The Water Dragon’s Bride, Vol. 7

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY 17 APR 2017

This teen book should not be confused with the adult Korean manhwa Bride of the Water God, although they're probably based on the same legend. Asahi is a plucky, talkative child who one day finds herself transported into an ancient time period. But even when the village chieftain tries to sacrifice her to the local water spirit, she isn't overcome; she meets the water god, who is far more childlike than she, and bargains her release at the price of her voice. Asahi makes it to the surface with her local friend, a boy named Subaru, but the troubles are only just beginning, as all the gods and villagers are now watching them. Toma's sophomore US release shows growth from her previous Dawn of the Arcana; where that felt stale, this has charm and relatability, instantly drawing the reader in. Attractive character designs and whimsical portrayals make this story all that you want in a shojo manga.