Enchanter

Many years ago a powerful human-turned-demon named Fulcanelli experimented with the transmutation of metals to produce tools with Demonic Powers. Today, Eukanaria, his demonic lover, is in search for the perfect "shell" for Fulcanelli's soul: he's lost his corporeal form and she's determined to bring him back. Enter Haruhiko Kanou, good with machines and the perfect candidate for Fulcanelli's new body. Chaos quickly follows, as Haruhiko must suddenly fend off both demons and Eukanaria. This manga struggles to fit itself into many different genres—romance, comedy, and action—and falls short in the process. The frequent sexual jokes and shots of Eukanaria's panties become stale, and actually succeed in slowing the story down. What saves it from becoming unbearable is Haruhiko. His naivete and bashfulness make him charming and his passive manner offsets Eukanaria's overbearing personality, making the interactions between the two feel (almost) like a well-played comedy routine. Fan service aside, Kawachi's artwork is an interesting mix of cuteness and masterfully drawn action sequences, with an appeal to both male and female fans. This series has the potential to become quite enjoyable, depending upon whether or not it can focus itself more clearly. (July)