Dwarf architects continue their adventures in domestic renovations with their human assistant and bodyboard Soara. Volume 4 marks a sharp departure from previous instalments while still doing everything right. House of Monsters has playfully nudged towards a possible continent-wide crisis linked to our heroine’s origins before swiftly dismissing it. Always prioritising Soara’s self-discovery as she and the dwarfs encounter whimsical creatures in dire need of DIY solutions.
Volume 4 opens a cloaked figure ambushing the party, forcing Soara into an explosive showdown. The monster battle she’s trained for her whole life but fought to protect her compatriots instead of a nation. While Soara herself is baffled by this new attacker the artisan trio are better informed due to events from their childhood. The book transitions into an extended refection on these past events through the eyes of their leading architect, Kirik. Sprawling out of Kirik’s chance encounter with the charismatic and lively Prince Leonidas of the Kingdom; their tale explores the Dwarf homeland, architecture, culture, royal family, even highlighting political disputes over trade routes.
Pausing to dig up the past is often the exact opposite of progress for an ongoing story. But Hidenori Yamaji ensures this flashback arc constantly resonates with his series’ core focus. Kirik’s childhood determination to succeed in a career ill-suiting his weak muscles and small stature sharply contrasts with Soara’s lifetime of military training leaving her completely ill-equipped to handle the real world or find any identity in a peaceful kingdom.
Yamaji’s exceptionally charming artwork and adapt control of tone ensuring all develops feel effortlessly graceful. Sadly there is a lack of home renovations in this Volume. The attempted compromise is lavish double-page spends detailing the various locations within the dwarf capital… yet illustrations of underground industrial-scale forges cannot replace a werewolf needing help managing his beachside property. In spite of that absolutely nothing feels wasteful or unnecessary here. Much like Kirik’s hero, Prince Leonidas, Soara and House of Monsters continues doing whatever it wants with such confidence you feel compelled to follow along. Emphatically recommended.