For fans of “My Happy Marriage” and “Kakuriyo: Bed and Breakfast Spirits

“The Ayakashi Hunter's Tainted Bride” by Mamenosuke Fujimaru is a fantastic and exciting story full of ayakashi and yokai. This is Nanao and Yako's story.

I was immediately attracted to Mamenosuke Fujimaru's drawing style. I really liked his elegant, soft and gentle style. And was also the reason why the manga caught my eye.

“The Ayakashi Hunter's Tainted Bride” is not only characterized by a beautiful drawing style, but also by an exciting and creative story (by Midori Yuma).
Nanao was supposed to fulfill her dream and become the wife of Reito Byakurenji. However, she was “poisoned” by a yokai in a plot by her cousin and now lives as an outlaw in her estate. Ostracized by her family and the members of the Bykurenji clan, she endures her life there. At least until the Ayakashi Hunter Yako crosses her path and makes her his bride.

For me, the story had the perfect mix of suspense, mythology and a blossoming love story. I'm really looking forward to the next books!

Many thanks to Kandosha and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

The Ayakashi Hunter's Tainted Bride 1 presents an intriguing premise with beautiful artwork. However, I found it challenging to connect with the characters, particularly the male lead, which affected my overall engagement with the story. While it wasn't a bad read, it didn't fully resonate with me.

I read some of Yuma’s work before, so I am really excited about this series! Especially because I enjoy anything with ayakashi/yokai elements. This wasn’t exactly what I was expecting, and the story feels a little rushed so far, but I enjoyed it enough to continue the series!

The art is really nice and the story seems to be setting up a lot of later conflicts and payoffs. As the MMC seems to have an entourage of ayakashi at different points, I look forward to the future volumes possibly delving into that a little more.

The Ayakashi Hunter’s Tainted Bride
Release March 25
Volume 2: May 27
Volume 3: July 29
*There is currently a tentative date for 5 volumes with a release every other month.

I’m going to start off by saying this series so far, kinda reminds me of My Happy Marriage. In the sense that the MC who is seen as useless and married off to an individual that doesn’t have the greatest reputation. In my opinion, the first volume does well setting up the story for future volumes. I love the development between Lord Benitsubaki and Nanao as they get closer to one another- seems like it will be a sweet relationship with hardships they have to overcome from outsiders like Master Reito. Their “family” makes me laugh a bit with how they set up and handle situations with the two.
Nanao is used to being looked down on, but you can already see she is gaining more confidence now. I am curious why it was mentioned to be weary of a bride of the Byakurenji Clan, which I’m sure will be revealed later. We can already see that Master Reito is a bit crazy and will be a problem to the couple, as well as his wife- who is the one who set up the missing hairpin situation. I do HIGHLY dislike these two, especially after the spirit bug situation, but for the sake of the story they are necessary. But love the main couple.

To my surprise, I actually enjoyed this more than I thought I would (I thought there was a chance I would like it but now I can’t wait for volume 2). From the story to the art, I can’t pick out a thing I didn’t like from volume one. I felt the pace was good with the incorporation of what happened to Nanao to where it ended. It leaves me satisfied with its progress, but also with questions that I know will be answered later (I’m hoping at least).

Volume 1 Summary:
Nanao was set to marry Master Reito at a young age and completed training for this role. One day a precious gift he had given her goes missing and she goes out to look for it with Akemi. However, it was found outside the barrier that they were warned to never leave. Nanao desperately wants to retrieve it and avoids the warning she was always told, becoming marked by an Ayakashi. From that moment on her life was turned upside down and seen as “the tainted one”. She was given a monkey mask to cover her face from then on and Master Reito married Akemi instead.
Now jump to their present day, Nanao has been forced to perform the morning breakfast ritual for Akemi (who claims to be the one making it) and other servant tasks. The Head of the Benitsubaki Clan visits the village and stumbles upon Nanao bathing. She was told that since she smelled of an Orangutan that if he found her that he would basically cut her down right there- she was always told too that she would taint others. She gets away quickly and continues to hide her presence in the village. Until she noticed that spirit bugs were attacking Master Reito and Akemi’s child. Nanao protects the child, but everyone thinks that she is doing something to him out of jealousy and is punished for it. Lord Benitsubaki steps in, bringing to light the bugs that were responsible. Disgusted with how Master Reito acted, Lord Benitsubaki helps Nanao, sees her face without the mask, and discovers the Spiritual Power he was looking for that made the breakfast. He takes Nanao as his bride and away from the oppressive village- Master Reito tries to keep her there as a concubine but it was heavily denied. Thereafter she learns Lord Benitsuba is more than the rumors. The Byakurenji Clan quickly learns that Akemi wasn’t performing her duties either, as Nanao learns what her duty is to be the Lord's bride and fully accepts him.

Wow new obsession unlocked? Could be.

