Review By Jong Chung
The spicy wolf and merchant return in the second volume of Spice & Wolf. While this review may be dated yet, I hope it provides enough information and incentive to those that still have not invested in the series. I gave myself away there, didn't I? Well, no matter – onwards!
The second installment of the widely considered (by fans, I suppose) “economy fantasy” story by Isuna Hasekura brings us another intelligent segment of the tale to bite into. One thing I had not considered until I was well into the story, was that the warm setting and the summer atmosphere gave me a rather pleasant feeling as I pulled my legs in from the cold of the coming winter. It is a series trademark, surely, that the inherent pacing also gives a rather calming mood before the delicious, action-packed morsels present themselves to enthrall the reader.
The pair of Holo the wise wolf and a harvest god, and the up-and-coming merchant Kraft Lawrence find themselves in risky business again. As in the previous novel, the economy-centric portions are presented in a mysteriously thrilling manner. Well, as the story revolves around a merchant, that should be a safe bet. But this is for the skeptical and wary, of course. Make no mistake – this time around, even the layman unfamiliar with trade will find enjoyment at every turn. (I speak from experience!)
For example a major event that occurs in this novel follows the economic crash in the market for arms and armor in the large trade city of Ruvinheigen. Lawrence had found himself in great spirits after having turned a sour deal from a swindler into a great investment in arms thanks to the help of his godly companion in the town of Poroson prior. Yet, the unforeseen tragedy causes Lawrence to shoulder a heavy debt that he must somehow rid himself of, lest it destroys his reputation and him as a merchant. His choices are limited, with the biggest reward coming from a very dangerous smuggling operation.
There are new characters to be met, some more... recurring than others. Yen Press does us good yet again by releasing this second installment so soon after the first, and I can only be thankful for it in addition to the release of other great titles in the short span since the launch of its light novel repertoire.
If at least for those that wish to enjoy the pending/hopefully growing phenom that is Spice & Wolf in the western market, this series has much to offer not just in terms of lovable characters, but excellent writing and engaging plot as well. I would not hesitate to say this is one of the more “novel-like” series of the light novel titles that are available in English thus far. Those reasons should be more than enough for the inquisitive reader simply looking for a good story, no?
© 2011 Linda Thai
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