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Black Bird #7
Black Bird, Vol. 7
He loves her blood, but does her love her?!
Reads R to L (Japanese Style) T+ audience.
There is a world of myth and magic that intersects ours, and only a special few can see it. Misao Harada is one such person, and she wants nothing to do with magical realms. She just wants to have a normal high school life and maybe get a boyfriend. But she is the bride of demon prophecy, and her blood grants incredible powers, her flesh immortality. Now the demon realm is fighting over the right to her hand...or her life!
Misao knows her relationship with Kyo is dangerous, but she's used to being the one in peril! Will she be able to stand it when the tables are turned and Kyo is threatened? As leader of the tengu clan and boyfriend of the Senka Maiden, Kyo gets a lot of attention in the demon world, and very little of it is good. From the wrath of a reincarnated dragon to the hatred of a demon hunter, Misao must face the fact that she isn't the only one at risk in the relationship. But how can she just stand by while Kyo is threatened?!
Reads R to L (Japanese Style) T+ audience.
There is a world of myth and magic that intersects ours, and only a special few can see it. Misao Harada is one such person, and she wants nothing to do with magical realms. She just wants to have a normal high school life and maybe get a boyfriend. But she is the bride of demon prophecy, and her blood grants incredible powers, her flesh immortality. Now the demon realm is fighting over the right to her hand...or her life!
Misao knows her relationship with Kyo is dangerous, but she's used to being the one in peril! Will she be able to stand it when the tables are turned and Kyo is threatened? As leader of the tengu clan and boyfriend of the Senka Maiden, Kyo gets a lot of attention in the demon world, and very little of it is good. From the wrath of a reincarnated dragon to the hatred of a demon hunter, Misao must face the fact that she isn't the only one at risk in the relationship. But how can she just stand by while Kyo is threatened?!
192 pages, Paperback
First published January 26, 2009
49 people are currently reading
1721 people want to read
About the author
Kanoko Sakurakouji
53 books487 followersKanoko Sakurakouji (桜小路かのこ) is a Japanese mangaka.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
August 17, 2017
I only own one more volume of this and I'm gonna do it!
January 5, 2019
I really liked the new characters in this one, I’m super excited to read more
May 16, 2021
Black Bird continues to pull me in and remind me of the nostalgia of binging this series in high school. Amusingly enough, this book has the receipt from when I pre-ordered this book from my local book shop. I couldn't believe it was still legible! But there it was, showing my adoration from my high school years. What a trip down memory lane!
This series goes up and down for me. One volume I'm super into it, and one volume I'm not. This one had me superglued the entire time. There's a new dude coming in to try to break Misao and Kyo up. Who, where, why, how?! I need all of the answers. I'm pumped to continue reading this series to see where it takes me. You finally think you're over a hurdle like Sho or the kitsune, and suddenly another terror comes our way!
This book was way more fast paced and brought a bit more romance into this fantasy/romance series. It's a great read, as long as you realize there are some tones of sexual harassment in this series. So, trigger warning to those who are sensitive to these topics.
Overall, this book was a great jump away from chapter books and into the world of art and manga.
Four out of five stars.
This series goes up and down for me. One volume I'm super into it, and one volume I'm not. This one had me superglued the entire time. There's a new dude coming in to try to break Misao and Kyo up. Who, where, why, how?! I need all of the answers. I'm pumped to continue reading this series to see where it takes me. You finally think you're over a hurdle like Sho or the kitsune, and suddenly another terror comes our way!
This book was way more fast paced and brought a bit more romance into this fantasy/romance series. It's a great read, as long as you realize there are some tones of sexual harassment in this series. So, trigger warning to those who are sensitive to these topics.
Overall, this book was a great jump away from chapter books and into the world of art and manga.
Four out of five stars.
June 18, 2018
I don't know, but for me, Kyo always seems to get the emotional upper hand when it comes to Misao.
It's kind of annoying how he retaliated that far by omitting the fact that he wasn't actually going to sleep with the dragon prince's sister. I mean, Misao was beating herself up about it. I didn't think that was necessary, and I think Kyo could've been the bigger man by admitting how he felt about Misao and Sojo kissing.
I guess that's part of his arrogant character. Hmph! :P
It's kind of annoying how he retaliated that far by omitting the fact that he wasn't actually going to sleep with the dragon prince's sister. I mean, Misao was beating herself up about it. I didn't think that was necessary, and I think Kyo could've been the bigger man by admitting how he felt about Misao and Sojo kissing.
