The first volume of Meca Tanaka’s The Young Master’s Revenge will be in bookstores (and on digital platforms) tomorrow. How about learning a few things about Shojo Beat’s latest release before it does get into your hands? Nancy Thistlethwaite, who is a Senior Editor at VIZ and Shojo Beat, answered five questions about the title, and what you should know before checking it out:
1) In one sentence, how would you describe what Meca Tanaka’s The Young Master’s Revenge is all about?
Nancy Thistlethwaite: Leo tries to get revenge on Tenma—the girl who always got him into scrapes when they were little kids—but his good character keeps getting in the way.
2) How does this compare (or not compare) to Meteor Prince?
The Young Master’s Revenge is a romantic comedy just like Meteor Prince, and there are foolish princes in this as well. Though where Io (the hero) is pure and artless in Meteor Prince, Leo has deluded himself into thinking he’s some sort of villain. Leo has to go through quite a bit to get in touch with his true emotions. Also, Leo is the main character, so the story is from his perspective.
3) What has surprised you so far in working on this manga?
Tenma’s reaction to Leo once he’s honest with her towards the end of volume 1. Then the story becomes even more comedic. And later on, Leo’s journey to accept his past is magical and adorable.
4) Does this manga remind you of any other titles you’ve read, and if so, how?
Meca Tanaka allows her characters to do silly things like Bisco Hatori (Ouran High School Host Club) does, and they have sweet but strong cores like the characters in Honey So Sweet by Amu Meguro.
5) Finally, what should readers expect when they check out The Young Master’s Revenge?
This is a comedic romance told from the guy’s perspective with a startlingly strong-minded heroine and adorable art.