Synopsis (May contain spoilers) Volume 1: Akits Masanosuke (Masa) is a lone samurai. He has the stature of a samurai, but his inexperience, shyness and overall lack of confidence results in many failed attempts to find work as a bodyguard. One day, he comes across a man named Yaichi who takes an interest and offers him work. Drawn by Yaichi’s charm Masa agrees, and before he realizes, he unknowingly takes part in a crime. This is his introduction of the “Five Leaves,” the gang in which Yaichi leads.Masa’s conscience weights heavily. He is troubled by the gang’s criminal activities, but is in desperate need of money and friendship. He is reluctant join the gang as a full member, yet his is unable walk away.
In Volume 2, Masa continues trying to figure out what motivates Yaichi. Although Yaichi claims to be in it for the money, Masa suspects he may be some sort of “chivalrous thief”. Stricken by “Edo Disease”, Masa is sent to recuperate at the home of Goinkyo, an acquaintance of Five Leaf member Umezo. There, Masa learns more about the origins of the Five Leaves and begins to suspect that Yaichi is not who he says he is.Thoughts: Natsume Ono’s unique drawing style succeeds in creating an air of mystery. As the story unfolds it becomes more and more intriguing. Her panels have a certain quietness which helps generate the feeling that the characters are hiding things about themselves, and there is a general mistrust amongst the gang members. The story itself is complex and is the type of story that is difficult to predict where it's going, making the reader want to continue in order to find out. This is a similar method used by Natsume Ono in her previous book, “Not Simple”.
House of Five Leaves by Natsume Ono is published by Viz Media under the IKKI Comix/ Viz Signature labels. It is rated for older teens and the first three volumes have been released. Volume 4 set to be released in September 2011. The Anime version is available through Funimation.