The Magical Revolution of the Reincarnated Princess and the Genius Young Lady, Volume 8.5 is a collection of short stories about Anis, Euphie and the folks in their orbit. It was surprisingly good for being little more than  fanfics of the authors’ own characters. 

These stories mostly take place after Euphyllia has ascended the throne as Queen, and Princess Anisphia has found a place at her side. We do spend, a little time earlier on, as we watch Lainie, still a maid at the separated palace and Ilia, deepen their relationship. Also at the separated palace, we get a nice new beginning for Tilty, Anis’ friend and a little more about why she is interested in curses.

But it’s not the whys or how that shine here.  It’s the repeated acts of reconciliation, friendship, family and love that makes this volume work. Among these is the very complicated  story of Halphys’ family and the above story about Tilty. Ultimately the strongest chapter is that in which Anis and her mother finally talk after years and years of not addressing the things between them. 

Karasu’s writing is often very superficial, but there are moments that really grab you here, presuming you care about  Anis, Euphie and the rest. I find myself among those that do.  This volume won’t change the world, but for the author and the characters, it’s all important stuff that has to be addressed before the 9th volume of the series heads our way this summer.

Ratings: 

Story – At their best a 9 and even the weakest are fine, if you like the characters
Characters – 8 Would you even be reading this if you didn’t like them?
Art – Deep, frustrated sigh. The art is getting better, the subject matter is just obnoxious
Service – Yes and there is not one good reason for it
Yuri – 10/10

Overall – 8

If you’re enjoying this series – as I am – this is a nice, if occasionally silly (please, tell us that Lainie wears a maid outfit, again, that can never be repeated too often and let’s make sure we mention breast size or have bath scenes), series of shorts, with moments of genuine emotional depth. 

Despite the flaws of the light novel medium, it still manages to be worth reading if you care about the characters.