In 2015, there was exciting news that Ryoko Ikeda’s classic shōjo manga, “Rose of Versailles”, would be translated in English and released to the North American region. The translated manga was originally supposed to be released in 2016, then there were rumors of it be released in 2017 following several more disappointing delays. Fast forward to January 2020, IT IS HERE AND MY EYEBALLS ARE READY!

For those who haven’t watched the anime, a crude synopsis of this fictional historical masterpiece follows “Lady Oscar”, an androgynous palace guard who serves to protect Marie Antoinette during the French Revolution. The illustration style is exceptionally gorgeous and feminine, giving the manga a romantic feel. In addition, despite the manga being released in the 1970s, the storyline still feels fresh and is a joy to read. I definitely recommend this to those who have watched the anime and want more background, are into bittersweet historical fiction, romance, and soap opera-eque melodrama that tugs at your heartstrings. Also, interesting note, supposedly “Rose of Versailles” was the first manga to feature elements of “Yuri” that laid down the foundation of that genre…so keep that in mind.

Now to the physical hardcover book itself, I am absolutely in love with the artwork (and of those yet to be released in the following volumes) and the fact that it is not a flimsy paperback. Fortunately, I had no issues regarding shipping, and my book arrived packed securely in pristine condition. Since I am actually reading this book instead of hoarding it as a collector’s item, be advised that white is not the most forgiving color for hardcovers. Every dent from even something as simple as a fingernail from holding the book will show up, and every smudge from your hands that you thought you washed so well will transfer...but that obviously comes with the territory of reading physical books. The book also begins "backwards" as most manga does, and includes some beautiful colored illustrations towards the end to enjoy. Also, IF YOUR BOOK ARRIVES DAMAGED, CONTACT AMAZON. This is an issue regarding the warehouse packers, not the quality of the item itself, and Amazon’s customer service will ship you out a new one. I know it’s really inconvenient, but in my experience, the interaction with customer service regarding damaged items is usually less than 2 minutes to get the issue resolved. Don’t get me wrong, I am in no way bashing any other reviewers for this experience, it’s just that my review is on the item itself, not fulfillment. Anyways, here’s to hoping the following volumes don’t get delayed! And that you receive a nicely packaged copy! Happy reading friends.

Brand	N/A
Rating	4.8 (297 ratings)
Price	$29.4
Category	Comics & Graphic Novels

The Rose of Versailles Volume 1 (ROSE OF VERSAILLES GN)