I guess that's part of his arrogant character. Hmph! :P
January 15, 2023
Just reread this one and I still felt the same way about it that I did at 13 years old. LMAO Guess my opinion didn't change on this one much? Still a solid 5 stars in the Black Bird series. Better than some volumes.
My 2012 review
Black Bird volume 7 by Kanoko Sakurakouji
5 stars
My 2012 review
Black Bird volume 7 by Kanoko Sakurakouji
5 stars
I love Black Bird; it’s one of my favorite mangas that I’ve ever gotten my hands on. It’s completely captivating and I enjoy every single hot sizzling second between Kyo and Misao. I love Kyo. You can call him a jerk if you want and disagree with me, but I love him and I think he’s sexy too. That’s a bonus… don’t get me wrong he has his jerky moments but I actually find those moments laughable. I want to know who this new guy thinks he is trying to break up Misao and Kyo.
He shall be punished for this. I don’t like him, but he is kind of cute, but still no one breaks them up. I’ll probably start the next one tonight or tomorrow depending on how busy I am. I didn’t talk about what this manga is about… I’ll do it in the next review of volume 8.
November 24, 2011
More reviews at Rondo of a Possible World: YA Book Reviews
I absolutely adore Black Bird! The art, simply delicious. I definitely recommend it to anyone out there over 16. A wonderful shojo that screams yummy male characters through out.
I absolutely adore Black Bird! The art, simply delicious. I definitely recommend it to anyone out there over 16. A wonderful shojo that screams yummy male characters through out.
August 16, 2016
Off be Raiko.çok salaksın.
January 11, 2018
Kyou llega a los extremos para que Misao revele sus verdaderos sentimientos e inquietudes, jajaja que lindos...
January 6, 2021
I might be burning myself out on these now. Still really loving the story but the will they won't they is killing me. After the next one it might be time to grab a novel and take a break.
March 5, 2024
SPOILERS
OH MY GOD THE ANGELS EXTRA MY HEART IT WAS SO BEAUTIFUL 8A8
OH MY GOD THE ANGELS EXTRA MY HEART IT WAS SO BEAUTIFUL 8A8
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2024
The ‘Angel’ special feature at the end was so cute <3
June 30, 2025
weirdly i enjoyed the extra story more than the main one, it was kind of boring
March 19, 2024
I love this series so much! And her art is my favorite.
July 8, 2014
Conflicting emotions going on isn't there? This was okay, interesting but okay. Love the green aqua color in the background though.
December 6, 2018
Quite frankly, this volume was a bit of a letdown for me. And no, the artwork is top-notch just like the prior ones. It's more to due with the two opposing stories that seemed rushed and/or fanservicey.
The first story involves the sudden visit of a very powerful dragon beast who asks for Kyou's help to save his infirm sister. Nothing is explained about her illness, except that the Tengu bodyguards are deeply afraid of angering the demigod because they know they would be crushed like ants. Misao initially thought her blood could help, but Kyou quickly states that the demigoddess would be unable to drink her blood for some reason.
The demigod offers a different solution: Kyou has obtained a lot of life energy by both kissing and drinking Misao's blood. If he agreed to have sex with his infirm sister, then not only would they gain a very powerful ally, they might locate a part of the stolen sacred fruit logbooks they have been looking for in prior novels whose ultimate importance have never been clearly explained.
Misao is of course furious and goes all jealous and insecure brat-mode. Sure, I have to view her as a clingy and heavily inexperienced teenager, but the way the plot seems to drag on half of the volume, only for the plot to never really go anywhere was a letdown.
The final chapter is better in some ways, but still felt like a desperate attempt to find some sort of tension in the plot as plot filler. Misao's dad ends up spending the night in a temple. Misao's mom asks Kyou to spend the night in their home (whoa!), and despite the fun scenes where Kyou eats human home cooked food, they still don't get past second base. Darn! Misao's parents return the next day accompanied by a sort of priest named Raiko. He instantly growls at Kyou and threatens him to leave Misao alone. After being left seriously maimed by a youkai a long time ago, he harbors a huge degree of hatred for all youkai and threatens to harm Misao in order to split them apart.
Now, this plot twist seems rather interesting, and it offers a lot of potential for the plot. The thing that annoyed me were tidbits of the execution. He threatens Misao in front of her parents, and yet they still let him rent a room in her house while he goes to college. Huh?
A troubled volume, I hope things pick up in the next one.
The first story involves the sudden visit of a very powerful dragon beast who asks for Kyou's help to save his infirm sister. Nothing is explained about her illness, except that the Tengu bodyguards are deeply afraid of angering the demigod because they know they would be crushed like ants. Misao initially thought her blood could help, but Kyou quickly states that the demigoddess would be unable to drink her blood for some reason.
