*This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.

This volume has our secret couple Nanoha and Chidori going on their first beach trip with their friends as well as introducing Igarashi; Chidori’s first love that broke her heart.

It’s interesting to see how f/f relationships are seen in Japan. I remember reading/watching somewhere that these little intimacies are seen as cutesy things you grow out of as life gets “serious,” then you go on to have a family. My mother believed something similar. It was so fucking sweet to see Nanoha put her foot down and say Chidori is her girlfriend. They’re still a secret to their friends but this isn’t a passing thing for them. While this isn’t a flash forward 20 years in the future to see they’re still together for a real confirmation but I’ll take it. They are so damn adorable. 3.5 out of 5.

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May 9, 2025July 2, 2025 atthequillsmercy

Lenni Reviews: “Rainbows After Storms” Vol. 3, by Luka Kobachi

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*This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.

Nanoha and Chidori are heading into their first summer as a couple and their first official date at an aquarium.

We have our usual sort of episodic misadventures where we learn Chidori is great at cooking, Nanoha has a sleepover with all her friends, but her little sister, Kaede, figures out their secret. Still, something is brewing about Chidori’s past. I’d expected Kaede to be a little shit and cause trouble but nah, she was fine. I don’t anticipate this series going super dark and have everyone turn on them, but Chidori clearly went through something that’s really bothering her whenever it crops up. Everything is lighthearted and sweet so, while my guard is interested, it’s not at full attention yet. 4 out of 5.

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April 20, 2025June 14, 2025 atthequillsmercy

Lenni Reviews: “I’m in Love with the Villainess” Manga Vol. 1, by Aonoshimo, Inori & Hanagata

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*This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.

Rei Ohashi is overworked, and gaming is her only escape. One day, she wakes to find herself in one of her favorite games, where she takes the chance to romance the villain in the story, Claire Francios.

While I haven’t read the light novel, this is a silly but a little creepy sort of story. Although Rei is technically in a game, she’s really pushy with Claire, even getting a job as a maid in order to be around Claire at school and at home. Claire is a classic bully girl but anyone would be creeped out if someone wormed their way into their life like this, especially since part of the maid’s duties includes bathing. It is beautiful, I love the art but yeah, the premise gets less and less funny the more I think about it. 3 out of 5.

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February 3, 2025January 27, 2025 atthequillsmercy

Lenni Reviews: “There’s No Freaking Way I’ll be Your Lover! Unless…” Vol. 1, by Musshu, Mikami Teren & Eku Takeshima

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*This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.

After dealing with loneliness in middle school, Amaori Renako is ready to reinvent herself for high school. Hoping to be one of the cool kids, Renako has put herself under a ton of pressure and when she goes to the roof to destress, she meets popular girl Oduka Mai and they become friends. Renako enjoys their friendship until Mai confesses she’s in love with Renako.

The twist is that they make a deal as to when they are friends and dating on whether or not Mai’s hair is tied up. This situation leaves the door open for some funny jokes:

but as friends or girlfriends, this duo is highly entertaining. So far, we have a bit of fanservice and some suggestive talk but it’s not 18+. I’d say older teen unless the next volume changes things. This is a fun start and I can’t wait for the next one. 4 out of 5.

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