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Xan dives into the wild, insanely fun world of Phantom Busters by NeoShoco This paranormal buddy comedy follows a straight-A student who doesn't believe in ghosts, an exorcist who swallows them whole, and a club that's anything but normal. Does the hype around this unique concept live up to the reading experience? We break down the insane elements, the humor, and the dynamic that makes this series stand out. In This Episode: Discussing the unique concept and the hilarious, offbeat dynamic between the characters. Xan's thoughts on the insane, high-energy elements that drive the story. The latest manga releases and updates. Hyping up Xan's appearance at Otakon next week! Don't forget to check out our Book Review Podcasts on Mondays! Support the Show: Help us keep the comedy coming: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's your favorite paranormal or supernatural comedy manga or anime?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #PhantomBusters #NeoShoco #Paranormal #BuddyComedy #Shonen #NewManga Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan sets sail into the unique fantasy world of Galaxias by Ao Hatesaka This alternate-world adventure follows Jio, a girl hidden from the world by her father, and Nereid, a mysterious amnesiac. Together, they must navigate a world where dragon-tailed beings exist alongside humans, and where a living legend named Yuri Holst may hold the key to their future. Does this buddy-cop dynamic and unique setting deliver a compelling story? We break down the adventure. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the unique buddy-cop dynamic between Jio and Nereid. Exploring the fascinating setting where dragon-tailed humans coexist in a modernish world. The latest manga releases and updates. Don't forget to check out our Book Review Podcasts on Mondays! Support the Show: Help us keep exploring new worlds: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "If you could have any mythical creature's trait, what would you choose and why?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #Galaxias #AoHatesaka #FantasyManga #Adventure #Kodansha #NewManga Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan takes a critical look at the sci-fi manga Rai Rai Rai by Yoshiaki This fast-paced series follows a struggling space exterminator who gets abducted and implanted with a deadly alien entity. While the premise has potential, the execution feels overly familiar—with artwork that echoes other artists and a story that never quite finds its own identity. Is this mid-tier sci-fi worth your time? We break down what works and what doesn't. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the familiar artwork and its derivative nature. Xan's thoughts on the fast-paced but ultimately mediocre story. The latest manga releases and updates. Asking a question for one of our upcoming panels at Otakon! Don't forget to check out our Book Review Podcasts on Mondays! Support the Show: Help us keep the critical reviews coming: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a manga or anime that you feel borrowed too heavily from other works?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #RaiRaiRai #Yoshiaki #SciFiManga #Shonen #VizMedia #Otakon2026 Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan dives into the long-awaited manga Billy Bat by the legendary Naoki Urasawa (creator of 20th Century Boys, Monster, and Pluto) with co-author Takashi Nagasaki Set in post-WWII America and Japan, this mystery follows a cartoonist who discovers that his creation may be connected to an ancient, world-shaping force. Does this series stand alongside Urasawa's iconic works? We break down the incredible artwork, the compelling mystery, and the feel of this ambitious story. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the incredible artwork and the atmospheric post-WWII setting. Xan's thoughts on how this mystery compares to Urasawa's other masterpieces. The latest manga releases and updates. Talking about upcoming convention appearances at Otakon! Support the Show: Help us keep exploring Urasawa's world: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's your favorite Naoki Urasawa series, and why does it stand out to you?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #BillyBat #NaokiUrasawa #TakashiNagasaki #Seinen #Mystery #KanaManga Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan explores the world of high school yuri romance with Rainbows After Storms by Ruka Kobachi This series follows best friends turned secret lovers as they navigate the highs and lows of their hidden relationship. While the concept is sweet and the main characters are undeniably adorable, the plot falls into a familiar pattern that repeats chapter after chapter. Is it worth reading? We break down the charm and the stagnation. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the adorable main characters and the sweet, heart-fluttering concept. Xan's honest thoughts on the overly familiar plot structure and its mid-tier execution. The latest manga releases and updates. Talking about upcoming convention appearances at Otakon! Support the Show: Help us keep the reviews honest: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a romance manga that you loved despite its flaws—or one that lost you because it got too repetitive?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #RainbowsAfterStorms #RukaKobachi #Yuri #ShojoAi #RomanceManga #VizMedia Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan returns to the enchanting world of Witch Hat Atelier with its culinary spin-off, Witch Hat Atelier Kitchen by Hiromi Sato based on the series created by Kamome Shirahama. This cookbook-manga hybrid invites readers into Qifrey's atelier after hours, where magical experiments take a delicious turn. Is this a worthy addition to the franchise? We break down the recipes, the art, and our honest feelings about this unique companion. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the informative and accessible recipes featured throughout the book. Appreciating the great art style that captures the cozy, magical atmosphere of the original series. Xan's thoughts on this spin-off compared to the main series (reviewed in Episode 544). The latest manga news and a quick apology for the last review. Talking about upcoming convention appearances at Otakon! Support the Show: Help us keep the kitchen fires burning: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a manga or anime that made you want to try cooking a dish from its world?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #WitchHatAtelierKitchen #HiromiSato #KamomeShirahama #CookingManga #WitchHatAtelier #KodanshaManga Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan dives into the bizarre and thought-provoking world of Bug Ego by ONE (creator of One Punch Man) with art by Kiyoto Shitara. This sci-fi manga follows two students who discover "hacks" that can alter reality itself—with dark and unpredictable consequences. Does this strange, Black Mirror-esque story deliver on its mind-bending premise? We break down the weirdness. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the eerie, tech-horror atmosphere and the moral questions at the heart of the story. Xan's thoughts on this genre shift from the creator of One Punch Man. The latest manga news and headlines. Talking about upcoming convention appearances at Otakon! Support the Show: Help us keep exploring the strange: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "If you could use a 'hack' to alter reality, what would you change—and what do you think would go wrong?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #BugEgo #ONE #KiyotoShitara #SciFiManga #VizMedia #OnePunchMan #BlackMirror Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan finally reviews an iconic cornerstone of manga: Lone Wolf & Cub by Kazuo Koike with art by Goseki Kojima.   Now presented in a gorgeous new deluxe hardcover edition from Dark Horse Comics, this groundbreaking gekiga classic follows a disgraced samurai and his young son on a path of vengeance. Does it still hold up after all these years? We explore its enduring power. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing why this genre-defining samurai epic remains essential reading. Appreciating the beautiful design of this new deluxe oversized hardcover edition. The latest manga news and headlines. Talking about upcoming convention appearances at Otakon! Support the Show: Help us keep the classics alive: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a classic manga series you'd love to see get a deluxe hardcover treatment?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #LoneWolfAndCub #KazuoKoike #GosekiKojima #Gekiga #SamuraiManga #DarkHorseComics #ClassicManga #DeluxeEdition Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan ventures into the unsettling world of Grim Night Tales by Yamayu with art by Kensei Hokamoto, a horror anthology praised by none other than Junji Ito himself. Based on two decades of collected real-life hauntings from across Japan, this Seven Seas Entertainment release promises spine-tingling terror. Does it live up to the hype? We break down the basic setup and share our honest thoughts. ----more---- In This Episode: An overview of this horror anthology's structure and the tales within. Xan's thoughts on whether the chilling artwork and stories deliver genuine fear. The latest manga releases from this week. Hype for our upcoming Animazement 2026 convention report! Support the Show: Help us keep the lights on for more reviews: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a horror manga or short story that has genuinely scared you?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #GrimNightTales #Yamayu #KenseiHokamoto #HorrorManga #Anthology #JunjiIto #SevenSeasEntertainment #Animazement2026 Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan explores the heartfelt world of In the Clear Moonlit Dusk by Mika Yamamori, a romantic comedy that follows two "princes" who discover there's more to each other than their striking appearances. This series captures honest emotions, genuine vulnerability, and a captivating slow-burn dynamic between Yoi and Kohaku. Is it worth the read? We dive in. In This Episode: Discussing the honest, tender feelings depicted throughout this character-driven romance. Why the connection between Yoi and Kohaku elevates the story beyond typical tropes. The latest manga releases from this week. Showing off some new merch. One final hype for our Animazement 2026 panels! Support the Show: Help us keep the romance alive: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a romance manga where the characters see past each other's appearances in a meaningful way?