Stranded with the Sergeant by Esu Chihara

I almost bought this a while ago when it was on sale for $1.99, but military romances aren't usually my thing so I passed. Then it went on sale again for 99-cents and I figured it must be kismet, so I decided to download the book - and I'm actually really glad I did. Harlequin manga can really be hit or miss (see my reviews - at this point, I'm practically an expert), but this one was actually really cute.

STRANDED WITH THE SERGEANT is about an elementary school teacher named Prudence. Her father is a high ranking official in the military and he's appointed one of his sergeants to act as a wilderness survival guide for Prudence and her students as they go on a camping trip in the mountains. It's supposed to be a beginners' trail, but of course a freak snow storm changes that. The kids are rescued first and both Prudence and Joe are forced to wait together in the cold for rescue, and as they wait they get to talking and find out they share some of the same demons. The simpatico is instant but so is the fear of being hurt.

The drawing style in this book is gorgeous and really complements the story, in my opinion. I love the soft lines and the way the author draws their faces. Expressive faces are so important in manga, which tends to be very emotional (Harlequin romances too, actually), so this is key. The story is also great. I have trouble stomaching stories with heroines who are doormats who don't aspire to be anything more than mothers or housewives, so it was refreshing to see a heroine who is passionate about her career and actually stands up for herself (and the hero) when being slighted. Woo-hoo!

Honestly, despite its cheesy title, this book is pretty cute. The h and H have some meaningful conversations about inner-demons and learning to move on, and they end up together because of the connection they feel after these conversations. (Also, you know, they're hot.) If you're into romances that have tsundere heroes who slowly warm up to strong, affectionate heroines, and want your romance stories to be 100% rape-free (you think I'm kidding, but bodice-rippers anyone), this is the book for you. It's a very sweet story with beautiful art. What more can you ask?

3.5 out of 5 stars