Yona of the Dawn Vol 8 by Mizuho Kusanagi

A narrative shift happens in this novel as we focus on what’s happening with Su-Won.  This picks up after the events of Awa while Su-Won is on a tour of the kingdom.  He visits General Geun-Tae of the Earth Tribe and challenges him to a mock battle.  Geun-Tae is hopeful that Su-Won will be like his father, instead of King Il, but Su-won’s meek nature irritates him.  Su-won shows some of his ferocity during the battle, but more so ends up making Geun-Tae look wonderful in front of his subordinates, who desperately adore him.  For the last chapter, we shift back to Yona as she searches for one of her companions to teach her how to use a sword.  Hak won’t allow it because he feels it’s too dangerous and that she wouldn’t be able to overpower a man in battle anyway.

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I like the idea of focusing on Su-won and what’s going on with his king-ship, but I’m also worried this will make me like him more and not back Yuna during a struggle for the monarchy.  I’m really interested to see where Kusanagi is leading the readers with her chapters on Su-won.  I also feel from a logistical standpoint, the last chapter could have been the beginning of a new book, and we could have had one more slice of Su-Won to round out this volume.  Once again, Kusanagi outdoes herself in artistry.  The clothing of the Earth Tribe and the ceremonial battle outfits are stunning and full of details

Sara's Rating: 9/10
Suitability Rating: Grades 8-12

Reviews of previous volumes in this series: vol 1, vol 2, vol 3, vol 4, vol 5, vol 6, vol 7

Tags: Rating: 9/10, Suitability: Middle School, Suitability: High School, Manga, Fantasy