Hands Off! Don't Call Us Angels: Vol. 1    by Kasane Katsumoto Order:  USA  Can TOKYOPOP, 2007 (2007) Paperback    Reviewed by Ricki Marking-Camuto Hands Off! Don't Call Us Angels is a two-volume series that takes place in the same world as Kasane Katsumoto's original Hands Off! However, the sequel lacks the original's comedy and takes a much darker turn. Kiba has the ability to see snapshots of someone's future just by touching them – a talent that can sometimes cause problems when mixed with his other skill, basketball. Because contact is unavoidable on the court, Kiba has seen the future of teammate Uduo, and does not like all the violence and blood that he sees. Uduo, himself, has mysterious powers that can be used to manipulate the minds of others. Kiba, who is still coming to terms with his own powers, is determined to stop Uduo from doing anything unsavory with his, but would rather stay away from Uduo than befriend him. Unfortunately, Kiba's friend Haruhi is determined to set shy Yari up with Uduo despite Kiba's warnings. Things come to a head when the four go on a double date to an amusement park, and Kiba is not sure who to trust any more. The original Hands Off! incorporated comedy and sexual tension that this sequel sorely lacks. Hands Off! Don't Call Us Angels does not have a compelling storyline and characters. Yes, there is some mystery, but instead of focusing on what is going on with Yari - at least I think there is something mysterious there, it was not too clear - the plot mainly focuses on Kiba. Despite being drawn by Katsumoto as a typical, handsome, leading guy, Kiba can be unlikable, cold, and sometimes whiny. Uduo also is a dark spot with possibly sinister powers (but this is also Kiba's slant on the matter). The only bright spot in the whole manga is Haruhi, who is genuinely likeable because of her bubbly personality that clashes so much with all of the other characters. With a plot that is hard to follow, characters who lack personality, and comedy that is missing, Hands Off! Don't Call Us Angels just does not match the appeal of the original. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Teens books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews