Always a Catch! Volumes 2-5 Manga Review
Always a Catch! Volumes 2-5 Manga Review: A Romp with a Refreshingly Goofy Heroine
Introduction
The manga series Always a Catch! continues to charm readers with its delightful blend of action, romance, and humor. Volumes 2 through 5 further develop the engaging story of Lady Maria "Mimi" Annovazzi and Prince Renato, showcasing Mimi's unique personality and her unconventional approach to noble life. If you enjoy stories like May I Ask for One Final Thing?, but crave a heroine with a lighter, more comedic touch, Always a Catch! might just be your next favorite read.
Mimi: A Force of Nature
Mimi stands out as a protagonist who is both strong and endearingly goofy. She possesses remarkable fighting skills and a penchant for getting involved in various escapades, from training with knights to rescuing villagers. Unlike some heroines who grapple with inner turmoil or social constraints, Mimi embraces her unconventional upbringing and marches to the beat of her own drum. She is fully aware of her strengths and weaknesses, and this self-awareness adds depth and humor to her character.
Romance and Royal Formalities
The central plot of Always a Catch! revolves around Mimi and Renato's blossoming romance and their efforts to make their engagement official. However, their path to the altar is far from smooth. Volume 2 sees Mimi dealing with bandits on her way home, while Volume 3 involves her in a village rescue mission. Volumes 4 and 5 focus on their visit to Mimi's family, where Renato must navigate the complexities of her unconventional upbringing and meet her intimidating father.
Story Structure and Pacing
The narrative in Always a Catch! is divided into distinct arcs, each centered around a specific setting or conflict. While this structure keeps the story moving, it can sometimes feel a bit disjointed. The manga covers a significant amount of material from the original novels, which gives the impression that the plot is densely packed. However, the manga format condenses the storytelling, relying on the art to convey much of the narrative.
Art: A Visual Highlight
The artwork by Kaki Nagato is a major strength of the series. The action scenes are dynamic and engaging, particularly those featuring Mimi in her elegant dresses. Nagato pays close attention to details like the weight and movement of clothing, adding a layer of realism and visual flair to the fight sequences. The art style perfectly complements the tone of the story, enhancing the humor and excitement of Mimi's adventures.
Thematic Elements and Character Dynamics
Always a Catch! explores themes of self-acceptance, breaking social norms, and finding love in unexpected places. Mimi's unwavering commitment to being herself challenges the expectations placed upon noblewomen and inspires those around her to embrace their own individuality. The series also touches on the importance of recognizing and supporting genuine connections, as seen in Renato's eventual understanding of Aida and Placido's feelings for each other.
Mimi and the "Not Like Other Girls" Trope
While Mimi does fall somewhat into the "not like other girls" trope, the series avoids making her character feel stale. Her self-awareness and genuine desire to help others prevent her from becoming a caricature. Mimi's ability to see beyond social conventions allows her to forge her own path and positively impact the lives of those around her.
Humor and Overall Tone
Despite its underlying themes, Always a Catch! remains a lighthearted and entertaining read. The humor is often derived from Mimi's eccentric behavior and the reactions of those around her. The series embraces its silliness and never takes itself too seriously, making it a delightful escape from reality.
Final Thoughts
Always a Catch! is a charming and engaging manga series that celebrates individuality, courage, and the power of love. Mimi Annovazzi is a heroine who is easy to root for, and her adventures are consistently entertaining. While the story may have a few minor flaws, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
Grade:
Overall: A-
Story: B+
Art: A
Positives
- Mimi is a great heroine
- The artwork is wonderful, especially in action scenes
- Often quite funny
Negatives
- Some parts can wear a little thin
- A few too many cosmic coincidences in the plot
Production Info:
- Original story: Mayo Momoyo
- Original Character Design: Itsuki Mito
- Art: Kaki Nagato
- Licensed by: Square Enix Manga & Books
