Manga Review – Soulless: The Manga Vol 2 by Gail Carriger and Rem (4.5/5 stars)

Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Manga/Steampunk
Size: 240 pages
Publisher: Yen Press
Release Date: November 20, 2012
ISBN: 978-0316182065
Stand Alone or Series: 2nd book in the Soulless:The Manga series
Source: Bought
Rating: 4.5/5 stars

I really enjoyed this series when it was originally released as full length novels and also enjoyed the first manga I read in this series. This book was just as much fun as the first one and delves even deeper into the paranormal and steampunk aspects of the world that Alexia lives in. This graphic novel covers the second book in original series Changeless.

Alexia is trying to settle in as Lady Woodsley (Lord Macoon’s wife) but there is just one challenge after another. First there is a regiment of werewolves camped in her lawn, then for some reason the supernatural creatures are losing their powers…rendering them human. A lot of the supernaturals suspect Alexia’s involvement because of her Preternatural abilities and she sets off to Scotland (in pursuit of her husband) to prove them wrong.

This book has a lot more action than the previous one; including a daring dirigible ride and many attempts on Alexia’s life. There is a lot of humor throughout, just like in the first manga.

The illustration is absolutely beautiful. The surroundings and clothing are very detailed and facial expressions are very, very well done.

I thought Alexia in this manga was more true to the original book, in the first book she was a bit more flighty and goofy…this book was more true to her character. I also really enjoyed Madame Lefoux; she has always been a very fun and intriguing character in this series.

There is a lot of mystery and intrigue. We learn a lot more about Lord Macoon’s past as well. There is a twist at the end of the story that will have readers (at least those who haven’t read the full length books already) gasping in surprise.

Overall this was just a ton of fun. I continue to really enjoy these manga renditions of the Parasol Protectorate series. They have all the best and most entertaining parts of the novels in here. The illustration is stunning and I love the witty dialogue and quirky characters. Definitely recommended to fans of steampunk and paranormal reads.

This book goes towards the following reading challenges:
– Graphic Novel Reading Challenge
– You Read How Many Books? Reading Challenge