The second volume of Under the Oak Tree shows Maxi’s journey to self-discovery. This volume beautifully and thoughtfully explores her journey as she learns to be confident, fit in, and find her worth in her castle and herself. Find out more in this review Under the Oak Tree Vol. 2!
Riftan has returned from the royal capital just in time to deal with a group of rogue knights attacking the gates of Anatol. When the dust settles, he and Maxi finally have time to get to know each other properly, but Maxi struggles to show Riftan who she really is for fear that he will reject her. Even worse are her fears that the next time Riftan is called away he might never return. Determined to prove her worth and secure an unshakeable place in her new home, Maxi agrees to help the sorcerer Ruth create a new magical device. . .and discovers she might be capable of more than she could have ever dreamed.
Under the Oak Tree Vol. 2 Story Review:
In Volume 2 of Under the Oak Tree, there is a strong emphasis on Maxi’s character development. Maxi’s husband, Riftan, is absent for a while that was covered in Volume 1 and she is attempting to discover her identity, as well as the ways in which she can contribute to her territory. Maxi is trying to foster improved relationships with everyone in the castle, for their own sake as well as for her own development.
This volume has a very strong narrative. It conveys Maxi’s feelings, as well as the path that she took, very effectively, and I found all of that to be very engaging. There are many romantic moments, but ultimately Maxi’s development is the essence of this volume.
What I like best about this story is its treatment of Maxi’s low self-worth. Maxi knows that not everyone in the castle likes her. Maids gossip about Maxi, and some of the knights are unsure about her, but she continues to do her best. The moment when she looks a knight in the face and he tells her to just go back and she stays and says fight back is a definitive moment in her development of self-confidence. Eventually, the knight apologizes to her for telling her to go back to the castle.
One of the strongest connections in the narrative would be between Maxi and Ruth, the mage. He recognizes that she is genuinely interested in helping and positively supports her by instructing her on things that will be of use to the castle, like reading and writing efficiently. He even started to teach her magic. He is a wonderful secondary character that helps her learn more about herself, and I value that aspect of the story.
Another important moment is a talking scene between Maxi and Riftan.. When she admits that she hates herself, it is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. This honesty represents a tremendous step in their conversation, as well as a huge step forward for her character.
It’s clear that their relationship has matured quite a bit. Riftan has always loved her deeply, even if his aggressive and sometimes controlling way of being makes it hard to see. However, he is so loving and caring towards her. He is different from the other male leads because he doesn’t just possessively trap her. He actually shows his love for her and doesn’t care who sees.
I don’t want to spoil anything else, but this is a fantastic volume. The character development is so good, and I highly recommend seeing how the story unfolds.
You can use the following link to check out Under the Oak Tree Vol. 2
Under the Oak Tree Vol. 2 Cover Review:
I am absolutely stunned by the physical book cover for Under the Oak Tree Volume 2. It’s even more beautiful in person than I could have imagined, and it seems to get better every time I look at it.
The design is simply stunning. The title text is in a gorgeous silver foil, but the magic happens when you move the book under the light. It catches the light with a brilliant, rainbow shine, reflecting different colors and creating a mesmerizing effect. It’s a detail that digital pictures simply cannot capture.
I thought Volume 1 had a good cover, but Volume 2 is on another level. It’s so pretty I cannot stop looking at it. When I first received the book, I was truly taken aback. The online digital version is cute, but the physical copy is breathtaking. The design consistency is another thing I love. The back cover continues the theme from the first volume, featuring a tall, rectangular frame that holds a beautiful illustration, followed by the synopsis. This creates a cohesive and elegant look for the series on the shelf.
For those wondering about the physical feel, this is a hardcover book. The size and weight are consistent with the first volume, which I discussed in a previous review.
With the first volume having come out a year ago, I’m thrilled to finally have the second one in my hands. I can only hope the next volumes follow a quicker schedule because I am eager to see more of this lovely couple and the incredible art that accompanies their story. I don’t know how the designers are going to top this volume’s design. I am completely captivated by it. This is, without a doubt, the best cover.
Copyright © 2025 by P and MANTA
English translation © 2024 MANTA
Disclaimer: Anime Corner received a copy of Under the Oak Tree Vol. 2 in exchange for a review.
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