It reminds me a lot of My Happy Marriage in certain aspects and follows a certain similar dynamic, although it is on the other side of the fantasy world.

I liked the aesthetics, the characters and I know that it has a lot to tell that I am eager to continue reading it. I like the universe they created but I haven't seen much of it yet. Surely in the next volumes it will go into more depth.

Thank you very much Kodansha Comics for the ARC I read on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This book was not for me. I didn't enjoy the writing style of this book. And made it hard for me to read. But I love the protector hero in this book. thank you, Netgally and Kodansha Comics, for this book.

This was an intriguing start to a new manga series. I definitely see why it was comped to Our Happy Marriage which was another manga series I've enjoyed. If you liked that series but want a bit more supernatural elements to it, I think you would enjoy this one. It's not groundbreaking, but the art is beautiful and its a quick read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the ARC. 4.5/5

I adore My Happy Marriage so I thought I’d give The Ayakashi Hunter's Tainted Bride a try and I was not disappointed!! I’m the type of person who likes a story and once it ends I immediately try to look for more that are similar with changes that make it unique. I was kicking my feet and giggling ever since Lord Yako was introduced.

Nanao was arranged to marry Lord Reito but due to unfortunate circumstances that is no longer possible. She spends a miserable next couple of years. Or months I’m not sure I do know it was at least 9 months if you catch my drift ; ) hehe. But not to worry because she will be saved!!!
In this first volume we already get so much information and world building at a good pace. As someone who isn’t too familiar with Japanese culture and history, I was told what I needed to know so I wouldn’t be lost and confused. I do love that some things were left for the reader’s interpretation.

I didn’t know how to feel about Nanao’s observation log/ diary in the end. On one hand I do like that we got insight on what Nanao was feeling/ thinking during certain scenes/ events because we didn’t get to see that during the first read since she was reserved and kept to her self. But on the other hand it kind of took me out of the story momentarily since it wasn’t illustrated just a bunch of words thrown at me. I don’t think I would remove it though if there’s no other way to present this info I rather it be included this way then not at all.

The artwork was beautiful it really helped me visualize everything I was reading. Super detailed I just can’t praise it enough!

loved it soooo much. It had From Blood and Ash vibes and I really love the main MCs. So excited for future volumes.

The manga starts off as a Cinderella story. High profile guy takes a liking to the woman everyone hates, and he gives her a better life she never thought she deserved. But then make is supernatural. This is essentially the plot of the first volume, and I ate it up!

Nanao remains so resilient even as everyone around her judges for for her scar left by a demon. Although we didn't see much of Yako and Nanao besides their initial interactions, I can tell they are going to work well together.

I thought the yokai and clan lore was very interesting, and it adds a new element to this story.

This is fine for what it it, even if the ads I saw for it a while back made me question if was actually a real title. Fans of My Happy Marriage will be familiar with the set up of a cast out girl, who had her future stolen from her by a family member, but it's okay because she's spiritually powerful, and the person she's engaged to has good looks and social standing And he's also a little bit of a vampire, for good measure! While I'm hoping for more on the backstory, this has all the makings of a fun romance romp.

This is my first time reading a manga. I have seen my daughter reading them, but I got to watch the Anime of The Demon Slayer, and it was really good.
The Ayakashi Hunter's Tainted Bride 1 works like a film in my head. I felt like watching an anime. The drawing is really good, and the story has a strong premise. Can't wait to read more.
Received the copy from NetGalley.
#AyakashiHuntersTaintedBride #NetGalley

I thought this was really cute and enjoyable to read. Master Yako is both cold and kind. Nanao is kind and abused so it will take some time for her to open up. I can't wait to see how she is in future books!

This book was interesting and I enjoyed the sorry but it felt like it wasn’t completed to its full potential I feel like there’s was some body and depth missing from the story and a little more action fighting these ayakishi was needed and a little more relationship development. But other than that a decent start to a manga series it just needs some of the gaps filling in.

Very interesting plot, it was a really fun read and the graphics were so beautiful. It was really well done!

I went into ‘The Ayakashi Hunter’s Tainted Bride’ expecting a blend of fantasy and romance, but what I got was so much more. There’s something incredibly enchanting about the way this story unfolds, balancing a soft, almost delicate romance with the tension of the supernatural world. From the very first page, the atmosphere draws you in - it’s mysterious, a little eerie, and yet undeniably beautiful.

Plot: ★★★★☆
This is the kind of story that effortlessly pulls you along, weaving moments of quiet tenderness with bursts of action and intrigue. While the premise isn’t necessarily groundbreaking, the execution makes it feel fresh. There’s a dreamlike quality to the way events unfold, where reality and fantasy blur just enough to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a world filled with hidden magic. The pacing is well done - never too slow, never too rushed - allowing you to truly sink into the story and enjoy the journey.

