MARS volume 9

Today's post is on MARS volume 9 by Fuyumi Soryo. It is published by Tokyopop. As it is the ninth in the series you need to have read the first eight to understand the story. The cover has Rei on looking at the reader. The intended reader is someone who likes teen drama, real life stories, and more drama. There is some mild language, some violence, and implied sex in this volume. Older teens and adults are best suited for this series. The story is told from the perspective of Kira. There Be Spoilers Ahead.

From the back of the book- Flying Solo

The unthinkable has happened: Rei and Kira have finally broken up, and it's the talk of the town. Kira can only stand by helplessly as Rei walks out of her life. Though Rei feigns indifference as he walks into the arms of waiting suitors, he begins to realize that he may have made a big mistake. When Kira decides to make up with Rei before it's too late, he's nowhere to be found. With her family life also suffering, Kira has no idea where to turn...

Review- Lots of drama in this volume. Rei breaks up with Kira because she and her mother are living the man who raped her again. Rie cannot stand the thought that something might happen to Kira so he takes the easy way out. In the end Kira has to leave home because her stepfather is too controlling. This volume ends with Kira and Rei kissing. This series does have a lot of drama but it does not make light of the more serious issues. Rei makes a good point about repeat rapists and that is they will not stop. Kira's stepfather is one. He swears that he will never do it again but when he sees Kira with Rei he loses it. Kira does stand up for herself but in the end she has to leave home. Kira's mother wants things to be easy but the price is Kira's safety. So Kira chooses herself and Rei. Another thing that Soryo talks about with this is how being devalued like Kira has been does to a person. She does not really care about anything. Because she feels that she is not important or has any value as a person. Heavy stuff for a shojo manga. More drama coming next week.

I give this volume a Five out of Five stars. I get nothing for my review and I bought this manga with my own money.