▪	RELEASED BY:		VIZ MEDIA
		▪	AUTHOR / ART:		YASHICHIRO TAKAHSAHI / NOIZI ITO
		▪	FORMAT:		ENGLISH / B&W
		▪	PAGES:		219
		▪	RATING:		NR
		▪	RELEASE DATE:		10/20/2007
		▪	REVIEW DATE:		10/13/2007
		▪	REVIEWED BY:		HOLLY ELLINGWOOD

In the second novel that has given rise to a hit manga and anime series, the second season of which is just airing now in Japan, sees the appearance of another Flame Haze and the bonds between Yuji and Shana being tested like never before!

Yuji, a Torch with Mystes inside him that makes him a target, trains to become stronger. But that training is soon put to the test when another Flame Haze appears. Margery Daw the Chanter of Elegies and the crass peaking Marcosias, the Crimson Lord of Claw and Fangs of Violation have arrived. And when she clashes with Shana, these two come to fiery blows! When an ancient Crimson Denizen is sought after before evil is done, it pits these two red-tempered women at each others’ throats. Can they move past their animosity of each other to save the day, Yuji, and the city?

Each novel of Shakugan no Shana is a stellar fantasy adventure set in modern times. They work splendidly as stand alone stories so if you’ve never seen the anime, read the manga, or any other volumes of this book series, you can read easy knowing that this is done in such a way as to give you the necessary character information and world knowledge to understand and enjoy this story on its own. It also works as a great addition to the series as well. Like most light novels, this proves to be an easy read, and being Shakugan no Shana, is filled with thrilling adventure, danger, and a touch of romantic tension between Shana and Yuji.

The appearance of Margery is a brilliant addition to the cast of colorful characters in the world of Shakugan no Shana. She’s clever, more mature than Shana, but is bent on a seemingly endless need for revenge against the Crimson Denizens. Curiously, she makes two friends inadvertently while in the city. Classmates of Yuji, Eita and Keisaku end up being devoted supporters of Margery, a woman alone until now…perhaps.

The action is thrilling; the battle between the Flame Hazes in particular. When the Crimson Denizen known as the Corpse Collector appears, Shana’s skills are put to the test, and her bond with Yuji undergoes an intriguing change. Much of the story with its dangers and action still serves even in those moments to highlight and develop the growing relationship between these two unlikely souls. Their relationship is becoming a very tender and moving story and one that is proving essential to their survival.

This latest story deals with themes of confrontation, loss, and how the characters each deal with defeat. It also deals with the increased humanization of Shana as she struggles with the emotions she’s having towards Yuji. They confuse and irritate her, but in the end may prove to be her best hope for winning against the destruction the Crimson Denizens threaten the world with.

The book also holds eight full color pages at the beginning and some eye-catching black and white illustrations lightly sprinkled within the book.

IN SUMMARY:
The latest novel of Shana thrills and delights with its fast paced action, fantasy intrigue and colorful characters.