Character: ★★★★☆
I immediately adored Nanao. She has this lovely blend of sweetness and quiet strength that makes her easy to root for. There’s a vulnerability to her, but she never comes across as weak - she feels like someone who has endured a lot and continues to stand tall despite it. Yako, on the other hand, is a character shrouded in mystery, and I couldn’t get enough of him. His presence is commanding, yet he carries an air of restrained emotion that makes every interaction with Nanao all the more compelling. Their chemistry is there from the start, but it’s subtle, unfolding with every glance, every hesitant touch, every moment of unspoken understanding.

Setting: ★★★★☆
The setting is nothing short of stunning. There’s a richness to the world that makes it feel lived-in, yet at the same time, there’s an ethereal quality to it - like something out of a legend whispered between dreamers. It’s hauntingly beautiful, the kind of world you want to step into, even knowing the dangers that lurk within.

Illustrations: ★★★★☆
The artwork elevates the story so much. It captures the emotional beats perfectly - the longing in their eyes, the tension in their body language, the breathtaking intricacy of the supernatural world. There were moments when I just had to pause and admire the details, taking in the way the artist plays with light and shadow, softness and sharpness. The visual storytelling here is just as powerful as the written dialogue, which makes every moment feel all the more immersive.

Engagement: ★★★★☆
I was completely drawn in from the start, but there were a few moments where I wished for just a little more depth - especially when it came to the emotional stakes. While I adored the tension and slow-burn romance, I sometimes felt like the story was holding back just a touch. That being said, the push and pull between Nanao and Yako kept me glued to the page, and by the time I reached the end, I was already craving the next volume.

Readability: ★★★★☆
The flow of the story is smooth, making it easy to get lost in. The dialogue feels natural, the emotions come through clearly, and the balance between action and romance keeps things engaging. Whether you’re a longtime reader of fantasy romance manga or just dipping your toes into the genre, this one is incredibly accessible and enjoyable.

Enjoyment: ★★★★☆
This was such a lovely read. It has all the elements I adore - romantic tension, an enchanting setting, a touch of mystery, and characters that make you want to know more. While I would have loved for some aspects to be explored a little further, it still left me completely satisfied and eager for more. There’s something so special about a story that can make you feel like you’re stepping into a dream, and ‘The Ayakashi Hunter’s Tainted Bride’ does exactly that.

There’s a quiet magic to this story that lingers even after you turn the final page. It’s the kind of manga that makes you want to curl up in a cozy spot, let yourself be swept away by the romance and fantasy, and savour every moment.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A Captivating Blend of Romance, Fantasy, and Intrigue!

It's a delightful gem that immediately drew me in with its stunning artwork and compelling storyline. The writing is both evocative and engaging, seamlessly weaving together elements of romance, fantasy, and a touch of mystery.

The world and the complex relationship between the hunter and his bride are beautifull, leaving you eager to turn the page and uncover more secrets.

The artwork is very pretty. The characters are expressive and the scenes are rendered with exquisite detail, enhancing the emotional depth of the story.

The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own unique struggles and motivations. The dynamic between the main characters is particularly captivating, filled with tension and a simmering undercurrent of emotion. The pacing is excellent, balancing moments of tender intimacy with thrilling action and suspense.

"The Ayakashi Hunter's Tainted Bride" is a must-read for fans of romantic fantasy manga. It's a beautifully executed story that will leave you yearning for more.

Thank you NetGalley for an eARC of this volume in exchange for an honest review.

This was a very interesting start to the plot... poor Nanao who was treated like filth by those she trusted and were closest to her... all due to jealousy. The author did a very good job of creating art that evoked a lot of emotions... you felt true pain and sadness for Nanao at the start and then watching her be saved by Yako and brought to his home where she is accepted and treated as not only an equal but someone to be treasured was super nice. I'm pretty excited to continue and see how the story progresses and the true strength of Nanao's spiritual energy and how the orangutan spirit comes into play.

Thank you Netgalley and Kodansha for approving this book!

The Ayakashi Hunter's Tainted Bride is not only a romance but also a deep dive into Japanese folklore. I absolutely loved the mysterious man saving our dear heroine and how dramatic this book has become. The art style is beautiful and gives such love to both ancient and modern Japan. Definitely recommend this for High School and Adult audiences. I can't wait for the next volume!

First a BIG thank you to NetGalley, the Author and the Publisher for this ARC

Let me just say that I really adore the flower design on some of the pages.😍😍😍
(immediately went and did some research on the Japanese Camellia plant) 🙈

I was immediately sucked into the story.
The drawings in general are gorgeous. The story is, like so many, that of a disgraced woman and a powerful man.
Be aware that there is some abuse, blood, blood drinking, fighting, war scenes and trauma involved.
And Narcissism...
The story is funny and flows really well, it really takes you through the emotions.

I really enjoyed it and I'll be purchasing it.