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #InTheClearMoonlitDusk #MikaYamamori #Shojo #RomCom #SlowBurn #Animazement2026 Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan dives into the charming world of Akira Failing in Love by Shinta Harekawa, a fun rom-com about a girl whose awkwardness around her crush is matched only by her determination. This series wears its heart on its sleeve and its tropes proudly. Is it worth the read? We break down the sweet nature behind the familiar beats. In This Episode: A look at the numerous tropes that power this endearing romance. Why the sweet, earnest core makes up for the predictable moments. The latest manga releases from this week. Hype for our 18-year anniversary this coming Friday! Continuing to discuss our panels for Animazement 2026. Support the Show: Help us celebrate 18 years: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's your favorite rom-com trope that you never get tired of?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #AkiraFailingInLove #ShintaHarekawa #RomCom #Shojo #NewManga #18YearAnniversary #Animazement2026 Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan enters the arena of Liar Liar by Funa Yukia (original story by Haruki Kuou), ----more---- a light novel adaptation manga centered on mind games, deception, and a dose of fan service. Set on an island where everything is settled through strategic "Games," this series follows a transfer student who stumbles into the role of pseudo-strongest. Is it worth navigating, or does it feel like a game we've played before? We break down the familiar beats. In This Episode: A spoiler-light discussion of the game system and its mechanics. Xan's honest feelings on this very familiar story and where it stands among similar titles. The latest manga releases from this week. Continuing the hype for our Animazement 2026 panel schedule. Support the Show: Help us keep playing the game: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's your favorite 'mind game' or 'deception' anime or manga?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #LiarLiar #FunaYukia #HarukiKuou #LightNovelAdaptation #GameManga #YenPress Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan explores the boundary between sexy storytelling and simple ecchi with Virgin Ventures: The Hilarious Hijinks of Erotic Amateurs by Kuroseimu. ----more---- This manga follows an inexperienced duo attempting to write erotic fiction despite having zero real-world experience. Is it worth reading as a story, or does it tip over into porn with plot? We break down the laughs, the cringe, and the surprisingly straightforward romance. In This Episode: A spoiler-light discussion of the sexy but simple narrative and its appeal. Debating where this ecchi title lands on the substance vs. fanservice spectrum. The latest manga releases from this week. Continuing the hype for our Animazement 2026 panel schedule. Support the Show: Help us keep the conversations honest: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a manga that balances fanservice and story well—or one that leans too far in either direction for you?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #VirginVentures #Kuroseimu #Ecchi #RomanceManga #ComedyManga #NewManga Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan takes aim at Love Bullet by Inee, ----more---- a new shojo manga that reimagines cupids as gun-toting matchmakers with a modern edge. Does this quirky premise deliver a bullseye, or does it miss its target entirely? We break down the confusing narrative, oddly low-energy pacing, and where this mid-tier story lands. In This Episode: A spoiler-light discussion of the story's unique but muddled execution. Why this high-concept premise struggles to hold attention. The latest manga releases from this week. Plus: Spiraken's initial panel list for Animazement 2026 is here! Support the Show: Help us keep our aim true: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a manga with a great premise that just didn't click for you?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #LoveBullet #Inee #Shojo #RomanceManga #NewManga #YenPress Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan returns to a cornerstone of shojo manga: Ai Yazawa's Nana. ----more---- Twenty-five years after its debut, this quintessential story of two young women—both named Nana, both chasing dreams in Tokyo—remains a cultural touchstone. Does it hold up? We revisit this groundbreaking series in its new sprayed-edge omnibus edition and compare it to our original review. In This Episode: A spoiler-light discussion of why Nana remains a defining work in Ai Yazawa's legendary career. Appreciating the wondrous, expressive art that captures the punk energy and emotional depth of the story. Examining the quality and presentation of this new 25th anniversary omnibus edition. The latest manga releases from this week. Support the Show: Help us keep revisiting the classics: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a manga or anime from your youth that you'd want to see get a beautiful anniversary edition?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #Nana #AiYazawa #Shojo #Josei #ClassicManga #VizMedia #AnniversaryEdition Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: [email protected] | Xan: [email protected] Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken