Spice and Wolf, Vol. 8: The Town of Strife 1

I ordered this to complete a set for a gift. Arrived in perfect condition right on time.

After the side storied in the previous novel its nice to catch up with the group after the semi cliffhanger they left on in book 7. In this book the gang is heading to Kerube to find out about the alleged wolf leg bone that has been rumored. Like all the other books it has some nice art in-between the chapters and whatnot and lets the spirit of the anime continue on.The book itself seems to be a bit smaller than the previous releases but this book is mainly the set up for the next one(Due to being part 1 of 2). While not a ton happens in the story progression department I still found it a nice read and blasted through it in one night. While the main story arch doesn't progress as much you still get some insight into the cities problems and more exposition into Lawrence's thoughts.The character development in this book adds some new twists with Col's experiences with Kraft and Holo and how they slowly see him learn new things and start to grow as a person. It's also amusing to see his reactions to Kraft and Holos usual banter that we as readers are used to. I also liked some of the characters that they interacted with and finally tied some loose ends from previous books.I say this is def worth picking up even if it's a smaller book than usual and is only one of two parts. I liked the random town drama that comes into play and they toss some more hints to what may lie ahead in the future for Kraft and Holo.Positive:• Drawings still just as good• Finally progressing the main story• More Col character development• Some loose ends tied upNegative:• Little bit on the short side at just 181 pages

Well, being a fan of Spice and Wolf, I have nothing but praise for this series. Volume 8 continues the story left off from volume 6 and it really does feel good to get along with the plot rather than side stories, although they were, in their own right, enjoyable as well. The formula is the same, but, that essentially isn't a bad thing. There is quick wit that makes the conversations so enjoyable, the tease of romance and intimacy here and there, just pulling at your heart strings, wanting for it to be more and for the characters to be honest and happy, and, of course, it wouldn't be Spice and Wolf without some economics. This volume is shorter than the others, in fact, being the shortest of the series to date, and is also the first part of a two-part story. Where each novel seems to have its own plot pertaining to that specific volume, volume eight, as its sub-title implies, is multi-parts, but, only two. It also does this very well. The ending will leave you wanting more. Great for keeping interest, not so great considering the wait for the next book, but, nonetheless, it was a fantastic read and gave the familiarity and feeling of Spice and Wolf. Its definitely worth picking up, and honestly, if you're already invested in Spice and Wolf enough to read up to this point, there's no reason why you shouldn't pick up volume 8.

Those who are reading this review have more than likely read the previous Spice and Wolf books and know what to expect from this one. Deep economic discussion, slow character development, subtle hints of romance, and thoroughly entertaining adventure. While I've condemned the series before for being too slow in developing the characters and teasing at a romance that never gets anywhere, I'm beginning to enjoy the tease. You know that Lawrence and Holo are close and you know that soon enough there will be a push for more than just holding hands, and when that time comes it will surely be heartfelt and wonderful. And strangely enough, the only reason I read this series is to see Lawrence and Holo's romance develop. The economics and such are alright, but this is a series that truly depends on its characters to push it forward. With Col and Eve thrown into the mix, this book provides a good, albeit short, bit of entertainment that is sure to satisfy. The cliffhanger ending will leave you wanting more.

This is where things are truly getting interesting. The plot is thickening, lessons are being learned, schemes are being made, plans are in the works, and people are being used. It's set a great foundation for the next book I believe. But as with all the other books so far, it's still a little hard to follow who's talking sometimes.

What can I say: I'm addicted to the adventures of Lawrence and Holo! This is an adorable little story with a crazy amount of romantic tension and light humor. If you like something a little different with memorable characters that you instantly fall in love with and a few minor lessons in economics and finance, look no further. What am I saying, though, you already know all of this if you're on Vol. 8!Just keep up the great work, Isuna Hasekura!

This installment continues where volume 6 left off. Its a bit on the short side, but it is a part 1 of 2.For those who are fans of the anime the light novels are definately worth a read. Volume 6 picks up right as Season 2 of the anime ends.Now all there is left to do is sit and wait till August so I can get my Spice and Wolf fix.

I assume at this point you know what you are buying as this is the 7th volume, so theres no need to convince you to buy it for the story.But I will let you know that I received it in perfect condition and in great time.

Das 8te Band ist meiner Meinung nach einer der Schlechtesten der ganzen Spice & Wolf Reihe. Das liegt größtenteils daran dass es weniger Erklärungen gibt als in vorherigen Bändern wodurch einige Ereignisse und das Verhalten der Charaktere an manchen Stellen etwas schwer nachzuvollziehen ist.Trotzdem würde ich jedem empfehlen auch diesen Band zu lesen, da die folgenden Bänder 9-12 darauf aufbauen und teilweise auf die Ereignisse verweisen.Man merkt auch schon im nächsten Band 9, dass versucht wird die Fehler dieses Bandes nicht zu wiederholen. Spätestens ab Band 10, das eins der besten überhaupt ist, ist man froh weitergelesen zu haben!

I bought this series of books as a gift. They arrived, in the most part separately, but they all arrived well within the time frame. Thanks Amazon.

If you enjoyed the anime but were left wanting more from the non-conclusive ending that it had then I can't recommend the Spice&Wolf light novels enough. Continue the adventures of Holo and Laurence and enjoy the journey!

It's a Spice and Wolf book. What's not to love!

Eine großartige Geschichte mit sehr interessanten Charakteren.