The demigod offers a different solution: Kyou has obtained a lot of life energy by both kissing and drinking Misao's blood. If he agreed to have sex with his infirm sister, then not only would they gain a very powerful ally, they might locate a part of the stolen sacred fruit logbooks they have been looking for in prior novels whose ultimate importance have never been clearly explained.
Misao is of course furious and goes all jealous and insecure brat-mode. Sure, I have to view her as a clingy and heavily inexperienced teenager, but the way the plot seems to drag on half of the volume, only for the plot to never really go anywhere was a letdown.
The final chapter is better in some ways, but still felt like a desperate attempt to find some sort of tension in the plot as plot filler. Misao's dad ends up spending the night in a temple. Misao's mom asks Kyou to spend the night in their home (whoa!), and despite the fun scenes where Kyou eats human home cooked food, they still don't get past second base. Darn! Misao's parents return the next day accompanied by a sort of priest named Raiko. He instantly growls at Kyou and threatens him to leave Misao alone. After being left seriously maimed by a youkai a long time ago, he harbors a huge degree of hatred for all youkai and threatens to harm Misao in order to split them apart.
Now, this plot twist seems rather interesting, and it offers a lot of potential for the plot. The thing that annoyed me were tidbits of the execution. He threatens Misao in front of her parents, and yet they still let him rent a room in her house while he goes to college. Huh?
A troubled volume, I hope things pick up in the next one.
June 27, 2024
This story follows Misao, a high schooler who can see the magical creatures and spirits that are invisible to everyone else. This gift is merely an annoyance until her sixteenth birthday, when she gets attacked by a demon and discovers that she is the Senka Maiden, or bride of prophecy – a human whose blood gives unlimited power to the demon who claims her. Her childhood friend Kyo appears in time to save her, though it turns out he is a demon as well! Kyo is the leader of the Tengu (crow demon) clan, thus the name of the story. His intentions to protect her, however, seem to be pure – and Misao allows him to lick her wounds long enough to fall in love with him herself. Together they must face the challenges that come from courting the Senka Maiden, as well as the curse that befalls her once she bears the child of a demon.
This was a fantastic story! The characters were well done with bold personality traits: we can clearly see Kyo’s determination, his brother Soh’s treachery and underhandedness, the Daitengu’s loyalty, even Misao’s simultaneous naivety and bravery. And I absolutely loved the plot. Unlike Demon Spell (another manga featuring demons of Japanese culture), the story was very complete, with no detail left unexplained or unaccounted for.
*SPOILER ALERT* But my favorite part of all has to be the ending. Misao’s pregnancy is meant to lead to her death, but just when all seems to be lost, hope appears. Even if their ending isn’t perfect, it is happy, and you find yourself happy and grateful for the imperfection because it shows you how much worse things could have been.
I have more to say on this book (and others!) in my blog! Check it out here:
https://www.lynnwallaceauthor.com/blo...
September 16, 2025
Finally we get an actually good volume to hook me back into the story and the main romance again– 3.5 stars because this volume was actually so fun when the past couple volumes really dragged :D
Kyo and Misao are going insane from their promise of abstinence so they're cranking their frottage up to the max to cope (very Twilight/Mormon coded). We finally meet a human who knows about demons but isn't fucking one, therefore is very concerned for Misao and tries to protect her in a way that spectacularly backfires. I loved the way that we finally had some outsider human POV on the demon world that's more grounded in reality, and the way it kind of broke the logic of the demon world that Misao's been thrust into because she does desperately need to be grounded in reality, even if there isn't really any easy way out of her predicament. Sadly, even in this fictional fantastical version of Japan, the patriarchy continues to control our female protagonist's life with an iron grip, but at least we have one person (Kyo) legitimately looking out for her actual happiness and good health. I think this is yet another reason Sakurakoji's writing depresses and disappoints me where Suzuki's writing uplifts and inspires me. Still enjoying Black Bird, though.
Loved the bonus feature stories, especially the one about *insert that dude's name here bc I totally forgot*– soooo cute and I loved how it gave a little peek into some more peripheral goings-on during Kyo and Tadanobu's teen years. He really gave me Kirihito vibes \( ; ~ ; )/ UGHGHGH I need to reread Kamisama Kiss for the thousandth time. Can't wait to see if his story becomes more relevant as the volumes go on.
Kyo and Misao are going insane from their promise of abstinence so they're cranking their frottage up to the max to cope (very Twilight/Mormon coded). We finally meet a human who knows about demons but isn't fucking one, therefore is very concerned for Misao and tries to protect her in a way that spectacularly backfires. I loved the way that we finally had some outsider human POV on the demon world that's more grounded in reality, and the way it kind of broke the logic of the demon world that Misao's been thrust into because she does desperately need to be grounded in reality, even if there isn't really any easy way out of her predicament. Sadly, even in this fictional fantastical version of Japan, the patriarchy continues to control our female protagonist's life with an iron grip, but at least we have one person (Kyo) legitimately looking out for her actual happiness and good health. I think this is yet another reason Sakurakoji's writing depresses and disappoints me where Suzuki's writing uplifts and inspires me. Still enjoying Black Bird, though.
Loved the bonus feature stories, especially the one about *insert that dude's name here bc I totally forgot*– soooo cute and I loved how it gave a little peek into some more peripheral goings-on during Kyo and Tadanobu's teen years. He really gave me Kirihito vibes \( ; ~ ; )/ UGHGHGH I need to reread Kamisama Kiss for the thousandth time. Can't wait to see if his story becomes more relevant as the volumes go on.
September 28, 2017
Kyo's been offered the Senka Roku if he will sleep with (and this heal?) the Dragon Lord's daughter. Misao has to work up the courage to voice her objections, but just what kind of vengeance will the dragon clan take? Misao's father brings home a priest who recognises Kyo for what he really is. The fanatical monk tries to separate Misao and Kyo by hypnotising her, and then plans to kill Kyo with his demon slaying sword - as if our star crossed lovers didn't have enough to contend with!
Another beautiful volume chock full of melodrama and with gorgeous artwork. We also get two bonus stories - Angels - which sees a female demon of the Tengu clan and her love of a human boy and Ice which gives the proposal/back-story of Sagami and Ayame. Both are lovely bonuses.
Yes this series does draw out the romance far more than is really credible - 18 volumes seriously! But i don't know for all that you can't help but await each volume to see what fate will throw at Kyo and Misao next.
Another beautiful volume chock full of melodrama and with gorgeous artwork. We also get two bonus stories - Angels - which sees a female demon of the Tengu clan and her love of a human boy and Ice which gives the proposal/back-story of Sagami and Ayame. Both are lovely bonuses.
Yes this series does draw out the romance far more than is really credible - 18 volumes seriously! But i don't know for all that you can't help but await each volume to see what fate will throw at Kyo and Misao next.
April 30, 2024
La historia es cada día más agradable, es demasiado posesivo el chico, con respecto a la chica, pero también vemos que es recíproco, ambos son así y así se quieren. Hay veces que me sorprende la chica con respecto a realizar acciones que me sorprenden, la verdad, pensé que era una chica tonta de novela de ser tímida y reservada y es otra cosa. La verdad Misao no es nada de eso y no piensen mal, ella es una chica que hará lo que sea por la persona que ama y viceversa, porque ambos estan enamorados y desean que su amor no este en el hielo, harán lo que sea para buscar la solidez que tanto desean. Si me encantaron las dos historias, y me hicieron ver que mi perspectiva de ellos dos estaba mal.
Aunque eso si, yo pensé que lo de ha historia con los dragones duraría un poco más por como nos dejaron en el anterior capítulo. Pero que haya un exorcista, eso si que es drama. Me muero por leer el siguiente así que haber si avanzo con mis lecturas.
:)
Aunque eso si, yo pensé que lo de ha historia con los dragones duraría un poco más por como nos dejaron en el anterior capítulo. Pero que haya un exorcista, eso si que es drama. Me muero por leer el siguiente así que haber si avanzo con mis lecturas.
:)
June 26, 2017
3.5 stars
There is NO way Sho's dead. The series is only half done. He's not dead, it's too easy, plus no body was found. The dragon prince shows up to start drama for a few chapters so Misao can cry some more. I feel like she needs to start selling blood popsicle to demons. Enter in Raikoh; a huge believer of pushing his way of life/beliefs on everyone else regardless of opinions. I don't like the guy, but in reality he calls bullshit on Kyo and Misao's relationship. Like you're willingly going along with a demon and demons are known to attack/kill humans; fair criticism. Once he ripped off Misao's necklace and watched her get attacked instantaneously he should begin to understand. If I were a daitengu I'd make him crawl through that damn sewer to get it back, that's for sure.
