Hey all, I’m back with the second volume of Allen’s new life for this week’s Translation Necessary Thursday. It’s “Hell Mode Volume 02” by Hamuo!

Plot: This volume is where the back story of this new world that Allen found himself in gets explored a bit more, and I have to say it’s incredibly intriguing. Though I can’t go into much detail without spoiling a huge freaking plot point, I will say that this volume cemented this series as being a particularly excellent standout among a crowd of generally mediocre novels in the Isekai/Tensei genres.

Characters: We get introduced to quite a few more characters in this entry, but of them named Cecil is probably my favorite newcomer, even if she’s a bit of a brat. Long time readers of my stuff will probably be surprised at her being my favorite newcomer, and probably one of my favorite characters in the series thus far, but it should make sense once this volume is finished. Allen is still my overall favorite, but Cecil comes close to toppling that perch.

Overall: This is an amazing second entry in a series that has quickly ascended to becoming one of my favorites of the Isekai/Tensei genres.