจากเล่มแรกนิดหน่อยถ้าเล่มแรกให้ 3 ดาวแบบอ่านเรื่อย ๆ เอื่อย ๆ เล่มนี้ให้เพิ่มเป็น 3.5 ทั้งในแง่เนื้อหาการสืบแบบสอดรู้เรื่องชาวบ้าน กับความสัมพันธ์ของเซงิและริชาร์ด ถ้า สนพ.จะทำเล่มต่อก็สามารถตามเก็บได้เรื่อย ๆ นะ
September 2, 2024
Amoooo estas novelas, la relacion entre los protagonistas es simplemente encantadora. La autora sabe entralazar las gemas con las historias de los casos de una manera ingeniosa que hace que uno no pueda para de leer. No puedo esperar a leer los siguientes volumenes. 5/5!
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