Reign of the Seven Spellblades, Vol. 3

So, last time I sure whined about how this series starts with a really long set-up, resulting in a rather slow pace until we get to the action scenes. Well, volume 3 is different. It's the last book of the first year arc, so while it feels like an extension of the previous two books, this is where all the action takes place. It starts with an urgent situation right off the bat and has the single goal of solving this problem, so it's fast-paced with relentless combat scenes.

Volume 3 focuses solely on the horrible life of Ophelia Salvadori and the chaotic mess it plunged her into. As a descendant of the succubi bloodline, she can't help but spread a certain scent that causes male arousal. Obviously, that led to all sorts of trouble when she started going to Kimberly. And if you add love to the equation, the end result can't possibly be anything good. Her story is tragic, but seeing that this series is selling the whole mad and dark side of magic, it's handled pretty nicely. The ending is especially fitting, and for once the flashbacks actually enhance the story without feeling like they're just extra attachments.

As far as the main cast goes, Katie and Guy aren't a part of the adventures this time. By adventure I mean labyrinth exploration, really, because 90% of the book is set in the second and third layers of the labyrinth. In exchange, Miligan joins Oliver's party as a mentor and guide. There's a lot of relationships developing between the side characters, but unfortunately the majority of them are left hanging at the end of the book. It ends rather abruptly without any follow-ups on what happened to some of the characters. Some are kidnapped, others got injured in battle, and I guess it's up to volume 4 to show if they survived at all.

Despite this being an enjoyable fantasy read, I feel like it would've been nicer if we get to see more character personality instead of magic and combat techniques. It's not like the characters are bland without notable personality traits or anything, but it doesn't seem to be enough. They come off as a little weak and not fleshed out enough, especially when compared to the richness of the battle scenes. It feels like we know a lot about the characters' magic prowess and combat capabilities, but them as people? Not as much. The more I read from this series, however, I wonder if it's just the author's way of doing things.

Oliver and friends are entering the second year arc next, but I'm going to take a break until volume 6 comes out to avoid any possible cliffhangers. With Ophelia's issue taken care of, it seems like he's finally going back to his revenge plan soon. Exciting.