The Rose of Versailles Volume 1 (1) Hardcover – Illustrated, January 21, 2020

In 2015, there was exciting news that Ryoko Ikeda’s classic shōjo manga, “Rose of Versailles”, would be translated in English and released to the North American region. The translated manga was originally supposed to be released in 2016, then there were rumors of it be released in 2017 following several more disappointing delays. Fast forward to January 2020, IT IS HERE AND MY EYEBALLS ARE READY!For those who haven’t watched the anime, a crude synopsis of this fictional historical masterpiece follows “Lady Oscar”, an androgynous palace guard who serves to protect Marie Antoinette during the French Revolution. The illustration style is exceptionally gorgeous and feminine, giving the manga a romantic feel. In addition, despite the manga being released in the 1970s, the storyline still feels fresh and is a joy to read. I definitely recommend this to those who have watched the anime and want more background, are into bittersweet historical fiction, romance, and soap opera-eque melodrama that tugs at your heartstrings. Also, interesting note, supposedly “Rose of Versailles” was the first manga to feature elements of “Yuri” that laid down the foundation of that genre…so keep that in mind.Now to the physical hardcover book itself, I am absolutely in love with the artwork (and of those yet to be released in the following volumes) and the fact that it is not a flimsy paperback. Fortunately, I had no issues regarding shipping, and my book arrived packed securely in pristine condition. Since I am actually reading this book instead of hoarding it as a collector’s item, be advised that white is not the most forgiving color for hardcovers. Every dent from even something as simple as a fingernail from holding the book will show up, and every smudge from your hands that you thought you washed so well will transfer...but that obviously comes with the territory of reading physical books. The book also begins "backwards" as most manga does, and includes some beautiful colored illustrations towards the end to enjoy. Also, IF YOUR BOOK ARRIVES DAMAGED, CONTACT AMAZON. This is an issue regarding the warehouse packers, not the quality of the item itself, and Amazon’s customer service will ship you out a new one. I know it’s really inconvenient, but in my experience, the interaction with customer service regarding damaged items is usually less than 2 minutes to get the issue resolved. Don’t get me wrong, I am in no way bashing any other reviewers for this experience, it’s just that my review is on the item itself, not fulfillment. Anyways, here’s to hoping the following volumes don’t get delayed! And that you receive a nicely packaged copy! Happy reading friends.

Every year at least once I scour the internet for an English version of this manga. Published in the early 1970s, I was sure it would never be released in English. But I checked again a few days ago and found it here!In college I took out a book called Manga! Manga!: The World of Japanese Comics - well before most of us heard of that or anime. It had excerpts of comics, several pages each, with author information. I was so taken with the bit of this storyline that I photocopied it and still have it. I liked the art and the somewhat accurate historic setting in Louis XV’s court.So I’ve waited 30 years to read this!!! It’s even printed the correct way, backwards. They are easy to read with a touch of practice. I love that it’s hardcover and the paper is a thick, glossy stock. It is mostly in black and white.

Very interesting story, nice art work and funny panels. Very durable book.

Good book

Like many other reviewers, my book came in a large envelope that busted the corner the upper spine. I ordered a replacement and...same exact issue, only it was the bottom corner of the spine and isn't busted as badly as the previous copy. GEEZ, Amazon! Quit putting heavy hardcover books in envelopes, of all things!That said, the product itself easily gets 5 stars. I've waited for this release since the license was first announced in...2015, I think? And despite the long wait and seemingly high price, I have to admit it is well worth both. The book contains 22 chapters and looks absolutely amazing: the pages are glossy and feel grand to the touch (a perfect fit for Riyoko Ikeda's equally gorgeous artwork), the book includes colored title pages as well as their original black and white variations, the text is easy to read, and the hardcover seems sturdy enough, decorated with a glossy, raised texture that shines under light (I'm sure it has a name, but I can't think of it at the top of my head). All in all, a very solid release despite the delivery setbacks.

Awesome volume. The care given to the design of the book is really something. The glossy and thick paper should be a standard is these reprintings. The story is something from my childhood that I am thrilled to read, as it was only seen on TV. Good purchase and highly recommended

The package was very nicely wrapped and the book came in great condition

Amazing volume, binding, graphic, paper.As for the manga, this is a classic shoujo I grew up with.Any shoujo manga lover in its life as to read this.A masterpiece from the times where shoujo meant real drama and romance without forced comedy and ridiculousness to attract random readers.Without offense to anyone, there are contemporary shoujo out there that are gems but... you know what I mean.