There is NO way Sho's dead. The series is only half done. He's not dead, it's too easy, plus no body was found. The dragon prince shows up to start drama for a few chapters so Misao can cry some more. I feel like she needs to start selling blood popsicle to demons. Enter in Raikoh; a huge believer of pushing his way of life/beliefs on everyone else regardless of opinions. I don't like the guy, but in reality he calls bullshit on Kyo and Misao's relationship. Like you're willingly going along with a demon and demons are known to attack/kill humans; fair criticism. Once he ripped off Misao's necklace and watched her get attacked instantaneously he should begin to understand. If I were a daitengu I'd make him crawl through that damn sewer to get it back, that's for sure.
April 27, 2025
whyyyyyyyyy did they introduce such a cool, interesting character, with such potential, only to never talk about him, or his apparent superior world/clan ever again ??!!???! the dragon prince, and his family, could have been an incredible way to bring in more mythology and legend, and yet......????????
however, i do think that raikoh's character was done very well, with a complex backstory, as well as nuanced, somewhat understandable, motives.
the short story at the end of the book-- angels-- drew me in completely. it feels slightly different in tone, but is just so incredibly heartwarming and full of love. 10/10 for this one, even without the nostalgia-haze!!
and the same goes for the even shorter ice-- love it!!
however, i do think that raikoh's character was done very well, with a complex backstory, as well as nuanced, somewhat understandable, motives.
the short story at the end of the book-- angels-- drew me in completely. it feels slightly different in tone, but is just so incredibly heartwarming and full of love. 10/10 for this one, even without the nostalgia-haze!!
and the same goes for the even shorter ice-- love it!!
May 17, 2018
Kyo and Misao are putting their love to the test when a dragon has asked Kyo to lay with another woman. I can see why obviously Misao is tormented by this.
I’m so very happy to be back at reading this series. I love Misao and Kyo so much. Their character development is coming along very well and their relationship is growing stronger and stronger with each manga.
Cheers.
I’m so very happy to be back at reading this series. I love Misao and Kyo so much. Their character development is coming along very well and their relationship is growing stronger and stronger with each manga.
Cheers.
November 2, 2018
3 1/2 stars to 4 stars. The plot continues to evolve as new dangers confront Misao and Kyo. Nice to see that there are humans who have access to powers themselves and can be a real danger to demons. The story is full of threats, action and some relationship time between Misao and Kyo. Kyo is even able to get a little back at Misao for enjoying his jealousy.
September 28, 2019
Definitely not a fan of Raikoh and I’m hoping his story arc doesn’t last very long. Or, that it takes a turn, as did the predicament with the dragon prince that was set up in the last volume. I did like this volume and am, for the most part, pleased with how Kyo and Misao’s relationship is progressing.
July 31, 2020
Apparently an incredibly powerful water dragon prince appears as a cameo claiming to have the special book they need called the Senka Roku. He pretty much just shows up to talk about the book and he’s never seen again or worried about again. Over a new man appears who can banish demons and attempts to free Misao by force from Kyo.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2022
I liked the first stories in this volume with Misao speaking up for what she wants and the quiet domesticity Kyo and Misao got to experience, but the latter chapters were a bit jarring. This new foil sure comes across as a heavy handed asshole. I also didn't like the mind control stuff. The other story Angels was sweet.
Trigger warnings for mind control, blood kink,
Trigger warnings for mind control, blood kink,
October 1, 2023
Misao and Kyo really can't catch a break! Now they have to deal with a pyscho, thinking he knows what's best for Misao and thinks he knows demons. As soon as Raikoh tried to "protect" her, he failed, and she was attacked. He's an idiot! Kyo really does everything possible to be there for Misao and make her happy. It's killing me that people are trying to tear them apart!
August 7, 2025
Kyo is so evil for bullying Misao so much XD
I think their relationship and chemistry really is so sweet. I like how they continue to rely on each other despite the many roadblocks that pop up. The drama and sweet moments in this volume were both really enjoyable. And I really liked the bonus story, Angels, it was so sweet ;-;
I think their relationship and chemistry really is so sweet. I like how they continue to rely on each other despite the many roadblocks that pop up. The drama and sweet moments in this volume were both really enjoyable. And I really liked the bonus story, Angels, it was so sweet ;-;
January 8, 2018
So basically there's this new guy meddling with misao and kyou's relationship just because kyou's a youkai and "that's wrong"
...
...
...
This guy is actually doing more harm than good, to the point that Misao ALMOST DIES TWICE due to his meddling. What an asshole.
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This guy is actually doing more harm than good, to the point that Misao ALMOST DIES TWICE due to his meddling. What an asshole.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews