A review by cupidcove
Witch Hat Atelier, Volume 9 by Kamome Shirahama

adventurous dark fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

I can't help but feel that every time we leave the apprentices and follow the government I just get bored. It is always followed by infodumping and I don't feel connected to any of the many characters that are always shown and introduced. I did like the way the backstory with Luluchi was handled, though I can't help but thinking that if the SA depiction was - by the text's own admission - not necessary for the story, it may not have needed to be included at all. I also feel that Coco's slow descent into despair is one of the most skillfully foreshadowed elements of the story especially given the way her conflict with Custas has ended up. I think it really captures the confusion of young people participating in a system that doesn't makes sense. I can't wait to read more.