Also known as the conclusion to the Phantomhive murder mystery arc. A lot less action, a lot more resolution, and a new character that will have Sherlock Holmes fans jumping out of their seat (as if having the author himself in the story wasn't enough!). I love the Phantomhive staff in this one, especially Tanaka, who raised his coolness level 200% just in the first chapter. I also love that we saw more of Ciel without Sebastian and that he is capable of making relationships with other people. Also, I want a carrier owl too! I wonder if the mansion has an owlery of sorts somewhere on the grounds; I imagine Sebastian would be the one to take care of it. ( )

I love this manga. Its Excellent. ( )

This is the 10th volume in the Black Butler series. I didn’t enjoy it quite as much as previous volumes but it was still very entertaining.

This volume continues the story starting in Volume 9. Mysterious murders have been happening in the Phantomhive Manor and the guests (as well as the murderer) are trapped in the Manor by a vicious storm that is raging outside. Then a mysterious thirteenth guest arrives, a vicar who is very Sherlock Holmes like. He helps the guests unravel the twisted plot of murder and mayhem that has been plaguing them.

Probably the most fun part of the story was watching Tanaka in action. The rest of the story was a bunch of twisty turny accusations and the reveal of a fairly convoluted plot. It was engaging and interesting but not quite as wilding entertaining as previous volumes have been.

The whole book (this and the last one) is a sort of ode to Sherlock Holmes stories. It was a cute concept, but I am ready to move on to more interesting paranormal and demonic adventures.

I missed Sebastian, and Ciel kind of played a backseat to other characters as well. This definitely ended up being one of the weaker books in this series so far.

The illustration is still top notch with beautiful attention to detail. I did still enjoy the story, I just didn’t absolutely love it like I have with other volumes.

Overall this was a good continuation of this series. I enjoyed it although not as much as other volumes. This volume did a good job of wrapping up the story started in volume 9. I look forward to seeing what volume 11 holds for readers. I would recommend this manga series to those who enjoy paranormal/Victorian themed mangas. ( )

The resolution to the murder mysteries is convoluted, and I can't help but think that Sebastian somehow framed Woodley.

I love that Toboso shoehorned yet another mystery-related reference into the story, in the form of Vicar Jeremy, who was basically Jeremy Brett as Sherlock Holmes.

Inside back cover extra: Black Esper.

(Original review posted on A Library Girl's Familiar Diversions.) ( )

And so the Sherlock Holmes arc comes to an end. Who is the killer? I dunno, this arc was getting a bit stale, I can't wait to move on to the next volume. ( )