Satsuki Nakamura Books

DANCE LIKE A BUTTERFLY, FIGHT LIKE…A RAT! After a rocky start, Reirin and Leelee have no time to lose before they must compose themselves for the Ghost Festival at the Maiden Court. There, Reirin must tread a tight line between the villainess role she’s been cast and employing a diplomatic tit-for-tat of her own: confronting Kin Maiden Seika and her menacing court lady Gayou’s plots. Keigetsu, meanwhile, is pushed to wits’ end by her new body’s precarious health–the risk of her plot’s discovery rises!

THE EVIL CONCEALED WITHIN.The infamously frigid and unshakable Tousetsu has been brought to her knees. Prostrating before the real Reirin in the dilapidated storehouse, Tousetsu anguishes over what her beloved maiden endured. Still bound by the body swap magic, Reirin struggles to reveal the truth, but it’s nothing that can’t be solved by putting in a little backbone! Across palace grounds, Keigetsu has survived a hellish night, only to uncover sinister strings manipulating her every move. The Bow of Warding saved her, not from a malady, but a curse! And the true menace lurks close by…

Exploring themes of resilience and hope, this narrative follows characters facing life's challenges and adversities. Through their journeys, they discover inner strength and the importance of support from one another. The story emphasizes that even in difficult times, there are moments of beauty and positivity to be found. Richly drawn characters navigate their struggles, ultimately revealing that every setback can lead to personal growth and brighter days ahead.

Prepare for swirling court intrigue in this magical 'trading places' tale of maidens competing for the crown - and don't miss the manga adaptation, also from Seven Seas!

Prepare for swirling court intrigue in this magical "trading places" tale of maidens competing for the crown--and don't miss the original light novels, also from Seven Seas!In a kingdom inspired by historical China, five clans put forth their maidens as imperial consorts--but only one will be crowned empress. The frail and beautiful Kou Reirin, the so-called "butterfly" of the imperial court, is a shoo-in to marry the crown prince. But when "court rat" Shu Keigetsu lashes out at her during the glittering Lantern Festival, it's Reirin who wakes up in the dungeons! Body-swapped by her assailant to steal her position at court, Reirin's plight seems dire...to everyone else! Now that she's got a robust new body, not even the looming threat of execution can stop her!

As autumn arrives in the Maiden Court, Keigetsu focuses on restoring the Palace of Vermillion Stallion after the upheaval caused by ex-Noble Shu, with Reirin's support. The change in season brings the Harvest Festival, a significant event where the Maidens plan to exchange the palace for the southern region, directly involving Shu. The narrative weaves together themes of restoration, change, and the lingering effects of past events, highlighting the complexities of relationships and power dynamics in a shifting landscape.

In a vibrant community where fashion meets sustainability, characters navigate the world of clothing swaps, discovering the joy of exchanging items while forging new friendships. The narrative explores themes of consumerism, environmental impact, and personal style, highlighting the benefits of reusing and repurposing clothes. As they engage in swapping events, the characters learn valuable lessons about self-expression and the importance of community, all while having fun and reducing waste in their wardrobes.

In a world where curses dictate fate, a reluctant hero discovers that breaking a powerful curse requires embracing the very darkness they seek to dispel. As they navigate treacherous alliances and uncover hidden truths, the journey challenges their beliefs about good and evil. Themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the struggle for identity intertwine, leading to a gripping tale that explores the complexities of magic and human nature. The protagonist must confront their own demons to save not only themselves but those they love.

Swirling court intrigue unfolds in a magical tale where maidens vie for the crown, reminiscent of a "trading places" scenario. This award-winning story captivates with its competitive spirit and rich themes of ambition and rivalry. The narrative promises to engage readers with its blend of fantasy and drama, while also offering a manga adaptation for fans of graphic storytelling.

In a gripping tale of courage and resilience, young maidens face a series of challenging trials that test their strength and character. As they navigate through obstacles, they discover their true potential and forge unbreakable bonds of friendship. The narrative weaves themes of empowerment and self-discovery, showcasing how adversity can lead to personal growth. Set against a backdrop of a richly imagined world, the story captivates with its blend of adventure and emotional depth, inviting readers to root for these determined heroines.