manga #2

inspired by korean history and classics; set in ancient Korea with fantasy elements. it's actually a manhwa btw, before the age of webtoon format. the plot is thrilling, intense, and gritty; the art is detailed and amazing. the mc's an anti-hero with firm beliefs; a well-written edgy chara. it is a bit slow initially but the latter half is really good. other charas are likable morally gray charas. btw there are a lot of deaths.

music (specifically cellos) + drama
friends to rivals

follows a war veteran, a young ainu girl, and various parties as they engage in clashes/conflicting goals in pursuit of a hidden stash of gold. well-written character cast, with distinctly interesting charas (sociopaths) and character growth. it's highly entertaining, and integrates information/culture about the ainu people seamlessly with the action, dramatic confrontations, comedy, and adventure amidst a backdrop of cultural, political, and technological development.

decent murder mystery with beautiful art

short entertaining manga about a middle schooler who helps a yakuza improve his karaoke. it's not pure comedy, and the middle schooler has a separate storyline besides the premise.

entertaining short completed story with likable charming characters and wholesome relationships. theme: the strength of bonds, love, and hope.

dont read if you cant handle emotional devastation. ngl the ending made sense in terms of themes, about how life can be so fleeting and death so pointless, but still. it's about drugs, gang violence, politicking, conspiracy, aftereffects of the vietnam war, and a strong bond between 2 kids of different cultures and upbringings.

found family trope + gang of kidnappers + chara development