Geekscape Reviews: ‘The Heiress And The Chauffeur’ Vol. 1 By Keiko Ishihara

[This review is based on a copy provided by the publisher.]

Keiko Ishihara’s The Heiress and the Chauffeur, one of the newest series for Viz Media’s Shojo Beat line, is a love story set in Japan’s Taisho Period. It is a time when “new money” families begin to emerge in Japan. For Sayaka Yoshimura of one such family, like others before her, acceptance by society does not come easily.

Of course, Sayaka doesn’t seem to care a whit. She is mainly absorbed in dealing with her chauffeur and childhood acquaintance, Shinobu Narutaki. The young man is clearly smitten with her but being of a lower class, such a relationship would be forbidden. It is obvious through her actions that Sayaka reciprocates Narutaki’s feelings but isn’t entirely aware of them herself.

The first volume of a two-part series, this half spends most of its time  establishing relationships: Sayaka with her classmates, Narutaki with others of his rank, and of course, Sayaka with Narutaki. This is all well and good but there was not much progress in the story until chapter 3, the second to last chapter in the book (and my favorite, incidentally).

I hope things pick up in the second volume because it was still an enjoyable read. The art style is lovely and uses a lot of floral motifs in backgrounds and effects, which I somehow found fitting. The writing was also great. Each character felt like they had their own voice: Narutaki spoke more formally to members of higher stations; Sayaka spoke freely as you would expect from a young person of her social rank; and even side characters like Kazuko and Fumi had their own way of speaking.

Volume 1 also includes an adorable bonus story, “Luca and the Bandit.” I loved it! Not terribly long, the story follows a thief and two siblings. I can’t go into much detail without spoiling the ending but I will say the story’s inclusion added a great deal of value to the book in my eyes.

Fans of romantic manga or nonviolent period pieces should give The Heiress and the Chauffeur a look. With its excellent translation, pleasing visuals, and entertaining bonus story, I would give Volume 1 a rating of 4 out of 5.

Ojousama no Untenshu © Keiko Ishihara 2011/HAKUSENSHA, Inc.