itibaren Colchester, NY 13856, Stany Zjednoczone
I'd noticed a forming pattern with the Negima! series, as I liked volume 4 more than 3, volume 6 more than 5 and volume 8 more than 7. I was almost expecting every odd-numbered volume to be of lesser quality than its predecessor (or successor). However, volume 9 breaks that pattern. The fanservice is pretty low this time around, but the story is strong and the little subplot about the ghostly Aisaka is sweetly touching. Of course, volume 9 is merely setting the stage for volume 10 (which I am VERY MUCH looking forward to reading), but it manages to make the set-up fun and engaging. The little moments between Negi and Asuna are some of the series' biggest highlights, and those moments are here in abundance in volume 9, with one of the best being Negi kissing Asuna on the lips in his sleep. (She, of course, is awake to experience it and promptly attacks him.) It's hard to keep from feeling sorry for Asuna; she wants so badly to confess her love to Takahata, but when her nerves aren't stopping her, something else is. And Negi, being the great guy he is, tries to cheer her up... with predictable results. The series remaining strong from volume 8 to 9 is encouraging. Here's hoping 10 continues this trend!