The first half of the book is a boring slog as the regular cast just chatters at each other as they get ready for a big festival and then we cut to gloomy political conversations between knights, head witches, and a king.

The noodling finally gives way to some more dramatic events, first with a flashback story about sexual harassment and victim shaming that put me in mind of First Aid Kit's You Are the Problem Here. The closing pages finally started to directly and violently address the big lie and hoax behind the nature of witches around which the whole society is built. I wouldn't mind seeing the series push harder into that area. ( )

Series Info/Source: This is the ninth book in the Witch Hat Atelier series. I bought a hard copy of this book.

Thoughts: I really continue to love this series. While nothing huge happens in this volume, it was still very enjoyable. The illustration in this manga series is always stunning and continues to be so.

This seemed to be a bit transitional, storywise. Coco and crew are journeying to the city to celebrate a festival and show off their magical contraptions. We also get a look at the leadership in this world and some back story on one of the Knights Moralis.

I am having some trouble keeping track of the new leadership and Knight characters introduced but still really enjoy Coco, Qifrey, and their group.

The story is moving very slow and these last couple volumes have been very transitional. I still enjoy how cheery and enthusiastic these manga are; they are fun to read and leave me feeling happy. I do hope that the story picks up pace a bit in future volumes.

My Summary (5/5): Overall I continue to really enjoy this fantasy manga series. The story is a bit slow here but I love the positive feel to this series and the beautiful illustrations. I would highly recommend this series to those who enjoy fantasy manga. ( )