More feline frolicking continues in the latest volume of Free Collars Kingdom. The fantasy series about the secret world of cats sees this volume moving away from the larger story about the territory battle between the Free Collars group and Siam’s gang of cats, to instead focus on what are almost standalone chapters about the members of the Free Collars.

This volume begins with a look at the modeling life sweet and cute Scottie lives and her reasons for liking Cyan so much. From there a crazy cat car chase ensues when one of Siam’s members kidnaps Scottie. There are also beach and bikini adventures, a fight in a sushi factory, the unveiling of wild-girl cat Char’s ultimate attack, and more run-ins with the comedic yet misguided Siam.

This volume is filled with short and fast paced stories. They’re all fun and some offer insight, there is even the potential addition of a new cast member to the Free Collars gang. Overall though, the lack of cohesiveness makes for a bit of a fragmented read, lacking the consistency and more compelling storyline that grounded the first volume. However, the story is supposed to get back to the larger storyline next volume, so we’ll have to wait until then to see if the story gets back on track. Nevertheless, it still holds a lot of imagination with this secret world of cats as people in a fantasy like adventure. Anyone with even a remote fondness for cats will enjoy this manga. The art work is exceptionally well-done.

Manga extras include a preview of volume 3 in original Japanese language, translation and cultural reference notes, and Nyanko Encyclopedia, which offers information and background on the various cat breeds referred to in the story. 

IN SUMMARY:
Free Collars Kingdom is an engaging fantasy adventure about the secret world of cats. It offers some imaginative action and characters along with entertaining comedy and an itty bitty bit of fan service too.